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von Werz V, Spadiut O, Kozma B. A review and statistical analysis to identify and describe relationships between CQAs and CPPs of natural killer cell expansion processes. Cytotherapy 2024:S1465-3249(24)00733-3. [PMID: 38944794 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2024.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells make only a small fraction of immune cells in the human body, however, play a pivotal role in the fight against cancer by the immune system. They are capable of eliminating abnormal cells via several direct or indirect cytotoxicity pathways in a self-regulating manner, which makes them a favorable choice as a cellular therapy against cancer. Additionally, allogeneic NK cells, unlike other lymphocytes, do not or only minimally cause graft-versus-host diseases opening the door for an off-the-shelf therapy. However, to date, the production of NK cells faces several difficulties, especially because the critical process parameters (CPPs) influencing the critical quality attributes (CQAs) are difficult to identify or correlate. There are numerous different cultivation platforms available, all with own characteristics, benefits and disadvantages that add further difficulty to define CPPs and relate them to CQAs. Our goal in this contribution was to summarize the current knowledge about NK cell expansion CPPs and CQAs, therefore we analyzed the available literature of both dynamic and static culture format experiments in a systematic manner. We present a list of the identified CQAs and CPPs and discuss the role of each CPP in the regulation of the CQAs. Furthermore, we could identify potential relationships between certain CPPs and CQAs. The findings based on this systematic literature research can be the foundation for meaningful experiments leading to better process understanding and eventually control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin von Werz
- Research Area Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Technische Universität Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Oliver Spadiut
- Research Area Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Technische Universität Wien, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bence Kozma
- Research Area Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Technische Universität Wien, Vienna, Austria.
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2
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Berjis A, Muthumani D, Aguilar OA, Pomp O, Johnson O, Finck AV, Engel NW, Chen L, Plachta N, Scholler J, Lanier LL, June CH, Sheppard NC. Pretreatment with IL-15 and IL-18 rescues natural killer cells from granzyme B-mediated apoptosis after cryopreservation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3937. [PMID: 38729924 PMCID: PMC11087472 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47574-0] [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: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Human natural killer (NK) cell-based therapies are under assessment for treating various cancers, but cryopreservation reduces both the recovery and function of NK cells, thereby limiting their therapeutic feasibility. Using cryopreservation protocols optimized for T cells, here we find that ~75% of NK cells die within 24 h post-thaw, with the remaining cells displaying reduced cytotoxicity. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and confocal microscopy, we find that cryopreserved NK cells largely die via apoptosis initiated by leakage of granzyme B from cytotoxic vesicles. Pretreatment of NK cells with a combination of Interleukins-15 (IL-15) and IL-18 prior to cryopreservation improves NK cell recovery to ~90-100% and enables equal tumour control in a xenograft model of disseminated Raji cell lymphoma compared to non-cryopreserved NK cells. The mechanism of IL-15 and IL-18-induced protection incorporates two mechanisms: a transient reduction in intracellular granzyme B levels via degranulation, and the induction of antiapoptotic genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulla Berjis
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Deeksha Muthumani
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Oscar A Aguilar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Parker Institute of Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California; San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Oz Pomp
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Omar Johnson
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amanda V Finck
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nils W Engel
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Linhui Chen
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Institute for Biomedical Informatics, the Bioinformatic Core, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nicolas Plachta
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John Scholler
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lewis L Lanier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Parker Institute of Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California; San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Carl H June
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Neil C Sheppard
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Saultz JN, Otegbeye F. Optimizing the cryopreservation and post-thaw recovery of natural killer cells is critical for the success of off-the-shelf platforms. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1304689. [PMID: 38193082 PMCID: PMC10773738 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1304689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are a promising allogeneic, off-the-shelf, cellular immunotherapy product. These cells can be manipulated ex vivo, genetically edited to enhance tumor targeting and expanded to produce large cell banks for multiple patient infusions. Therapeutic efficacy of these products depends on the recovery of viable and functional cells post-thaw. Post-thaw loss of viability and cytolytic activity results in large, and often variable, discrepancies between the intended cell dose (based on counts at cryopreservation) and the actual dose administered. Compared to their highly activated state in fresh culture, post-thaw NK cells demonstrate critical changes in cytokine production, cytotoxic activity, in vivo proliferation and migration. When these NK cells are introduced into the highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, the functional changes induced by cryopreservation further limits the clinical potential of these products. This report will review the impact of cryopreservation on ex vivo expanded NK cells and outlines strategies described in published studies to recover post-thaw function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer N. Saultz
- Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Folashade Otegbeye
- Translational Science and Therapeutics Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA, United States
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4
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Hasan MF, Campbell AR, Croom-Perez TJ, Oyer JL, Dieffenthaller TA, Robles-Carrillo LD, Cash CA, Eloriaga JE, Kumar S, Andersen BW, Naeimi Kararoudi M, Tullius BP, Lee DA, Copik AJ. Knockout of the inhibitory receptor TIGIT enhances the antitumor response of ex vivo expanded NK cells and prevents fratricide with therapeutic Fc-active TIGIT antibodies. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007502. [PMID: 38081778 PMCID: PMC10729131 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhibitory receptor T-cell Immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT) expressed by Natural Killer (NK) and T cells regulates cancer immunity and has been touted as the next frontier in the development of cancer immunotherapeutics. Although early results of anti-TIGIT and its combinations with antiprogrammed death-ligand 1 were highly exciting, results from an interim analysis of phase III trials are disappointing. With mixed results, there is a need to understand the effects of therapeutic anti-TIGIT on the TIGIT+ immune cells to support its clinical use. Most of the TIGIT antibodies in development have an Fc-active domain, which binds to Fc receptors on effector cells. In mouse models, Fc-active anti-TIGIT induced superior immunity, while Fc receptor engagement was required for its efficacy. NK-cell depletion compromised the antitumor immunity of anti-TIGIT indicating the essential role of NK cells in the efficacy of anti-TIGIT. Since NK cells express TIGIT and Fc-receptor CD16, Fc-active anti-TIGIT may deplete NK cells via fratricide, which has not been studied. METHODS CRISPR-Cas9-based TIGIT knockout (KO) was performed in expanded NK cells. Phenotypic and transcriptomic properties of TIGIT KO and wild-type (WT) NK cells were compared with flow cytometry, CyTOF, and RNA sequencing. The effect of TIGIT KO on NK-cell cytotoxicity was determined by calcein-AM release and live cell imaging-based cytotoxicity assays. The metabolic properties of TIGIT KO and WT NK cells were compared with a Seahorse analyzer. The effect of the Fc-component of anti-TIGIT on NK-cell fratricide was determined by co-culturing WT and TIGIT KO NK cells with Fc-active and Fc-inactive anti-TIGIT. RESULTS TIGIT KO increased the cytotoxicity of NK cells against multiple cancer cell lines including spheroids. TIGIT KO NK cells upregulated mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling and had better metabolic fitness with an increased basal glycolytic rate when co-cultured with cancer cells compared with WT NK cells. Importantly, TIGIT KO prevented NK-cell fratricide when combined with Fc-active anti-TIGIT. CONCLUSIONS TIGIT KO in ex vivo expanded NK cells increased their cytotoxicity and metabolic fitness and prevented NK-cell fratricide when combined with Fc-active anti-TIGIT antibodies. These fratricide-resistant TIGIT KO NK cells have therapeutic potential alone or in combination with Fc-active anti-TIGIT antibodies to enhance their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Faqrul Hasan
