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Hashemi M, Rezaei M, Rezaeiaghdam H, Jamali B, Koohpar ZK, Tanha M, Bizhanpour A, Asadi S, Jafari AM, Khosroshahi EM, Eslami M, Salimimoghadam S, Nabavi N, Rashidi M, Fattah E, Taheriazam A, Entezari M. Highlighting function of Wnt signalling in urological cancers: Molecular interactions, therapeutic strategies, and (nano)strategies. Transl Oncol 2024; 50:102145. [PMID: 39357465 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.102145] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/27/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a complex, multistep process characterized by abnormal cell growth and metastasis as well as the capacity of the tumor cells in therapy resistance development. The urological system is particularly susceptible to a group of malignancies known as urological cancers, where an accumulation of genetic alterations drives carcinogenesis. In various human cancers, Wnt singalling is dysregulated; following nuclear transfer of β-catenin, it promotes tumor progression and affects genes expression. Elevated levels of Wnt have been documented in urological cancers, where its overexpression enhances growth and metastasis. Additionally, increased Wnt singalling contributes to chemoresistance in urological cancers, leading to reduced sensitivity to chemotherapy agents like cisplatin, doxorubicin, and paclitaxel. Wnt upregulation can change radiotherapy response of urological cancers. The regulation of Wnt involves various molecular pathways, including Akt, miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs, all of which play roles in carcinogenesis. Targeting and silencing Wnt or its associated pathways can mitigate tumorigenesis in urological cancers. Anti-cancer compounds such as curcumin and thymoquinone have shown efficacy in suppressing tumorigenesis through the downregulation of Wnt singalling. Notably, nanoparticles have proven effective in treating urological cancers, with several studies in prostate cancer (PCa) using nanoparticles to downregulate Wnt and suppress tumor growth. Future research should focus on developing small molecules that inhibit Wnt singalling to further suppress tumorigenesis and advance the treatment of urological cancers. Moreover, Wnt can be used as reliable biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of urological cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Rezaei
- Health Research Center, Chamran Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadi Rezaeiaghdam
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Behdokht Jamali
- Department of Microbiology and Genetics, Kherad Institute of Higher Education, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Zeinab Khazaei Koohpar
- Department Of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences,Tonekabon Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon, Iran
| | - Mahsa Tanha
- Department Of Biological Sciences, University Of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Al, United States
| | - Anahita Bizhanpour
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Asadi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Moghadas Jafari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elaheh Mohandesi Khosroshahi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maedeh Eslami
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shokooh Salimimoghadam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Independent Researcher, Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 1P7, Canada
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Department Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Eisa Fattah
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maliheh Entezari
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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2
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Zeng J, Chen H, Liu X, Xia H, Chen L, Lin D, Wang N, Weng C, Guan G, Zheng Y. Cuproptosis in microsatellite stable colon cancer cells affects the cytotoxicity of CD8 +T through the WNT signaling pathway. Chem Biol Interact 2024; 403:111239. [PMID: 39306268 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2024.111239] [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: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
The microsatellite stable (MSS) colon cancer (CC) has long been considered resistant to immunotherapy. Cuproptosis, as a novel form of cell death, may interact with tumor immunity. This project focused on the impact of cuproptosis on the cytotoxicity of CD8+T in MSS CC, aiming to provide effective clues for improving the treatment strategy of MSS CC. The study developed an MSS CC cuproptosis model using 50 nM elesclomol and 1 μM CuCl2. Cuproptotic SW480 cells were directly co-cultured with CD8+ T cells. Cuproptosis levels were assessed via intracellular copper ion detection, Western blot, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. CCK-8, Hochest/PI staining, CFSE cell proliferation assay, LDH cytotoxicity detection, and ELISA were used to evaluate CD8+ T cell immune activity and cytotoxicity. Transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis identified regulated signals in cuproptotic SW480 cells. A rescue experiment utilized a WNT pathway activator (BML-284). PD-L1 expression in cells/membranes was analyzed using qRT-PCR, Western blot, and flow cytometry. NSG mice were immunoreconstituted, and the effects of cuproptosis on immune infiltration and cancer progression in MSS CC mice were assessed using ELISA and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Treatment with 50 nM elesclomol and 1 μM CuCl2 significantly increased cuproptosis in SW480 cells. Co-culture with CD8+ T cells enhanced their cytotoxicity. Sequencing revealed cuproptosis-mediated modulation of immune and inflammatory pathways, including WNT signaling. Rescue experiments showed downregulation of WNT signaling in cuproptotic SW480 cells. Indirectly, CD8+ T cell immune function was enhanced by reducing PD-L1 expression. In mice, cuproptosis resulted in increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells in tumor tissue, leading to delayed cancer progression compared to the control group. Cuproptosis in MSS CC cells enhances the cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells, which may be achieved through downregulation of the WNT signaling pathway and decreased expression of PD-L1. In the future, drugs that can induce cuproptosis may be a promising approach to improve MSS CC immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Zeng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China; Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China; Fujian Abdominal Surgery Research Institute, the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Xing Liu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Haoyun Xia
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Liqi Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Dajia Lin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Naisen Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Chong Weng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China
| | - Guoxian Guan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China; Department of Colorectal Surgery, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China; Fujian Abdominal Surgery Research Institute, the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
| | - Yu Zheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, China.
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3
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Dantzer C, Vaché J, Brunel A, Mahouche I, Raymond AA, Dupuy JW, Petrel M, Bioulac-Sage P, Perrais D, Dugot-Senant N, Verdier M, Bessette B, Billottet C, Moreau V. Emerging role of oncogenic ß-catenin in exosome biogenesis as a driver of immune escape in hepatocellular carcinoma. eLife 2024; 13:RP95191. [PMID: 39008536 PMCID: PMC11249736 DOI: 10.7554/elife.95191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors have produced encouraging results in cancer patients. However, the majority of ß-catenin-mutated tumors have been described as lacking immune infiltrates and resistant to immunotherapy. The mechanisms by which oncogenic ß-catenin affects immune surveillance remain unclear. Herein, we highlighted the involvement of ß-catenin in the regulation of the exosomal pathway and, by extension, in immune/cancer cell communication in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We showed that mutated ß-catenin represses expression of SDC4 and RAB27A, two main actors in exosome biogenesis, in both liver cancer cell lines and HCC patient samples. Using nanoparticle tracking analysis and live-cell imaging, we further demonstrated that activated ß-catenin represses exosome release. Then, we demonstrated in 3D spheroid models that activation of β-catenin promotes a decrease in immune cell infiltration through a defect in exosome secretion. Taken together, our results provide the first evidence that oncogenic ß-catenin plays a key role in exosome biogenesis. Our study gives new insight into the impact of ß-catenin mutations on tumor microenvironment remodeling, which could lead to the development of new strategies to enhance immunotherapeutic response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Justine Vaché
- Université de Bordeaux, INSERM, U1312, BRICBordeauxFrance
| | - Aude Brunel
- Université de Limoges, INSERM, U1308, CAPTuRLimogesFrance
| | | | - Anne-Aurélie Raymond
- Université de Bordeaux, INSERM, U1312, BRICBordeauxFrance
- Plateforme OncoProt, Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, INSERM, TBM-Core, US5, UAR3457BordeauxFrance
| | - Jean-William Dupuy
- Plateforme OncoProt, Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, INSERM, TBM-Core, US5, UAR3457BordeauxFrance
- Plateforme Protéome, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux ProteomeBordeauxFrance
| | - Melina Petrel
- Bordeaux Imaging Center, Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, INSERM, BICBordeauxFrance
| | | | - David Perrais
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, IINS, BordeauxBordeauxFrance
| | - Nathalie Dugot-Senant
- Plateforme d'histologie, Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, INSERM, TBM-Core, US5, UAR3457BordeauxFrance
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4
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Mitra A, Kumar A, Amdare NP, Pathak R. Current Landscape of Cancer Immunotherapy: Harnessing the Immune Arsenal to Overcome Immune Evasion. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:307. [PMID: 38785789 PMCID: PMC11118874 DOI: 10.3390/biology13050307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Cancer immune evasion represents a leading hallmark of cancer, posing a significant obstacle to the development of successful anticancer therapies. However, the landscape of cancer treatment has significantly evolved, transitioning into the era of immunotherapy from conventional methods such as surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. Immunotherapy has emerged as a pivotal component in cancer treatment, harnessing the body's immune system to combat cancer and offering improved prognostic outcomes for numerous patients. The remarkable success of immunotherapy has spurred significant efforts to enhance the clinical efficacy of existing agents and strategies. Several immunotherapeutic approaches have received approval for targeted cancer treatments, while others are currently in preclinical and clinical trials. This review explores recent progress in unraveling the mechanisms of cancer immune evasion and evaluates the clinical effectiveness of diverse immunotherapy strategies, including cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, and antibody-based treatments. It encompasses both established treatments and those currently under investigation, providing a comprehensive overview of efforts to combat cancer through immunological approaches. Additionally, the article emphasizes the current developments, limitations, and challenges in cancer immunotherapy. Furthermore, by integrating analyses of cancer immunotherapy resistance mechanisms and exploring combination strategies and personalized approaches, it offers valuable insights crucial for the development of novel anticancer immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Mitra
- Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Anoop Kumar
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, National Institute of Biologicals, Noida 201309, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nitin P. Amdare
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Rajiv Pathak
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
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5
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Wang K, Wu J, Yang Z, Zheng B, Shen S, Wang RR, Zhang Y, Wang HY, Chen L, Qiu X. Hyperactivation of β-catenin signal in hepatocellular carcinoma recruits myeloid-derived suppressor cells through PF4-CXCR3 axis. Cancer Lett 2024; 586:216690. [PMID: 38307410 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216690] [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: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
The high mutation rate of CTNNB1 (37 %) and Wnt-β-catenin signal-associated genes (54 %) has been notified in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The activation of Wnt-β-catenin signal pathway was reported to be associated with an immune "desert" phenotype, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here we mainly employed orthotopic HCC models to explore on it. Mass cytometry depicted the immune contexture of orthotopic HCC syngeneic grafts, unveiling that the exogenous expression of β-catenin significantly increased the percentage of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and decreased the percentage of CD8+ T-cells. Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry further confirmed the findings. The protein microarray analysis, Western blot and PCR identified PF4 as its downstream regulating cytokine. Intratumorally injection of cytokine PF4 enhanced the accumulation of MDSCs. Knockout of PF4 abolished the effect of β-catenin on recruiting MDSCs. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that β-catenin increases the mRNA level of PF4 via binding to PF4's promoter region. In vitro chemotaxis assay and in vivo administration of specific inhibitors identified CXCR3 on MDSCs as receptor for recruiting PF4. Lastly, the significant correlations across β-catenin, PF4 and MDSCs and CD8+ T-cells infiltration were verified in HCC clinical samples. Our results unveiled HCC tumor cell intrinsic hyperactivation of β-catenin can recruit MDSC through PF4-CXCR3, which contributes to the formation of immune "desert" phenotype. Our study provided new insights into the development of immunotherapeutic strategy of HCC with CTNNB1 mutation. SIGNIFICANCE: This study identifies PF4-CXCR3-MDSCs as a downstream mechanism underlying CTNNB1 mutation associated immune "desert" phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiting Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Jianmin Wu
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Zhao Yang
- Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Bo Zheng
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai, 200441, China
| | - Siyun Shen
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai, 200441, China
| | - Rui-Ru Wang
- Berry Oncology Corporation, Digital Fujian Park, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yani Zhang
- Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Hong-Yang Wang
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; National Center for Liver Cancer, Shanghai, 200441, China; Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer (SMMU), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 200438, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Tumor Biology (EHBH), Shanghai, 200438, China.
