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Zimmerman E, Sturrock A, Reilly CA, Burrell-Gerbers KL, Warren K, Mir-Kasimov M, Zhang MA, Pierce MS, Helms MN, Paine R. Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Activation in Pulmonary Alveolar Epithelial Cells Limits Inflammation and Preserves Lung Epithelial Cell Integrity. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 213:600-611. [PMID: 39033086 PMCID: PMC11335325 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a receptor/transcription factor widely expressed in the lung. The physiological roles of AHR expressed in the alveolar epithelium remain unclear. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that alveolar epithelial AHR activity plays an important role in modulating inflammatory responses and maintaining alveolar integrity during lung injury and repair. AHR is expressed in alveolar epithelial cells (AECs) and is active. AHR activation with the endogenous AHR ligand, FICZ (5,11-dihydroindolo[3,2-b] carbazole-6-carboxaldehyde), significantly suppressed inflammatory cytokine expression in response to inflammatory stimuli in primary murine AECs and in the MLE-15 epithelial cell line. In an LPS model of acute lung injury in mice, coadministration of FICZ with LPS suppressed protein leak, reduced neutrophil accumulation in BAL fluid, and suppressed inflammatory cytokine expression in lung tissue and BAL fluid. Relevant to healing following inflammatory injury, AHR activation suppressed TGF-β-induced expression of genes associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Knockdown of AHR in primary AECs with shRNA or in CRISPR-Cas-9-induced MLE-15 cells resulted in upregulation of α-smooth muscle actin (αSma), Col1a1, and Fn1 and reduced expression of epithelial genes Col4a1 and Sdc1. MLE-15 clones lacking AHR demonstrated accelerated wound closure in a scratch model. AHR activation with FICZ enhanced barrier function (transepithelial electrical resistance) in primary murine AECs and limited decline of transepithelial electrical resistance following inflammatory injury. AHR activation in AECs preserves alveolar integrity by modulating inflammatory cytokine expression while enhancing barrier function and limiting stress-induced expression of mesenchymal genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Zimmerman
- Division of Respiratory, Critical Care and Occupational Pulmonary Medicine, University of Utah Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Anne Sturrock
- Division of Respiratory, Critical Care and Occupational Pulmonary Medicine, University of Utah Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
- George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Christopher A. Reilly
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | - Kristi Warren
- Division of Respiratory, Critical Care and Occupational Pulmonary Medicine, University of Utah Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
- George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Mustafa Mir-Kasimov
- Division of Respiratory, Critical Care and Occupational Pulmonary Medicine, University of Utah Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
- George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Mingyang A. Zhang
- Division of Respiratory, Critical Care and Occupational Pulmonary Medicine, University of Utah Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Megan S. Pierce
- Division of Respiratory, Critical Care and Occupational Pulmonary Medicine, University of Utah Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - My N. Helms
- Division of Respiratory, Critical Care and Occupational Pulmonary Medicine, University of Utah Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Robert Paine
- Division of Respiratory, Critical Care and Occupational Pulmonary Medicine, University of Utah Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
- George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, UT
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Debler RA, Gallegos PL, Ojeda AC, Perttula AM, Lucio A, Chapkin RS, Safe S, Eitan S. TCDD (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin) induces depression-like phenotype. Neurotoxicology 2024; 103:71-77. [PMID: 38838945 PMCID: PMC11288769 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2024.05.010] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The etiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) remains poorly understood. Our previous studies suggest a role for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in depression. 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a toxic environmental contaminant, with a high AhR binding affinity, and an established benchmark for assessing AhR activity. Therefore, this study examined the effect of TCDD on depression-like behaviors. Female mice were fed standard chow or a high-fat diet (HFD) for 11 weeks, and their weight was recorded. Subsequently, they were tested for baseline sucrose preference and splash test grooming. Then, TCDD (0.1 µg/kg/day) or vehicle was administered orally for 28 days, and mice were examined for their sucrose preference and performances in the splash test, forced swim test (FST), and Morris water maze (MWM) task. TCDD significantly decreased sucrose preference, increased FST immobility time, and decreased groom time in chow-fed mice. HFD itself significantly reduced sucrose preference. However, TCDD significantly increased FST immobility time and decreased groom time in HFD-fed mice. A small decrease in bodyweight was observed only at the fourth week of daily TCDD administration in chow-fed mice, and no significant effects of TCDD on bodyweights were observed in HFD-fed mice. TCDD did not have a significant effect on spatial learning in the MWM. Thus, this study demonstrated that TCDD induces a depression-like state, and the effects were not due to gross lethal toxicity. This study further suggests that more studies should examine a possible role for AhR and AhR-active environmental pollutants in precipitating or worsening MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roanna A Debler
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA
| | - Paula L Gallegos
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA
| | - Alexandra C Ojeda
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA
| | - Andrea M Perttula
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA
| | - Ashley Lucio
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA
| | - Robert S Chapkin
- Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Stephen Safe
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, 4466 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-4466, USA
| | - Shoshana Eitan
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA.
