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De Velasco MA, Kura Y, Fujita K, Uemura H. Moving toward improved immune checkpoint immunotherapy for advanced prostate cancer. Int J Urol 2024; 31:307-324. [PMID: 38167824 DOI: 10.1111/iju.15378] [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: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Human prostate cancer is a heterogenous malignancy that responds poorly to immunotherapy targeting immune checkpoints. The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment that is typical of human prostate cancer has been the main obstacle to these treatments. The effectiveness of these therapies is also hindered by acquired resistance, leading to slow progress in prostate cancer immunotherapy. Results from the highly anticipated late-stage clinical trials of PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint blockade in patients with advanced prostate cancer have highlighted some of the obstacles to immunotherapy. Despite the setbacks, there is much that has been learned about the mechanisms that drive resistance, and new strategies are being developed and tested. Here, we review the status of immune checkpoint blockade and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and discuss factors contributing to innate and adaptive resistance to immune checkpoint blockade within the context of prostate cancer. We then examine current strategies aiming to overcome these challenges as well as prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A De Velasco
- Department of Genome Biology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Yurie Kura
- Department of Genome Biology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Fujita
- Department of Urology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
| | - Hirotsugu Uemura
- Department of Urology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osakasayama, Japan
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2
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Quan Y, He J, Zou Q, Zhang L, Sun Q, Huang H, Li W, Xie K, Wei F. Low molecular weight heparin synergistically enhances the efficacy of adoptive and anti-PD-1-based immunotherapy by increasing lymphocyte infiltration in colorectal cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007080. [PMID: 37597850 PMCID: PMC10441131 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapy, including adoptive cell therapy (ACT) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), has a limited effect in most patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), and the efficacy is further limited in patients with liver metastasis. Lack of antitumor lymphocyte infiltration could be a major cause, and there remains an urgent need for more potent and safer therapies for CRC. METHODS In this study, the antitumoral synergism of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) combined with immunotherapy in the microsatellite stable (MSS) highly aggressive murine model of CRC was fully evaluated. RESULTS Dual LMWH and ACT objectively mediated the stagnation of tumor growth and inhibition of liver metastasis, neither LMWH nor ACT alone had any antitumoral activity on them. The combination of LMWH and ACT obviously increased the infiltration of intratumor CD8+ T cells, as revealed by multiplex immunohistochemistry, purified CD8+ T-cell transfer assay, and IVIM in vivo imaging. Mechanistically, evaluation of changes in the tumor microenvironment revealed that LMWH improved tumor vascular normalization and facilitated the trafficking of activated CD8+ T cells into tumors. Similarly, LMWH combined with anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) therapy provided superior antitumor activity as compared with the single PD-1 blockade in murine CT26 tumor models. CONCLUSIONS LMWH could enhance ACT and ICIs-based immunotherapy by increasing lymphocyte infiltration into tumors, especially cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. These results indicate that combining LMWH with an immunotherapy strategy presents a promising and safe approach for CRC treatment, especially in MSS tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibo Quan
- Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital, South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie He
- Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital, South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Department of Immunology, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi Zou
- Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital, South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Department of Immunology, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liuxi Zhang
- Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital, South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Department of Immunology, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qihui Sun
- Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Department of Immunology, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongli Huang
- Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital, South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wanglin Li
- Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital, South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Keping Xie
- Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Department of Immunology, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fang Wei
- Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital, South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Department of Immunology, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
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3
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Benoit A, Vogin G, Duhem C, Berchem G, Janji B. Lighting Up the Fire in the Microenvironment of Cold Tumors: A Major Challenge to Improve Cancer Immunotherapy. Cells 2023; 12:1787. [PMID: 37443821 PMCID: PMC10341162 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy includes immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) such as antibodies targeting cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) or the programmed cell death protein/programmed death ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) axis. Experimental and clinical evidence show that immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) provides long-term survival benefits to cancer patients in whom other conventional therapies have failed. However, only a minority of patients show high clinical benefits via the use of ICI alone. One of the major factors limiting the clinical benefits to ICI can be attributed to the lack of immune cell infiltration within the tumor microenvironment. Such tumors are classified as "cold/warm" or an immune "desert"; those displaying significant infiltration are considered "hot" or inflamed. This review will provide a brief summary of different tumor properties contributing to the establishment of cold tumors and describe major strategies that could reprogram non-inflamed cold tumors into inflamed hot tumors. More particularly, we will describe how targeting hypoxia can induce metabolic reprogramming that results in improving and extending the benefit of ICI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Benoit
- Tumor Immunotherapy and Microenvironment (TIME) Group, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (A.B.); (G.B.)
| | - Guillaume Vogin
- Centre National de Radiothérapie François Baclesse, L-4005 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg;
- Ingénierie Moléculaire et Physiopathologie Articulaire (IMoPA), Université de Lorraine—UMR 7365, 54505 Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Caroline Duhem
- Department of Hemato-Oncology, Centre Hospitalier du Luxembourg, L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg;
| | - Guy Berchem
- Tumor Immunotherapy and Microenvironment (TIME) Group, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (A.B.); (G.B.)
