1
|
Graham LV, Fisher JG, Doyle ADP, Sale B, Del Rio L, French AJE, Mayor NP, Turner TR, Marsh SGE, Cragg MS, Forconi F, Khakoo SI, Blunt MD. KIR2DS2+ NK cells in cancer patients demonstrate high activation in response to tumour-targeting antibodies. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1404051. [PMID: 39286025 PMCID: PMC11402612 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1404051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Strategies to mobilise natural killer (NK) cells against cancer include tumour-targeting antibodies, NK cell engagers (NKCEs) and the adoptive transfer of ex vivo expanded healthy donor-derived NK cells. Genetic and functional studies have revealed that expression of the activating killer immunoglobulin-like receptor KIR2DS2 is associated with enhanced function in NK cells from healthy donors and improved outcome in several different malignancies. The optimal strategy to leverage KIR2DS2+ NK cells therapeutically is however currently unclear. In this study, we therefore evaluated the response of KIR2DS2-expressing NK cells to activation against cancer with clinically relevant tumour-targeting antibodies and following ex vivo expansion. We identified that KIR2DS2high NK cells from patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and hepatocellular carcinoma had enhanced activation in response to tumour-targeting antibodies compared to KIR2DS2- NK cells. However, the superior function of healthy donor derived KIR2DS2high NK cells was lost following ex vivo expansion which is required for adoptive transfer-based therapeutic strategies. These data provide evidence that targeting KIR2DS2 directly in cancer patients may allow for the utilisation of their enhanced effector function, however such activity may be lost following their ex vivo expansion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara V Graham
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Jack G Fisher
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Amber D P Doyle
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Sale
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Luis Del Rio
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Albert J E French
- Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Neema P Mayor
- Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Academic Haematology, University College London (UCL) Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas R Turner
- Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Academic Haematology, University College London (UCL) Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Steven G E Marsh
- Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Academic Haematology, University College London (UCL) Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark S Cragg
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- Antibody and Vaccine Group, Centre for Cancer Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Forconi
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- Haematology Department, Cancer Care Directorate, University Hospital Southampton National Health Service (NHS) Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Salim I Khakoo
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew D Blunt
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zeng W, Liu H, Mao Y, Jiang S, Yi H, Zhang Z, Wang M, Zong Z. Myeloid‑derived suppressor cells: Key immunosuppressive regulators and therapeutic targets in colorectal cancer (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 65:85. [PMID: 39054950 PMCID: PMC11299769 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common type of cancer. CRC has no apparent symptoms in the early stages of disease, and most patients receive a confirmed diagnosis in the middle or late disease stages. The incidence of CRC continues to increase, and the affected population tends to be younger. Therefore, determining how to achieve an early CRC diagnosis and treatment has become a top priority for prolonging patient survival. Myeloid‑derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a group of bone marrow‑derived immuno‑negative regulatory cells that are divided into two subpopulations, polymorphonuclear‑MDSCs and monocytic‑MDSCs, based on their phenotypic similarities to neutrophils and monocytes, respectively. These cells can inhibit the immune response and promote cancer cell metastasis in the tumour microenvironment (TME). A large aggregation of MDSCs in the TME is often a marker of cancer and a poor prognosis in inflammatory diseases of the intestine (such as colonic adenoma and ulcerative colitis). In the present review, the phenotypic classification of MDSCs in the CRC microenvironment are first discussed. Then, the amplification, role and metastatic mechanism of MDSCs in the CRC TME are described, focusing on genes, gene modifications, proteins and the intestinal microenvironment. Finally, the progress in CRC‑targeted therapies that aim to modulate the quantity, function and structure of MDSCs are summarized in the hope of identifying potential screening markers for CRC and improving CRC prognosis and therapeutic options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Zeng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
- HuanKui Academy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Haohan Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yuanhao Mao