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Amanda R Campbell
- Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Tayler J Croom-Perez
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Jeremiah L Oyer
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | | | - Liza D Robles-Carrillo
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Catherine A Cash
- Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jonathan E Eloriaga
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Sanjana Kumar
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Brendan W Andersen
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Meisam Naeimi Kararoudi
- Center for Childhood Cancer, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Brian P Tullius
- Pediatric Cellular Therapies, AdventHealth for Children, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Dean A Lee
- Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Alicja J Copik
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
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Dagher OK, Posey AD. Forks in the road for CAR T and CAR NK cell cancer therapies. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:1994-2007. [PMID: 38012406 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01659-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The advent of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has resulted in unprecedented long-term clearance of relapse/refractory hematological malignancies in both pediatric and adult patients. However, severe toxicities, such as cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity, associated with CAR T cells affect therapeutic utility; and treatment efficacies for solid tumors are still not impressive. As a result, engineering strategies that modify other immune cell types, especially natural killer (NK) cells have arisen. Owing to both CAR-dependent and CAR-independent (innate immune-mediated) antitumor killing capacity, major histocompatibility complex-independent cytotoxicity, reduced risk of alloreactivity and lack of major CAR T cell toxicities, CAR NK cells constitute one of the promising next-generation CAR immune cells that are also amenable as 'off-the-shelf' therapeutics. In this Review, we compare CAR T and CAR NK cell therapies, with particular focus on immunological synapses, engineering strategies and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oula K Dagher
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Avery D Posey
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Motallebnejad P, Kantardjieff A, Cichocki F, Azarin SM, Hu WS. Process engineering of natural killer cell-based immunotherapy. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:1314-1326. [PMID: 37142447 PMCID: PMC10523923 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.03.018] [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: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Cell therapy offers the potential for curative treatment of cancers. Although T cells have been the predominantly used cell type, natural killer (NK) cells have attracted great attention owing to their ability to kill cancer cells and because they are naturally suitable for allogeneic applications. Upon stimulation by cytokines or activation by a target cell, NK cells proliferate and expand their population. These cytotoxic NK cells can be cryopreserved and used as an off-the-shelf medicine. The production process for NK cells thus differs from that of autologous cell therapies. We briefly outline key biological features of NK cells, review the manufacturing technologies for protein biologics, and discuss their adaptation for developing robust NK cell biomanufacturing processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedram Motallebnejad
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | | | - Frank Cichocki
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Samira M Azarin
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Wei-Shou Hu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Wang M, Mahajan A, Miller JS, McKenna DH, Aksan A. Physicochemical Mechanisms of Protection Offered by Agarose Encapsulation during Cryopreservation of Mammalian Cells in the Absence of Membrane-Penetrating Cryoprotectants. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:2226-2236. [PMID: 37212878 PMCID: PMC10330259 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
During freeze/thaw, cells are exposed to mechanical, thermal, chemical, and osmotic stresses, which cause loss of viability and function. Cryopreservation agents such as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) are deployed to minimize freeze/thaw damage. However, there is a pressing need to eliminate DMSO from cryopreservation solutions due to its adverse effects. This is of the highest priority especially for cryopreservation of infusible/transplantable cell therapy products. In order to address this issue, we introduce reversible encapsulation in agarose hydrogels in the presence of the membrane-impermeable cryoprotectant, trehalose, as a viable, safe, and effective cryopreservation method. Our findings, which are supported by IR spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry analyses, demonstrate that encapsulation in 0.75% agarose hydrogels containing 10-20% trehalose inhibits mechanical damage induced by eutectic phase change, devitrification, and recrystallization, resulting in post-thaw viability comparable to the gold standard 10% DMSO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mian Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Advitiya Mahajan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Jeffrey S. Miller
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - David H. McKenna
- Molecular & Cellular Therapeutics, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108
| | - Alptekin Aksan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
- The BioTechnology Institute, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108
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8
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Hasan MF, Croom-Perez TJ, Oyer JL, Dieffenthaller TA, Robles-Carrillo LD, Eloriaga JE, Kumar S, Andersen BW, Copik AJ. TIGIT Expression on Activated NK Cells Correlates with Greater Anti-Tumor Activity but Promotes Functional Decline upon Lung Cancer Exposure: Implications for Adoptive Cell Therapy and TIGIT-Targeted Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2712. [PMID: 37345049 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102712] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatments targeting TIGIT have gained a lot of attention due to strong preclinical and early clinical results, particularly with anti-PD-(L)1 therapeutics. However, this combination has failed to meet progression-free survival endpoints in phase III trials. Most of our understanding of TIGIT comes from studies of T cell function. Yet, this inhibitory receptor is often upregulated to the same, or higher, extent on NK cells in cancers. Studies in murine models have demonstrated that TIGIT inhibits NK cells and promotes exhaustion, with its effects on tumor control also being dependent on NK cells. However, there are limited studies assessing the role of TIGIT on the function of human NK cells (hNK), particularly in lung cancer. Most studies used NK cell lines or tested TIGIT blockade to reactivate exhausted cells obtained from cancer patients. For therapeutic advancement, a better understanding of TIGIT in the context of activated hNK cells is crucial, which is different than exhausted NK cells, and critical in the context of adoptive NK cell therapeutics that may be combined with TIGIT blockade. In this study, the effect of TIGIT blockade on the anti-tumor activities of human ex vivo-expanded NK cells was evaluated in vitro in the context of lung cancer. TIGIT expression was higher on activated and/or expanded NK cells compared to resting NK cells. More TIGIT+ NK cells expressed major activating receptors and exerted anti-tumor response as compared to TIGIT- cells, indicating that NK cells with greater anti-tumor function express more TIGIT. However, long-term TIGIT engagement upon exposure to PVR+ tumors downregulated the cytotoxic function of expanded NK cells while the inclusion of TIGIT blockade increased cytotoxicity, restored the effector functions against PVR-positive targets, and upregulated immune inflammation-related gene sets. These combined results indicate that TIGIT blockade can preserve the activation state of NK cells during exposure to PVR+ tumors. These results support the notion that a functional NK cell compartment is critical for anti-tumor response and anti-TIGIT/adoptive NK cell combinations have the potential to improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Faqrul Hasan
- Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Tayler J Croom-Perez
- Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Jeremiah L Oyer
- Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Thomas A Dieffenthaller
- Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Liza D Robles-Carrillo
- Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Jonathan E Eloriaga
- Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Sanjana Kumar
- Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Brendan W Andersen
- Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
| | - Alicja J Copik
- Burnett School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32827, USA
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Lizana-Vasquez GD, Torres-Lugo M, Dixon R, Powderly JD, Warin RF. The application of autologous cancer immunotherapies in the age of memory-NK cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1167666. [PMID: 37205105 PMCID: PMC10185894 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1167666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular immunotherapy has revolutionized the oncology field, yielding improved results against hematological and solid malignancies. NK cells have become an attractive alternative due to their capacity to activate upon recognition of "stress" or "danger" signals independently of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) engagement, thus making tumor cells a perfect target for NK cell-mediated cancer immunotherapy even as an allogeneic solution. While this allogeneic use is currently favored, the existence of a characterized memory function for NK cells ("memory-like" NK cells) advocates for an autologous approach, that would benefit from the allogeneic setting discoveries, but with added persistence and specificity. Still, both approaches struggle to exert a sustained and high anticancer effect in-vivo due to the immunosuppressive tumor micro-environment and the logistical challenges of cGMP production or clinical deployment. Novel approaches focused on the quality enhancement and the consistent large-scale production of highly activated therapeutic memory-like NK cells have yielded encouraging but still unconclusive results. This review provides an overview of NK biology as it relates to cancer immunotherapy and the challenge presented by solid tumors for therapeutic NKs. After contrasting the autologous and allogeneic NK approaches for solid cancer immunotherapy, this work will present the current scientific focus for the production of highly persistent and cytotoxic memory-like NK cells as well as the current issues with production methods as they apply to stress-sensitive immune cells. In conclusion, autologous NK cells for cancer immunotherapy appears to be a prime alternative for front line therapeutics but to be successful, it will be critical to establish comprehensives infrastructures allowing the production of extremely potent NK cells while constraining costs of production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaby D. Lizana-Vasquez
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
- Cancer Research Clinic, Carolina BioOncology Institute (CBOI), Huntersville, NC, United States
| | - Madeline Torres-Lugo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
| | - R. Brent Dixon
- Cancer Research Clinic, Carolina BioOncology Institute (CBOI), Huntersville, NC, United States
- Human Applications Lab (HAL) - BioCytics, Huntersville, NC, United States
| | - John D. Powderly
- Cancer Research Clinic, Carolina BioOncology Institute (CBOI), Huntersville, NC, United States
- Human Applications Lab (HAL) - BioCytics, Huntersville, NC, United States
| | - Renaud F. Warin
- Cancer Research Clinic, Carolina BioOncology Institute (CBOI), Huntersville, NC, United States
- Human Applications Lab (HAL) - BioCytics, Huntersville, NC, United States
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10
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION New methods in cancer immunotherapy, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells, have shown promising results in destroying malignant cells. However, limitations and side effects of CAR-T cell therapy, such as graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), neurotoxicity, and cytokine release syndrome, have motivated researchers to investigate safer alternative cells like natural killer (NK) cells. AREA COVERED NK cells can effectively recognize hematologic malignant cells and destroy them. Many clinical and preclinical studies investigate the efficacy of CAR-NK cells in treating lymphoma and other hematologic malignancies. The results of published clinical trials and preclinical studies have shown that CAR-NK cells could be an appropriate choice for treating lymphoma. In this review, we discuss the characteristics of CAR-NK cells, their role in treating B-cell and T-cell lymphoma, and the challenges faced by using them. We also highlight clinical trials using CAR-NK cells for treating lymphoma. EXPERT OPINION CAR-NK cells have shown promising results in cancer therapy, especially B-cell lymphoma, with a much lower risk for GVHD, cytokine release syndrome, and neurotoxicity than CAR-T cells. Further investigations are required to overcome the obstacles of CAR-NK cell therapy, both generally, and in cancers like T-cell lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaghayegh Khanmohammadi
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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11
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Lamers-Kok N, Panella D, Georgoudaki AM, Liu H, Özkazanc D, Kučerová L, Duru AD, Spanholtz J, Raimo M. Natural killer cells in clinical development as non-engineered, engineered, and combination therapies. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:164. [DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01382-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractNatural killer (NK) cells are unique immune effectors able to kill cancer cells by direct recognition of surface ligands, without prior sensitization. Allogeneic NK transfer is a highly valuable treatment option for cancer and has recently emerged with hundreds of clinical trials paving the way to finally achieve market authorization. Advantages of NK cell therapies include the use of allogenic cell sources, off-the-shelf availability, and no risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Allogeneic NK cell therapies have reached the clinical stage as ex vivo expanded and differentiated non-engineered cells, as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered or CD16-engineered products, or as combination therapies with antibodies, priming agents, and other drugs. This review summarizes the recent clinical status of allogeneic NK cell-based therapies for the treatment of hematological and solid tumors, discussing the main characteristics of the different cell sources used for NK product development, their use in cell manufacturing processes, the engineering methods and strategies adopted for genetically modified products, and the chosen approaches for combination therapies. A comparative analysis between NK-based non-engineered, engineered, and combination therapies is presented, examining the choices made by product developers regarding the NK cell source and the targeted tumor indications, for both solid and hematological cancers. Clinical trial outcomes are discussed and, when available, assessed in comparison with preclinical data. Regulatory challenges for product approval are reviewed, highlighting the lack of specificity of requirements and standardization between products. Additionally, the competitive landscape and business field is presented. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the effort driven by biotech and pharmaceutical companies and by academic centers to bring NK cell therapies to pivotal clinical trial stages and to market authorization.