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3
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Salminen A. The role of the immunosuppressive PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint pathway in the aging process and age-related diseases. J Mol Med (Berl) 2024; 102:733-750. [PMID: 38600305 PMCID: PMC11106179 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-024-02444-6] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
The accumulation of senescent cells within tissues is a hallmark of the aging process. Senescent cells are also commonly present in many age-related diseases and in the cancer microenvironment. The escape of abnormal cells from immune surveillance indicates that there is some defect in the function of cytotoxic immune cells, e.g., CD8+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. Recent studies have revealed that the expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) protein is abundantly increased in senescent cells. An increase in the amount of PD-L1 protein protects senescent cells from clearance by the PD-1 checkpoint receptor in cytotoxic immune cells. In fact, the activation of the PD-1 receptor suppresses the cytotoxic properties of CD8+ T and NK cells, promoting a state of immunosenescence. The inhibitory PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint pathway acts in cooperation with immunosuppressive cells; for example, activation of PD-1 receptor can enhance the differentiation of regulatory T cells (Treg), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC), and M2 macrophages, whereas the cytokines secreted by immunosuppressive cells stimulate the expression of the immunosuppressive PD-L1 protein. Interestingly, many signaling pathways known to promote cellular senescence and the aging process are crucial stimulators of the expression of PD-L1 protein, e.g., epigenetic regulation, inflammatory mediators, mTOR-related signaling, cGAS-STING pathway, and AhR signaling. It seems that the inhibitory PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint axis has a crucial role in the accumulation of senescent cells and thus it promotes the aging process in tissues. Thus, the blockade of the PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint signaling might be a potential anti-aging senolytic therapy. KEY MESSAGES: Senescent cells accumulate within tissues during aging and age-related diseases. Senescent cells are able to escape immune surveillance by cytotoxic immune cells. Expression of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) markedly increases in senescent cells. Age-related signaling stimulates the expression of PD-L1 protein in senescent cells. Inhibitory PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint pathway suppresses clearance of senescent cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antero Salminen
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211, Kuopio, Finland.
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da Silva MI, Oli N, Gambonini F, Ott T. Effects of parity and early pregnancy on peripheral blood leukocytes in dairy cattle. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.06.592827. [PMID: 38766084 PMCID: PMC11100682 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.06.592827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Subfertility remains a major problem in the dairy industry. Only 35-40% of high-yielding dairy cows and 55-65% of nonlactating heifers become pregnant after their first service. The immune system plays a critical role in the establishment of pregnancy. However, it can also create challenges for embryo survival and contribute to reduced fertility. We conducted 2 separate experiments to characterize changes in subsets of peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) and their phenotype over the estrous cycle and early pregnancy in heifers and cows. We used flow cytometry and RT-qPCR to assess protein and mRNA expression of molecules important for immune function. We observed that monocytes and T cells were most affected by pregnancy status in heifers, whereas, CD8+ lymphocytes and natural killer (NK) cells were most affected during early pregnancy in cows. Changes in immune parameters measured appeared to be greater in heifers than cows including changes in expression of numerous immune function molecules. To test the hypothesis, we conducted a third experiment to simultaneously analyze the immunological responses to pregnancy between cows and heifers. We observed that cows had greater expression of proinflammatory cytokines and molecules associated with leukocyte migration and phagocytosis compared to heifers. Moreover, animals that failed to become pregnant showed altered expression of anti-inflammatory molecules. Overall, these findings support the hypothesis that early pregnancy signaling alters the proportions and functions of peripheral blood immune cells and differences between cows and heifers may yield insight into the reduced fertility of mature lactating dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- M I da Silva
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - N Oli
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - F Gambonini
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - T Ott
- Department of Animal Science, Center for Reproductive Biology and Health, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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5
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Zhang PF, Xie D. Targeting the gut microbiota to enhance the antitumor efficacy and attenuate the toxicity of CAR-T cell therapy: a new hope? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1362133. [PMID: 38558812 PMCID: PMC10978602 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1362133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) -T cell therapy has achieved tremendous efficacy in the treatment of hematologic malignancies and represents a promising treatment regimen for cancer. Despite the striking response in patients with hematologic malignancies, most patients with solid tumors treated with CAR-T cells have a low response rate and experience major adverse effects, which indicates the need for biomarkers that can predict and improve clinical outcomes with future CAR-T cell treatments. Recently, the role of the gut microbiota in cancer therapy has been established, and growing evidence has suggested that gut microbiota signatures may be harnessed to personally predict therapeutic response or adverse effects in optimizing CAR-T cell therapy. In this review, we discuss current understanding of CAR-T cell therapy and the gut microbiota, and the interplay between the gut microbiota and CAR-T cell therapy. Above all, we highlight potential strategies and challenges in harnessing the gut microbiota as a predictor and modifier of CAR-T cell therapy efficacy while attenuating toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Fei Zhang
- Gastric Cancer Center, Division of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Xie
- Department of Medical Genetics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
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6
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Clark GC, Lai A, Agarwal A, Liu Z, Wang XY. Biopterin metabolism and nitric oxide recoupling in cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 13:1321326. [PMID: 38469569 PMCID: PMC10925643 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1321326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Tetrahydrobiopterin is a cofactor necessary for the activity of several enzymes, the most studied of which is nitric oxide synthase. The role of this cofactor-enzyme relationship in vascular biology is well established. Recently, tetrahydrobiopterin metabolism has received increasing attention in the field of cancer immunology and immunotherapy due to its involvement in the cytotoxic T cell response. Past research has demonstrated that when the availability of BH4 is low, as it is in chronic inflammatory conditions and tumors, electron transfer in the active site of nitric oxide synthase becomes uncoupled from the oxidation of arginine. This results in the production of radical species that are capable of a direct attack on tetrahydrobiopterin, further depleting its local availability. This feedforward loop may act like a molecular switch, reinforcing low tetrahydrobiopterin levels leading to altered NO signaling, restrained immune effector activity, and perpetual vascular inflammation within the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we discuss the evidence for this underappreciated mechanism in different aspects of tumor progression and therapeutic responses. Furthermore, we discuss the preclinical evidence supporting a clinical role for tetrahydrobiopterin supplementation to enhance immunotherapy and radiotherapy for solid tumors and the potential safety concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gene Chatman Clark