- Department of Hemato-Oncology, Centre Hospitalier du Luxembourg, L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg;
- Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, L-4367 Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Bassam Janji
- Tumor Immunotherapy and Microenvironment (TIME) Group, Department of Cancer Research, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), L-1210 Luxembourg, Luxembourg; (A.B.); (G.B.)
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4
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Chaudhary R, Slebos RJ, Noel LC, Song F, Poole MI, Hoening DS, Hernandez-Prera JC, Conejo-Garcia JR, Guevara-Patino JA, Wang X, Xie M, Tan AC, Chung CH. EGFR Inhibition by Cetuximab Modulates Hypoxia and IFN Response Genes in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:896-907. [PMID: 37377902 PMCID: PMC10202124 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-22-0443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has one of the most hypoxic and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments (TME) among solid tumors. However, there is no proven therapeutic strategy to remodel the TME to be less hypoxic and proinflammatory. In this study, we classified tumors according to a Hypoxia-Immune signature, characterized the immune cells in each subgroup, and analyzed the signaling pathways to identify a potential therapeutic target that can remodel the TME. We confirmed that hypoxic tumors had significantly higher numbers of immunosuppressive cells, as evidenced by a lower ratio of CD8+ T cells to FOXP3+ regulatory T cells, compared with nonhypoxic tumors. Patients with hypoxic tumors had worse outcomes after treatment with pembrolizumab or nivolumab, anti-programmed cell death-1 inhibitors. Our expression analysis also indicated that hypoxic tumors predominantly increased the expression of the EGFR and TGFβ pathway genes. Cetuximab, an anti-EGFR inhibitor, decreased the expression of hypoxia signature genes, suggesting that it may alleviate the effects of hypoxia and remodel the TME to become more proinflammatory. Our study provides a rationale for treatment strategies combining EGFR-targeted agents and immunotherapy in the management of hypoxic HNSCC. Significance While the hypoxic and immunosuppressive TME of HNSCC has been well described, comprehensive evaluation of the immune cell components and signaling pathways contributing to immunotherapy resistance has been poorly characterized. We further identified additional molecular determinants and potential therapeutic targets of the hypoxic TME to fully leverage currently available targeted therapies that can be administered with immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Chaudhary
- Department of Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Robbert J.C. Slebos
- Department of Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Leenil C. Noel
- Department of Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Feifei Song
- Department of Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Maria I. Poole
- Department of Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Dirk S. Hoening
- Department of Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | | | | | | | - Xuefeng Wang
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Mengyu Xie
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Aik Choon Tan
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Christine H. Chung
- Department of Head and Neck-Endocrine Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
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5
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Cadassou O, Petter Jordheim L. OXPHOS inhibitors, metabolism and targeted therapies in cancer. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 211:115531. [PMID: 37019188 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
More and more studies highlight the complex metabolic characteristics and plasticity of cancer cells. To address these specificities and explore the associated vulnerabilities, new metabolism-targeting therapeutic strategies are being developed. It is more and more accepted that cancer cells do not produce their energy only from aerobic glycolysis, as some subtypes strongly rely on mitochondrial respiration (OXPHOS). This review focuses on classical and promising OXPHOS inhibitors (OXPHOSi), unravelling their interest and modes of actions in cancer, particularly in combination with other strategies. Indeed, in monotherapy, OXPHOSi display limited efficiency as they mostly trigger cell death in cancer cell subtypes that strongly depend on mitochondrial respiration and are not able to shift to other metabolic pathways to produce energy. Nevertheless, they remain very interesting in combination with conventional therapeutic strategies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, increasing their anti-tumoral actions. In addition, OXPHOSi can be included in even more innovative strategies such as combinations with other metabolic drugs or immunotherapies.