| | - Lei Chen
- The International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, National Center for Liver Cancer, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China; Key Laboratory of Signaling Regulation and Targeting Therapy of Liver Cancer (SMMU), Ministry of Education, Shanghai, 200438, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Tumor Biology (EHBH), Shanghai, 200438, China; Department of Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Xinyao Qiu
- Department of Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Sugi T, Katoh Y, Ikeda T, Seta D, Iwata T, Nishio H, Sugawara M, Kato D, Katoh K, Kawana K, Yaguchi T, Kawakami Y, Hirai S. SCD1 inhibition enhances the effector functions of CD8 + T cells via ACAT1-dependent reduction of esterified cholesterol. Cancer Sci 2024; 115:48-58. [PMID: 37879607 PMCID: PMC10823278 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that the inhibition of stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) enhances the antitumor function of CD8+ T cells indirectly via restoring production of DC recruiting chemokines by cancer cells and subsequent induction of antitumor CD8+ T cells. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism of direct enhancing effects of SCD1 inhibitors on CD8+ T cells. In vitro treatment of CD8+ T cells with SCD1 inhibitors enhanced IFN-γ production and cytotoxic activity of T cells along with decreased oleic acid and esterified cholesterol, which is generated by cholesterol esterase, acetyl-CoA acetyltransferase 1 (ACAT1), in CD8+ T cells. The addition of oleic acid or cholesteryl oleate reversed the enhanced functions of CD8+ T cells treated with SCD1 inhibitors. Systemic administration of SCD1 inhibitor to MCA205 tumor-bearing mice enhanced IFN-γ production of tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells, in which oleic acid and esterified cholesterol, but not cholesterol, were decreased. These results indicated that SCD1 suppressed effector functions of CD8+ T cells through the increased esterified cholesterol in an ACAT1-dependent manner, and SCD1 inhibition enhanced T cell activity directly through decreased esterified cholesterol. Finally, SCD1 inhibitors or ACAT1 inhibitors synergistically enhanced the antitumor effects of anti-PD-1 antibody therapy or CAR-T cell therapy in mouse tumor models. Therefore, the SCD1-ACAT1 axis is regulating effector functions of CD8+ T cells, and SCD1 inhibitors, and ACAT1 inhibitors are attractive drugs for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiro Sugi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyNihon University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Yuki Katoh
- Division of Anatomical Science, Department of Functional MorphologyNihon University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKeio University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Toshikatsu Ikeda
- Division of Anatomical Science, Department of Functional MorphologyNihon University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Daichi Seta
- Nihon University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Takashi Iwata
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKeio University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Hiroshi Nishio
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKeio University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Masaki Sugawara
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyKeio University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Daiki Kato
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life SciencesThe University of TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Kanoko Katoh
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyNihon University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Kei Kawana
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyNihon University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Tomonori Yaguchi
- Department of Immunology and Genomic Medicine, Center for Cancer Immunotherapy and ImmunobiologyKyoto University Graduate School of MedicineKyotoJapan
| | - Yutaka Kawakami
- Department of Immunology, School of MedicineInternational University of Health and WelfareChibaJapan
| | - Shuichi Hirai
- Division of Anatomical Science, Department of Functional MorphologyNihon University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
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7
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Vava A, Paccez JD, Wang Y, Gu X, Bhasin MK, Myers M, Soares NC, Libermann TA, Zerbini LF. DCUN1D1 Is an Essential Regulator of Prostate Cancer Proliferation and Tumour Growth That Acts through Neddylation of Cullin 1, 3, 4A and 5 and Deregulation of Wnt/Catenin Pathway. Cells 2023; 12:1973. [PMID: 37566052 PMCID: PMC10417424 DOI: 10.3390/cells12151973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Defective in cullin neddylation 1 domain containing 1 (DCUN1D1) is an E3 ligase for the neddylation, a post-translational process similar to and occurring in parallel to ubiquitin proteasome pathway. Although established as an oncogene in a variety of squamous cell carcinomas, the precise role of DCUN1D1 in prostate cancer (PCa) has not been previously explored thoroughly. Here, we investigated the role of DCUN1D1 in PCa and demonstrated that DCUN1D1 is upregulated in cell lines as well as human tissue samples. Inhibition of DCUN1D1 significantly reduced PCa cell proliferation and migration and remarkably inhibited xenograft formation in mice. Applying both genomics and proteomics approaches, we provide novel information about the DCUN1D1 mechanism of action. We identified CUL3, CUL4B, RBX1, CAND1 and RPS19 proteins as DCUN1D1 binding partners. Our analysis also revealed the dysregulation of genes associated with cellular growth and proliferation, developmental, cell death and cancer pathways and the WNT/β-catenin pathway as potential mechanisms. Inhibition of DCUN1D1 leads to the inactivation of β-catenin through its phosphorylation and degradation which inhibits the downstream action of β-catenin, reducing its interaction with Lef1 in the Lef1/TCF complex that regulates Wnt target gene expression. Together our data point to an essential role of the DCUN1D1 protein in PCa which can be explored for potential targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akhona Vava
- Cancer Genomics Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (A.V.); (J.D.P.)
- Division of Chemical and Systems Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Juliano D. Paccez
- Cancer Genomics Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (A.V.); (J.D.P.)
| | - Yihong Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA;
| | - Xuesong Gu
- BIDMC Genomics, Proteomics, Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (X.G.); (T.A.L.)
| | - Manoj K. Bhasin
- Department of Pediatrics Bioinformatics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
| | - Michael Myers
- Protein Networks Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), 34149 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Nelson C. Soares
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 26666, United Arab Emirates;
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 26666, United Arab Emirates
- Laboratory of Proteomics, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health, Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA), 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal
- Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health (ToxOmics), NOVA/School/Faculdade de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Towia A. Libermann
- BIDMC Genomics, Proteomics, Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (X.G.); (T.A.L.)
| | - Luiz F. Zerbini
- Cancer Genomics Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (A.V.); (J.D.P.)
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8
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Sammarco E, Manfredi F, Nuzzo A, Ferrari M, Bonato A, Salfi A, Serafin D, Zatteri L, Antonuzzo A, Galli L. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Rechallenge in Renal Cell Carcinoma: Current Evidence and Future Directions. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3172. [PMID: 37370782 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor-based therapies represent the current standard of care in the first-line treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma. Despite a clear benefit in survival outcomes, a considerable proportion of patients experience disease progression; prospective data about second-line therapy after first-line treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors are limited to small phase II studies. As with other solid tumors (such as melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer), preliminary data about the clinical efficacy of rechallenge of immunotherapy (alone or in combination with other drugs) in renal cell carcinoma are beginning to emerge. Nevertheless, the role of rechallenge in immunotherapy in this setting of disease remains unclear and cannot be considered a standard of care; currently some randomized trials are exploring this approach in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. The aim of our review is to summarize main evidence available in the literature concerning immunotherapy rechallenge in renal carcinoma, especially focusing on biological rationale of resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors, on the published data of clinical efficacy and on future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Sammarco
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Fiorella Manfredi
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Amedeo Nuzzo
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Ferrari
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Adele Bonato
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessia Salfi
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Debora Serafin
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Zatteri
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Antonuzzo
- Unit of Medical Oncology 1, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Galli
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Santa Chiara Hospital, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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9
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Aye L, Wang Z, Chen F, Xiong Y, Zhou J, Wu F, Hu L, Wang D. Circadian Regulator-Mediated Molecular Subtypes Depict the Features of Tumor Microenvironment and Indicate Prognosis in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. J Immunol Res 2023; 2023:9946911. [PMID: 37342762 PMCID: PMC10279500 DOI: 10.1155/2023/9946911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Circadian rhythm is involved in multiple biological activities and implicated in cancer development. However, the role of circadian rhythm in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has not been fully interpreted yet. Herein, the present study set out to explore the significance of circadian regulator genes (CRGs) in HNSCC. Materials and Methods The molecular landscape and clinical significance of 13 CRGs in HNSCC were explored based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The biological functions of PER3, a key CRG, were validated by cellular experiments. The correlation of CRGs with microenvironment, pathway activities, and prognosis was determined by bioinformatic algorithms. A novel circadian score was introduced to evaluate the circadian modification pattern of each patient and further validated in an independent cohort from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. Results CRGs presented high heterogeneity in HNSCC at both genomic and transcriptomic levels. Specifically, PER3 indicated a better prognosis and inhibited HNSCC cell proliferation. Moreover, HNSCC tissues displayed three circadian regulator patterns with distinct clinical outcomes, transcriptomic characteristics, and microenvironment features. Circadian score was an independent risk factor and exhibited excellent predictive efficiency in both the training cohort from the TCGA database and the validation cohort from the GEO database. Conclusions CRGs played an indispensable role in HNSCC development. An in-depth exploration of circadian rhythm would improve the understanding of HNSCC carcinogenesis and confer novel insights for future clinical practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Aye
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shanghai Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Zhanying Wang
- Five-Year Program Clinical Medicine, Grade of 2019, West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 Sichuan, China
| | - Fanghua Chen
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yujun Xiong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaying Zhou
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Feizhen Wu
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 201102, China
| | - Li Hu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shanghai Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Dehui Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Shanghai Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
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10
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Dulal D, Boring A, Terrero D, Johnson T, Tiwari AK, Raman D. Tackling of Immunorefractory Tumors by Targeting Alternative Immune Checkpoints. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2774. [PMID: 37345111 PMCID: PMC10216651 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Physiologically, well known or traditional immune checkpoints (ICs), such as CTLA-4 and PD-1, are in place to promote tolerance to self-antigens and prevent generation of autoimmunity. In cancer, the ICs are effectively engaged by the tumor cells or stromal ells from the tumor microenvironment through expression of cognate ligands for the ICs present on the cell surface of CD8+ T lymphocytes. The ligation of ICs on CD8+ T lymphocytes triggers inhibitory signaling pathways, leading to quiescence or an exhaustion of CD8+ T lymphocytes. This results in failure of immunotherapy. To overcome this, several FDA-approved therapeutic antibodies are available, but the clinical outcome is quite variable due to the resistance encountered through upregulated expression of alternate ICs such as VISTA, LAG-3, TIGIT and TIM-3. This review focuses on the roles played by the traditional as well as alternate ICs and the contribution of associated signaling pathways in generating such resistance to immunotherapy. Combinatorial targeting of traditional and alternate ICs might be beneficial for immune-refractory tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharmindra Dulal
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
| | - Andrew Boring
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
| | - David Terrero
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo Main Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Tiffany Johnson
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
| | - Amit K. Tiwari
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo Main Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Dayanidhi Raman
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
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11
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Peng JJ, Wang L, Li Z, Ku CL, Ho PC. Metabolic challenges and interventions in CAR T cell therapy. Sci Immunol 2023; 8:eabq3016. [PMID: 37058548 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abq3016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have achieved true clinical success in treating hematological malignancy patients, laying the foundation of CAR T cells as a new pillar of cancer therapy. Although these promising effects have generated strong interest in expanding the treatment of CAR T cells to solid tumors, reproducible demonstration of clinical efficacy in the setting of solid tumors has remained challenging to date. Here, we review how metabolic stress and signaling in the tumor microenvironment, including intrinsic determinants of response to CAR T cell therapy and extrinsic obstacles, restrict the efficacy of CAR T cell therapy in cancer treatment. In addition, we discuss the use of novel approaches to target and rewire metabolic programming for CAR T cell manufacturing. Last, we summarize strategies that aim to improve the metabolic adaptability of CAR T cells to enhance their potency in mounting antitumor responses and survival within the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhan-Jie Peng
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Limei Wang
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Zhiyu Li
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Lung Ku
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Chih Ho
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
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12
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Katanaev VL, Baldin A, Denisenko TV, Silachev DN, Ivanova AE, Sukhikh GT, Jia L, Ashrafyan LA. Cells of the tumor microenvironment speak the Wnt language. Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:468-480. [PMID: 37045723 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Wnt signaling plays numerous functions in cancer, from primary transformation and tumor growth to metastasis. In addition to these cancer cell-intrinsic functions, Wnt signaling emerges to critically control cross-communication among cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, we summarize the evidence that not only multiple cancer cell types, but also cells constituting the TME 'speak the Wnt language'. Fibroblasts, macrophages, endothelia, and lymphocytes all use the Wnt language to convey messages to and from cancer cells and among themselves; these messages are important for tumor progression and fate. Decoding this language will advance our understanding of tumor biology and unveil novel therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir L Katanaev
- Translational Research Centre in Oncohaematology, Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; Institute of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Far Eastern Federal University, 690090 Vladivostok, Russia; College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China.