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Alan Lai
- School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | | | - Zheng Liu
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Xiang-Yang Wang
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
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7
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Adugna A, Muche Y, Jemal M, Habtegiorgis SD, Belew H, Azanaw Amare G. Gut microbes as medical signature for the effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Aging Med (Milton) 2024; 7:121-130. [PMID: 38571678 PMCID: PMC10985778 DOI: 10.1002/agm2.12292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer (LC) is the most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide and poses a severe threat to public health. Immunotherapy with checkpoint blockers has improved the outlook for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) therapy. For the treatment of patients with advanced NSCLC, antibodies such as anti-programmed death 1 (anti-PD1), anti-programmed death ligand 1 (anti-PD-L1), and anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (anti-CTLA-4) are of paramount importance. Anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibody therapies are used to block the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway and identify cancerous cells to the body's defenses. Antibodies directed against CTLA-4 (anti-CTLA-4) have also been shown to improve survival rates in patients with NSCLC. Currently, other immunotherapy approaches like neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors (NAICIs) and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies are applied in NSCLC patients. NAICIs are used for resectable and early stage NSCLC and CAR-T is used to find more useful epitope sites for lung tumors and destroy cancer cells. A patient's gut microbiota might influence how their immune system reacts to NSCLC immunotherapy. The majority of intestinal microbes stimulate helper/cytotoxic T cells, induce natural killer (NK) cells, activate various toll-like receptors (TLR), build up cluster of differentiation 8 (CD8), increase PD-1 production, and attract chemokine receptors towards cancer cells. Thus, they serve as immune inducers in NSCLC immunotherapy. Nonetheless, certain bacteria can function as immune suppressors by inhibiting DC proliferation, stopping CD28 trafficking, restoring CD80/CD86, increasing immunological tolerance, and upsetting Th17 cells. Therefore, they are prevalent in non-responders with NSCLC immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adane Adugna
- Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health SciencesDebre Markos UniversityDebre MarkosEthiopia
| | - Yalew Muche
- Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health SciencesDebre Markos UniversityDebre MarkosEthiopia
| | - Mohammed Jemal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Health SciencesDebre Markos UniversityDebre MarkosEthiopia
| | | | - Habtamu Belew
- Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health SciencesDebre Markos UniversityDebre MarkosEthiopia
| | - Gashaw Azanaw Amare
- Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health SciencesDebre Markos UniversityDebre MarkosEthiopia
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8
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Wang S, Xu B, Zhang Y, Chen G, Zhao P, Gao Q, Yuan L. The role of intestinal flora on tumorigenesis, progression, and the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies in colorectal cancer. Cancer Biol Med 2023; 21:j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0376. [PMID: 38148328 PMCID: PMC10875280 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0376] [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: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal flora affects the maturation of the host immune system, serves as a biomarker and efficacy predictor in the immunotherapy of several cancers, and has an important role in the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies have shown satisfactory results in MSI-H/dMMR CRC but performed poorly in patients with MSS/pMMR CRC. In recent years an increasing number of studies have shown that intestinal flora has an important impact on anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibody efficacy in CRC patients. Preclinical and clinical evidence have suggested that anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibody efficacy can be improved by altering the composition of the intestinal flora in CRC. Herein, we summarize the studies related to the influence of intestinal flora on anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibody efficacy in CRC and discuss the potential underlying mechanism(s). We have focused on the impact of the intestinal flora on the efficacy and safety of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies in CRC and how to better utilize the intestinal flora as an adjuvant to improve the efficacy of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies. In addition, we have provided a basis for the potential of the intestinal flora as a new treatment modality and indicator for determining patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Benling Xu
- Department of Immunotherapy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Yangyang Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Guangyu Chen
- Department of Immunotherapy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Quanli Gao
- Department of Immunotherapy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Long Yuan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, China
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Negura I, Pavel-Tanasa M, Danciu M. Regulatory T cells in gastric cancer: Key controllers from pathogenesis to therapy. Cancer Treat Rev 2023; 120:102629. [PMID: 37769435 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2023.102629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a highly aggressive malignancy that remains a significant contributor to cancer-related mortality worldwide, despite a decline in incidence in recent years. Early-stage GC poses a diagnostic challenge due to its asymptomatic nature, leading to poor prognoses for most patients. Conventional treatment approaches, including chemotherapy and surgery, have shown limited efficacy in improving outcomes for GC patients. The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized cancer therapy, yielding durable responses across various malignancies. However, the clinical benefits of ICIs in GC have been modest, underscoring the need for a comprehensive understanding of immune cell functions within the GC tumor microenvironment (TME). Regulatory T cells (Tregs), a subset of T lymphocytes, play a pivotal role in GC development and progression and serve as prognostic biomarkers for GC patients. This review aims to elucidate the multifaceted roles of Tregs in the pathogenesis, progression, and prognosis of gastric cancer, and establish their actual and future potential as therapeutic targets. By providing insights into the intricate interplay between Tregs and the TME, this review strives to stimulate further investigation and facilitate the development of targeted Treg-based therapeutic strategies for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ion Negura
- Department of Pathology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Mariana Pavel-Tanasa
- Department of Immunology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania.