- Fuzhou Medical College, Nanchang University, Fuzhou, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Shihao Jiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Hao Yi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zitong Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
- HuanKui Academy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Menghui Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
- HuanKui Academy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Zong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cantoni C, Falco M, Vitale M, Pietra G, Munari E, Pende D, Mingari MC, Sivori S, Moretta L. Human NK cells and cancer. Oncoimmunology 2024; 13:2378520. [PMID: 39022338 PMCID: PMC11253890 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2024.2378520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The long story of NK cells started about 50 y ago with the first demonstration of a natural cytotoxic activity within an undefined subset of circulating leukocytes, has involved an ever-growing number of researchers, fascinated by the apparently easy-to-reach aim of getting a "universal anti-tumor immune tool". In fact, in spite of the impressive progress obtained in the first decades, these cells proved far more complex than expected and, paradoxically, the accumulating findings have continuously moved forward the attainment of a complete control of their function for immunotherapy. The refined studies of these latter years have indicated that NK cells can epigenetically calibrate their functional potential, in response to specific environmental contexts, giving rise to extraordinarily variegated subpopulations, comprehensive of memory-like cells, tissue-resident cells, or cells in various differentiation stages, or distinct functional states. In addition, NK cells can adapt their activity in response to a complex body of signals, spanning from the interaction with either suppressive or stimulating cells (myeloid-derived suppressor cells or dendritic cells, respectively) to the engagement of various receptors (specific for immune checkpoints, cytokines, tumor/viral ligands, or mediating antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity). According to this picture, the idea of an easy and generalized exploitation of NK cells is changing, and the way is opening toward new carefully designed, combined and personalized therapeutic strategies, also based on the use of genetically modified NK cells and stimuli capable of strengthening and redirecting their effector functions against cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Cantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Integrated Department of Services and Laboratories, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michela Falco
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Integrated Department of Services and Laboratories, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Massimo Vitale
- UO Pathology and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pietra
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- UO Pathology and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Enrico Munari
- Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology and Diagnostics, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Daniela Pende
- UO Pathology and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Mingari
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- UO Pathology and Experimental Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Simona Sivori
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico, San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gallardo-Zapata J, Pérez-Figueroa E, Olivar-López V, Medina-Sansón A, Jiménez-Hernández E, Ortega E, Maldonado-Bernal C. TLR Agonists Modify NK Cell Activation and Increase Its Cytotoxicity in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7500. [PMID: 39000607 PMCID: PMC11242025 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137500] [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: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells play a crucial role in innate immunity, particularly in combating infections and tumors. However, in hematological cancers, NK cells often exhibit impaired functions. Therefore, it is very important to activate its endosomal Toll-like receptors (TLRs) as a potential strategy to restore its antitumor activity. We stimulated NK cells from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells from children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and NK cells isolated, and the NK cells were stimulated with specific TLR ligands (Poly I:C, Imiquimod, R848, and ODN2006) and we evaluated changes in IFN-γ, CD107a, NKG2D, NKp44 expression, Granzyme B secretion, cytokine/chemokine release, and cytotoxic activity. Results revealed that Poly I:C and Imiquimod enhanced the activation of both immunoregulatory and cytotoxic NK cells, increasing IFN-γ, CD107a, NKG2D, and NKp44 expression. R848 activated immunoregulatory NK cells, while ODN2006 boosted CD107a, NKp44, NKG2D, and IFN-γ secretion in cytotoxic NK cells. R848 also increased the secretion of seven cytokines/chemokines. Importantly, R848 and ODN 2006 significantly improved cytotoxicity against leukemic cells. Overall, TLR stimulation enhances NK cell activation, suggesting TLR8 (R848) and TLR9 (ODN 2006) ligands as promising candidates for antitumor immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet Gallardo-Zapata
- Immunology and Proteomics Research Laboratory, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04360, Mexico
| | - Erandi Pérez-Figueroa