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12
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Ren S, Shu Z, Pan J, Wang Z, Ma R, Peng J, Chen M, Gao D. Single-Mode Electromagnetic Resonance Rewarming for the Cryopreservation of Samples with Large Volumes: A Numerical and Experimental Study. Biopreserv Biobank 2022; 20:317-322. [PMID: 35984939 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2022.0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid and uniform rewarming has been proved to be beneficial, and sometimes indispensable for the survival of cryopreserved biomaterials, inhibiting ice-recrystallization-devitrification and thermal stress-induced fracture (especially in large samples). To date, the convective water bath remains the gold standard rewarming method for small samples in the clinical settings, but it failed in the large samples (e.g., cryopreserved tissues and organs) due to damage caused by the slow and nonuniform heating. A single-mode electromagnetic resonance (SMER) system was developed to achieve ultrafast and uniform rewarming for large samples. In this study, we investigated the heating effects of the SMER system and compared the heating performance with water bath and air warming. A numerical model was established to further analyze the temperature change and distribution at different time points during the rewarming process. Overall, the SMER system achieved rapid heating at 331.63 ± 8.59°C min-1 while limiting the maximum thermal gradient to <9°C min-1, significantly better than the other two warming methods. The experimental results were highly consistent, indicating SMER is a promising rewarming technology for the successful cryopreservation of large biosamples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Ren
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seattle University, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Zhiquan Shu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,School of Engineering and Technology, University of Washington-Tacoma, Tacoma, Washington, USA
| | - Jiaji Pan
- College of Engineering and Design, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ziyuan Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ruidong Ma
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ji Peng
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Dayong Gao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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13
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Potočnjak I, Šimić L, Vukelić I, Batičić L, Domitrović R. Oleanolic acid induces HCT116 colon cancer cell death through the p38/FOXO3a/Sirt6 pathway. Chem Biol Interact 2022; 363:110010. [PMID: 35690101 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
Abstract
Oleanolic acid (OA) is a natural compound that possesses numerous beneficial health effects, including anticancer activity. The current study aimed to investigate the role of forkhead box O3a (FOXO3a) in autophagy/mitophagy by OA in HCT116 cell line. OA dose-dependently reduced viability of HCT116 cells, with IC50 = 29.8 μΜ. The expression of cleaved caspase-3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 increased after OA treatment, suggesting induction of apoptosis. Concurrently, OA induced autophagy, evidenced by increased expression of Beclin-1, autophagy-related protein 5 and microtubule-associated protein1A/1B-light chain 3 beta (LC3B), which played a prosurvival role. The induction of mitophagy was suggested by increased expression of p62 and PTEN-induced kinase 1 and reduced expression of translocase of outer mitochondrial membrane 20, which colocalized with LC3B. OA also induced nuclear accumulation of forkhead box O3a (FOXO3a). The cytotoxic activity of OA coincided with upregulation of p38. Inhibition of p38 led to increase in FOXO3a and NAD+-dependent deacetylase sirtuin 6 expression. In vivo, OA inhibited tumor growth in colon cancer xenograft mice. Our results suggest concomitant induction of apoptosis and prosurvival mitophagy by OA in colon cancer via p38/FOXO3a/Sirt6 signaling. Additionally, our data demonstrate that OA can chemosensitize colon cancer cells to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU).
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Affiliation(s)
- Iva Potočnjak
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Lidija Šimić
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Iva Vukelić
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Lara Batičić
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Robert Domitrović
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Croatia.
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14
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Oyer JL, Croom-Perez TJ, Dieffenthaller TA, Robles-Carillo LD, Gitto SB, Altomare DA, Copik AJ. Cryopreserved PM21-Particle-Expanded Natural Killer Cells Maintain Cytotoxicity and Effector Functions In Vitro and In Vivo. Front Immunol 2022; 13:861681. [PMID: 35464440 PMCID: PMC9022621 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.861681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a great interest in developing natural killer (NK) cells as adoptive cancer immunotherapy. For off-the-shelf approaches and to conduct multicenter clinical trials, cryopreserved NK cells are the preferred product. However, recent studies reported that cryopreservation of NK cells results in loss of cell motility and, as a consequence, cytotoxicity which limits the clinical utility of such products. This study assessed the impact of cryopreservation on the recovery and function of PM21-particle expanded NK cells (PM21-NK cells) as well as their antitumor activity in vitro using 2D and 3D cancer models and in vivo in ovarian cancer models, including patient-derived xenografts (PDX). Viable PM21-NK cells were consistently recovered from cryopreservation and overnight rest with a mean recovery of 73 ± 22% (N = 19). Thawed and rested NK cells maintained the expression of activating receptors when compared to expansion-matched fresh NK cells. Cryopreserved NK cells that were thawed and rested showed no decrease in cytotoxicity when co-incubated with tumor cells at varying effector-to-target (NK:T) ratios compared to expansion-matched fresh NK cells. Moreover, no differences in cytotoxicity were observed between expansion-matched cryopreserved and fresh NK cells in 3D models of tumor killing. These were analyzed by kinetic, live-cell imaging assays co-incubating NK cells with tumor spheroids. When exposed to tumor cells, or upon cytokine stimulation, cryopreserved NK cells that were thawed and rested showed no significant differences in surface expression of degranulation marker CD107a or intracellular expression of TNFα and IFNγ. In vivo antitumor activity was also assessed by measuring the extension of survival of SKOV-3-bearing NSG mice treated with fresh vs. cryopreserved NK cells. Cryopreserved NK cells caused a statistically significant survival extension of SKOV-3-bearing NSG mice that was comparable to that observed with fresh NK cells. Additionally, treatment of NSG mice bearing PDX tumor with cryopreserved PM21-NK cells resulted in nearly doubling of survival compared to untreated mice. These data suggest that PM21-NK cells can be cryopreserved and recovered efficiently without appreciable loss of viability or activity while retaining effector function both in vitro and in vivo. These findings support the use of cryopreserved PM21-NK cells as a cancer immunotherapy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremiah L. Oyer
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Tayler J. Croom-Perez
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Thomas A. Dieffenthaller
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Liza D. Robles-Carillo
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Sarah B. Gitto
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Deborah A. Altomare
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Alicja J. Copik
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
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15
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Fang F, Xie S, Chen M, Li Y, Yue J, Ma J, Shu X, He Y, Xiao W, Tian Z. Advances in NK cell production. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:460-481. [PMID: 34983953 PMCID: PMC8975878 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00808-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy based on natural killer (NK) cells is a promising approach for treating a variety of cancers. Unlike T cells, NK cells recognize target cells via a major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-independent mechanism and, without being sensitized, kill the cells directly. Several strategies for obtaining large quantities of NK cells with high purity and high cytotoxicity have been developed. These strategies include the use of cytokine-antibody fusions, feeder cells or membrane particles to stimulate the proliferation of NK cells and enhance their cytotoxicity. Various materials, including peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), umbilical cord blood (UCB), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and NK cell lines, have been used as sources to generate NK cells for immunotherapy. Moreover, genetic modification technologies to improve the proliferation of NK cells have also been developed to enhance the functions of NK cells. Here, we summarize the recent advances in expansion strategies with or without genetic manipulation of NK cells derived from various cellular sources. We also discuss the closed, automated and GMP-controlled large-scale expansion systems used for NK cells and possible future NK cell-based immunotherapy products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Siqi Xie
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Minhua Chen
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Yutong Li
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Jingjing Yue
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Jie Ma
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Xun Shu
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Yongge He
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China
| | - Weihua Xiao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China.
