1
|
Bandara V, Niktaras VM, Willett VJ, Chapman H, Lokman NA, Macpherson AM, Napoli S, Gundsambuu B, Foeng J, Sadlon TJ, Coombs J, McColl SR, Barry SC, Oehler MK, Ricciardelli C. Engineered CAR-T cells targeting the non-functional P2X purinoceptor 7 (P2X7) receptor as a novel treatment for ovarian cancer. Clin Transl Immunology 2024; 13:e1512. [PMID: 38800555 PMCID: PMC11116765 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Recent studies have identified expression of the non-functional P2X7 (nfP2X7) receptor on various malignant cells including ovarian cancer, but not on normal cells, which makes it a promising tumour-associated antigen candidate for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T-cell immunotherapies. In this study, we assessed the cytotoxic effects of nfP2X7-CAR-T cells on ovarian cancer using in vitro and in vivo models. Methods We evaluated the effects of nfP2X7-CAR-T cells on ovarian cancer cell lines (SKOV-3, OVCAR3, OVCAR5), normal peritoneal cells (LP-9) and primary serous ovarian cancer cells derived from patient ascites in vitro using monolayer and 3D spheroid assays. We also evaluated the effects of nfP2X7-CAR-T cells on patient-derived tissue explants, which recapitulate an intact tumour microenvironment. In addition, we investigated the effect of nfP2X7-CAR-T cells in vivo using the OVCAR-3 xenograft model in NOD-scid IL2Rγnull (NSG) mice. Results Our study found that nfP2X7-CAR-T cells were cytotoxic and significantly inhibited survival of OVCAR3, OVCAR5 and primary serous ovarian cancer cells compared with un-transduced CD3+ T cells in vitro. However, no significant effects of nfP2X7-CAR-T cells were observed for SKOV3 or normal peritoneal cells (LP-9) cells with low P2X7 receptor expression. Treatment with nfP2X7-CAR-T cells increased apoptosis compared with un-transduced T cells in patient-derived explants and correlated with CD3 positivity. Treatment with nfP2X7-CAR-T cells significantly reduced OVCAR3 tumour burden in mice compared with un-transduced CD3 cells for 7-8 weeks. Conclusion This study demonstrates that nfP2X7-CAR-T cells have great potential to be developed as a novel immunotherapy for ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Bandara
- Molecular Immunology, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Victoria M Niktaras
- Reproductive Cancer Research Group, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Vasiliki J Willett
- Reproductive Cancer Research Group, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Hayley Chapman
- Reproductive Cancer Research Group, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Noor A Lokman
- Reproductive Cancer Research Group, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Anne M Macpherson
- Reproductive Cancer Research Group, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Silvana Napoli
- Molecular Immunology, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Batjargal Gundsambuu
- Molecular Immunology, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Jade Foeng
- Chemokine Biology Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Biomedical Science, School of Biological SciencesThe University of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Timothy J Sadlon
- Molecular Immunology, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Justin Coombs
- Carina Biotech, Level 2 Innovation & Collaboration CentreAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Shaun R McColl
- Chemokine Biology Laboratory, Department of Molecular and Biomedical Science, School of Biological SciencesThe University of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
- Carina Biotech, Level 2 Innovation & Collaboration CentreAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Simon C Barry
- Molecular Immunology, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Martin K Oehler
- Reproductive Cancer Research Group, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
- Department of Gynaecological OncologyRoyal Adelaide HospitalAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Carmela Ricciardelli
- Reproductive Cancer Research Group, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Adelaide Medical School, Robinson Research InstituteUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSAAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tewari M, Michalski S, Egan TM. Modulation of Microglial Function by ATP-Gated P2X7 Receptors: Studies in Rat, Mice and Human. Cells 2024; 13:161. [PMID: 38247852 PMCID: PMC10814008 DOI: 10.3390/cells13020161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
P2X receptors are a family of seven ATP-gated ion channels that trigger physiological and pathophysiological responses in a variety of cells. Five of the family members are sensitive to low concentrations of extracellular ATP, while the P2X6 receptor has an unknown affinity. The last subtype, the P2X7 receptor, is unique in requiring millimolar concentrations to fully activate in humans. This low sensitivity imparts the agonist with the ability to act as a damage-associated molecular pattern that triggers the innate immune response in response to the elevated levels of extracellular ATP that accompany inflammation and tissue damage. In this review, we focus on microglia because they are the primary immune cells of the central nervous system, and they activate in response to ATP or its synthetic analog, BzATP. We start by introducing purinergic receptors and then briefly consider the roles that microglia play in neurodevelopment and disease by referencing both original works and relevant reviews. Next, we move to the role of extracellular ATP and P2X receptors in initiating and/or modulating innate immunity in the central nervous system. While most of the data that we review involve work on mice and rats, we highlight human studies of P2X7R whenever possible.