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Malsagova KA, Astrelina TA, Balakin EI, Kobzeva IV, Adoeva EY, Yurku KA, Suchkova YB, Stepanov AA, Izotov AA, Butkova TV, Kaysheva AL, Pustovoyt VI. Influence of Sports Training in Foothills on the Professional Athlete's Immunity. Sports (Basel) 2023; 11:sports11020030. [PMID: 36828315 PMCID: PMC9959015 DOI: 10.3390/sports11020030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroplasticity and inflammation play important part in the body's adaptive reactions in response to prolonged physical activity. These processes are associated with the cross-interaction of the nervous and immune systems, which is realized through the transmission of signals from neurotransmitters and cytokines. Using the methods of flow cytometry and advanced biochemical analysis of blood humoral parameters, we showed that intense and prolonged physical activity at the anaerobic threshold, without nutritional and metabolic support, contributes to the development of exercise-induced immunosuppression in sportsmen. These athletes illustrate the following signs of a decreased immune status: fewer absolute indicators of the content of leukocytes, lowered values in the immunoregulatory index (CD4+/CD8+), and diminished indicators of humoral immunity (immunoglobulins A, M, and G, and IFN-γ). These factors characterize the functional state of cellular and humoral immunity and their reduction affects the prenosological risk criteria, indicative of the athletes' susceptibility to develop exercise-induced immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina A. Malsagova
- Biobanking Group, Branch of Institute of Biomedical Chemistry “Scientific and Education Center”, 109028 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-(499)-764-98-78
| | - Tatiana A. Astrelina
- State Research Center—Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, 123098 Moscow, Russia
| | - Evgenii I. Balakin
- State Research Center—Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, 123098 Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina V. Kobzeva
- State Research Center—Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, 123098 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena Ya. Adoeva
- S.M. Kirov Military Medical Academy, 194044 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Kseniya A. Yurku
- State Research Center—Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, 123098 Moscow, Russia
| | - Yuliya B. Suchkova
- State Research Center—Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, 123098 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander A. Stepanov
- Biobanking Group, Branch of Institute of Biomedical Chemistry “Scientific and Education Center”, 109028 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander A. Izotov
- Biobanking Group, Branch of Institute of Biomedical Chemistry “Scientific and Education Center”, 109028 Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatyana V. Butkova
- Biobanking Group, Branch of Institute of Biomedical Chemistry “Scientific and Education Center”, 109028 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna L. Kaysheva
- Biobanking Group, Branch of Institute of Biomedical Chemistry “Scientific and Education Center”, 109028 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vasiliy I. Pustovoyt
- State Research Center—Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, 123098 Moscow, Russia
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Mechanism of miR-760 Reversing Lung Cancer Immune Escape by Downregulating IDO1 and Eliminating Regulatory T Cells Based on Mathematical Biology. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:2960773. [PMID: 35872931 PMCID: PMC9303114 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2960773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In cancer biology, mathematical models have become indispensable. They are useful for gaining a mechanistic grasp of cancer's dynamic processes. In cancer research, mathematical modelling approaches are becoming more common. The complexity of cancer is well suited to quantitative approaches as it provides challenges and opportunities for new developments (Altrock et al., 2015). Background. MicroRNA-760 (miR-760), as an early discovered tumor suppressor gene, is poorly expressed in lung cancer (LC). Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), as an important regulator of T cell function, is active in immune tolerance. We discovered that miR-760 has a targeted relationship with IDO1, but the regulatory mechanism between miR-760 and IDO1 is still unclear. Method. The miR-760 and IDO1 levels in NSCLC were tested via real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting (WB). Cell growth was tested by CCK8, and NSCLC cell migration and invasion were analyzed through Transwell analysis. The binding conditions and target gene of miR-451 in NSCLC cells were determined via double luciferase reporter gene. The CD8+ T and CD4+ T cell ratio in CD45+cells was assessed by flow cytometry. Results. qRT-PCR revealed that miR-760 was low-expressed and IDO2 was highly expressed in LC. miR-760 mimics suppressed cell growth, invasiveness, and migration. We also observed that miR-760 could downregulate the IDO1 protein level. Significantly, we revealed that miR-760 could inhibit CD8+ T cell apoptosis by controlling IDO1 enzyme function. Conclusion. Our findings show that miR-760 inhibits CD8+ T cell responses in LC through regulating IDO1, laying the groundwork for the development of novel vaccination therapies for the treatment of LC.
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Kozin SV. Vascular damage in tumors: a key player in stereotactic radiation therapy? Trends Cancer 2022; 8:806-819. [PMID: 35835699 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.06.002] [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: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The use of stereotactic radiation therapy (SRT) for cancer treatment has grown in recent years, showing excellent results for some tumors. The greatly increased doses per fraction in SRT compared to conventional radiotherapy suggest a 'new biology' that determines treatment outcome. Proposed mechanisms include significant damage to tumor blood vessels and enhanced antitumor immune responses, which are also vasculature-dependent. These ideas are mostly based on the results of radiation studies in animal models because direct observations in humans are limited. However, even preclinical findings are somewhat incomplete and result in ambiguous conclusions. Current evidence of vasculature-related mechanisms of SRT is reviewed. Understanding them could result in better optimization of SRT alone or in combination with immune or other cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey V Kozin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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Drug Resistance in Colorectal Cancer: From Mechanism to Clinic. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14122928. [PMID: 35740594 PMCID: PMC9221177 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The 5-year survival rate is 90% for patients with early CRC, 70% for patients with locally advanced CRC, and 15% for patients with metastatic CRC (mCRC). In fact, most CRC patients are at an advanced stage at the time of diagnosis. Although chemotherapy, molecularly targeted therapy and immunotherapy have significantly improved patient survival, some patients are initially insensitive to these drugs or initially sensitive but quickly become insensitive, and the emergence of such primary and secondary drug resistance is a significant clinical challenge. The most direct cause of resistance is the aberrant anti-tumor drug metabolism, transportation or target. With more in-depth research, it is found that cell death pathways, carcinogenic signals, compensation feedback loop signal pathways and tumor immune microenvironment also play essential roles in the drug resistance mechanism. Here, we assess the current major mechanisms of CRC resistance and describe potential therapeutic interventions.