| | - Mihai Danciu
- Department of Pathology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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Xinyuan T, Lei Y, Jianping S, Rongwei Z, Ruiwen S, Ye Z, Jing Z, Chunfang T, Hongwei C, Haibin G. Advances in the role of gut microbiota in the regulation of the tumor microenvironment (Review). Oncol Rep 2023; 50:181. [PMID: 37615187 PMCID: PMC10485805 DOI: 10.3892/or.2023.8618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As a protector of human health, the gut microbiota plays an important role in the development of the immune system during childhood, and the regulation of dietary habits, metabolism and immune system during adulthood. Dysregulated gut flora is not pathogenic, but it can weaken the protective effect of the immune system and cause various diseases. The tumor microenvironment is a physiological environment formed during tumor growth, which provides nutrients and growth factors necessary for tumor growth. As an important factor affecting the tumor microenvironment, the intestinal microflora affects the development of tumors through the mechanisms of gut and microflora metabolites, gene toxins and signaling pathways. The present article aimed to review the components and mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and biological targets of gut microbiota in the regulation of the tumor microenvironment. The present review provides novel insights for the future use of intestinal flora, to regulate the tumor microenvironment, to intervene in the occurrence, development, treatment and prognosis of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Xinyuan
- School of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010107, P.R. China
| | - Yu Lei
- Department of Pharmacy, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010020, P.R. China
| | - Shi Jianping
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010107, P.R. China
| | - Zhao Rongwei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010050, P.R. China
| | - Shi Ruiwen
- School of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010107, P.R. China
| | - Zhang Ye
- School of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010107, P.R. China
| | - Zhao Jing
- School of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010107, P.R. China
| | - Tian Chunfang
- Department of Oncology, Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010020, P.R. China
| | - Cui Hongwei
- Department of Scientific Research, Peking University Cancer Hospital (Inner Mongolia Campus)/Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010020, P.R. China
| | - Guan Haibin
- School of Pharmacy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 010107, P.R. China
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11
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Debler RA, Madison CA, Hillbrick L, Gallegos P, Safe S, Chapkin RS, Eitan S. Selective aryl hydrocarbon receptor modulators can act as antidepressants in obese female mice. J Affect Disord 2023; 333:409-419. [PMID: 37084978 PMCID: PMC10561895 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.04.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obese females are more likely to suffer from depression and are also more likely to be resistant to current medications. This study examined the potential antidepressant-like effects of 1,4-dihydroxy-2-napthoic acid (DHNA), a selective aryl hydrocarbon receptor modulator (SAhRM), in obese female mice. METHODS Obesity was established by feeding C57BL/6N female mice a high fat diet (HFD) for 9-10 weeks. Subsequently, mice were subjected to unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) or remained unstressed. Daily administration of vehicle or 20 mg/kg DHNA began three weeks prior or on the third week of UCMS. Mice were examined for depression-like behaviors (sucrose preference, forced swim test (FST), splash and tape groom tests), anxiety (open-field test, light/dark test, novelty-induced hypophagia), and cognition (object location recognition, novel object recognition, Morris water maze). RESULTS UCMS did not alter, and DHNA slightly increased, weight gain in HFD-fed females. HFD decreased sucrose preference, increased FST immobility time, but did not alter splash and tape tests' grooming time. UCMS did not have additional effects on sucrose preference. UCMS further increased FST immobility time and decreased splash and tape tests' grooming time; these effects were prevented and reversed by DHNA treatment. HFD did not affect behaviors in the cognitive tests. UCMS impaired spatial learning; this effect was not prevented nor reversed by DHNA. CONCLUSIONS DHNA protected against UCMS-induced depression-like behaviors in HFD-fed female mice. DHNA neither improved nor worsened UCMS-induced impairment of spatial learning. Our findings indicate that DHNA has high potential to act as an antidepressant in obese females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roanna A Debler
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4235 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Caitlin A Madison
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4235 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Lauren Hillbrick
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4235 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Paula Gallegos
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4235 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Stephen Safe
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, 4466 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-4466, USA
| | - Robert S Chapkin
- Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Shoshana Eitan
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4235 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
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12
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Wang H, Liu B, Chen H, Xu P, Xue H, Yuan J. Dynamic changes of DNA methylation induced by benzo(a)pyrene in cancer. Genes Environ 2023; 45:21. [PMID: 37391844 DOI: 10.1186/s41021-023-00278-1] [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: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), the earliest and most significant carcinogen among polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), has been found in foods, tobacco smoke, and automobiles exhaust, etc. Exposure to BaP induced DNA damage directly, or oxidative stress-related damage, resulting in cell apoptosis and carcinogenesis in human respiratory system, digestive system, reproductive system, etc. Moreover, BaP triggered genome-wide epigenetic alterations by methylation, which might cause disturbances in regulation of gene expression, and thereby induced cancer. It has been proved that BaP reduced genome-wide DNA methylation, and activated proto-oncogene by hypomethylation in the promoter region, but silenced tumor suppressor genes by promoter hypermethylation, resulting in cancer initiation and progression. Here we summarized the changes in DNA methylation in BaP exposure, and revealed the methylation of DNA plays a role in cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizeng Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, China
| | - Bingchun Liu
- Stem Cell Research Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, China
| | - Peixin Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, China
| | - Huiting Xue
- College of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010010, China.
| | - Jianlong Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, China.