Collapse
|
3
|
Smith CJ, Perfetti TA, Chokshi C, Venugopal C, Ashford JW, Singh SK. Risk factors for glioblastoma are shared by other brain tumor types. Hum Exp Toxicol 2024; 43:9603271241241796. [PMID: 38520250 DOI: 10.1177/09603271241241796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
The reported risk factors for glioblastoma (GBM), i.e., ionizing radiation, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Neurofibromatosis I, and Turcot syndrome, also increase the risk of other brain tumor types. Risk factors for human GBM are associated with different oncogenic mutation profiles. Pedigreed domestic dogs with a shorter nose and flatter face (brachycephalic dogs) display relatively high rates of glioma formation. The genetic profiles of canine gliomas are also idiosyncratic. The association of putatively different mutational patterns in humans and canines with GBM suggests that different oncogenic pathways can result in GBM formation. Strong epidemiological evidence for an association between exposure to chemical carcinogens and an increased risk for development of GBM is currently lacking. Ionizing radiation induces point mutations, frameshift mutations, double-strand breaks, and chromosomal insertions or deletions. Mutational profiles associated with chemical exposures overlap with the broad mutational patterns seen with ionizing radiation. Weak statistical associations between chemical exposures and GBM reported in epidemiology studies are biologically plausible. Molecular approaches comparing reproducible patterns seen in spontaneous GBM with analogous patterns found in GBMs resected from patients with known significant exposures to potentially carcinogenic chemicals can address difficulties presented by traditional exposure assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carr J Smith
- Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics, Mobile, AL, USA
| | | | - Chirayu Chokshi
- Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Chitra Venugopal
- Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Center for Discovery in Cancer Research (CDCR), McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - J Wesson Ashford
- Stanford University and VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Sheila K Singh
- Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Center for Discovery in Cancer Research (CDCR), McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Janho Dit Hreich S, Hofman P, Vouret-Craviari V. The Role of IL-18 in P2RX7-Mediated Antitumor Immunity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119235. [PMID: 37298187 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide despite the variety of treatments that are currently used. This is due to an innate or acquired resistance to therapy that encourages the discovery of novel therapeutic strategies to overcome the resistance. This review will focus on the role of the purinergic receptor P2RX7 in the control of tumor growth, through its ability to modulate antitumor immunity by releasing IL-18. In particular, we describe how the ATP-induced receptor activities (cationic exchange, large pore opening and NLRP3 inflammasome activation) modulate immune cell functions. Furthermore, we recapitulate our current knowledge of the production of IL-18 downstream of P2RX7 activation and how IL-18 controls the fate of tumor growth. Finally, the potential of targeting the P2RX7/IL-18 pathway in combination with classical immunotherapies to fight cancer is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serena Janho Dit Hreich
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, 06108 Nice, France
- IHU RespirEREA, Université Côte d'Azur, 06108 Nice, France
- FHU OncoAge, 06108 Nice, France
| | - Paul Hofman
- IHU RespirEREA, Université Côte d'Azur, 06108 Nice, France
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology and Biobank, Pasteur Hospital, 06108 Nice, France
- Hospital-Related Biobank, Pasteur Hospital, 06108 Nice, France
| | - Valérie Vouret-Craviari
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, 06108 Nice, France
- IHU RespirEREA, Université Côte d'Azur, 06108 Nice, France
- FHU OncoAge, 06108 Nice, France