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
| | - Zhigang Tian
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China.
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Engineering Technology Research Center of Biotechnology Drugs Anhui, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, China.
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16
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Her JH, Pretscher D, Patra-Kneuer M, Schanzer J, Cho SY, Hwang YK, Hoeres T, Boxhammer R, Heitmueller C, Wilhelm M, Steidl S, Endell J. Tafasitamab mediates killing of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in combination with γδ T cell or allogeneic NK cell therapy. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2022; 71:2829-2836. [PMID: 35348812 PMCID: PMC9519642 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-022-03165-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Tafasitamab is an Fc-modified monoclonal antibody that binds to CD19, a cell-surface antigen that is broadly expressed on various types of B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), a key mode of action of tafasitamab, is mediated through the binding of tafasitamab’s Fc region to FcγRIIIa receptors on immune effector cells and results in antitumor activity. Despite the proven clinical activity of tafasitamab in combination with lenalidomide in the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), a higher number of immune cells in cancer patients may improve the activity of tafasitamab. Here, we characterized two ex vivo-expanded FcγRIIIa receptor—expressing cell types—γδ T and MG4101 natural killer (NK) cells—as effector cells for tafasitamab in vitro, and found that in the presence of these cells tafasitamab was able to induce ADCC against a range of NHL cell lines and patient-derived cells. We also explored the concept of effector cell supplementation during tafasitamab treatment in vivo by coadministering MG4101 NK cells in Raji and Ramos xenograft models of NHL. Combination treatment of tafasitamab and allogeneic MG4101 NK cells in these models demonstrated a survival benefit compared with tafasitamab or MG4101 monotherapy (Raji: 1.7- to 1.9-fold increase in lifespan; Ramos: 2.0- to 4.1-fold increase in lifespan). In conclusion, adoptive cell transfer of ex vivo-expanded allogeneic NK or autologous γδ T cells in combination with tafasitamab treatment may potentially be a promising novel approach to increase the number of immune effector cells and enhance the antitumor effect of tafasitamab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Hyun Her
- Cell Therapy Research Center, GC LabCell, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Dominik Pretscher
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Sung Yoo Cho
- Cell Therapy Research Center, GC LabCell, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Kyeong Hwang
- Cell Therapy Research Center, GC LabCell, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Timm Hoeres
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Martin Wilhelm
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
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17
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Johnson CDL, Zale NE, Frary ED, Lomakin JA. Feeder-Cell-Free and Serum-Free Expansion of Natural Killer Cells Using Cloudz Microspheres, G-Rex6M, and Human Platelet Lysate. Front Immunol 2022; 13:803380. [PMID: 35320938 PMCID: PMC8934851 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.803380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The versatility of natural killer cells has ignited growing interest in their therapeutic use for cancer and other immunotherapy treatments. However, NK cells compose a small portion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (5%–20% of PBMCs) and clinical doses require billions of cells. Manufacturing suitable doses of NK cells remains a major challenge for NK immunotherapy. The current standard for expanding NK cells relies on feeder cells and fetal bovine serum to achieve large expansion, but both encounter regulatory concerns. We developed NK Cloudz, a dissolvable polymer-based microsphere platform, as an alternative to a feeder cell approach to expand NK cells. We demonstrated that a combination of NK Cloudz, a G-Rex6M culture vessel, and GMP Human Platelet Lysate expanded NK cells 387 ± 100-fold in 10 days from a PBMC starting population. The NK purity, viability, and cytotoxicity were similar to both a feeder cell protocol and an FBS-based protocol. Additionally, we found no significant differences between FBS and GMP Human Platelet Lysate and concluded that platelet lysate is a good xeno-free alternative to FBS for NK expansion. Overall, we demonstrated a feeder-cell-free and FBS-free protocol that leverages NK Cloudz as a promising step toward a commercial GMP manufacturing method to expand NK cells for therapeutic use.
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18
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Heipertz EL, Zynda ER, Stav-Noraas TE, Hungler AD, Boucher SE, Kaur N, Vemuri MC. Current Perspectives on "Off-The-Shelf" Allogeneic NK and CAR-NK Cell Therapies. Front Immunol 2021; 12:732135. [PMID: 34925314 PMCID: PMC8671166 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.732135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells (NK cells) are the first line of the innate immune defense system, primarily located in peripheral circulation and lymphoid tissues. They kill virally infected and malignant cells through a balancing play of inhibitory and stimulatory receptors. In pre-clinical investigational studies, NK cells show promising anti-tumor effects and are used in adoptive transfer of activated and expanded cells, ex-vivo. NK cells express co-stimulatory molecules that are attractive targets for the immunotherapy of cancers. Recent clinical trials are investigating the use of CAR-NK for different cancers to determine the efficiency. Herein, we review NK cell therapy approaches (NK cell preparation from tissue sources, ways of expansion ex-vivo for "off-the-shelf" allogeneic cell-doses for therapies, and how different vector delivery systems are used to engineer NK cells with CARs) for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica L. Heipertz
- Cell & Gene Therapy, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Evan R. Zynda
- BioProduction, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Grand Island, NY, United States
| | | | - Andrew D. Hungler
- Cell & Gene Therapy, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Shayne E. Boucher
- Cell & Gene Therapy, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Navjot Kaur
- Cell & Gene Therapy, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Mohan C. Vemuri
- Cell & Gene Therapy, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Frederick, MD, United States
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19
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Horses for Courses in the Era of CARs: Advancing CAR T and CAR NK Cell Therapies. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11111182. [PMID: 34834534 PMCID: PMC8621371 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11111182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The adoptive transfer of allogeneic CAR NK cells holds great promise as an anticancer modality due to the relative ease of manufacturing and genetic modification of NK cells, which translates into affordable pricing. Compared to the pronounced efficacy of CAR T cell therapy in the treatment of B cell malignancies, rigorous clinical and preclinical assessment of the antitumor properties of CAR NK cells has been lagging behind. In this brief review, we summarize the biological features of NK cells that may help define the therapeutic niche of CAR NK cells as well as create more potent NK cell-based anticancer products. In addition, we compare T cells and NK cells as the carriers of CARs using the data of single-cell transcriptomic analysis.