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13
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Xiang D, Han X, Li J, Zhang J, Xiao H, Li T, Zhao X, Xiong H, Xu M, Bi W. Combination of IDO inhibitors and platinum(IV) prodrugs reverses low immune responses to enhance cancer chemotherapy and immunotherapy for osteosarcoma. Mater Today Bio 2023; 20:100675. [PMID: 37304579 PMCID: PMC10250924 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs) have made great progress in the treatment of cancer. However, most ICBs have not yet been observed to be satisfactory in the treatment of osteosarcoma. Herein, we designed composite nanoparticles (NP-Pt-IDOi) from a reactive oxygen species (ROS) sensitive amphiphilic polymer (PHPM) with thiol-ketal bonds in the main chain to encapsulate a Pt(IV) prodrug (Pt(IV)-C12) and an indoleamine-(2/3)-dioxygenase (IDO) inhibitor (IDOi, NLG919). Once NP-Pt-IDOi enter the cancer cells, the polymeric nanoparticles could dissociate due to the intracellular ROS, and release Pt(IV)-C12 and NLG919. Pt(IV)-C12 induces DNA damage and activates the cGAS-STING pathway, increasing infiltration of CD8+ T cells in the tumor microenvironment. In addition, NLG919 inhibits tryptophan metabolism and enhances CD8+ T cell activity, ultimately activating anti-tumor immunity and enhancing the anti-tumor effects of platinum-based drugs. NP-Pt-IDOi were shown to have superior anti-cancer activity in vitro and in vivo in mouse models of osteosarcoma, providing a new clinical paradigm for combining chemotherapy with immunotherapy for osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongquan Xiang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, PR China
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, PR China
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, PR China
| | - Xinli Han
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, PR China
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300074, PR China
| | - Jianxiong Li
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, PR China
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, PR China
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, PR China
| | - Jiabing Zhang
- Xidian University, Xi'an, 710071, PR China
- Graduate School of Medical School of Chinese PLA Hospital, Beijing, 100853, PR China
| | - Haihua Xiao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, PR China
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Xuelin Zhao
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, 100853, PR China
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, PR China
| | - Hejian Xiong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA
| | - Meng Xu
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, PR China
| | - Wenzhi Bi
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100048, PR China
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14
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Stone TW, Williams RO. Interactions of IDO and the Kynurenine Pathway with Cell Transduction Systems and Metabolism at the Inflammation-Cancer Interface. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15112895. [PMID: 37296860 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15112895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying a relationship between inflammation and cancer are unclear, but much emphasis has been placed on the role of tryptophan metabolism to kynurenine and downstream metabolites, as these make a substantial contribution to the regulation of immune tolerance and susceptibility to cancer. The proposed link is supported by the induction of tryptophan metabolism by indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) or tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), in response to injury, infection or stress. This review will summarize the kynurenine pathway and will then focus on the bi-directional interactions with other transduction pathways and cancer-related factors. The kynurenine pathway can interact with and modify activity in many other transduction systems, potentially generating an extended web of effects other than the direct effects of kynurenine and its metabolites. Conversely, the pharmacological targeting of those other systems could greatly enhance the efficacy of changes in the kynurenine pathway. Indeed, manipulating those interacting pathways could affect inflammatory status and tumor development indirectly via the kynurenine pathway, while pharmacological modulation of the kynurenine pathway could indirectly influence anti-cancer protection. While current efforts are progressing to account for the failure of selective IDO1 inhibitors to inhibit tumor growth and to devise means of circumventing the issue, it is clear that there are wider factors involving the relationship between kynurenines and cancer that merit detailed consideration as alternative drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FY, UK
| | - Richard O Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7FY, UK
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15
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Chen Y, Wang Y, Fu Y, Yin Y, Xu K. Modulating AHR function offers exciting therapeutic potential in gut immunity and inflammation. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:85. [PMID: 37179416 PMCID: PMC10182712 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01046-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor. 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a classical exogenous synthetic ligand of AHR that has significant immunotoxic effects. Activation of AHR has beneficial effects on intestinal immune responses, but inactivation or overactivation of AHR can lead to intestinal immune dysregulation and even intestinal diseases. Sustained potent activation of AHR by TCDD results in impairment of the intestinal epithelial barrier. However, currently, AHR research has been more focused on elucidating physiologic AHR function than on dioxin toxicity. The appropriate level of AHR activation plays a role in maintaining gut health and protecting against intestinal inflammation. Therefore, AHR offers a crucial target to modulate intestinal immunity and inflammation. Herein, we summarize our current understanding of the relationship between AHR and intestinal immunity, the ways in which AHR affects intestinal immunity and inflammation, the effects of AHR activity on intestinal immunity and inflammation, and the effect of dietary habits on intestinal health through AHR. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic role of AHR in maintaining gut homeostasis and relieving inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Chen
- Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, 410125, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Yadong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, 410125, China
| | - Yawei Fu
- Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, 410125, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Yulong Yin
- Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, 410125, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Kang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Agro-ecological Processes in Subtropical Region, Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, 410125, China.
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16
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Asokan S, Cullin N, Stein-Thoeringer CK, Elinav E. CAR-T Cell Therapy and the Gut Microbiota. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030794. [PMID: 36765752 PMCID: PMC9913364 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) - T cell cancer therapy has yielded promising results in treating hematologic malignancies in clinical studies, and a growing number of CAR-T regimens are approved for clinical usage. While the therapy is considered of great potential in expanding the cancer immunotherapy arsenal, more than half of patients receiving CAR-T infusions do not respond, while others develop significant adverse effects, collectively indicating a need for optimization of CAR-T treatment to the individual. The microbiota is increasingly suggested as a major modulator of immunotherapy responsiveness. Studying causal microbiota roles possibly contributing to CAR-T therapy efficacy, adverse effects reduction, and prediction of patient responsiveness constitutes an exciting area of active research. Herein, we discuss the latest developments implicating human microbiota involvement in CAR-T therapy, while highlighting challenges and promises in harnessing the microbiota as a predictor and modifier of CAR-T treatment towards optimized efficacy and minimization of treatment-related adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahana Asokan
- Division of Microbiome and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nyssa Cullin
- Division of Microbiome and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph K. Stein-Thoeringer
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Laboratory of Translational Microbiome Science, University Clinic Tuebingen, Otfried-Mueller-Strasse 10, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany
- Correspondence: (C.K.S-T.); (E.E.); Tel.: +972-8-9344014 (E.E.)
| | - Eran Elinav
- Division of Microbiome and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Systems Immunology Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, 234 Herzl Street, Rehovot 7610001, Israel
- Correspondence: (C.K.S-T.); (E.E.); Tel.: +972-8-9344014 (E.E.)