- Immunology and Proteomics Research Laboratory, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
| | - Víctor Olivar-López
- Emergency Service, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
| | - Aurora Medina-Sansón
- Hemato-Oncology Department, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
| | | | - Enrique Ortega
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Research, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 4510, Mexico
| | - Carmen Maldonado-Bernal
- Immunology and Proteomics Research Laboratory, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City 06720, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kaur K, Sanghu J, Memarzadeh S, Jewett A. Exploring the Potential of Natural Killer Cell-Based Immunotherapy in Targeting High-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinomas. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:677. [PMID: 38932405 PMCID: PMC11209217 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12060677] [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: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian cancers (HGSOCs) likely consist of poorly differentiated stem-like cells (PDSLCs) and differentiated tumor cells. Conventional therapeutics are incapable of completely eradicating PDSLCs, contributing to disease progression and tumor relapse. Primary NK cells are known to effectively lyse PDSLCs, but they exhibit low or minimal cytotoxic potential against well-differentiated tumors. We have introduced and discussed the characteristics of super-charged NK (sNK) cells in this review. sNK cells, in comparison to primary NK cells, exhibit a significantly higher capability for the direct killing of both PDSLCs and well-differentiated tumors. In addition, sNK cells secrete significantly higher levels of cytokines, especially those known to induce the differentiation of tumors. In addition, we propose that a combination of sNK and chemotherapy could be one of the most effective strategies to eliminate the heterogeneous population of ovarian tumors; sNK cells can lyse both PDSLCs and well-differentiated tumors, induce the differentiation of PDSLCs, and could be used in combination with chemotherapy to target both well-differentiated and NK-induced differentiated tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kawaljit Kaur
- Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, The Jane and Jerry Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, University of California School of Dentistry, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
| | - Jashan Sanghu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (J.S.); (S.M.)
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sanaz Memarzadeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (J.S.); (S.M.)
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- The Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- The VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Anahid Jewett
- Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, The Jane and Jerry Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, University of California School of Dentistry, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
- The Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Díaz-Rivera J, Rodríguez-Rivera MA, Meléndez-Vázquez NM, Godoy-Vitorino F, Dorta-Estremera SM. Immune and Microbial Signatures Associated with PD-1 Blockade Sensitivity in a Preclinical Model for HPV+ Oropharyngeal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2065. [PMID: 38893183 PMCID: PMC11171047 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16112065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The United States is suffering from an epidemic associated with high-risk strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) predominantly responsible for the development of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting programmed death 1 (PD-1) or its ligand PD-L1 has shown poor efficacy in HNSCC patients, observing only a 20-30% response. Therefore, biological marker identification associated with PD-1 blockade response is important to improve prognosis and define novel therapeutics for HNSCC patients. Therapy response was associated with increased frequencies of activated CD27+T cells, activated CD79a+ B cells, antigen-presenting CD74+ dendritic and B cells, and PD-L1+ and PD-L2+ myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). The oral microbiota composition differed significantly in mice bearing tongue tumors and treated with anti-PD-1. A higher abundance of Allobaculum, Blautia, Faecalibacterium, Dorea, or Roseburia was associated with response to the therapy. However, an increase in Enterococcus was attributed to tongue tumor-bearing non-responding mice. Our findings indicate that differences in immune phenotypes, protein expression, and bacterial abundance occur as mice develop tongue tumors and are treated with anti-PD-1. These results may have a clinical impact as specific bacteria and immune phenotype could serve as biomarkers for treatment response in HNSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Díaz-Rivera
- Cancer Biology Division, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR 00936, USA; (J.D.-R.); (M.A.R.-R.)
- Microbiology and Medical Zoology Department, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, PR 00936, USA; (N.M.M.-V.); (F.G.-V.)
| | - Michael A. Rodríguez-Rivera
- Cancer Biology Division, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR 00936, USA; (J.D.-R.); (M.A.R.-R.)