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Hypoxia as a Modulator of Inflammation and Immune Response in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092291. [PMID: 35565420 PMCID: PMC9099524 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
A clear association between hypoxia and cancer has heretofore been established; however, it has not been completely developed. In this sense, the understanding of the tumoral microenvironment is critical to dissect the complexity of cancer, including the reduction in oxygen distribution inside the tumoral mass, defined as tumoral hypoxia. Moreover, hypoxia not only influences the tumoral cells but also the surrounding cells, including those related to the inflammatory processes. In this review, we analyze the participation of HIF, NF-κB, and STAT signaling pathways as the main components that interconnect hypoxia and immune response and how they modulate tumoral growth. In addition, we closely examine the participation of the immune cells and how they are affected by hypoxia, the effects of the progression of cancer, and some innovative applications that take advantage of this knowledge, to suggest potential therapies. Therefore, we contribute to the understanding of the complexity of cancer to propose innovative therapeutic strategies in the future.
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Arnaiz E, Harris AL. Role of Hypoxia in the Interferon Response. Front Immunol 2022; 13:821816. [PMID: 35251003 PMCID: PMC8895238 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.821816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In solid tumors, as the tumor grows and the disease progresses, hypoxic regions are often generated, but in contrast to most normal cells which cannot survive under these conditions, tumour cells adapt to hypoxia by HIF-driven mechanisms. Hypoxia can further promote cancer development by generating an immunosuppressive environment within the tumour mass, which allows tumour cells to escape the immune system recognition. This is achieved by recruiting immunosuppressive cells and by upregulating molecules which block immune cell activation. Hypoxia can also confer resistance to antitumor therapies by inducing the expression of membrane proteins that increase drug efflux or by inhibiting the apoptosis of treated cells. In addition, tumor cells require an active interferon (IFN) signalling pathway for the success of many anticancer therapies, such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Therefore, hypoxic effects on this pathway needs to be addressed for a successful treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Arnaiz
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Cambridge Institute for Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian L. Harris
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Adrian L. Harris,
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Lappano R, Todd LA, Stanic M, Cai Q, Maggiolini M, Marincola F, Pietrobon V. Multifaceted Interplay between Hormones, Growth Factors and Hypoxia in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:539. [PMID: 35158804 PMCID: PMC8833523 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hormones and growth factors (GFs) are signaling molecules implicated in the regulation of a variety of cellular processes. They play important roles in both healthy and tumor cells, where they function by binding to specific receptors on target cells and activating downstream signaling cascades. The stages of tumor progression are influenced by hormones and GF signaling. Hypoxia, a hallmark of cancer progression, contributes to tumor plasticity and heterogeneity. Most solid tumors contain a hypoxic core due to rapid cellular proliferation that outgrows the blood supply. In these circumstances, hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) play a central role in the adaptation of tumor cells to their new environment, dramatically reshaping their transcriptional profile. HIF signaling is modulated by a variety of factors including hormones and GFs, which activate signaling pathways that enhance tumor growth and metastatic potential and impair responses to therapy. In this review, we summarize the role of hormones and GFs during cancer onset and progression with a particular focus on hypoxia and the interplay with HIF proteins. We also discuss how hypoxia influences the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, considering that a hypoxic environment may act as a determinant of the immune-excluded phenotype and a major hindrance to the success of adoptive cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy;
| | - Lauren A. Todd
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada;
| | - Mia Stanic
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada;
| | - Qi Cai
- Kite Pharma Inc., Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA; (Q.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy;
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13
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Moon EJ, Petersson K, Oleina MM. The importance of hypoxia in radiotherapy for the immune response, metastatic potential and FLASH-RT. Int J Radiat Biol 2022; 98:439-451. [PMID: 34726575 PMCID: PMC7612434 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2021.1988178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hypoxia (low oxygen) is a common feature of solid tumors that has been intensely studied for more than six decades. Here we review the importance of hypoxia to radiotherapy with a particular focus on the contribution of hypoxia to immune responses, metastatic potential and FLASH radiotherapy, active areas of research by leading women in the field. CONCLUSION Although hypoxia-driven metastasis and immunosuppression can negatively impact clinical outcome, understanding these processes can also provide tumor-specific vulnerabilities that may be therapeutically exploited. The different oxygen tensions present in tumors and normal tissues may underpin the beneficial FLASH sparing effect seen in normal tissue and represents a perfect example of advances in the field that can leverage tumor hypoxia to improve future radiotherapy treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eui Jung Moon
- MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK,Equal Contribution and to whom correspondence should be addressed. ; :
| | - Kristoffer Petersson
- MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK,Radiation Physics, Department of Haematology, Oncology and Radiation Physics, Skåne University Hospital, Sweden,Equal Contribution and to whom correspondence should be addressed. ; :
| | - Monica M. Oleina
- MRC Oxford Institute for Radiation Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK,Equal Contribution and to whom correspondence should be addressed. ; :
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Ross SH, Rollings CM, Cantrell DA. Quantitative Analyses Reveal How Hypoxia Reconfigures the Proteome of Primary Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes. Front Immunol 2021; 12:712402. [PMID: 34603285 PMCID: PMC8484760 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.712402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic and nutrient-sensing pathways play an important role in controlling the efficacy of effector T cells. Oxygen is a critical regulator of cellular metabolism. However, during immune responses T cells must function in oxygen-deficient, or hypoxic, environments. Here, we used high resolution mass spectrometry to investigate how the proteome of primary murine CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) is reconfigured in response to hypoxia in vitro. We identified and quantified over 7,600 proteins and discovered that hypoxia increased the abundance of a selected number of proteins in CTLs. This included glucose transporters, metabolic enzymes, transcription factors, cytolytic effector molecules, checkpoint receptors and adhesion molecules. While some of these proteins may augment the effector functions of CTLs, others may limit their cytotoxicity. Moreover, we determined that hypoxia could inhibit IL-2-induced proliferation cues and antigen-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production in CTLs. These data provide a comprehensive resource for understanding the magnitude of the CTL response to hypoxia and emphasise the importance of oxygen-sensing pathways for controlling CD8+ T cells. Additionally, this study provides new understanding about how hypoxia may promote the effector function of CTLs, while contributing to their dysfunction in some contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah H Ross
- Immunology Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Division of Cell Signalling and Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Christina M Rollings
- Division of Cell Signalling and Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Doreen A Cantrell
- Division of Cell Signalling and Immunology, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
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15
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Hassan Venkatesh G, Abou Khouzam R, Shaaban Moustafa Elsayed W, Ahmed Zeinelabdin N, Terry S, Chouaib S. Tumor hypoxia: an important regulator of tumor progression or a potential modulator of tumor immunogenicity? Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1974233. [PMID: 34595058 PMCID: PMC8477925 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1974233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Goutham Hassan Venkatesh
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Raefa Abou Khouzam
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Nagwa Ahmed Zeinelabdin
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Stéphane Terry
- Inserm Umr 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Gustave Roussy, Faculty of Medicine, University Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
| | - Salem Chouaib
- Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
- Inserm Umr 1186, Integrative Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Gustave Roussy, Faculty of Medicine, University Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France
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16
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Han Y, Yu C, Yu Y, Bi L. CD25+ B cells produced IL-35 and alleviated local inflammation during experimental periodontitis. Oral Dis 2021; 28:2248-2257. [PMID: 34129722 DOI: 10.1111/odi.13939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Host immunity is crucial during periodontal inflammations. B cells are considered to have a function of immunoregulation, and TLRs are considered to be crucial in this process. The present study illustrates the potential roles and rules of CD25+ B cells during periodontitis, especially its effect on regulating host IL-35 level and Th1, Th17, and Treg differentiation. MATERIAL AND METHODS The proportion of local and systemic CD25+ B cell subpopulations from periodontitis models were identified by flow cytometry. To illustrate further mechanism, B cells were cultured with a different type of TLR activators. Expression of IL-10, IL-35, and TGF-β was detected by ELISA and real-time PCR. We also set adoptive transfer models by using CD25+ B cells. Alveolar bone erosion, proportion of Th1, Th17, and Tregs, and levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-17 were identified. RESULT Periodontitis induces more CD25+ B cell subpopulations and promotes their IL-10, IL-35, and TGF-βproduction. TLR activators enhanced Breg proliferation and function. LPS+CpG obviously induced more CD25+ B cell differentiation and production of IL-10, IL-35, and TGF-β. Adoptive transfer of CD25+ B cells reduces alveolar bone destruction and local Tregs, proportion, especially the local level of IFN-γ and IL-17. In addition, adoptive transfer of CD25+ B cells remedies the pathological change in the proportion of IL-1β and Th1/Th17 in local lesions. We did not find any significant difference in peripheral blood, regardless of group and detected items. CONCLUSION Results of the present study clarify that CD25+ B cells enlarged and produced more IL-10, IL-35 and TGF-β during periodontitis, activation of TLR4 and TLR9 played crucial roles in this process. Also, CD25+ B cells alleviated periodontal inflammation and alveolar bone resorption. Our findings further expanded the potential of B cells during periodontitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yakun Han