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20
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Jung D, Baek YS, Lee IJ, Kim KY, Jang H, Hwang S, Jung J, Moon YW, Park KS, Choi YS, An HJ. Ex vivo expanded allogeneic natural killer cells have potent cytolytic activity against cancer cells through different receptor-ligand interactions. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:333. [PMID: 34686187 PMCID: PMC8539797 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02089-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Recently, allogeneic natural killer (NK) cells have gained considerable attention as promising immunotherapeutic tools due to their unique biological functions and characteristics. Although many NK expansion strategies have been reported previously, a deeper understanding of cryopreserved allogeneic NK cells is needed for specific therapeutic approaches. Methods We isolated CD3−CD56+ primary natural killer (pNK) cells from healthy donors and expanded them ex vivo using a GMP-compliant method without any feeder to generate large volumes of therapeutic pNK cells and cryopreserved stocks. After validation for high purity and activating phenotypes, we performed RNA sequencing of the expanded and cryopreserved pNK cells. The pNK cells were used against various cancer cell lines in 7-AAD/CFSE cytotoxicity assay. For in vivo efficacy study, NSG mice bearing subcutaneous cisplatin-resistant A2780cis xenografts were treated with our pNK cells or cisplatin. Antitumor efficacy was assessed by measuring tumor volume and weight. Results Compared to the pNK cells before expansion, pNK cells after expansion showed 2855 upregulated genes, including genes related to NK cell activation, cytotoxicity, chemokines, anti-apoptosis, and proliferation. Additionally, the pNK cells showed potent cytolytic activity against various cancer cell lines. Interestingly, our activated pNK cells showed a marked increase in NKp44 (1064-fold), CD40L (12,018-fold), and CCR5 (49-fold), and did not express the programmed cell death protein 1(PD-1). We also demonstrated the in vitro and in vivo efficacies of pNK cells against cisplatin-resistant A2780cis ovarian cancer cells having a high programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1) and low HLA-C expression. Conclusions Taken together, our study provides the first comprehensive genome wide analysis of ex vivo-expanded cryopreserved pNK cells. It also indicates the potential use of expanded and cryopreserved pNK cells as a highly promising immunotherapy for anti-cancer drug resistant patients. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-02089-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daun Jung
- Department of Pathology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, 59 Yatapro Sungnam, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Seok Baek
- Immunotherapy Team, New Biological Entity (NBE) Research, R&D Division, CHA Biotech, Seongnam, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - In Jee Lee
- Immunotherapy Team, New Biological Entity (NBE) Research, R&D Division, CHA Biotech, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Yeon Kim
- Department of Pathology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, 59 Yatapro Sungnam, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Heejoo Jang
- Department of Pathology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, 59 Yatapro Sungnam, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Sohyun Hwang
- Department of Pathology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, 59 Yatapro Sungnam, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieun Jung
- Center for Research & Development, CHA Advanced Research Institute, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Wha Moon
- Department of Medical Oncology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Soon Park
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Soo Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jung An
- Department of Pathology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, 59 Yatapro Sungnam, Gyeonggi-do, Seongnam, Republic of Korea.
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21
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Gong Y, Klein Wolterink RGJ, Wang J, Bos GMJ, Germeraad WTV. Chimeric antigen receptor natural killer (CAR-NK) cell design and engineering for cancer therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:73. [PMID: 33933160 PMCID: PMC8088725 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01083-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to their efficient recognition and lysis of malignant cells, natural killer (NK) cells are considered as specialized immune cells that can be genetically modified to obtain capable effector cells for adoptive cellular treatment of cancer patients. However, biological and technical hurdles related to gene delivery into NK cells have dramatically restrained progress. Recent technological advancements, including improved cell expansion techniques, chimeric antigen receptors (CAR), CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and enhanced viral transduction and electroporation, have endowed comprehensive generation and characterization of genetically modified NK cells. These promising developments assist scientists and physicians to design better applications of NK cells in clinical therapy. Notably, redirecting NK cells using CARs holds important promise for cancer immunotherapy. Various preclinical and a limited number of clinical studies using CAR-NK cells show promising results: efficient elimination of target cells without side effects, such as cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity which are seen in CAR-T therapies. In this review, we focus on the details of CAR-NK technology, including the design of efficient and safe CAR constructs and associated NK cell engineering techniques: the vehicles to deliver the CAR-containing transgene, detection methods for CARs, as well as NK cell sources and NK cell expansion. We summarize the current CAR-NK cell literature and include valuable lessons learned from the CAR-T cell field. This review also provides an outlook on how these approaches may transform current clinical products and protocols for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Gong
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Roel G J Klein Wolterink
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Champalimaud Research, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jianxiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 288 Nanjing Road, Tianjin, 300020, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Blood Diseases, Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 288 Nanjing Road, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Gerard M J Bos
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,CiMaas BV, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Wilfred T V Germeraad
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands. .,GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands. .,CiMaas BV, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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22
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Generating natural killer cells for adoptive transfer: expanding horizons. Cytotherapy 2021; 23:559-566. [PMID: 33431318 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are unique innate lymphoid cells that have therapeutic potential in adoptive cell transfer-based cancer immunotherapy that has been established across a range of early-phase clinical trials. NK cells for use in adoptive transfer therapies are obtained from various sources, including primary NK cells from peripheral blood or apheresis products (autologous or allogeneic) and umbilical cord blood. NK cells have also been generated from CD34+ hematopoietic progenitors, induced pluripotent stem cells, embryonic stem cells and malignant cell lines. Apheresis-derived NK cell products are often administered after brief cytokine-based ex vivo activation, ideally aiming for in vivo expansion and proliferation. NK cells from other sources or from smaller volumes of blood require a longer period of expansion prior to therapeutic use. Although ex vivo NK cell expansion introduces a concern for senescence and exhaustion, there is also an opportunity to achieve higher NK cell doses, modulate NK cell activation characteristics and apply genetic engineering approaches, ultimately generating potent effector cells from small volumes of readily available starting materials. Herein the authors review the field of clinical-grade NK cell expansion, explore the desirable features of an idealized NK cell expansion approach and focus on techniques used in recently published clinical trials.