| | - Alexey Baldin
- Translational Research Centre in Oncohaematology, Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Tatiana V Denisenko
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Denis N Silachev
- Translational Research Centre in Oncohaematology, Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia; Department of Functional Biochemistry of Biopolymers, A.N. Belozersky Research Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Moscow State University, 119992 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna E Ivanova
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Gennadiy T Sukhikh
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Lee Jia
- College of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China
| | - Lev A Ashrafyan
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, 4 Akademika Oparina Str., Moscow 117997, Russia
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13
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Ohta S, Misawa A, Kyi-Tha-Thu C, Matsumoto N, Hirose Y, Kawakami Y. Melanoma antigens recognized by T cells and their use for immunotherapy. Exp Dermatol 2023; 32:297-305. [PMID: 36607252 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma has been a prototype for cancer immunology research, and the mechanisms of anti-tumor T-cell responses have been extensively investigated in patients treated with various immunotherapies. Individual differences in cancer-immune status are defined mainly by cancer cell characteristics such as DNA mutations generating immunogenic neo-antigens, and oncogene activation causing immunosuppression, but also by patients' genetic backgrounds such as HLA types and genetic polymorphisms of immune related molecules, and environmental and lifestyle factors such as UV rays, smoking, gut microbiota and concomitant medications; these factors have an influence on the efficacy of immunotherapy. Recent comparative studies on responders and non-responders in immune-checkpoint inhibitor therapy using various new technologies including multi-omics analyses on genomic DNA, mRNA, metabolites and microbiota and single cell analyses of various immune cells have led to the advance of human tumor immunology and the development of new immunotherapy. Based on the new findings from these investigations, personalized cancer immunotherapies along with appropriate biomarkers and therapeutic targets are being developed for patients with melanoma. Here, we will discuss one of the essential subjects in tumor immunology: identification of immunogenic tumor antigens and their effective use in various immunotherapies including cancer vaccines and adoptive T-cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeki Ohta
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
- Division of Cellular Signaling, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Aya Misawa
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
| | - Chaw Kyi-Tha-Thu
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
| | - Naomi Matsumoto
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshie Hirose
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kawakami
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
- Division of Cellular Signaling, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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14
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Zou Y, Yaguchi T. Programmed cell death-1 blockade therapy in melanoma: Resistance mechanisms and combination strategies. Exp Dermatol 2023; 32:264-275. [PMID: 36645031 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Melanoma is a highly aggressive tumor derived from melanocytes. In recent years, the incidence and mortality of melanoma have gradually increased, seriously threatening human health. Classic treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy show very limited efficacy. Due to the high immunogenicity of melanoma cells, immune checkpoint inhibitors have received considerable attention as melanoma treatments. One such therapy is blockade of programmed cell death-1 (PD-1), which is one of the most important negative immune regulators and is mainly expressed on activated T cells. Disruption of the interactions between PD-1 and its ligands, programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) or programmed death-ligand 2 (PD-L2) rejuvenates exhausted T cells and enhances antitumor immunity. Although PD-1 blockade therapy is widely used in melanoma, a substantial proportion of patients still show no response or short durations of remission. Recent researches have focused on revealing the underlying mechanisms for resistance to this treatment and improving its efficacy through combination therapy. Here, we will introduce the resistance mechanisms associated with PD-1 blockade therapy in melanoma and review the combination therapies available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Zou
- Division of Immunology and Genomic Medicine, Center for Cancer Immunotherapy and Immunobiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomonori Yaguchi
- Division of Immunology and Genomic Medicine, Center for Cancer Immunotherapy and Immunobiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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15
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Harnessing epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity to boost cancer immunotherapy. Cell Mol Immunol 2023; 20:318-340. [PMID: 36823234 PMCID: PMC10066239 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-023-00980-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy is a powerful option for cancer treatment. Despite demonstrable progress, most patients fail to respond or achieve durable responses due to primary or acquired ICB resistance. Recently, tumor epithelial-to-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) was identified as a critical determinant in regulating immune escape and immunotherapy resistance in cancer. In this review, we summarize the emerging role of tumor EMP in ICB resistance and the tumor-intrinsic or extrinsic mechanisms by which tumors exploit EMP to achieve immunosuppression and immune escape. We discuss strategies to modulate tumor EMP to alleviate immune resistance and to enhance the efficiency of ICB therapy. Our discussion provides new prospects to enhance the ICB response for therapeutic gain in cancer patients.
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16
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Muto S, Enta A, Maruya Y, Inomata S, Yamaguchi H, Mine H, Takagi H, Ozaki Y, Watanabe M, Inoue T, Yamaura T, Fukuhara M, Okabe N, Matsumura Y, Hasegawa T, Osugi J, Hoshino M, Higuchi M, Shio Y, Hamada K, Suzuki H. Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling and Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: From Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer to Other Cancers. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11010190. [PMID: 36672698 PMCID: PMC9855612 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11010190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The standard of care for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) without driver-gene mutations is a combination of an anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibody and chemotherapy, or an anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibody and an anti-CTLA-4 antibody with or without chemotherapy. Although there were fewer cases of disease progression in the early stages of combination treatment than with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies alone, only approximately half of the patients had a long-term response. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms of resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors. Recent reports of such mechanisms include reduced cancer-cell immunogenicity, loss of major histocompatibility complex, dysfunctional tumor-intrinsic interferon-γ signaling, and oncogenic signaling leading to immunoediting. Among these, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is a notable potential mechanism of immune escape and resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this review, we will summarize findings on these resistance mechanisms in NSCLC and other cancers, focusing on Wnt/β-catenin signaling. First, we will review the molecular biology of Wnt/β-catenin signaling, then discuss how it can induce immunoediting and resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors. We will also describe other various mechanisms of immune-checkpoint-inhibitor resistance. Finally, we will propose therapeutic approaches to overcome these mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Muto
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-24-547-1252; Fax: +81-24-548-2735
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17
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Zhang H, Liu C, Zhu D, Zhang Q, Li J. Medicinal Chemistry Strategies for the Development of Inhibitors Disrupting β-Catenin's Interactions with Its Nuclear Partners. J Med Chem 2023; 66:1-31. [PMID: 36583662 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is strongly associated with various aspects of cancer, including tumor initiation, proliferation, and metastasis as well as antitumor immunity, and presents a promising opportunity for cancer therapy. Wnt/β-catenin signaling activation increases nuclear dephosphorylated β-catenin levels, resulting in β-catenin binding to TCF and additional cotranscription factors, such as BCL9, CBP, and p300. Therefore, directly disrupting β-catenin's interactions with these nuclear partners holds promise for the effective and selective suppression of the aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Herein, we summarize recent advances in biochemical techniques and medicinal chemistry strategies used to identify potent peptide-based and small-molecule inhibitors that directly disrupt β-catenin's interactions with its nuclear binding partners. We discuss the challenges involved in developing drug-like inhibitors that target the interactions of β-catenin and its nuclear binding partner into therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China.,Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Chenglong Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Di Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Qingwei Zhang
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jianqi Li
- Novel Technology Center of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai 201203, China
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18
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Hargadon KM. Genetic dysregulation of immunologic and oncogenic signaling pathways associated with tumor-intrinsic immune resistance: a molecular basis for combination targeted therapy-immunotherapy for cancer. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:40. [PMID: 36629955 PMCID: PMC11072992 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04689-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Since the turn of the century, advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy have revolutionized the treatment of cancer. Although these approaches have far outperformed traditional therapies in various clinical settings, both remain plagued by mechanisms of innate and acquired resistance that limit therapeutic efficacy in many patients. With a focus on tumor-intrinsic resistance to immunotherapy, this review highlights our current understanding of the immunologic and oncogenic pathways whose genetic dysregulation in cancer cells enables immune escape. Emphasis is placed on genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic aberrations that influence the activity of these pathways in the context of immune resistance. Specifically, the role of pathways that govern interferon signaling, antigen processing and presentation, and immunologic cell death as determinants of tumor immune susceptibility are discussed. Likewise, mechanisms of tumor immune resistance mediated by dysregulated RAS-MAPK, WNT, PI3K-AKT-mTOR, and cell cycle pathways are described. Finally, this review highlights the ways in which recent insight into genetic dysregulation of these immunologic and oncogenic signaling pathways is informing the design of combination targeted therapy-immunotherapy regimens that aim to restore immune susceptibility of cancer cells by overcoming resistance mechanisms that often limit the success of monotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian M Hargadon
- Hargadon Laboratory, Department of Biology, Hampden-Sydney College, Hampden-Sydney, VA, 23943, USA.