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17
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An overview of aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands in the Last two decades (2002–2022): A medicinal chemistry perspective. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 244:114845. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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18
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Stone TW, Clanchy FIL, Huang YS, Chiang NY, Darlington LG, Williams RO. An integrated cytokine and kynurenine network as the basis of neuroimmune communication. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1002004. [PMID: 36507331 PMCID: PMC9729788 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1002004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Two of the molecular families closely associated with mediating communication between the brain and immune system are cytokines and the kynurenine metabolites of tryptophan. Both groups regulate neuron and glial activity in the central nervous system (CNS) and leukocyte function in the immune system, although neither group alone completely explains neuroimmune function, disease occurrence or severity. This essay suggests that the two families perform complementary functions generating an integrated network. The kynurenine pathway determines overall neuronal excitability and plasticity by modulating glutamate receptors and GPR35 activity across the CNS, and regulates general features of immune cell status, surveillance and tolerance which often involves the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AHR). Equally, cytokines and chemokines define and regulate specific populations of neurons, glia or immune system leukocytes, generating more specific responses within restricted CNS regions or leukocyte populations. In addition, as there is a much larger variety of these compounds, their homing properties enable the superimposition of dynamic variations of cell activity upon local, spatially limited, cell populations. This would in principle allow the targeting of potential treatments to restricted regions of the CNS. The proposed synergistic interface of 'tonic' kynurenine pathway affecting baseline activity and the superimposed 'phasic' cytokine system would constitute an integrated network explaining some features of neuroimmune communication. The concept would broaden the scope for the development of new treatments for disorders involving both the CNS and immune systems, with safer and more effective agents targeted to specific CNS regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor W. Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Trevor W. Stone,
| | - Felix I. L. Clanchy
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yi-Shu Huang
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nien-Yi Chiang
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - L. Gail Darlington
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ashtead Hospital, Ashtead, United Kingdom
| | - Richard O. Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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19
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McGovern K, Castro AC, Cavanaugh J, Coma S, Walsh M, Tchaicha J, Syed S, Natarajan P, Manfredi M, Zhang XM, Ecsedy J. Discovery and Characterization of a Novel Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Inhibitor, IK-175, and Its Inhibitory Activity on Tumor Immune Suppression. Mol Cancer Ther 2022; 21:1261-1272. [PMID: 35666806 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a transcription factor that regulates the activity of multiple innate and adaptive immune cells subsequent to binding to numerous endogenous and exogenous ligands. For example, AHR is activated by the metabolite kynurenine, which is secreted into the tumor microenvironment by cancer cells leading to broad immunosuppression. Therefore, AHR inhibition provides a novel and ideal approach to stimulate immune-mediated recognition and subsequent eradication of tumor cells. We report here the discovery and characterization of IK-175, a novel, potent and selective AHR antagonist with favorable ADME and pharmacokinetic profiles in preclinical species. IK-175 inhibits AHR activity in experimental systems derived from multiple species including mouse, rat, monkey, and humans. In human primary immune cells, IK-175 decreased AHR target gene expression and anti-inflammatory cytokine release and increased proinflammatory cytokine release. Moreover, IK-175 led to a decrease in suppressive IL17A-, IL-22+ expressing T cells in a Th17 differentiation assay. IK-175 dose dependently blocks ligand-stimulated AHR activation of Cyp1a1 transcription in mouse liver and spleen, demonstrating on-target in vivo activity. IK-175 increases proinflammatory phenotype of the tumor microenvironment in mouse syngeneic tumors and in adjacent tumor-draining lymph nodes. As a monotherapy and combined with an anti-PD-1 antibody, IK-175 demonstrates antitumor activity in syngeneic mouse models of colorectal cancer and melanoma. IK-175 also demonstrates antitumor activity combined with liposomal doxorubicin in syngeneic mouse tumors. These studies provide rationale for targeting AHR in patients with cancer. IK-175 is being evaluated in a phase I clinical trial in patients with advanced solid tumors.
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20
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Su X, Gao Y, Yang R. Gut Microbiota-Derived Tryptophan Metabolites Maintain Gut and Systemic Homeostasis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11152296. [PMID: 35892593 PMCID: PMC9330295 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid from dietary proteins. It can be metabolized into different metabolites in both the gut microbiota and tissue cells. Tryptophan metabolites such as indole-3-lactate (ILA), indole-3-acrylate (IAC), indole-3-propionate (IPA), indole-3-aldehyde (IAID), indoleacetic acid (IAA), indole-3-acetaldehyde and Kyn can be produced by intestinal microorganisms through direct Trp transformation and also, partly, the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway. These metabolites play a critical role in maintaining the homeostasis of the gut and systematic immunity and also potentially affect the occurrence and development of diseases such as inflammatory bowel diseases, tumors, obesity and metabolic syndrome, diseases in the nervous system, infectious diseases, vascular inflammation and cardiovascular diseases and hepatic fibrosis. They can not only promote the differentiation and function of anti-inflammatory macrophages, Treg cells, CD4+CD8αα+ regulatory cells, IL-10+ and/or IL-35+B regulatory cells but also IL-22-producing innate lymphoid cells 3 (ILC3), which are involved in maintaining the gut mucosal homeostasis. These findings have important consequences in the immunotherapy against tumor and other immune-associated diseases. We will summarize here the recent advances in understanding the generation and regulation of tryptophan metabolites in the gut microbiota, the role of gut microbiota-derived tryptophan metabolites in different immune cells, the occurrence and development of diseases and immunotherapy against immune-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Su
- Translational Medicine Institute, Affiliated Tianjin Union Medical Center, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; (X.S.); (Y.G.)
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
- Department of Immunology, Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yunhuan Gao
- Translational Medicine Institute, Affiliated Tianjin Union Medical Center, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; (X.S.); (Y.G.)
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
- Department of Immunology, Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Rongcun Yang
- Translational Medicine Institute, Affiliated Tianjin Union Medical Center, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; (X.S.); (Y.G.)