- Department of Periodontology, The Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.,Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Hospital of Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Chengcheng Yu
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Hospital of Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Yan Yu
- Department of Stomatology, Affiliated Hospital of Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Liangjia Bi
- Department of Periodontology, The Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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17
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Tumor Hypoxia as a Barrier in Cancer Therapy: Why Levels Matter. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030499. [PMID: 33525508 PMCID: PMC7866096 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hypoxia is a common feature of solid tumors and associated with poor outcome in most cancer types and treatment modalities, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery and, most likely, immunotherapy. Emerging strategies, such as proton therapy and combination therapies with radiation and hypoxia targeted drugs, provide new opportunities to overcome the hypoxia barrier and improve therapeutic outcome. Hypoxia is heterogeneously distributed both between and within tumors and shows large variations across patients not only in prevalence, but importantly, also in level. To best exploit the emerging strategies, a better understanding of how individual hypoxia levels from mild to severe affect tumor biology is vital. Here, we discuss our current knowledge on this topic and how we should proceed to gain more insight into the field. Abstract Hypoxia arises in tumor regions with insufficient oxygen supply and is a major barrier in cancer treatment. The distribution of hypoxia levels is highly heterogeneous, ranging from mild, almost non-hypoxic, to severe and anoxic levels. The individual hypoxia levels induce a variety of biological responses that impair the treatment effect. A stronger focus on hypoxia levels rather than the absence or presence of hypoxia in our investigations will help development of improved strategies to treat patients with hypoxic tumors. Current knowledge on how hypoxia levels are sensed by cancer cells and mediate cellular responses that promote treatment resistance is comprehensive. Recently, it has become evident that hypoxia also has an important, more unexplored role in the interaction between cancer cells, stroma and immune cells, influencing the composition and structure of the tumor microenvironment. Establishment of how such processes depend on the hypoxia level requires more advanced tumor models and methodology. In this review, we describe promising model systems and tools for investigations of hypoxia levels in tumors. We further present current knowledge and emerging research on cellular responses to individual levels, and discuss their impact in novel therapeutic approaches to overcome the hypoxia barrier.
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18
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Weng CY, Kao CX, Chang TS, Huang YH. Immuno-Metabolism: The Role of Cancer Niche in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1258. [PMID: 33514004 PMCID: PMC7865434 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in treating cancer has revolutionized the approach to eradicate cancer cells by reactivating immune responses. However, only a subset of patients benefits from this treatment; the majority remains unresponsive or develops resistance to ICI therapy. Increasing evidence suggests that metabolic machinery in the tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a role in the development of ICI resistance. Within the TME, nutrients and oxygen are scarce, forcing immune cells to undergo metabolic reprogramming to adapt to harsh conditions. Cancer-induced metabolic deregulation in immune cells can attenuate their anti-cancer properties, but can also increase their immunosuppressive properties. Therefore, targeting metabolic pathways of immune cells in the TME may strengthen the efficacy of ICIs and prevent ICI resistance. In this review, we discuss the interactions of immune cells and metabolic alterations in the TME. We also discuss current therapies targeting cellular metabolism in combination with ICIs for the treatment of cancer, and provide possible mechanisms behind the cellular metabolic rewiring that may improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Yuan Weng
- School of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
| | - Cheng-Xiang Kao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Te-Sheng Chang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33382, Taiwan
- Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 61363, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan;
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- International Ph.D. Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Comprehensive Cancer Center of Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- PhD Program for Translational Medicine, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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19
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Abstract
Over the last few years, cancer immunotherapy experienced tremendous developments and it is nowadays considered a promising strategy against many types of cancer. However, the exclusion of lymphocytes from the tumor nest is a common phenomenon that limits the efficiency of immunotherapy in solid tumors. Despite several mechanisms proposed during the years to explain the immune excluded phenotype, at present, there is no integrated understanding about the role played by different models of immune exclusion in human cancers. Hypoxia is a hallmark of most solid tumors and, being a multifaceted and complex condition, shapes in a unique way the tumor microenvironment, affecting gene transcription and chromatin remodeling. In this review, we speculate about an upstream role for hypoxia as a common biological determinant of immune exclusion in solid tumors. We also discuss the current state of ex vivo and in vivo imaging of hypoxic determinants in relation to T cell distribution that could mechanisms of immune exclusion and discover functional-morphological tumor features that could support clinical monitoring.