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Szymczak B, Czarnecka J, Czach S, Nowak W, Roszek K. Purinergic approach to effective glioma treatment with temozolomide reveals enhanced anti-cancer effects mediated by P2X7 receptor. Cell Signal 2023; 106:110641. [PMID: 36858191 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110641] [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: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
The purinergic signaling pathway is the oldest evolutionary transmitter system that regulates a wide array of physiological and pathophysiological processes in central nervous system. However, the question of how the purinergic compounds interact with administrated drugs is rarely addressed. We aimed to clarify the interplay between purinergic signaling and chemotherapeutic drug temozolomide (TMZ) in human glioma cell line. We applied an initial retinoic acid-induced differentiation of A172 glioma cells and tested the P2X7 receptor expression in undifferentiated and differentiated gliomas. We compared the P2X7 receptor agonists/antagonists influence and their co-action with TMZ in both cell types through assessment of cell proliferation, viability and migrative properties. Molecular docking allowed to indicate the potential binding site for TMZ in the structure of hP2X7 receptor. Differentiated cells turned out to be more susceptible to ATP and TMZ alone but also to the concerted action of TMZ and ATP. Enhanced effects triggered by ATP and TMZ treatment include the decreased by 70% viability, and reduced migration ability of differentiated A172 glioma cells. Noteworthy, these results can be achieved already at low non-toxic ATP concentration and at reduced to 125 μM effective concentration of TMZ. Therefore, ATP molecules must be present and maintained at appropriate concentration in glioma cells microenvironment to achieve their co-action with TMZ and enhanced anti-cancer activity. All that, in turn, could shorten the therapy, increase its efficacy and limit the side effects for the patient. Our purinergic approach creates a promising perspective for developing novel combined oncological therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bartosz Szymczak
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Lwowska 1, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Joanna Czarnecka
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Lwowska 1, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Sylwia Czach
- Institute of Physics, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy and Informatics, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Grudziądzka 5, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Wiesław Nowak
- Institute of Physics, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy and Informatics, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Grudziądzka 5, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Roszek
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Lwowska 1, 87-100 Torun, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kaur J, Dora S. Purinergic signaling: Diverse effects and therapeutic potential in cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1058371. [PMID: 36741002 PMCID: PMC9889871 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1058371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Regardless of improved biological insights and therapeutic advances, cancer is consuming multiple lives worldwide. Cancer is a complex disease with diverse cellular, metabolic, and physiological parameters as its hallmarks. This instigates a need to uncover the latest therapeutic targets to advance the treatment of cancer patients. Purines are building blocks of nucleic acids but also function as metabolic intermediates and messengers, as part of a signaling pathway known as purinergic signaling. Purinergic signaling comprises primarily adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine (ADO), their analogous membrane receptors, and a set of ectonucleotidases, and has both short- and long-term (trophic) effects. Cells release ATP and ADO to modulate cellular function in an autocrine or paracrine manner by activating membrane-localized purinergic receptors (purinoceptors, P1 and P2). P1 receptors are selective for ADO and have four recognized subtypes-A1, A2A, A2B, and A3. Purines and pyrimidines activate P2 receptors, and the P2X subtype