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23
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Chang Y, Bao X. Adoptive natural killer cell therapy: a human pluripotent stem cell perspective. Curr Opin Chem Eng 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coche.2020.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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24
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MAGT1 messenger RNA-corrected autologous T and natural killer cells for potential cell therapy in X-linked immunodeficiency with magnesium defect, Epstein-Barr virus infection and neoplasia disease. Cytotherapy 2020; 23:203-210. [PMID: 33051095 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2020.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIM X-linked MAGT1 deficiency with increased susceptibility to EBV-infection and N-linked glycosylation defect' (XMEN) disease is caused by mutations in the magnesium transporter 1 (MAGT1) gene. Loss of MAGT1 function results in a glycosylation defect that abrogates expression of key immune proteins such as the NKG2D receptor on CD8+ T and NK cells, which is critical for the recognition and killing of virus-infected and transformed cells, a biomarker for MAGT1 function. Patients with XMEN disease frequently have increased susceptibility to EBV infections and EBV-associated B cell malignancies, for which no specific treatment options are currently available. Experimental transfer of donor EBV-specific cytotoxic T cells may be beneficial but carries the risks of eliciting alloimmune responses. An approach for cell therapy to address viral infections and associated complications that avoids the risks of alloimmunity is needed. METHODS Here the authors assess the feasibility and efficiency of correcting autologous lymphocytes from XMEN patients by MAGT1 mRNA electroporation (EP) that avoids genomic integration and can be scaled for clinical application. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Restoration of NKG2D expression was demonstrated in XMEN patient lymphocytes after MAGT1 mRNA electroporation that reach healthy donor levels in CD8+ T and NK cells at 1-2 days after EP. NKG2D expression persisted at ∼50% for 2 weeks after EP. Functionally, mRNA-correction of XMEN NK cells rescued cytotoxic activity also to healthy donor NK cell level. The restored NKG2D receptor expression and function were unaffected by cryopreservation, which will make feasible repeat infusions of MAGT1 mRNA-corrected autologous XMEN CD8+ T and NK cells for potential short term therapy for XMEN patients without the risks of alloimmunization.
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25
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Analysis of ex vivo expanded and activated clinical-grade human NK cells after cryopreservation. Cytotherapy 2020; 22:450-457. [PMID: 32536506 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AIMS Several methods to expand and activate (EA) NK cells ex vivo have been developed for the treatment of relapsed or refractory cancers. Infusion of fresh NK cells is generally preferred to the infusion of cryopreserved/thawed (C/T) NK cells because of concern that cryopreservation diminishes NK cell activity. However, there has been little head-to-head comparison of the functionality of fresh versus C/T NK cell products. METHODS We evaluated activity of fresh and C/T EA NK cells generated by interleukin (IL)-15, IL-2 and CD137L expansion. RESULTS Analysis of C/T NK cell products demonstrated decreased recovery of viable CD56+ cells, but the proportion of NK cells in the C/T EA NK cell product did not decrease compared with the fresh EA NK cell product. Fresh and C/T EA NK cells demonstrated increased granzyme B compared with NK cells pre-expansion, but only fresh EA NK cells showed increased NKG2D. Compared with fresh EA NK cells, cytotoxic ability of C/T EA NK cells was reduced, but C/T EA NK cells remained potently cytotoxic against tumor cells via both antibody-independent and antibody-dependent mechanisms within 4 h post-thaw. Fresh EA NK cells generated high levels of gamma interferon (IFN-γ), which was abrogated by JAK1/JAK2 inhibition with ruxolitinib, but C/T EA NK cells showed lower IFN-γ unaffected by JAK1/JAK2 inhibition. DISCUSSION Usage of C/T EA NK cells may be an option to provide serial "boost" NK cell infusions from a single apheresis to maximize NK cell persistence and potentially improve NK-induced responses to refractory cancer.
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26
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Kuen DS, Kim BS, Chung Y. IL-17-Producing Cells in Tumor Immunity: Friends or Foes? Immune Netw 2020; 20:e6. [PMID: 32158594 PMCID: PMC7049578 DOI: 10.4110/in.2020.20.e6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
IL-17 is produced by RAR-related orphan receptor gamma t (RORγt)-expressing cells including Th17 cells, subsets of γδT cells and innate lymphoid cells (ILCs). The biological significance of IL-17-producing cells is well-studied in contexts of inflammation, autoimmunity and host defense against infection. While most of available studies in tumor immunity mainly focused on the role of T-bet-expressing cells, including cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and NK cells, and their exhaustion status, the role of IL-17-producing cells remains poorly understood. While IL-17-producing T-cells were shown to be anti-tumorigenic in adoptive T-cell therapy settings, mice deficient in type 17 genes suggest a protumorigenic potential of IL-17-producing cells. This review discusses the features of IL-17-producing cells, of both lymphocytic and myeloid origins, as well as their suggested pro- and/or anti-tumorigenic functions in an organ-dependent context. Potential therapeutic approaches targeting these cells in the tumor microenvironment will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Sol Kuen
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.,BK21 Plus Program, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Byung-Seok Kim
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Yeonseok Chung
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.,BK21 Plus Program, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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27
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Lee SE, Kwon TR, Kim JH, Lee BC, Oh CT, Im M, Hwang YK, Paik SH, Han S, Kim JY, Kim BJ. Anti‑photoaging and anti‑oxidative activities of natural killer cell conditioned medium following UV‑B irradiation of human dermal fibroblasts and a reconstructed skin model. Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:1641-1652. [PMID: 31432192 PMCID: PMC6777663 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Conditioned media from various sources comprise numerous growth factors and cytokines and are known to promote the regeneration of damaged tissues. Among these, natural killer cell conditioned medium (NK-CdM) has been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis and the migration of fibroblasts during the wound healing process. With a long-term aim of developing a treatment for skin photoaging, the ability of NK-CdM to prevent ultraviolet-B (UV-B) damage was assessed in neonatal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) and an in vitro reconstructed skin model. The factors present in NK-CdM were profiled using an antibody array analysis. Protein and mRNA levels in UV-B exposed NHDFs treated with NK-CdM were measured by western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, respectively. The total antioxidant capacity of NK-CdM was determined to assess its ability to suppress reactive oxygen species. The anti-photoaging effect of NK-CdM was also assessed in a 3D reconstituted human full skin model. NK-CdM induced proliferation of UV-B-treated NHDFs, increased procollagen expression, and decreased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 expression. NK-CdM also exhibited a potent antioxidant activity as measured by the total antioxidant capacity. NK-CdM inhibited UV-B-induced collagen degradation by inactivating MAPK signaling. NK-CdM also elicited potential anti-wrinkle effects by inhibiting the UV-B-induced increase in MMP-1 expression levels in a 3D reconstituted human full skin model. Taken together, the suppression of both UV-B-induced MMP-1 expression and JNK activation by NK-CdM suggests NK-CdM as a possible candidate anti-skin aging agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Eun Lee