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20
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Hiraoka N, Ino Y, Hori S, Yamazaki‐Itoh R, Naito C, Shimasaki M, Esaki M, Nara S, Kishi Y, Shimada K, Nakamura N, Torigoe T, Heike Y. Expression of classical human leukocyte antigen class I antigens, HLA-E and HLA-G, is adversely prognostic in pancreatic cancer patients. Cancer Sci 2020; 111:3057-3070. [PMID: 32495519 PMCID: PMC7419048 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The expression of classical human leukocyte antigen class I antigens (HLA-I) on the surfaces of cancer cells allows cytotoxic T cells to recognize and eliminate these cells. Reduction or loss of HLA-I is a mechanism of escape from antitumor immunity. The present study aimed to investigate the clinicopathological impacts of HLA-I and non-classical HLA-I antigens expressed on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells. We performed immunohistochemistry to detect expression of HLA-I antigens in PDAC using 243 PDAC cases and examined their clinicopathological influences. We also investigated the expression of immune-related genes to characterize PDAC tumor microenvironments. Lower expression of HLA-I, found in 33% of PDAC cases, was significantly associated with longer overall survival. Higher expression of both HLA-E and HLA-G was significantly associated with shorter survival. Multivariate analyses revealed that higher expression of these three HLA-I antigens was significantly correlated with shorter survival. Higher HLA-I expression on PDAC cells was significantly correlated with higher expression of IFNG, which also correlated with PD1, PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression. In vitro assay revealed that interferon gamma (IFNγ) stimulation increased surface expression of HLA-I in three PDAC cell lines. It also upregulated surface expression of HLA-E, HLA-G and immune checkpoint molecules, including PD-L1 and PD-L2. These results suggest that the higher expression of HLA-I, HLA-E and HLA-G on PDAC cells is an unfavorable prognosticator. It is possible that IFNγ promotes a tolerant microenvironment by inducing immune checkpoint molecules in PDAC tissues with higher HLA-I expression on PDAC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuyoshi Hiraoka
- Division of Molecular PathologyNational Cancer Center Research InstituteTokyoJapan
- Department of Analytical PathologyNational Cancer Center Research InstituteTokyoJapan
- Division of Pathology and Clinical LaboratoriesNational Cancer Center HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Yoshinori Ino
- Division of Molecular PathologyNational Cancer Center Research InstituteTokyoJapan
- Department of Analytical PathologyNational Cancer Center Research InstituteTokyoJapan
| | - Shutaro Hori
- Division of Molecular PathologyNational Cancer Center Research InstituteTokyoJapan
- Division of Pathology and Clinical LaboratoriesNational Cancer Center HospitalTokyoJapan
- Department of PathologyTokai University School of MedicineIseharaJapan
| | - Rie Yamazaki‐Itoh
- Division of Molecular PathologyNational Cancer Center Research InstituteTokyoJapan
| | - Chie Naito
- Division of Molecular PathologyNational Cancer Center Research InstituteTokyoJapan
| | - Mari Shimasaki
- Division of Molecular PathologyNational Cancer Center Research InstituteTokyoJapan
| | - Minoru Esaki
- Hepato‐Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery DivisionNational Cancer Center HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Satoshi Nara
- Hepato‐Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery DivisionNational Cancer Center HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Yoji Kishi
- Hepato‐Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery DivisionNational Cancer Center HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Kazuaki Shimada
- Hepato‐Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery DivisionNational Cancer Center HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Naoya Nakamura
- Department of PathologyTokai University School of MedicineIseharaJapan
| | | | - Yuji Heike
- Division of Biomedical SciencesSt. Luke’s International University Graduate School of Public HealthTokyoJapan
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21
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Phung CD, Tran TH, Pham LM, Nguyen HT, Jeong JH, Yong CS, Kim JO. Current developments in nanotechnology for improved cancer treatment, focusing on tumor hypoxia. J Control Release 2020; 324:413-429. [PMID: 32461115 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2020.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia is a common feature of the tumor microenvironment, which is characterized by tissue oxygen deficiency due to an aggressive proliferation of cancer cells. Hypoxia activates hypoxia-inducible factor-dependent signaling, which in turn regulates metabolic reprogramming, immune suppression, resistance to apoptosis, angiogenesis, metastasis, and invasion to secondary sites. In this review, we provide an overview of the use of nanotechnology to harmonize intra-tumoral oxygen or suppress hypoxia-related signaling for an improved efficacy of cancer treatment. The biological background was followed by conducting a literature review on the (1) nanoparticles responsible for enhancing oxygen levels within the tumor, (2) nanoparticles sensitizing hypoxia, (3) nanoparticles suppressing hypoxia-inducing factor, (4) nanoparticles that relieve tumor hypoxia for enhancement of chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and immunotherapy, either individually or in combination. Lastly, the heterogeneity of cancer and limitations of nanotechnology are discussed to facilitate translational therapeutic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cao Dai Phung
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 280 Deahak-ro, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Tuan Hiep Tran
- Faculty of Pharmacy, PHENIKAA University, Yen Nghia, Ha Dong, Hanoi 12116, Viet Nam; PHENIKAA Research and Technology Institute (PRATI), A&A Green Phoenix Group JSC, No.167 Hoang Ngan, Trung Hoa, Cau Giay, Hanoi 11313, Viet Nam
| | - Le Minh Pham
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 280 Deahak-ro, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Hanh Thuy Nguyen
- Department of Industrial & Physical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, United States
| | - Jee-Heon Jeong
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 280 Deahak-ro, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Chul Soon Yong
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 280 Deahak-ro, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Oh Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, 280 Deahak-ro, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea.