is ligand-gated ion channel receptors. P2X has seven subtypes (P2X1-7) and forms homo- and heterotrimers. The P2Y subtype is a G protein-coupled receptor with eight subtypes (P2Y1/2/4/6/11/12/13/14). ATP, its derivatives, and purinoceptors are widely distributed in all cell types for cellular communication, and any imbalance compromises the homeostasis of the cell. Neurotransmission, neuromodulation, and secretion employ fast purinergic signaling, while trophic purinergic signaling regulates cell metabolism, proliferation, differentiation, survival, migration, invasion, and immune response during tumor progression. Thus, purinergic signaling is a prospective therapeutic target in cancer and therapy resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jasmeet Kaur
- Department of Biophysics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - Sanchit Dora
- Department of Biophysics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Rotondo JC, Mazziotta C, Lanzillotti C, Stefani C, Badiale G, Campione G, Martini F, Tognon M. The Role of Purinergic P2X7 Receptor in Inflammation and Cancer: Novel Molecular Insights and Clinical Applications. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1116. [PMID: 35267424 PMCID: PMC8909580 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is a transmembrane protein whose expression has been related to a variety of cellular processes, while its dysregulation has been linked to inflammation and cancer. P2X7R is expressed in cancer and immune system cell surfaces. ATP plays a key role in numerous metabolic processes due to its abundance in the tumour microenvironment. P2X7R plays an important role in cancer by interacting with ATP. The unusual property of P2X7R is that stimulation with low doses of ATP causes the opening of a permeable channel for sodium, potassium, and calcium ions, whereas sustained stimulation with high doses of ATP favours the formation of a non-selective pore. The latter effect induces a change in intracellular homeostasis that leads to cell death. This evidence suggests that P2X7R has both pro- and anti-tumour proprieties. P2X7R is increasingly recognised as a regulator of inflammation. In this review, we aimed to describe the most relevant characteristics of P2X7R function, activation, and its ligands, while also summarising the role of P2X7R activation in the context of inflammation and cancer. The currently used therapeutic approaches and clinical trials of P2X7R modulators are also described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
- Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
- Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
- Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Stefani
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Giada Badiale
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Giulia Campione
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
- Centre for Studies on Gender Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA), University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Section of Experimental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; (J.C.R.); (C.M.); (C.L.); (C.S.); (G.B.); (G.C.); (F.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
To inhibit or to boost the ATP/P2RX7 pathway to fight cancer-that is the question. Purinergic Signal 2021; 17:619-631. [PMID: 34347213 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-021-09811-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite new biological insights and recent therapeutic advances, many tumors remain at baseline during treatments. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find new therapeutic strategies to improve the care of patients with solid tumors. P2RX7 receptor (P2XR7), an ATP-gated ion channel characterized by its ability to form large pore within the cell membrane, is described by most of the investigators as a "chef d'orchestre" of the antitumor immune response. The purpose of this review is to detail the recent information concerning different cellular mechanisms linking P2RX7 to hallmarks of cancer and to discuss different progresses in elucidating how activation of the ATP/P2RX7/NLRP3/IL-18 pathway is a very promising approach to fight cancer progression by increasing antitumor immune responses.