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
- Department of Immunology, Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
- Correspondence:
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21
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Madison CA, Kuempel J, Albrecht GL, Hillbrick L, Jayaraman A, Safe S, Chapkin RS, Eitan S. 3,3'-Diindolylmethane and 1,4-dihydroxy-2-naphthoic acid prevent chronic mild stress induced depressive-like behaviors in female mice. J Affect Disord 2022; 309:201-210. [PMID: 35461819 PMCID: PMC9153281 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.04.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current pharmaceutical treatments for depression are sometimes ineffective and may have unwanted side effects that interfere with patient compliance. This study examined the potential antidepressant-like effects of dietary- and microbial-derived aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligands, 3,3'-diindolylmethane (DIM) and 1,4-dihydroxy-2-naphthoic acid (1,4-DHNA). METHODS Female C57BL/6 mice were subjected to unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) or were unstressed. For three weeks prior to UCMS mice were fed daily with vehicle or 20 mg/kg DIM, 1,4-DHNA or AhR-inactive isomer 3,7-DHNA; another group was subjected to two weeks UCMS before ligand administration began. Mice were examined for anhedonia-like behavior as measured by the sucrose preference test. Additionally, anxiety levels of the mice were examined before UCMS and ligand administration began and at the end in the open field, light/dark, elevated plus maze, novelty-induced hypophagia, and marble burying tests. At the end of the experiment they were also examined in the Morris water maze (MWM) task. RESULTS Both DIM and 1,4-DHNA, but not 3,7-DHNA, successfully prevented and reversed UCMS-induced anhedonia-like behavior. Furthermore, both DIM and DHNA had little to no effect on anxiety levels and did not induce spatial learning deficits. LIMITATIONS Additional studies are required to determine to what degree the antidepressant-like effects of DIM and 1,4-DHNA can be attributed to their activities as AhR ligands. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that dietary and microbial-derived AhR ligands may have clinical applications as potential antidepressants. Future studies are necessary to elucidate the role of AhR in depression-like states and the underlying mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin A. Madison
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA
| | - Jacob Kuempel
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA
| | - Georgia Lee Albrecht
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA
| | - Lauren Hillbrick
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA
| | - Arul Jayaraman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Stephen Safe
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, 4466 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-4466, USA
| | - Robert S. Chapkin
- Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Shoshana Eitan
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, 4235 TAMU, TX 77843, USA.
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22
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Oster P, Vaillant L, McMillan B, Velin D. The Efficacy of Cancer Immunotherapies Is Compromised by Helicobacter pylori Infection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:899161. [PMID: 35677057 PMCID: PMC9168074 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.899161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori infects the gastric mucosa of a large number of humans. Although asymptomatic in the vast majority of cases, H pylori infection can lead to the development of peptic ulcers gastric adenocarcinoma and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. Using a variety of mechanisms, H pylori locally suppresses the function of the host immune system to establish chronic infection. Systemic immunomodulation has been observed in both clinical and pre-clinical studies, which have demonstrated that H pylori infection is associated with reduced incidence of inflammatory diseases, such as asthma and Crohn’s disease. The introduction of immunotherapies in the arsenal of anti-cancer drugs has revealed a new facet of H pylori-induced immune suppression. In this review, we will describe the intimate interactions between H pylori and its host, and formulate hypothtyeses describing the detrimental impact of H pylori infection on the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies.
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23
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Clanchy FIL, Huang YS, Ogbechi J, Darlington LG, Williams RO, Stone TW. Induction of IDO1 and Kynurenine by Serine Proteases Subtilisin, Prostate Specific Antigen, CD26 and HtrA: A New Form of Immunosuppression? Front Immunol 2022; 13:832989. [PMID: 35371018 PMCID: PMC8964980 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.832989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Several serine proteases have been linked to autoimmune disorders and tumour initiation although the mechanisms are not fully understood. Activation of the kynurenine pathway enzyme indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO1) modulates cellular activity in the brain, tolerogenesis in the immune system and is a major checkpoint in cancer development. We now report that IDO1 mRNA and IDO1 protein expression (generating kynurenine) are induced in human monocyte-derived macrophages by several chymotryptic serine proteases with direct links to tumorigenesis, including Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), CD26 (Dipeptidyl-peptidase-4, CD26/DPP-4), High Temperature Requirement protein-A (HtrA), and the bacterial virulence factor subtilisin. These proteases also induce expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine genes IL1B and IL6. Other serine proteases tested: bacterial glu-C endopeptidase and mammalian Pro-protein Convertase Subtilase-Kexin-3 (PCSK3, furin), urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), cathepsin G or neutrophil elastase, did not induce IDO1, indicating that the reported effects are not a general property of all serine proteases. The results represent a novel mechanism of activating immunosuppressive IDO1 and inducing kynurenine generation which, together with the production of inflammatory cytokines, would contribute to tumour initiation and progression, providing a new target for drug development. In addition, the proteasomal S20 serine protease inhibitor carfilzomib, used in the treatment of myeloma, prevented the induction of IDO1 and cytokine gene expression, potentially contributing to its clinical anti-cancer activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix I. L. Clanchy
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yi-Shu Huang
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Joy Ogbechi
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - L. Gail Darlington
- Department of Medicine and Rheumatology, Ashtead Hospital, Ashtead, United Kingdom
| | - Richard O. Williams
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Trevor W. Stone
- The Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS), University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Peyraud F, Guegan JP, Bodet D, Cousin S, Bessede A, Italiano A. Targeting Tryptophan Catabolism in Cancer Immunotherapy Era: Challenges and Perspectives. Front Immunol 2022; 13:807271. [PMID: 35173722 PMCID: PMC8841724 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.807271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolism of tryptophan (Trp), an essential amino acid, represent a major metabolic pathway that both promotes tumor cell intrinsic malignant properties as well as restricts antitumour immunity, thus emerging as a drug development target for cancer immunotherapy. Three cytosolic enzymes, namely indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), IDO2 and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO2), catalyzes the first-rate limiting step of the degradation of Trp to kynurenine (Kyn) and modulates immunity toward immunosuppression mainly through the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activation in numerous types of cancer. By restoring antitumor immune responses and synergizing with other immunotherapies, the encouraging preclinical data of IDO1 inhibitors has dramatically failed to translate into clinical success when combined with immune checkpoints inhibitors, reigniting the debate of combinatorial approach. In this review, we i) provide comprehensive evidences on immunomodulatory role of the Trp catabolism metabolites that highlight this pathway as relevant target in immuno-oncology, ii)ii) discuss underwhelming results from clinical trials investigating efficacy of IDO1 inhibitors and underlying mechanisms that might have contributed to this failure, and finally, iii) discuss the current state-of-art surrounding alternative approaches of innovative antitumor immunotherapies that target molecules of Trp catabolism as well as challenges and perspectives in the era of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florent Peyraud