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19
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Du W, Menjivar RE, Donahue KL, Kadiyala P, Velez-Delgado A, Brown KL, Watkoske HR, He X, Carpenter ES, Angeles CV, Zhang Y, Pasca di Magliano M. WNT signaling in the tumor microenvironment promotes immunosuppression in murine pancreatic cancer. J Exp Med 2023; 220:e20220503. [PMID: 36239683 PMCID: PMC9577101 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20220503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is associated with activation of WNT signaling. Whether this signaling pathway regulates the tumor microenvironment has remained unexplored. Through single-cell RNA sequencing of human pancreatic cancer, we discovered that tumor-infiltrating CD4+ T cells express TCF7, encoding for the transcription factor TCF1. We conditionally inactivated Tcf7 in CD4 expressing T cells in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer and observed changes in the tumor immune microenvironment, including more CD8+ T cells and fewer regulatory T cells, but also compensatory upregulation of PD-L1. We then used a clinically available inhibitor of Porcupine, a key component of WNT signaling, and observed similar reprogramming of the immune response. WNT signaling inhibition has limited therapeutic window due to toxicity, and PD-L1 blockade has been ineffective in PDA. Here, we show that combination targeting reduces pancreatic cancer growth in an experimental model and might benefit the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Du
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Rosa E. Menjivar
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | - Padma Kadiyala
- Immunology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Ashley Velez-Delgado
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | | | - Xi He
- College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Eileen S. Carpenter
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Christina V. Angeles
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Yaqing Zhang
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Marina Pasca di Magliano
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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20
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Michielon E, de Gruijl TD, Gibbs S. From simplicity to complexity in current melanoma models. Exp Dermatol 2022; 31:1818-1836. [PMID: 36103206 PMCID: PMC10092692 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14675] [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: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite the recent impressive clinical success of immunotherapy against melanoma, development of primary and adaptive resistance against immune checkpoint inhibitors remains a major issue in a large number of treated patients. This highlights the need for melanoma models that replicate the tumor's intricate dynamics in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and associated immune suppression to study possible resistance mechanisms in order to improve current and test novel therapeutics. While two-dimensional melanoma cell cultures have been widely used to perform functional genomics screens in a high-throughput fashion, they are not suitable to answer more complex scientific questions. Melanoma models have also been established in a variety of experimental (humanized) animals. However, due to differences in physiology, such models do not fully represent human melanoma development. Therefore, fully human three-dimensional in vitro models mimicking melanoma cell interactions with the TME are being developed to address this need for more physiologically relevant models. Such models include melanoma organoids, spheroids, and reconstructed human melanoma-in-skin cultures. Still, while major advances have been made to complement and replace animals, these in vitro systems have yet to fully recapitulate human tumor complexity. Lastly, technical advancements have been made in the organ-on-chip field to replicate functions and microstructures of in vivo human tissues and organs. This review summarizes advancements made in understanding and treating melanoma and specifically aims to discuss the progress made towards developing melanoma models, their applications, limitations, and the advances still needed to further facilitate the development of therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Michielon
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tanja D de Gruijl
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susan Gibbs
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Oral Cell Biology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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21
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Wang J, Liu T, Huang T, Shang M, Wang X. The mechanisms on evasion of anti-tumor immune responses in gastric cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:943806. [PMID: 36439472 PMCID: PMC9686275 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.943806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system and the tumor have been at each other's throats for so long that the neoplasm has learned to avoid detection and avoid being attacked, which is called immune evasion. Malignant tumors, such as gastric cancer (GC), share the ability to evade the body's immune system as a defining feature. Immune evasion includes alterations to tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), antigen presentation mechanisms (APMs), and the tumor microenvironment (TME). While TAA and APM are simpler in nature, they both involve mutations or epigenetic regulation of genes. The TME is comprised of numerous cell types, cytokines, chemokines and extracellular matrix, any one of which might be altered to have an effect on the surrounding ecosystem. The NF-kB, MAPK, PI3K/AKT, JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, Hippo and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways are all associated with gastric cancer tumor immune evasion. In this review, we will delineate the functions of these pathways in immune evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Xudong Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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22
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Charbel A, Tavernar L, Albrecht T, Brinkmann F, Verheij J, Roos E, Vogel MN, Köhler B, Springfeld C, Brobeil A, Schirmacher P, Singer S, Mehrabi A, Roessler S, Goeppert B. Spatiotemporal analysis of tumour-infiltrating immune cells in biliary carcinogenesis. Br J Cancer 2022; 127:1603-1614. [PMID: 36068277 PMCID: PMC9596479 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01933-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intraductal papillary neoplasms (IPN) and biliary epithelial neoplasia (BilIN) are well-defined precursor lesions of biliary tract carcinoma (BTC). The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive characterisation of the inflammatory microenvironment in BTC precursor lesions. METHODS Immunohistochemistry was employed to assess tumour-infiltrating immune cells in tissue samples from patients, for whom precursor lesions were identified alongside invasive BTC. The spatiotemporal evolution of the immune microenvironment during IPN-associated carcinogenesis was comprehensively analysed using triplet sample sets of non-neoplastic epithelium, precursor lesion and invasive BTC. Immune-cell dynamics during IPN- and BilIN-associated carcinogenesis were subsequently compared. RESULTS Stromal CD3+ (P = 0.002), CD4+ (P = 0.007) and CD8+ (P < 0.001) T cells, CD20+ B cells (P = 0.008), MUM1+ plasma cells (P = 0.012) and CD163+ M2-like macrophages (P = 0.008) significantly decreased in IPN compared to non-tumorous biliary epithelium. Upon transition from IPN to invasive BTC, stromal CD68+ (P = 0.001) and CD163+ (P < 0.001) macrophages significantly increased. In contrast, BilIN-driven carcinogenesis was characterised by significant reduction of intraepithelial CD8+ T-lymphocytic infiltration from non-tumorous epithelium via BilIN (P = 0.008) to BTC (P = 0.004). CONCLUSION IPN and BilIN are immunologically distinct entities that undergo different immune-cell variations during biliary carcinogenesis. Intraepithelial CD8+ T-lymphocytic infiltration of biliary tissue decreased already at the IPN-precursor stage, whereas BilIN-associated carcinogenesis showed a slowly progressing reduction towards invasive carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alphonse Charbel
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Liver Cancer Centre Heidelberg (LCCH), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Luca Tavernar
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Liver Cancer Centre Heidelberg (LCCH), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Albrecht
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Liver Cancer Centre Heidelberg (LCCH), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fritz Brinkmann
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Liver Cancer Centre Heidelberg (LCCH), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joanne Verheij
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Roos
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monika Nadja Vogel
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Thoraxklinik at University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bruno Köhler
- Liver Cancer Centre Heidelberg (LCCH), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Centre for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph Springfeld
- Liver Cancer Centre Heidelberg (LCCH), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Centre for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander Brobeil
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Tumor Bank Unit, Tissue Bank of the National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Schirmacher
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Liver Cancer Centre Heidelberg (LCCH), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephan Singer
- Institute of Pathology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Arianeb Mehrabi
- Liver Cancer Centre Heidelberg (LCCH), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephanie Roessler
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Liver Cancer Centre Heidelberg (LCCH), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Benjamin Goeppert
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Liver Cancer Centre Heidelberg (LCCH), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Institute of Pathology and Neuropathology, Hospital RKH Kliniken Ludwigsburg, Ludwigsburg, Germany.
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23
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Haddad AF, Young JS, Gill S, Aghi MK. Resistance to immune checkpoint blockade: Mechanisms, counter-acting approaches, and future directions. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:532-541. [PMID: 35276342 PMCID: PMC9458771 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapies seek to unleash the immune system against cancer cells. While a variety of immunotherapies exist, one of the most commonly used is immune checkpoint blockade, which refers to the use of antibodies to interfere with immunosuppressive signaling through immune checkpoint molecules. Therapies against various checkpoints have had success in the clinic across cancer types. However, the efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors has varied across different cancer types and non-responsive patient populations have emerged. Non-responders to these therapies have highlighted the importance of understanding underlying mechanisms of resistance in order to predict which patients will respond and to tailor individual treatment paradigms. In this review we discuss the literature surrounding tumor mediated mechanisms of immune checkpoint resistance. We also describe efforts to overcome resistance and combine checkpoint inhibitors with additional immunotherapies. Finally, we provide insight into the future of immune checkpoint blockade, including the need for improved preclinical modeling and predictive biomarkers to facilitate personalized cancer treatments for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Manish K. Aghi
- Corresponding author at: Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, 505 Parnassus Ave, M-779, San Francisco, CA 94143-0112, USA. (M.K. Aghi)
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24
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Zhou JG, Zeng Y, Wang H, Jin SH, Wang YJ, He S, Frey B, Fietkau R, Hecht M, Ma H, Zhang W, Gaipl US. Identification of an endogenous retroviral signature to predict anti-PD1 response in advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma: an integrated analysis of three clinical trials. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2022; 14:17588359221126154. [PMID: 37614979 PMCID: PMC10442641 DOI: 10.1177/17588359221126154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endogenous retrovirus (ERV) elements are genomic footprints of ancestral retroviral infections within the human genome. Previous studies have demonstrated that dysregulated ERV transcription level is associated with immune cell infiltration in cancers, but the association between ERV expression and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) blockade response is currently unraveled for solid cancers, such as advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Methods ERV mRNA profiles were obtained from three clinical trials of ccRCC where the patients were treated with anti-PD-1 (CM-009, CM-010, CM-025, and TCGA-KIRC data). Patients treated with nivolumab were divided into training and test cohort, while the TCGA-KIRC cohort was used as an external validation. Univariate Cox regression analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression were used to establish the signature. Immune cell infiltration analysis and gene set enrichment analysis were performed to explore potential biological mechanisms. Results An ERV signature was established based on nine ERV expression patterns. In the training cohort, the median overall survival in the low- and high-risk group was 45.2 and 19.6 months [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.49, 0.32-0.75, p < 0.001], respectively. The results were confirmed in the test (HR = 0.41, 0.20-0.83, p = 0.013), and in the TCGA-KIRC cohort (HR = 0.55, 0.34-0.90, p = 0.017). Moreover, in the CM-025 cohort, the low-risk group that received nivolumab had a more favorable survival compared with those that received the mTOR inhibitor everolimus, while no significant differences were observed in the high-risk group. CD8+ T cells were enriched in the low-risk group, while immune suppressive pathways were suppressed. Conclusion The newly identified ERV signature is not only a prognostic, but also a predictive biomarker for advanced ccRCC patients who received anti-PD-1 therapy, which can guide personalized treatment in cancer patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Guo Zhou
- Department of Oncology, The second affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China Translational Radiobiology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, GermanyDepartment of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Yu Zeng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haitao Wang
- Thoracic Surgery Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Su-Han Jin
- Department of Orthodontic, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Yun-Jia Wang
- Department of Oncology, The second affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Sisi He
- Department of Oncology, The second affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Benjamin Frey
- Translational Radiobiology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, GermanyDepartment of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rainer Fietkau
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus Hecht
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hu Ma
- Director of Department of Oncology, Vice President of the second affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Intersection of Xinlong And Xinpu Avenue, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Wenchuan Zhang
- Director of Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 639 Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Udo S. Gaipl
- Head of Translational Radiobiology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsstraße 27, Erlangen, 91054, Germany.Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany. Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
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25
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Abushukair H, Ababneh O, Zaitoun S, Saeed A. Primary and secondary immune checkpoint inhibitors resistance in colorectal cancer: Key mechanisms and ways to overcome resistance. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2022; 33:100643. [PMID: 36175334 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2022.100643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have significantly advanced colorectal cancer treatment in recent years. Antibodies that target the proteins programmed cell death-1 (PD-1), programmed cell death-1 ligand 1 (PD-L1), and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) are among the ICIs that are currently being used in clinical practice. However, in colorectal cancer, ICI's effectiveness is limited to a fraction of patients with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H), which only accounts for about 5% of advanced cases. The tumor microenvironment and intrinsic changes in tumor cells are just a couple of the many mechanisms that play a role in ICI primary or secondary resistance. In order to advance precision medicine and broaden the population benefiting from ICI, this paper highlights the main underlying mechanisms of ICIs resistance and suggested techniques to overcome it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Abushukair
- Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, 22110, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Obada Ababneh
- Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, 22110, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Sara Zaitoun
- Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, 21163, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Anwaar Saeed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Kansas Cancer Center, 66205, Kansas City, KS, United States of America.