- Microbiology and Medical Zoology Department, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, PR 00936, USA; (N.M.M.-V.); (F.G.-V.)
| | - Natalie M. Meléndez-Vázquez
- Microbiology and Medical Zoology Department, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, PR 00936, USA; (N.M.M.-V.); (F.G.-V.)
| | - Filipa Godoy-Vitorino
- Microbiology and Medical Zoology Department, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, PR 00936, USA; (N.M.M.-V.); (F.G.-V.)
| | - Stephanie M. Dorta-Estremera
- Cancer Biology Division, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR 00936, USA; (J.D.-R.); (M.A.R.-R.)
- Microbiology and Medical Zoology Department, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, PR 00936, USA; (N.M.M.-V.); (F.G.-V.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Liu Y, Li M, Fang Z, Gao S, Cheng W, Duan Y, Wang X, Feng J, Yu T, Zhang J, Wang T, Hu A, Zhang H, Rong Z, Shakila SS, Shang Y, Kong F, Liu J, Li Y, Ma F. Overexpressing S100A9 ameliorates NK cell dysfunction in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:117. [PMID: 38713229 PMCID: PMC11076447 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03699-1] [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: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogen receptor (ER) positive human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) negative breast cancer (ER+/HER2-BC) and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) are two distinct breast cancer molecular subtypes, especially in tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). The TIME of TNBC is considered to be more inflammatory than that of ER+/HER2-BC. Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes that play an important role of tumor eradication in TME. However, studies focusing on the different cell states of NK cells in breast cancer subtypes are still inadequate. METHODS In this study, single-cell mRNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and bulk mRNA sequencing data from ER+/HER2-BC and TNBC were analyzed. Key regulator of NK cell suppression in ER+/HER2-BC, S100A9, was quantified by qPCR and ELISA in MCF-7, T47D, MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. The prognosis predictability of S100A9 and NK activation markers was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier analyses using TCGA-BRAC data. The phenotype changes of NK cells in ER+/HER2-BC after overexpressing S100A9 in cancer cells were evaluated by the production levels of IFN-gamma, perforin and granzyme B and cytotoxicity assay. RESULTS By analyzing scRNA-seq data, we found that multiple genes involved in cellular stress response were upregulated in ER+/HER2-BC compared with TNBC. Moreover, TLR regulation pathway was significantly enriched using differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from comparing the transcriptome data of ER+/HER2-BC and TNBC cancer cells, and NK cell infiltration high/low groups. Among the DEGs, S100A9 was identified as a key regulator. Patients with higher expression levels of S100A9 and NK cell activation markers had better overall survival. Furthermore, we proved that overexpression of S100A9 in ER+/HER2-cells could improve cocultured NK cell function. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the study we presented demonstrated that NK cells in ER+/HER2-BC were hypofunctional, and S100A9 was an important regulator of NK cell function in ER+BC. Our work contributes to elucidate the regulatory networks between cancer cells and NK cells and may provide theoretical basis for novel drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yansong Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Mingcui Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Zhengbo Fang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Shan Gao
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Weilun Cheng
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Yunqiang Duan
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Xuelian Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Jianyuan Feng
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Tianshui Yu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Jiarui Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Anbang Hu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Hanyu Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Zhiyuan Rong
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Suborna S Shakila
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Yuhang Shang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Fanjing Kong
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Jiangwei Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Yanling Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China.