Collapse
|
9
|
Lara R, Adinolfi E, Harwood CA, Philpott M, Barden JA, Di Virgilio F, McNulty S. P2X7 in Cancer: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutics. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:793. [PMID: 32581786 PMCID: PMC7287489 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
P2X7 is a transmembrane receptor expressed in multiple cell types including neurons, dendritic cells, macrophages, monocytes, B and T cells where it can drive a wide range of physiological responses from pain transduction to immune response. Upon activation by its main ligand, extracellular ATP, P2X7 can form a nonselective channel for cations to enter the cell. Prolonged activation of P2X7, via high levels of extracellular ATP over an extended time period can lead to the formation of a macropore, leading to depolarization of the plasma membrane and ultimately to cell death. Thus, dependent on its activation state, P2X7 can either drive cell survival and proliferation, or induce cell death. In cancer, P2X7 has been shown to have a broad range of functions, including playing key roles in the development and spread of tumor cells. It is therefore unsurprising that P2X7 has been reported to be upregulated in several malignancies. Critically, ATP is present at high extracellular concentrations in the tumor microenvironment (TME) compared to levels observed in normal tissues. These high levels of ATP should present a survival challenge for cancer cells, potentially leading to constitutive receptor activation, prolonged macropore formation and ultimately to cell death. Therefore, to deliver the proven advantages for P2X7 in driving tumor survival and metastatic potential, the P2X7 macropore must be tightly controlled while retaining other functions. Studies have shown that commonly expressed P2X7 splice variants, distinct SNPs and post-translational receptor modifications can impair the capacity of P2X7 to open the macropore. These receptor modifications and potentially others may ultimately protect cancer cells from the negative consequences associated with constitutive activation of P2X7. Significantly, the effects of both P2X7 agonists and antagonists in preclinical tumor models of cancer demonstrate the potential for agents modifying P2X7 function, to provide innovative cancer therapies. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding of the structure and functions of P2X7 and how these impact P2X7 roles in cancer progression. We also review potential therapeutic approaches directed against P2X7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romain Lara
- Biosceptre (UK) Limited, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Elena Adinolfi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Catherine A Harwood
- Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mike Philpott
- Centre for Cutaneous Research, Blizard Institute, Bart's & The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Francesco Di Virgilio
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pathology, Oncology and Experimental Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Benzaquen J, Heeke S, Janho Dit Hreich S, Douguet L, Marquette CH, Hofman P, Vouret-Craviari V. Alternative splicing of P2RX7 pre-messenger RNA in health and diseases: Myth or reality? Biomed J 2019; 42:141-154. [PMID: 31466708 PMCID: PMC6717933 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing (AS) tremendously increases the use of genetic information by generating protein isoforms that differ in protein-protein interactions, catalytic activity and/or subcellular localization. This review is not dedicated to AS in general, but rather we focus our attention on AS of P2RX7 pre-mRNA. Whereas P2RX7 mRNA is expressed by virtually all eukaryotic mammalian cells, the expression of this channel receptor is restrained to certain cells. When expressed at the cell membrane, P2RX7 controls downstream events including release of inflammatory molecules, phagocytosis, cell proliferation and death and metabolic events. Therefore, P2RX7 is an important actor of health and diseases. In this review, we summarize the general mechanisms leading to AS. Further, we recapitulate our current knowledge concerning the functional regions in P2RX7, identified at the genetic or exonic levels, and how AS may affect the expression of these regions. Finally, the potential of P2RX7 splice variants to control the fate of cancer cells is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Benzaquen
- University of Cote d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
| | - Simon Heeke
- University of Cote d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, Nice, France; Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology and Biobank, Pasteur Hospital, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
| | | | | | - Charles Hugo Marquette
- University of Cote d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Nice, France; University of Cote d'Azur, CHU de Nice, Department of Pulmonary Medicine, FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
| | - Paul Hofman
- University of Cote d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, Nice, France; Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology and Biobank, Pasteur Hospital, Nice, France; Hospital-Related Biobank (BB-0033-00025), Pasteur Hospital, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Nice, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