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26
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Gu W, Sun H, Zhang M, Mo S, Tan C, Ni S, Yang Z, Wang Y, Sheng W, Wang L. ITGB1 as a prognostic biomarker correlated with immune suppression in gastric cancer. Cancer Med 2022; 12:1520-1531. [PMID: 35864742 PMCID: PMC9883581 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gastric cancer is one of the common malignant tumors with a high incidence and mortality in China. Prognostic biomarkers and potential predictors of the treatment efficacy of gastric cancer urgently need to be identified. Integrin-β (ITGB) is a superfamily of integrins and is involved in cell adhesion, tissue repair, immune response, and tumor metastasis. METHODS We analyzed ITGB1 expression in our hospital samples of the gastric cancer cohort. And the public data of The Cancer Genome Atlas stomach adenocarcinoma (TCGA-STAD), The Asian Cancer Research Group (ACRG)/GSE62254, and GSE15459 data sets were analyzed by using the bioinformatic methods. The relationships between ITGB1 expression and clinicopathological features, patient prognosis, activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and tumor immunosuppressive factors were also explored. RESULTS The positive rate of ITGB1 expression in the Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center gastric cancer tumor tissues was 61.4% (258/420) and correlated with deep invasion (p = 0.017), an advanced clinical stage (p = 0.011), and a poor prognosis (p < 0.05). The TCGA-STAD/ACRG/GSE15459 cohorts also showed similar results. ITGB1 is one of the upstream molecules of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and is correlated with tumor immune suppression. In gastric cancer, we found a correlation between ITGB1 expression and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activity. In the TCGA-STAD/ACRG/GSE15459 cohorts, ITGB1 expression was positively associated with immunosuppressive factors and negatively associated with immunoactive factors. Patients with low ITGB1 expression exhibited a significantly high immunotherapy response ratio according to an analysis of tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE), which may indicate that ITGB1 is a potential predictor of immunotherapy efficacy. CONCLUSIONS ITGB1 affects the prognosis in gastric cancer patients and plays a core role in immune suppression in gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenchao Gu
- Department of RadiologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of Diagnostic and Interventional RadiologyUniversity of TsukubaIbarakiJapan,Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear MedicineGunma University Graduate School of MedicineMaebashiJapan
| | - Hui Sun
- Department of PathologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of PathologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Shaocong Mo
- Department of digestive diseases, Huashan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Cong Tan
- Department of PathologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Shujuan Ni
- Department of PathologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zongcheng Yang
- Center of stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Yulin Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Zhongshan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Weiqi Sheng
- Department of PathologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of PathologyFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghaiChina,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical College of Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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27
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Overexpression of microRNA-130a represses uveal melanoma cell migration and invasion through inactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by downregulating USP6. Cancer Gene Ther 2022; 29:930-939. [PMID: 34522027 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-021-00377-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is a neoplasm arising from melanocytes of the ciliary body, choroid, and iris of the eye, which is the most common primary malignant intraocular tumor. microRNA-130a (miR-130a) has been confirmed to be underexpressed in many types of cancers. Here we aimed to investigate the mechanism whereby miR-130a affects the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by targeting ubiquitin-specific protease 6 (USP6) in UM. Ocular specimens of 62 patients with UM and 42 participants subjected to enucleation due to trauma were collected. In the normal uveal tissues and those from metastatic and non-metastatic UM, we evaluated miR-130a expression by RT-qPCR and then measured mRNA and protein expression of recombinant human mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 4 (SMAD4), USP6, related factors of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) by RT-qPCR and western blot analysis. Subsequently, the interaction between miR-130a and USP6 was identified by bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. Next, UM cell migration and invasion abilities, as well as tumor growth in nude mice, were measured through gain- and loss-of-function studies of miR-130a and USP6. miR-130a expression was downregulated in uveal tissues from patients with UM, especially in metastatic uveal tissues. The overall survival of UM patients with low miR-130a expression was shorter than those with high miR-130a expression. USP6 was a target of miR-130a and the overexpression of miR-130a or inhibition of USP6 in UM MUM-2B and MUM-2C cell lines inhibited the expression of Wnt, β-catenin, and EGFR, and activated SMAD4 expression, while reducing UM cell migration and invasion abilities in vitro. The above changes could be reversed by overexpressing USP6 in vitro, whereas overexpressed miR-130a could inhibit the tumor growth in nude mice. Taken together, overexpressed miR-130a inhibited USP6 expression to repress UM cell migration and invasion abilities through inactivating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which could be a potential candidate for treatment of UM.
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28
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Katoh Y, Yaguchi T, Kubo A, Iwata T, Morii K, Kato D, Ohta S, Satomi R, Yamamoto Y, Oyamada Y, Ouchi K, Takahashi S, Ishioka C, Matoba R, Suematsu M, Kawakami Y. Inhibition of stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) enhances the antitumor T cell response through regulating β-catenin signaling in cancer cells and ER stress in T cells and synergizes with anti-PD-1 antibody. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2022-004616. [PMID: 35793868 PMCID: PMC9260842 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-004616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Understanding the mechanisms of non-T cell inflamed tumor microenvironment (TME) and their modulation are important to improve cancer immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors. The involvement of various immunometabolisms has recently been indicated in the formation of immunosuppressive TME. In this study, we investigated the immunological roles of stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1), which is essential for fatty acid metabolism, in the cancer immune response. Methods We investigated the roles of SCD1 by inhibition with the chemical inhibitor or genetic manipulation in antitumor T cell responses and the therapeutic effect of anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (anti-PD-1) antibody using various mouse tumor models, and their cellular and molecular mechanisms. The roles of SCD1 in human cancers were also investigated by gene expression analyses of colon cancer tissues and by evaluating the related free fatty acids in sera obtained from patients with non-small cell lung cancer who were treated with anti-PD-1 antibody. Results Systemic administration of a SCD1 inhibitor in mouse tumor models enhanced production of CCL4 by cancer cells through reduction of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and by CD8+ effector T cells through reduction of endoplasmic reticulum stress. It in turn promoted recruitment of dendritic cells (DCs) into the tumors and enhanced the subsequent induction and tumor accumulation of antitumor CD8+ T cells. SCD1 inhibitor was also found to directly stimulate DCs and CD8+ T cells. Administration of SCD1 inhibitor or SCD1 knockout in mice synergized with an anti-PD-1 antibody for its antitumor effects in mouse tumor models. High SCD1 expression was observed in one of the non-T cell-inflamed subtypes in human colon cancer, and serum SCD1 related fatty acids were correlated with response rates and prognosis of patients with non-small lung cancer following anti-PD-1 antibody treatment. Conclusions SCD1 expressed in cancer cells and immune cells causes immunoresistant conditions, and its inhibition augments antitumor T cells and therapeutic effects of anti-PD-1 antibody. Therefore, SCD1 is an attractive target for the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to improve current cancer immunotherapies including immune checkpoint inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Katoh
- Division of Cellular Signaling, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Division of Anatomical Science, Department of Functional Morphology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomonori Yaguchi
- Division of Cellular Signaling, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akiko Kubo
- Department of Biochemistry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Iwata
- Division of Cellular Signaling, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Morii
- Division of Cellular Signaling, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daiki Kato
- Division of Cellular Signaling, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigeki Ohta
- Division of Cellular Signaling, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Satomi
- National Hospital Organisation Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Yamamoto
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Kota Ouchi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Clinical Oncology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Shin Takahashi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Clinical Oncology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Chikashi Ishioka
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Clinical Oncology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Makoto Suematsu
- Department of Biochemistry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kawakami
- Division of Cellular Signaling, Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan .,Department of Immunology, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
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29
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Wu L, Sun S, Qu F, Liu X, Sun M, Pan Y, Zheng Y, Su G. ASCL2 Affects the Efficacy of Immunotherapy in Colon Adenocarcinoma Based on Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Analysis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:829640. [PMID: 35774798 PMCID: PMC9237783 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.829640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is one of the leading causes of cancer-associated deaths worldwide. Patients with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) tumors were shown to highly benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) than patients with microsatellite stable (MSS) tumors. Furthermore, the infiltration of immune cells and the expression of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in COAD were associated with the anti-tumor immune response. However, the potential mechanisms showing the relationship between microsatellite instability and CSCs or tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) have not been elucidated. Accumulating evidence reveals that achaete-scute family bHLH transcription factor 2 (ASCL2) plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of COAD and drug resistance. However, the specific biological functions of ASCL2 in COAD remain unknown. In this study, we performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) between MSS and MSI-H subsets of COAD. The results revealed that ASCL2 was a potential key candidate in COAD. Subsequently, the single-cell RNA-seq revealed that ASCL2 was positively associated with CSCs. Further, ASCL2 was shown to indirectly affect tumor immune cell infiltration by negatively regulating the expression of DUSP4. Finally, we inferred that the immunotherapy-sensitive role of ASCL2/DUSP4 axis on COAD is partly attributed to the activation of WNT/β-catenin pathway. In conclusion, this study revealed that ASCL2 was positively correlated to CSCs and tumor immune infiltration in COAD. Therefore, ASCL2 is a promising predictor of clinical responsiveness to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy in COAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wu
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Oncology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Shengnan Sun
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Fei Qu
- Department of Pathology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiuxiu Liu
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Meili Sun
- Department of Oncology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Ying Pan
- Department of Oncology, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Yan Zheng
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Zheng, ; Guohai Su,
| | - Guohai Su
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Zheng, ; Guohai Su,
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Kalaora S, Nagler A, Wargo JA, Samuels Y. Mechanisms of immune activation and regulation: lessons from melanoma. Nat Rev Cancer 2022; 22:195-207. [PMID: 35105962 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-022-00442-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Melanoma, a skin cancer that develops from pigment cells, has been studied intensively, particularly in terms of the immune response to tumours, and has been used as a model for the development of immunotherapy. This is due, in part, to the high mutational burden observed in melanomas, which increases both their immunogenicity and the infiltration of immune cells into the tumours, compared with other types of cancers. The immune response to melanomas involves a complex set of components and interactions. As the tumour evolves, it accumulates an increasing number of genetic and epigenetic alterations, some of which contribute to the immunogenicity of the tumour cells and the infiltration of immune cells. However, tumour evolution also enables the development of resistance mechanisms, which, in turn, lead to tumour immune escape. Understanding the interactions between melanoma tumour cells and the immune system, and the evolving changes within the melanoma tumour cells, the immune system and the microenvironment, is essential for the development of new cancer therapies. However, current research suggests that other extrinsic factors, such as the microbiome, may play a role in the immune response to melanomas. Here, we review the mechanisms underlying the immune response in the tumour and discuss recent advances as well as strategies for treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelly Kalaora
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Adi Nagler
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Jennifer A Wargo
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Genomic Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yardena Samuels
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
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Abstract
With the development of precision medicine, the efficiency of tumor treatment has been significantly improved. More attention has been paid to targeted therapy and immunotherapy as the key to precision treatment of cancer. Targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has become one of the most important targeted treatments for various cancers. Comparing with traditional chemotherapy drugs, targeting EGFR is highly selective in killing tumor cells with better safety, tolerability and less side effect. In addition, tumor immunotherapy has become the fourth largest tumor therapy after surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, these treatments still produce a certain degree of drug resistance. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) were found to play a key role in carcinogenesis, treatment and regulation of the efficacy of anticancer drugs in the past few years. Therefore, in this review, we aim to summarize the targeted treatment of cancers and the functions of ncRNAs in cancer treatment.