| | - Fei Ma
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, 246 Xuefu Street, Harbin, 150001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhang Q, Lin J, Yang M, Li Z, Zhang M, Bu B. Therapeutic potential of natural killer cells in neuroimmunological diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116371. [PMID: 38430631 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116371] [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: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells, a major component of the innate immune system, have prominent immunoregulatory, antitumor proliferation, and antiviral activities. NK cells act as a double-edged sword with therapeutic potential in neurological autoimmunity. Emerging evidence has identified NK cells are involved in the development and progression of neuroimmunological diseases such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, autoimmune encephalitis, Guillain-Barré Syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, myasthenia gravis, and idiopathic inflammatory myopathy. However, the regulatory mechanisms and functional roles of NK cells are highly variable in different clinical states of neuroimmunological diseases and need to be further determined. In this review, we summarize the evidence for the heterogenic involvement of NK cells in the above conditions. Further, we describe cutting-edge NK-cell-based immunotherapy for neuroimmunological diseases in preclinical and clinical development and highlight challenges that must be overcome to fully realize the therapeutic potential of NK cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Mengge Yang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Zhijun Li
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| | - Bitao Bu
- Department of Neurology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Functional Reconstruction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chen J, Sun S, Li H, Cai X, Wan C. IL-22 signaling promotes sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma via STAT3/CD155 signaling axis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1373321. [PMID: 38596684 PMCID: PMC11003268 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1373321] [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: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sorafenib is currently the first-line treatment for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nevertheless, sorafenib resistance remains a huge challenge in the clinic. Therefore, it is urgent to elucidate the mechanisms underlying sorafenib resistance for developing novel treatment strategies for advanced HCC. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role and mechanisms of interleukin-22 (IL-22) in sorafenib resistance in HCC. Methods The in vitro experiments using HCC cell lines and in vivo studies with a nude mouse model were used. Calcium staining, chromatin immunoprecipitation, lactate dehydrogenase release and luciferase reporter assays were employed to explore the expression and roles of IL-22, STAT3 and CD155 in sorafenib resistance. Results Our clinical results demonstrated a significant correlation between elevated IL-22 expression and poor prognosis in HCC. Analysis of transcriptomic data from the phase-3 STORM-trial (BIOSTORM) suggested that STAT3 signaling activation and natural killer (NK) cell infiltration may associate sorafenib responses. STAT3 signaling could be activated by IL-22 administration in HCC cells, and then enhanced sorafenib resistance in HCC cells by promoting cell proliferation and reducing apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. Further, we found IL-22/STAT3 axis can transcriptionally upregulate CD155 expression in HCC cells, which could significantly reduce NK cell-mediated HCC cell lysis in a co-culture system. Conclusions Collectively, IL-22 could contribute to sorafenib resistance in HCC by activating STAT3/CD155 signaling axis to decrease the sensitivities of tumor cells to sorafenib-mediated direct cytotoxicity and NK cell-mediated lysis. These findings deepen the understanding of how sorafenib resistance develops in HCC in terms of IL-22/STAT3 signaling pathway, and provide potential targets to overcome sorafenib resistance in patients with advanced HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junzhang Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shiran Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Tumor Center, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiong Cai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chidan Wan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Choi SH, Cho HB, Choi JH, Kim HJ, Jang HJ, Cho S, Maeng E, Park H, Ryu KS, Park KH, Park KS. Nano-chemical priming strategy to enhance TGF-β resistance and anti-tumor activity of natural killer cells. J Control Release 2024; 367:768-778. [PMID: 38341178 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.02.008] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy based on adoptive transfer of natural killer (NK) cells is a promising strategy for circumventing the limitations of cancer treatments. However, components of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), such as transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), compromise the therapeutic efficacy of NK cells significantly. To address these limitations, we developed a novel method of engineering NK cells for adaptive transfer. The method is based on nanogels that serve two functions: (1) they overcome the TGF-β-mediated stress environment of the TME, and (2) they enhance the direct anti-tumor activity of NK cells. Previously, we demonstrated that cationic compounds such as 25 K branched polyethylenimine (25 K bPEI) prime NK cells, putting them in a 'ready-to-fight' state. Based on these findings, we designed nanogels that have two primary characteristics: (1) they encapsulate galunisertib (Gal), which