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22
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Vito A, El-Sayes N, Mossman K. Hypoxia-Driven Immune Escape in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cells 2020; 9:E992. [PMID: 32316260 PMCID: PMC7227025 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is a complex ecosystem comprised of many different cell types, abnormal vasculature and immunosuppressive cytokines. The irregular growth kinetics with which tumors grow leads to increased oxygen consumption and, in turn, hypoxic conditions. Hypoxia has been associated with poor clinical outcome, increased tumor heterogeneity, emergence of resistant clones and evasion of immune detection. Additionally, hypoxia-driven cell death pathways have traditionally been thought of as tolerogenic processes. However, as researchers working in the field of immunotherapy continue to investigate and unveil new types of immunogenic cell death (ICD), it has become clear that, in some instances, hypoxia may actually induce ICD within a tumor. In this review, we will discuss hypoxia-driven immune escape that drives poor prognostic outcomes, the ability of hypoxia to induce ICD and potential therapeutic targets amongst hypoxia pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Vito
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada; (A.V.); (N.E.-S.)
| | - Nader El-Sayes
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada; (A.V.); (N.E.-S.)
| | - Karen Mossman
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
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23
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Mohapatra SR, Sadik A, Tykocinski LO, Dietze J, Poschet G, Heiland I, Opitz CA. Hypoxia Inducible Factor 1α Inhibits the Expression of Immunosuppressive Tryptophan-2,3-Dioxygenase in Glioblastoma. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2762. [PMID: 31866995 PMCID: PMC6905408 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal circulation in solid tumors results in hypoxia, which modulates both tumor intrinsic malignant properties as well as anti-tumor immune responses. Given the importance of hypoxia in glioblastoma (GBM) biology and particularly in shaping anti-tumor immunity, we analyzed which immunomodulatory genes are differentially regulated in response to hypoxia in GBM cells. Gene expression analyses identified the immunosuppressive enzyme tryptophan-2,3-dioxygenase (TDO2) as the second most downregulated gene in GBM cells cultured under hypoxic conditions. TDO2 catalyses the oxidation of tryptophan to N-formyl kynurenine, which is the first and rate-limiting step of Trp degradation along the kynurenine pathway (KP). In multiple GBM cell lines hypoxia reduced TDO2 expression both at mRNA and protein levels. The downregulation of TDO2 through hypoxia was reversible as re-oxygenation rescued TDO2 expression. Computational modeling of tryptophan metabolism predicted reduced flux through the KP and lower intracellular concentrations of kynurenine and its downstream metabolite 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid under hypoxia. Metabolic measurements confirmed the predicted changes, thus demonstrating the ability of the mathematical model to infer intracellular tryptophan metabolite concentrations. Moreover, we identified hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) to regulate TDO2 expression under hypoxic conditions, as the HIF1α-stabilizing agents dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG) and cobalt chloride reduced TDO2 expression. Knockdown of HIF1α restored the expression of TDO2 upon cobalt chloride treatment, confirming that HIF1α controls TDO2 expression. To investigate the immunoregulatory effects of this novel mechanism of TDO2 regulation, we co-cultured isolated T cells with TDO2-expressing GBM cells under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Under normoxia TDO2-expressing GBM cells suppressed T cell proliferation, while hypoxia restored the proliferation of the T cells, likely due to the reduction in kynurenine levels produced by the GBM cells. Taken together, our data suggest that the regulation of TDO2 expression by HIF1α may be involved in modulating anti-tumor immunity in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya R Mohapatra
- DKTK Brain Cancer Metabolism Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ahmed Sadik
- DKTK Brain Cancer Metabolism Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Faculty of Bioscience, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lars-Oliver Tykocinski
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine V, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jørn Dietze
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Gernot Poschet
- Centre for Organismal Studies (COS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ines Heiland
- Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Christiane A Opitz
- DKTK Brain Cancer Metabolism Group, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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