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Singh P, Yadav M, Niveria K, Verma AK. Nano-immunotherapeutics: targeting approach as strategic regulation at tumor microenvironment for cancer treatment. EXPLORATION OF MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.37349/emed.2022.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of mortality worldwide, which necessitates our consideration related to novel treatment approach. Tumor cells at the tumor microenvironment (TME), regulate a plethora of key mechanistic signaling pathways that obstruct antitumor immune responses by immune suppression, immune resistance or acquired immune tolerance. The present therapeutic regimes are provided independently or in combination, or as immunotherapies for cancer immune targeting. Immunotherapy has altered the arena of oncology and patient care. By using the host immune system, the immunostimulatory molecules can exert a robust, personalized response against the patient’s own tumors. Alternatively, tumors may exploit these strategies to escape immune recognition, and accordingly, such mechanisms represent chances for immunotherapy intervention. Nonetheless, despite promising outcomes from immunotherapies in recurrent and metastatic cancers, immune-therapeutics in clinics has been limited owing to unpredictability in the produced immune response and reported instances of immune-related adverse effects. The unrealized potential of immunotherapies in cancer management maybe due to the obstacles such as heterogeneous nature, multiple targets, patients’ immune response, specificity for cancer or variability in response generation in toxicity levels, delivery and cost related to therapeutics etc. Further revolutionary trends related to immunotherapies are noticeable with slower progress for cancer management. Recent advances in nanomedicine strategize to ameliorate the lacuna of immunotherapy as it relies on the inherent biophysical characteristics of nanocarriers: size, shape, surface charge and multifunctionality and exploiting them as first line therapy for delivery of biomolecules, single checkpoint inhibitors and for imaging of TME. Therefore, nano-assisted immunotherapies can boost the immunotherapeutic approach, overcoming factors that are with imminent potential risks related to it, thereby significantly improving the survival rate associated with it in cancer patients. Nanotechnology is anticipated to overcome the confines of existing cancer immunotherapy and to successfully combine various cancer treatment modes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Singh
- Nano-Biotech Lab, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Monika Yadav
- Nano-Biotech Lab, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Karishma Niveria
- Nano-Biotech Lab, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Anita Kamra Verma
- Nano-Biotech Lab, Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
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Gorzo A, Galos D, Volovat SR, Lungulescu CV, Burz C, Sur D. Landscape of Immunotherapy Options for Colorectal Cancer: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives beyond Immune Checkpoint Blockade. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:229. [PMID: 35207516 PMCID: PMC8878674 DOI: 10.3390/life12020229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent malignancy in Western countries and a major cause of death despite recent improvements in screening programs and early detection methods. In the last decade, a growing effort has been put into better understanding how the immune system interacts with cancer cells. Even if treatments with immune checkpoint inhibitors (anti-PD1, anti-PD-L1, anti-CTLA4) were proven effective for several cancer types, the benefit for colorectal cancer patients is still limited. However, a subset of patients with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR)/microsatellite-instability-high (MSI-H) metastatic colorectal cancer has been observed to have a prolonged benefit to immune checkpoint inhibitors. As a result, pembrolizumab and nivolumab +/- ipilimumab recently obtained the Food and Drug Administration approval. This review aims to highlight the body of knowledge on immunotherapy in the colorectal cancer setting, discussing the potential mechanisms of resistance and future strategies to extend its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alecsandra Gorzo
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Oncology Institute “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuţă”, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.G.); (D.G.); (C.B.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Iuliu Hatieganu”, 400000 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Diana Galos
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Oncology Institute “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuţă”, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.G.); (D.G.); (C.B.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Iuliu Hatieganu”, 400000 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Simona Ruxandra Volovat
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa” Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | | | - Claudia Burz
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Oncology Institute “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuţă”, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.G.); (D.G.); (C.B.)
- Department of Allergology and Immunology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Iuliu Hatieganu”, 400000 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel Sur
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Oncology Institute “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuţă”, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.G.); (D.G.); (C.B.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Iuliu Hatieganu”, 400000 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Kheshti AMS, Hajizadeh F, Barshidi A, Rashidi B, Ebrahimi F, Bahmanpour S, Karpisheh V, Noukabadi FK, Kiani FK, Hassannia H, Atyabi F, Kiaie SH, Kashanchi F, Navashenaq JG, Mohammadi H, Bagherifar R, Jafari R, Zolbanin NM, Jadidi-Niaragh F. Combination Cancer Immunotherapy with Dendritic Cell Vaccine and Nanoparticles Loaded with Interleukin-15 and Anti-beta-catenin siRNA Significantly Inhibits Cancer Growth and Induces Anti-Tumor Immune Response. Pharm Res 2022; 39:353-367. [PMID: 35166995 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03169-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The invention and application of new immunotherapeutic methods can compensate for the inefficiency of conventional cancer treatment approaches, partly due to the inhibitory microenvironment of the tumor. In this study, we tried to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce anti-tumor immune responses by silencing the expression of the β-catenin in the tumor microenvironment and transmitting interleukin (IL)-15 cytokine to provide optimal conditions for the dendritic cell (DC) vaccine. METHODS For this purpose, we used folic acid (FA)-conjugated SPION-carboxymethyl dextran (CMD) chitosan (C) nanoparticles (NPs) to deliver anti-β-catenin siRNA and IL-15 to cancer cells. RESULTS The results showed that the codelivery of β-catenin siRNA and IL-15 significantly reduced the growth of cancer cells and increased the immune response. The treatment also considerably stimulated the performance of the DC vaccine in triggering anti-tumor immunity, which inhibited tumor development and increased survival in mice in two different cancer models. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the use of new nanocarriers such as SPION-C-CMD-FA could be an effective way to use as a novel combination therapy consisting of β-catenin siRNA, IL-15, and DC vaccine to treat cancer.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents/administration & dosage
- Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry
- Cancer Vaccines/administration & dosage
- Cancer Vaccines/immunology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Dendritic Cells/immunology
- Dendritic Cells/transplantation
- Drug Carriers
- Drug Compounding
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Interleukin-15/administration & dosage
- Interleukin-15/chemistry
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/immunology
- Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
- Melanoma, Experimental/genetics
- Melanoma, Experimental/immunology
- Melanoma, Experimental/pathology
- Melanoma, Experimental/therapy
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- RNA, Small Interfering/administration & dosage
- RNA, Small Interfering/genetics
- RNAi Therapeutics
- Skin Neoplasms/genetics
- Skin Neoplasms/immunology
- Skin Neoplasms/pathology
- Skin Neoplasms/therapy
- Tumor Burden/drug effects
- Tumor Microenvironment
- beta Catenin/genetics
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farnaz Hajizadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Asal Barshidi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Bentolhoda Rashidi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farbod Ebrahimi
- Nanoparticle Process Technology, Faculty of Engineering, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Simin Bahmanpour
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahid Karpisheh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Fariba Karoon Kiani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hadi Hassannia
- Immunogenetic Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Amol Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Atyabi
- Nanotechnology Research Centre, Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Hossein Kiaie
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Nano Drug Delivery Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, 6715847141, Iran
| | - Fatah Kashanchi
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Rafieh Bagherifar
- Nano Drug Delivery Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, 6715847141, Iran
| | - Reza Jafari
- Nephrology and Kidney Transplant Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Hematology, Immune Cell Therapy, and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Naime Majidi Zolbanin
- Hematology, Immune Cell Therapy, and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
- Experimental and Applied Pharmaceutical Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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35
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Wnt signaling pathway in cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Lett 2022; 525:84-96. [PMID: 34740608 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a highly conserved pathway that regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, stem cell self-renewal, tissue homeostasis, and wound healing. Dysregulation of the Wnt pathway is intricately involved in almost all stages of tumorigenesis in various cancers. Through direct and/or indirect effects on effector T cells, T-regulatory cells, T-helper cells, dendritic cells, and other cytokine-expressing immune cells, abnormal activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling benefits immune exclusion and hinders T-cell-mediated antitumor immune responses. Activation of Wnt signaling results in increased resistance to immunotherapies. In this review, we summarize the process by which Wnt signaling affects cancer and immune surveillance, and the potential for targeting the Wnt-signaling pathway via cancer immunotherapy.