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Rin Kwon
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Hwan Kim
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Chul Lee
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Taek Oh
- Research Institute, Green Cross WellBeing Corporation, Seongnam, Gyeonggi‑do 13595, Republic of Korea
| | - Minju Im
- Research Institute, Green Cross WellBeing Corporation, Seongnam, Gyeonggi‑do 13595, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Kyeong Hwang
- Cell Therapy Research Center, GC LabCell, Yongin, Gyeonggi‑do 16924, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hoon Paik
- Cell Therapy Research Center, GC LabCell, Yongin, Gyeonggi‑do 16924, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungryel Han
- Cell Therapy Research Center, GC LabCell, Yongin, Gyeonggi‑do 16924, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeom-Yong Kim
- Research Institute, Green Cross WellBeing Corporation, Seongnam, Gyeonggi‑do 13595, Republic of Korea
| | - Beom Joon Kim
- Department of Dermatology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
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28
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Cryopreserved Human Natural Killer Cells Exhibit Potent Antitumor Efficacy against Orthotopic Pancreatic Cancer through Efficient Tumor-Homing and Cytolytic Ability (Running Title: Cryopreserved NK Cells Exhibit Antitumor Effect). Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11070966. [PMID: 31324057 PMCID: PMC6678894 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11070966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is known to be highly aggressive, and desmoplasia-induced accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), which is a hallmark of many pancreatic cancers, severely restricts the therapeutic efficacy of both immunotherapeutics and conventional chemotherapeutics due to the ECM functioning as a major physical barrier against permeation and penetration. In the case of cell-based immunotherapeutics, there are several other bottlenecks preventing translation into clinical use due to their biological nature; for example, poor availability of cell therapeutic in a readily usable form due to difficulties in production, handling, shipping, and storage. To address these challenges, we have isolated allogeneic natural killer (NK) cells from healthy donors and expanded them in vitro to generate cryopreserved stocks. These cryopreserved NK cells were thawed to evaluate their therapeutic efficacy against desmoplastic pancreatic tumors, ultimately aiming to develop a readily accessible and mass-producible off-the-shelf cell-based immunotherapeutic. The cultured NK cells post-thawing retained highly pure populations of activated NK cells that expressed various activating receptors and a chemokine receptor. Furthermore, systemic administration of NK cells induced greater in vivo tumor growth suppression when compared with gemcitabine, which is the standard chemotherapeutic used for pancreatic cancer treatment. The potent antitumor effect of NK cells was mediated by efficient tumor-homing ability and infiltration into desmoplastic tumor tissues. Moreover, the infiltration of NK cells led to strong induction of apoptosis, elevated expression of the antitumor cytokine interferon (IFN)-γ, and inhibited expression of the immunosuppressive transforming growth factor (TGF)-β in tumor tissues. Expanded and cryopreserved NK cells are strong candidates for future cell-mediated systemic immunotherapy against pancreatic cancer.
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29
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Kim JS, Kim B, Lee HK, Kim HS, Park EJ, Choi YJ, Ahn GB, Yun J, Hong JT, Kim Y, Han SB. Characterization of morphological changes of B16 melanoma cells under natural killer cell attack. Int Immunopharmacol 2018; 67:366-371. [PMID: 30583235 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2018.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell killing of melanoma cells involves perforin-mediated delivery of granzymes from NK cells to cancer cells; however, how melanoma cells die remains poorly characterized. Here, we examined the dying process of melanoma cells by using time-lapse imaging. Upon contact with NK cells, B16-F10 cells rounded and most of them showed membrane rupture (98 min); however, B16 parent cells showed writhing and delayed membrane rupture (235 min). This morphological difference depended on the expression levels of myosin regulatory light chain 9 (MYL9) but not activating ligands (CD112, CD155, Rae-1, and MULT-1), SPI, FasL, or PD-L1. Taken together, our data show that melanoma cells show two distinct types of morphological changes upon contact with NK cells and suggest that a strategy to decrease MYL9 expression by melanoma cells may improve the efficacy of NK cell-based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Sung Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Boyeong Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Kyung Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Sook Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Jae Park
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeo Jin Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Beom Ahn
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieun Yun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Cheongju University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28503, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Tae Hong
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngsoo Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Bae Han
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28160, Republic of Korea.
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30
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Jang SH, Oh MS, Baek HI, Ha KC, Lee JY, Jang YS. Oral Administration of Silk Peptide Enhances the Maturation and Cytolytic Activity of Natural Killer Cells. Immune Netw 2018; 18:e37. [PMID: 30402332 PMCID: PMC6215900 DOI: 10.4110/in.2018.18.e37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 10/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Silk peptide, the hydrolysate of silk protein derived from cocoons, has been employed as a biomedical material and is believed to be safe for human use. Silk peptide display various bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory, immune-regulatory, anti-tumor, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial. Although earlier investigations demonstrated that silk peptide stimulates macrophages and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, its effect on natural killer (NK) cell function has not yet been explored. In this study, we initially confirmed that silk peptide enhances NK cell activity in vitro and ex vivo. To assess the modulatory activity of silk peptide on NK cells, mice were fed various amounts of a silk peptide-supplemented diet for 2 months and the effects on immune stimulation, including NK cell activation, were evaluated. Oral administration of silk peptide significantly enhanced the proliferation of mitogen- or IL-2-stimulated splenocytes. In addition, oral silk peptide treatment enhanced the frequency and degree of maturation of NK cells in splenocytes. The same treatment also significantly enhanced the target cell cytolytic activity of NK cells, which was determined by cell surface CD107a expression and intracellular interferon-γ expression. Finally, oral administration of silk peptide stimulated T helper 1-type cytokine expression from splenic lymphocytes. Collectively, our results suggest that silk peptide potentiates NK cell activity in vivo and could be used as a compound for immune-modulating anti-tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Hee Jang
- Department of Molecular Biology and The Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
| | - Mi-Sun Oh
- Worldway Co., Ltd., Sejong 30003, Korea
| | - Hyang-Im Baek
- Healthcare Claims & Management Inc., Jeonju 54810, Korea
| | - Ki-Chan Ha
- Healthcare Claims & Management Inc., Jeonju 54810, Korea
| | | | - Yong-Suk Jang
- Department of Molecular Biology and The Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea.,Department of Bioactive Material Sciences and Research Center of Bioactive Materials, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Korea
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