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- Early Phase Trials and Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | | | - Sophie Cousin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- Early Phase Trials and Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Antoine Italiano
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- Early Phase Trials and Sarcoma Unit, Institut Bergonié, Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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25
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Decoding the Complex Crossroad of Tryptophan Metabolic Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020787. [PMID: 35054973 PMCID: PMC8776215 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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26
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Stirling ER, Bronson SM, Mackert JD, Cook KL, Triozzi PL, Soto-Pantoja DR. Metabolic Implications of Immune Checkpoint Proteins in Cancer. Cells 2022; 11:179. [PMID: 35011741 PMCID: PMC8750774 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Expression of immune checkpoint proteins restrict immunosurveillance in the tumor microenvironment; thus, FDA-approved checkpoint inhibitor drugs, specifically PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors, promote a cytotoxic antitumor immune response. Aside from inflammatory signaling, immune checkpoint proteins invoke metabolic reprogramming that affects immune cell function, autonomous cancer cell bioenergetics, and patient response. Therefore, this review will focus on the metabolic alterations in immune and cancer cells regulated by currently approved immune checkpoint target proteins and the effect of costimulatory receptor signaling on immunometabolism. Additionally, we explore how diet and the microbiome impact immune checkpoint blockade therapy response. The metabolic reprogramming caused by targeting these proteins is essential in understanding immune-related adverse events and therapeutic resistance. This can provide valuable information for potential biomarkers or combination therapy strategies targeting metabolic pathways with immune checkpoint blockade to enhance patient response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R. Stirling
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; (E.R.S.); (K.L.C.); (P.L.T.)
| | - Steven M. Bronson
- Department of Pathology, Section of Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA;
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Molecular Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Jessica D. Mackert
- Department of Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA;
| | - Katherine L. Cook
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; (E.R.S.); (K.L.C.); (P.L.T.)
- Department of Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA;
- Wake Forest School of Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Pierre L. Triozzi
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; (E.R.S.); (K.L.C.); (P.L.T.)
- Wake Forest School of Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest School of Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - David R. Soto-Pantoja
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA; (E.R.S.); (K.L.C.); (P.L.T.)
- Department of Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA;
- Wake Forest School of Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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27
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de Klerk DJ, de Keijzer MJ, Dias LM, Heemskerk J, de Haan LR, Kleijn TG, Franchi LP, Heger M. Strategies for Improving Photodynamic Therapy Through Pharmacological Modulation of the Immediate Early Stress Response. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2451:405-480. [PMID: 35505025 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2099-1_20] [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] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally to noninvasive treatment modality that has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional cancer treatments. PDT induces hyperoxidative stress and disrupts cellular homeostasis in photosensitized cancer cells, resulting in cell death and ultimately removal of the tumor. However, various survival pathways can be activated in sublethally afflicted cancer cells following PDT. The acute stress response is one of the known survival pathways in PDT, which is activated by reactive oxygen species and signals via ASK-1 (directly) or via TNFR (indirectly). The acute stress response can activate various other survival pathways that may entail antioxidant, pro-inflammatory, angiogenic, and proteotoxic stress responses that culminate in the cancer cell's ability to cope with redox stress and oxidative damage. This review provides an overview of the immediate early stress response in the context of PDT, mechanisms of activation by PDT, and molecular intervention strategies aimed at inhibiting survival signaling and improving PDT outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J de Klerk
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mark J de Keijzer
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lionel M Dias
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde (FCS-UBI), Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Jordi Heemskerk
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Lianne R de Haan
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tony G Kleijn
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leonardo P Franchi
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB) 2, Universidade Federal de Goiás (UFG), Goiânia, GO, Brazil
- Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Chemistry, Center of Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering-Photobiology and Photomedicine Research Group, Sciences, and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Michal Heger
- Jiaxing Key Laboratory for Photonanomedicine and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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28
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The Role of Gut Microbiota in Tumor Immunotherapy. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:5061570. [PMID: 34485534 PMCID: PMC8413023 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5061570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor immunotherapy is the fourth therapy after surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. It has made great breakthroughs in the treatment of some epithelial tumors and hematological tumors. However, its adverse reactions are common or even more serious, and the response rate in some solid tumors is not satisfactory. With the maturity of genomics and metabolomics technologies, the effect of intestinal microbiota in tumor development and treatment has gradually been recognized. The microbiota may affect tumor immunity by regulating the host immune system and tumor microenvironment. Some bacteria help fight tumors by activating immunity, while some bacteria mediate immunosuppression to help cancer cells escape from the immune system. More and more studies have revealed that the effects and complications of tumor immunotherapy are related to the composition of the gut microbiota. The composition of the intestinal microbiota that is sensitive to treatment or prone to adverse reactions has certain characteristics. These characteristics may be used as biomarkers to predict the prognosis of immunotherapy and may also be developed as “immune potentiators” to assist immunotherapy. Some clinical and preclinical studies have proved that microbial intervention, including microbial transplantation, can improve the sensitivity of immunotherapy or reduce adverse reactions to a certain extent. With the development of gene editing technology and nanotechnology, the design and development of engineered bacteria that contribute to immunotherapy has become a new research hotspot. Based on the relationship between the intestinal microbiota and immunotherapy, the correct mining of microbial information and the development of reasonable and feasible microbial intervention methods are expected to optimize tumor immunotherapy to a large extent and bring new breakthroughs in tumor treatment.
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