is used clinically to inhibit TGF-β receptor activity, thereby blocking TGF-β signaling; and (2) they provide cells with a surface coating of 25 K bPEI. When grown in culture medium containing TGF-β, nanogel-treated NK cells demonstrated greater migration ability, degranulation activity, and cytotoxicity towards cancer cells than untreated NK cells. Additionally, the in vivo efficacy of nanogel-treated NK cells against PC-3 xenografts was significantly greater than that of Chem_NK cells primed by 25 K bPEI alone. These findings suggest that Gal-loaded 25 K bPEI-coated nanogels exert anti-tumor effects via chemical priming, as well suppressing the effects of TGF-β on NK cells. We also expect 25 K bPEI-based nanogels to have great potential to overcome the suppressive effects of the TME through their NK cell-priming activity and delivery of the desired chemicals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seung Hee Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Hui Bang Cho
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Ho Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jin Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jung Jang
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Seohyun Cho
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunchong Maeng
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Hail Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Seo Ryu
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Keun-Hong Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyung-Soon Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Saadh MJ, Rasulova I, Khalil M, Farahim F, Sârbu I, Ciongradi CI, Omar TM, Alhili A, Jawad MJ, Hani T, Ali T, Lakshmaiya N. Natural killer cell-mediated immune surveillance in cancer: Role of tumor microenvironment. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 254:155120. [PMID: 38280274 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
In the immunological surveillance against cancer, natural killer (NK) cells are essential effectors that help eradicate altered cells. The complex interactions that occur between NK cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) are thoroughly examined in this review. The review examines how cytokine stimulation affects NK cell activation, focusing on the dynamic modulation of NK cell function within the TME. It looks at NK cell-related biomarkers such as PD-1/PD-L1, methylation HOXA9 (Homeobox A9), Stroma AReactive Invasion Front Areas (SARIFA), and NKG2A/HLA-E, providing critical information about prognosis and treatment outcomes. The changing landscape of immunotherapies-including checkpoint inhibitors, CAR-NK cells, and cytokine-based interventions-is examined in the context of enhancing NK cell activity. The review highlights the potential pathways for precision medicine going forward, focusing on customized immunotherapies based on unique biomarker profiles and investigating combination medicines to produce more robust anti-tumor responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed J Saadh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman 11831, Jordan; Applied Science Research Center. Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Irodakhon Rasulova
- MD, PhD, Senior Researcher, School of Humanities, Natural & Social Sciences, New Uzbekistan University, 54 Mustaqillik Ave., Tashkent, 100007, Uzbekistan; Department of Public Health, Samarkand State Medical University, Amir Temur street 18, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
| | | | - Farha Farahim
- Department of Nursing, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ioan Sârbu
- 2nd Department of Surgery-Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania.
| | - Carmen Iulia Ciongradi
- 2nd Department of Surgery-Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania.
| | - Thabit Moath Omar
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technics, Al-Noor University College, Nineveh, Iraq
| | - Ahmed Alhili
- Medical Technical College, Al-Farahidi University, Iraq
| | | | - Thamer Hani
- Dentistry Department, Al-Turath University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Talat Ali
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Natrayan Lakshmaiya
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, SIMATS, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jia H, Yang H, Xiong H, Luo KQ. NK cell exhaustion in the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1303605. [PMID: 38022646 PMCID: PMC10653587 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1303605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells kill mutant cells through death receptors and cytotoxic granules, playing an essential role in controlling cancer progression. However, in the tumor microenvironment (TME), NK cells frequently exhibit an exhausted status, which impairs their immunosurveillance function and contributes to tumor immune evasion. Emerging studies are ongoing to reveal the properties and mechanisms of NK cell exhaustion in the TME. In this review, we will briefly introduce the maturation, localization, homeostasis, and cytotoxicity of NK cells. We will then summarize the current understanding of the main mechanisms underlying NK cell exhaustion in the TME in four aspects: dysregulation of inhibitory and activating signaling, tumor cell-derived factors, immunosuppressive cells, and metabolism and exhaustion. We will also discuss the therapeutic approaches currently being developed to reverse NK cell exhaustion and enhance NK cell cytotoxicity in the TME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Jia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Hongmei Yang
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Huaxing Xiong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Kathy Qian Luo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
- Ministry of Education Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|