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36
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Wondergem NE, Nijenhuis DNLM, Poell JB, Leemans CR, Brakenhoff RH, van de Ven R. At the Crossroads of Molecular Biology and Immunology: Molecular Pathways for Immunological Targeting of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. FRONTIERS IN ORAL HEALTH 2022; 2:647980. [PMID: 35047999 PMCID: PMC8757702 DOI: 10.3389/froh.2021.647980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Recent advances in immunotherapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) have led to implementation of anti-programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) immunotherapy to standard of care for recurrent/metastatic HNSCC. However, the majority of tumors do not respond to these therapies, indicating that these tumors are not immunogenic or other immunosuppressive mechanisms might be at play. Aim: Given their role in carcinogenesis as well as in immune modulation, we discuss the relation between the STAT3, PI3K/AKT/mTOR and Wnt signaling pathways to identify potential targets to empower the immune response against HNSCC. Results: We focused on three pathways. First, STAT3 is often overactivated in HNSCC and induces the secretion of immunosuppressive cytokines, thereby promoting recruitment of immune suppressive regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells to the tumor microenvironment (TME) while hampering the development of dendritic cells. Second, PI3K/AKT/mTOR mutational activation results in increased tumor proliferation but could also be important in HNSCC immune evasion due to the downregulation of components in the antigen-processing machinery. Third, canonical Wnt signaling is overactivated in >20% of HNSCC and could be an interesting pleotropic target since it is related to increased tumor cell proliferation and the development of an immunosuppressive HNSCC TME. Conclusion: The molecular pathology of HNSCC is complex and heterogeneous, varying between sites and disease etiology (i.e., HPV). The in HNSCC widely affected signaling pathways STAT3, PI3K/AKT/mTOR and Wnt are implicated in some of the very mechanisms underlying immune evasion of HNSCC, thereby representing promising targets to possibly facilitate immunotherapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels E Wondergem
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Dennis N L M Nijenhuis
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jos B Poell
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - C René Leemans
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ruud H Brakenhoff
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rieneke van de Ven
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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37
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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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38
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Wnt/β-catenin signalling: function, biological mechanisms, and therapeutic opportunities. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:3. [PMID: 34980884 PMCID: PMC8724284 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00762-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 615] [Impact Index Per Article: 307.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Wnt/β-catenin pathway comprises a family of proteins that play critical roles in embryonic development and adult tissue homeostasis. The deregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signalling often leads to various serious diseases, including cancer and non-cancer diseases. Although many articles have reviewed Wnt/β-catenin from various aspects, a systematic review encompassing the origin, composition, function, and clinical trials of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway in tumour and diseases is lacking. In this article, we comprehensively review the Wnt/β-catenin pathway from the above five aspects in combination with the latest research. Finally, we propose challenges and opportunities for the development of small-molecular compounds targeting the Wnt signalling pathway in disease treatment.
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39
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Sato Y, Fu Y, Liu H, Lee MY, Shaw MH. Tumor-immune profiling of CT-26 and Colon 26 syngeneic mouse models reveals mechanism of anti-PD-1 response. BMC Cancer 2021; 21:1222. [PMID: 34774008 PMCID: PMC8590766 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-021-08974-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies have changed the paradigm of cancer therapies. However, anti-tumor response of the ICB is insufficient for many patients and limited to specific tumor types. Despite many preclinical and clinical studies to understand the mechanism of anti-tumor efficacy of ICB, the mechanism is not completely understood. Harnessing preclinical tumor models is one way to understand the mechanism of treatment response. METHODS In order to delineate the mechanisms of anti-tumor activity of ICB in preclinical syngeneic tumor models, we selected two syngeneic murine colorectal cancer models based on in vivo screening for sensitivity with anti-PD-1 therapy. We performed tumor-immune profiling of the two models to identify the potential mechanism for anti-PD-1 response. RESULTS We performed in vivo screening for anti-PD-1 therapy across 23 syngeneic tumor models and found that CT-26 and Colon 26, which are murine colorectal carcinoma derived from BALB/c mice, showed different sensitivity to anti-PD-1. CT-26 tumor mice were more sensitive to the anti-PD-1 antibody than Colon 26, while both models show similarly sensitivity to anti-CTLA4 antibody. Immune-profiling showed that CT-26 tumor tissue was infiltrated with more immune cells than Colon 26. Genomic/transcriptomic analyses highlighted thatWnt pathway was one of the potential differences between CT-26 and Colon 26, showing Wnt activity was higher in Colon 26 than CT-26. . CONCLUSIONS CT-26 and Colon 26 syngeneic tumor models showed different sensitivity to anti-PD-1 therapy, although both tumor cells are murine colorectal carcinoma cell lines from BALB/c strain. By characterizing the mouse cells lines and tumor-immune context in the tumor tissues with comprehensive analysis approaches, we found that CT-26 showed "hot tumor" profile with more infiltrated immune cells than Colon 26. Further pathway analyses enable us to propose a hypothesis that Wnt pathway could be one of the major factors to differentiate CT-26 from Colon 26 model and link to anti-PD-1 response. Our approach to focus on preclinical tumor models with similar genetic background but different sensitivity to anti-PD-1 therapy would contribute to illustrating the potential mechanism of anti-PD-1 response and to generating a novel concept to synergize current anti-PD-1 therapies for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Sato
- Immuno-oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 40 Landsdowne St, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
| | - Yu Fu
- Immuno-oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 40 Landsdowne St, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.,Guardant Health, 720 3rd Ave Suite 2100, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
| | - Hong Liu
- Immuno-oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 40 Landsdowne St, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.,Checkmate Pharmaceuticals, 245 Main St, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Min Young Lee
- Immuno-oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 40 Landsdowne St, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Michael H Shaw
- Immuno-oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, 40 Landsdowne St, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
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40
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Wu W, Liu Y, Zeng S, Han Y, Shen H. Intratumor heterogeneity: the hidden barrier to immunotherapy against MSI tumors from the perspective of IFN-γ signaling and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:160. [PMID: 34620200 PMCID: PMC8499512 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01166-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In this era of precision medicine, with the help of biomarkers, immunotherapy has significantly improved prognosis of many patients with malignant tumor. Deficient mismatch repair (dMMR)/microsatellite instability (MSI) status is used as a biomarker in clinical practice to predict favorable response to immunotherapy and prognosis. MSI is an important characteristic which facilitates mutation and improves the likelihood of a favorable response to immunotherapy. However, many patients with dMMR/MSI still respond poorly to immunotherapies, which partly results from intratumor heterogeneity propelled by dMMR/MSI. In this review, we discuss how dMMR/MSI facilitates mutations in tumor cells and generates intratumor heterogeneity, especially through type II interferon (IFN-γ) signaling and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). We discuss the mechanism of immunotherapy from the perspective of dMMR/MSI, molecular pathways and TILs, and we discuss how intratumor heterogeneity hinders the therapeutic effect of immunotherapy. Finally, we summarize present techniques and strategies to look at the tumor as a whole to design personalized regimes and achieve favorable prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wantao Wu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008
| | - Yihan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008
| | - Shan Zeng
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying Han
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hong Shen
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- Key Laboratory for Molecular Radiation Oncology of Hunan Province, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, People's Republic of China.
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41
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Quan C, Belaydi O, Hu J, Li H, Yu A, Liu P, Yi Z, Qiu D, Ren W, Ma H, Gong G, Ou Z, Chen M, Sun Y, Chen J, Zu X. N 6-Methyladenosine in Cancer Immunotherapy: An Undervalued Therapeutic Target. Front Immunol 2021; 12:697026. [PMID: 34526985 PMCID: PMC8436617 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.697026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methylation of adenosine (m6A), a post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism, is the most abundant nucleotide modification in almost all types of RNAs. The biological function of m6A in regulating the expression of oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes has been widely investigated in various cancers. However, recent studies have addressed a new role of m6A modification in the anti-tumor immune response. By modulating the fate of targeted RNA, m6A affects tumor-associated immune cell activation and infiltration in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In addition, m6A-targeting is found to affect the efficacy of classical immunotherapy, which makes m6A a potential target for immunotherapy. Although m6A modification together with its regulators may play the exact opposite role in different tumor types, targeting m6A regulators has been shown to have wide implications in several cancers. In this review, we discussed the link between m6A modification and tumor with an emphasis on the importance of m6A in anti-tumor immune response and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Quan
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Othmane Belaydi
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiao Hu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huihuang Li
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Anze Yu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Peihua Liu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhenglin Yi
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dongxu Qiu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wenbiao Ren
- George Whipple Lab for Cancer Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Hongzhi Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Guanghui Gong
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhenyu Ou
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Minfeng Chen
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yin Sun
- George Whipple Lab for Cancer Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Jinbo Chen
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiongbing Zu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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42
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Parsons MJ, Tammela T, Dow LE. WNT as a Driver and Dependency in Cancer. Cancer Discov 2021; 11:2413-2429. [PMID: 34518209 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The WNT signaling pathway is a critical regulator of development and adult tissue homeostasis and becomes dysregulated in many cancer types. Although hyperactivation of WNT signaling is common, the type and frequency of genetic WNT pathway alterations can vary dramatically between different cancers, highlighting possible cancer-specific mechanisms for WNT-driven disease. In this review, we discuss how WNT pathway disruption contributes to tumorigenesis in different organs and how WNT affects the tumor cell and immune microenvironment. Finally, we describe recent and ongoing efforts to target oncogenic WNT signaling as a therapeutic strategy. SIGNIFICANCE: WNT signaling is a fundamental regulator of tissue homeostasis and oncogenic driver in many cancer types. In this review, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of WNT signaling in cancer, particularly the complexities of WNT activation in distinct cancer types, its role in immune evasion, and the challenge of targeting the WNT pathway as a therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie J Parsons
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Tuomas Tammela
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Lukas E Dow
- Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York. .,Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
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43
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Intrinsic activation of β-catenin signaling by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated exon skipping contributes to immune evasion in hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16732. [PMID: 34429454 PMCID: PMC8384852 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96167-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Comprehensive analysis of clinical samples has recently identified molecular and immunological classification of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the CTNNB1 (β-catenin)-mutated subtype exhibits distinctive characteristics of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. For clarifying the molecular mechanisms, we first established human and mouse HCC cells with exon 3 skipping of β-catenin, which promoted nuclear translocation and activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, by using newly developed multiplex CRISPR/Cas9-based genome engineering system. Gene set enrichment analysis indicated downregulation of immune-associated gene sets in the HCC cells with activated β-catenin signaling. Comparative analysis of gene expression profiles between HCC cells harboring wild-type and exon 3 skipping β-catenin elucidated that the expression levels of four cytokines were commonly decreased in human and mouse β-catenin-mutated HCC cells. Public exome and transcriptome data of 373 human HCC samples showed significant downregulation of two candidate cytokine genes, CCL20 and CXCL2, in HCC tumors with β-catenin hotspot mutations. T cell killing assays and immunohistochemical analysis of grafted tumor tissues demonstrated that the mouse Ctnnb1Δex3 HCC cells evaded immunosurveillance. Taken together, this study discovered that cytokine controlled by β-catenin signaling activation could contribute to immune evasion, and provided novel insights into cancer immunotherapy for the β-catenin-mutated HCC subtype.
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44
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Nishida N. Role of Oncogenic Pathways on the Cancer Immunosuppressive Microenvironment and Its Clinical Implications in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3666. [PMID: 34359568 PMCID: PMC8345137 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor immune microenvironment, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is complex, consisting of crosstalk among tumor components such as the cancer cells, stromal cells and immune cells. It is conceivable that phenotypic changes in cancer cells by genetic and epigenetic alterations affect the cancer-stroma interaction and anti-cancer immunity through the expression of immune checkpoint molecules, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines and metabolites that may act on the immune system in tumors. Therefore, predicting the outcome of ICI therapy requires a thorough understanding of the oncogenic signaling pathways in cancer and how they affect tumor immune evasion. In this review, we have detailed how oncogenic signaling pathways can play a role in altering the condition of the cellular components of the tumor immune microenvironment such as tumor-associated macrophages, regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. The RAS/MAPK, PI3K/Akt, Wnt/β-catenin and JAK/STAT pathways have all been implicated in anti-tumor immunity. We also found that factors that reflect the immune microenvironment of the tumor, including the status of oncogenic pathways such as the volume of tumor-infiltrating T cells, expression of the immune checkpoint protein PD-1 and its ligand PD-L1, and activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, predict a response to ICI therapy in HCC cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoshi Nishida
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama 589-8511, Japan
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45
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Role of Oncogenic Pathways on the Cancer Immunosuppressive Microenvironment and Its Clinical Implications in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021. [PMID: 34359568 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153666.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor immune microenvironment, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is complex, consisting of crosstalk among tumor components such as the cancer cells, stromal cells and immune cells. It is conceivable that phenotypic changes in cancer cells by genetic and epigenetic alterations affect the cancer-stroma interaction and anti-cancer immunity through the expression of immune checkpoint molecules, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines and metabolites that may act on the immune system in tumors. Therefore, predicting the outcome of ICI therapy requires a thorough understanding of the oncogenic signaling pathways in cancer and how they affect tumor immune evasion. In this review, we have detailed how oncogenic signaling pathways can play a role in altering the condition of the cellular components of the tumor immune microenvironment such as tumor-associated macrophages, regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. The RAS/MAPK, PI3K/Akt, Wnt/β-catenin and JAK/STAT pathways have all been implicated in anti-tumor immunity. We also found that factors that reflect the immune microenvironment of the tumor, including the status of oncogenic pathways such as the volume of tumor-infiltrating T cells, expression of the immune checkpoint protein PD-1 and its ligand PD-L1, and activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, predict a response to ICI therapy in HCC cases.
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46
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Wei ST, Huang YC, Chiang JY, Lin CC, Lin YJ, Shyu WC, Chen HC, Hsieh CH. Gain of CXCR7 function with mesenchymal stem cell therapy ameliorates experimental arthritis via enhancing tissue regeneration and immunomodulation. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:314. [PMID: 34051857 PMCID: PMC8164772 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02402-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The major barriers to mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are a low extent of tissue regeneration and insufficient immunomodulation after cell transplantation. In addition, the role of C-X-C chemokine receptor type 7 (CXCR7) and its mechanism of action in MSC-mediated osteogenic or chondrogenic differentiation and immunomodulation are unclear. METHODS Gain of CXCR7 function on human MSCs was carried out by lentiviral vector-mediated CXCR7 overexpression or CXCR7 agonist, TC14012. These cells were determined the role and potential mechanisms for CXCR7-regulated MSC differentiation and immunomodulation using cellular and molecular assays. The therapeutic benefits in RA were investigated in rats with collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). RESULTS CXCR7 was upregulated in MSCs during the induction of osteogenic or chondrogenic differentiation. Blockage of CXCR7 function inhibited osteogenic or chondrogenic differentiation of MSCs whereas gain of CXCR7 function had the opposite effects. Besides, MSCs with CXCR7 gain-of-function facilitated macrophage apoptosis and regulatory T cell differentiation in a co-culture system. Gain of CXCR7 function also promoted the production of anti-inflammatory soluble factors. A gene expression profiling assay and signaling reporter assays revealed that CXCR7 could regulate several candidate genes related to the PPAR, WNT, Hedgehog or Notch pathways, and their signaling activities, which are known to control cell differentiation and immunomodulation. Finally, MSCs with CXCR7 gain-of-function significantly reduced the articular index scores, ankle circumference, radiographic scores, histologic scores, and inflammation in rats with CIA compared with control MSCs. CONCLUSIONS CXCR7 promotes the osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation of MSCs and MSC-mediated immunomodulation by regulating several signaling pathways and anti-inflammatory soluble factors. MSCs with CXCR7 gain-of-function significantly ameliorate arthritic symptoms in a CIA model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Tai Wei
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Neurosurgery, China Medical University and Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Chih Huang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Imaging, China Medical University and Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Ying Chiang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Neurosurgery, China Medical University and Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ching Lin
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jung Lin
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Woei-Cherng Shyu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Chen Chen
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hung Hsieh
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan. .,Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan. .,Department of Biomedical Informatics, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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47
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Weiss SA, Sznol M. Resistance mechanisms to checkpoint inhibitors. Curr Opin Immunol 2021; 69:47-55. [PMID: 33676271 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2021.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Although multiple immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have been identified and tested in the clinic, antibodies blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 axis have produced the greatest impact on cancer treatment. Many potential mechanisms of treatment failure have been proposed from pre-clinical animal and human translational studies. Pre-clinical studies and clinical trials are underway to better understand how resistance arises and to develop strategies that can circumvent these resistance mechanisms and sensitize patients to anti-PD1/PD-L1 to improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Weiss
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Medicine (Section of Medical Oncology), 333 Cedar St., P.O. Box 208032, New Haven, CT 06520, United States.
| | - Mario Sznol
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Medicine (Section of Medical Oncology), 333 Cedar St., P.O. Box 208032, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
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48
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Immune Therapy Resistance and Immune Escape of Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030551. [PMID: 33535559 PMCID: PMC7867077 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The genetic adaptability of malignant cells and their consequent heterogeneity even within the same patient poses a great obstacle to cancer patient treatment. This review summarizes the data obtained in the last decade on different preclinical mice models as well as on various immunotherapeutic clinical trials in distinct solid and hematopoietic cancers on how the immune system can be implemented in tumor therapy. Moreover, the different intrinsic and extrinsic escape strategies utilized by the tumor to avoid elimination by the immune system are recapitulated together with the different approaches proposed to overcome them in order to succeed and/or to enhance therapy efficacy. Abstract Immune therapy approaches such as checkpoint inhibitors or adoptive cell therapy represent promising therapeutic options for cancer patients, but their efficacy is still limited, since patients frequently develop innate or acquired resistances to these therapies. Thus, one major goal is to increase the efficiency of immunotherapies by overcoming tumor-induced immune suppression, which then allows for immune-mediated tumor clearance. Innate resistance to immunotherapies could be caused by a low immunogenicity of the tumor itself as well as an immune suppressive microenvironment composed of cellular, physical, or soluble factors leading to escape from immune surveillance and disease progression. So far, a number of strategies causing resistance to immunotherapy have been described in various clinical trials, which broadly overlap with the immunoediting processes of cancers. This review summarizes the novel insights in the development of resistances to immune therapy as well as different approaches that could be employed to overcome them.
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49
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Hu-Lieskovan S, Malouf GG, Jacobs I, Chou J, Liu L, Johnson ML. Addressing resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy: an urgent unmet need. Future Oncol 2021; 17:1401-1439. [PMID: 33475012 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-0967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment of various cancers by reversing the immunosuppressive mechanisms employed by tumors to restore anticancer immunity. Although ICIs have demonstrated substantial clinical efficacy, patient response can vary in depth and duration, and many do not respond at all or eventually develop resistance. ICI resistance mechanisms can be tumor-intrinsic, related to the tumor microenvironment or patient-specific factors. Multiple resistance mechanisms may be present within one tumor subtype, or heterogeneity exists among patients with the same tumor type. Consequently, designing effective combination treatment strategies is challenging. This review will discuss ICI resistance mechanisms, and summarize findings from key preclinical and clinical trials of ICIs, to identify potential treatment strategies or pathways to overcome ICI resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwen Hu-Lieskovan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Huntsman Cancer Institute / University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Gabriel G Malouf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut de Cancérologie de Strasbourg & Department of Functional Genomics & Cancer, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, CNRS/INSERM/UNISTRA, Illkirch Cedex, Strasbourg, France
| | | | | | - Li Liu
- Pfizer Inc, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Melissa L Johnson
- Sarah Cannon Research Institute/Tennessee Oncology, PLLC, Nashville, TN 37203, USA
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50
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Muto S, Ozaki Y, Yamaguchi H, Mine H, Takagi H, Watanabe M, Inoue T, Yamaura T, Fukuhara M, Okabe N, Matsumura Y, Hasegawa T, Osugi J, Hoshino M, Higuchi M, Shio Y, Nanamiya H, Imai JI, Isogai T, Watanabe S, Suzuki H. Tumor β-catenin expression is associated with immune evasion in non-small cell lung cancer with high tumor mutation burden. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:203. [PMID: 33574942 PMCID: PMC7816404 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
β-catenin expression by tumor cells suppressed dendritic cell recruitment to the tumor microenvironment in a melanoma model, resulting in fewer tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. Immunohistochemistry was used in the present study to examine the association between the expression of β-catenin and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes and CD11c+ cells in 122 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), who underwent radical surgery. β-catenin was positive in 24% of NSCLC tumors compared with 59% of squamous cell carcinomas and 11% of adenocarcinomas. There was no significant association between the expression of β-catenin and the frequency of CD8+ cell infiltration into tumor tissues, including the stroma. Conversely, the infiltration of CD8+ cells into tumor nests was significantly lower in β-catenin-positive cases compared with that in negative β-catenin cases. Similarly, CD11c+ cell infiltration was significantly lower in the β-catenin-positive group. The β-catenin-positive group had shorter overall survival and recurrence-free survival times compared with that in the negative group. Furthermore, β-catenin-positive NSCLC had a high tumor mutation burden, but tended to have a low expression of programmed death-ligand 1. In conclusion, the expression of β-catenin in NSCLC was negatively associated with CD11c+ cells and cytotoxic T cell infiltration at the tumor site and had a tendency towards a poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Muto
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Yuki Ozaki
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Hikaru Yamaguchi
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Hayato Mine
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Hironori Takagi
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Masayuki Watanabe
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Takuya Inoue
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Takumi Yamaura
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Mitsuro Fukuhara
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Okabe
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Yuki Matsumura
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Takeo Hasegawa
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Jun Osugi
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Mika Hoshino
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Higuchi
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Yutaka Shio
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Hideaki Nanamiya
- Translational Research Center, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichi Imai
- Translational Research Center, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Takao Isogai
- Translational Research Center, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Shinya Watanabe
- Translational Research Center, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Suzuki
- Department of Chest Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
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