It is now well established that antibodies have numerous potential benefits when developed as therapeutics. Here, we evaluate the technical challenges of raising antibodies to membrane-spanning proteins together with enabling technologies that may facilitate the discovery of antibody therapeutics to ion channels. Additionally, we discuss the potential targeting opportunities in the anti-ion channel antibody landscape, along with a number of case studies where functional antibodies that target ion channels have been reported. Antibodies currently in development and progressing towards the clinic are highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Colussi
- a TetraGenetics Inc , Arlington Massachusetts , USA
| | - Theodore G Clark
- a TetraGenetics Inc , Arlington Massachusetts , USA.,b Department of Microbiology and Immunology , Cornell University , Ithaca New York , USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
ATP in the tumour microenvironment drives expression of nfP2X 7, a key mediator of cancer cell survival. Oncogene 2018; 38:194-208. [PMID: 30087439 PMCID: PMC6328436 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0426-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The ATP-gated receptor P2X7 is expressed in multiple malignant tumours including neuroblastoma, melanoma, prostate, lung and breast. P2X7 has a significant role in mediating diverse cell responses, which upon dysregulation are associated with tumour initiation and development. The rapid, ATP-mediated activation of P2X7 induces a fast-inward cation current in cells. However, prolonged ATP-mediated activation of P2X7 leads to formation of a pore that increases membrane permeability and eventually causes cell death. This presents a potential paradox, as the tumour microenvironment contains extracellular ATP at levels sufficient to activate the P2X7 pore and trigger cell death. However, P2X7 expression is associated with enhanced cancer cell survival, proliferation and metastatic potential. At least one distinct conformational form of P2X7, termed non-pore functional P2X7 (nfP2X7), has been described, which is not able to form a functional pore. We demonstrate for the first time in this study that exposure to a high ATP concentration, equivalent to those measured in the tumour microenvironment, drives nfP2X7 expression and also that nfP2X7 is essential for tumour cell survival. We show that monoclonal antibodies raised against a P2X7 amino acid sequence (200–216), whose conformation is distinct from that of wild-type (WT) P2X7, bind specifically to nfP2X7 expressed on the surface of tumour cells. We also show that nfP2X7 is broadly expressed in patient-derived tumour sections from a wide range of cancers. Therefore, antibodies raised against E200 provide tools that can differentiate between forms of the P2X7 receptor that have a key role in cancer.
Collapse
|
13
|
Burnstock G, Knight GE. The potential of P2X7 receptors as a therapeutic target, including inflammation and tumour progression. Purinergic Signal 2018; 14:1-18. [PMID: 29164451 PMCID: PMC5842154 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-017-9593-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Seven P2X ion channel nucleotide receptor subtypes have been cloned and characterised. P2X7 receptors (P2X7R) are unusual in that there are extra amino acids in the intracellular C terminus. Low concentrations of ATP open cation channels sometimes leading to cell proliferation, whereas high concentrations of ATP open large pores that release inflammatory cytokines and can lead to apoptotic cell death. Since many diseases involve inflammation and immune responses, and the P2X7R regulates inflammation, there has been recent interest in the pathophysiological roles of P2X7R and the potential of P2X7R antagonists to treat a variety of diseases. These include neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric disorders, epilepsy and a number of diseases of peripheral organs, including the cardiovascular, airways, kidney, liver, bladder, skin and musculoskeletal. The potential of P2X7R drugs to treat tumour progression is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Burnstock
- Autonomic Neuroscience Centre, University College Medical School, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK.
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Gillian E Knight
- Autonomic Neuroscience Centre, University College Medical School, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gilbert SM, Gidley Baird A, Glazer S, Barden JA, Glazer A, Teh LC, King J. A phase I clinical trial demonstrates that nfP2X 7 -targeted antibodies provide a novel, safe and tolerable topical therapy for basal cell carcinoma. Br J Dermatol 2017; 177:117-124. [PMID: 28150889 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.15364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expression of P2X7 , an ATP-gated calcium channel, increases cancer cell proliferation and invasiveness. A variant of P2X7 (termed nfP2X7 ), in which a normally hidden epitope (E200) is exposed for antibody binding, is observed in a variety of different cancers. OBJECTIVES To investigate the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics and assess indicative efficacy of a novel antibody ointment as a therapeutic for basal cell carcinoma (BCC). METHODS An open-label, phase I clinical trial was undertaken at three dermatology clinics to evaluate the safety and tolerability of topical administration of an ointment containing 10% sheep polyclonal anti-nfP2X7 antibodies (BIL010t) to primary BCC lesions twice daily for 28 days. Twenty-one patients with primary BCC lesions at least 0·5 cm2 in area and less than 2·0 cm in diameter were enrolled. The primary end points were safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics. Change in lesion size after treatment was determined and histology was performed on pretreatment and end-of-treatment (EOT) biopsies. RESULTS Compliance was very high, with treatment being well tolerated. The most common adverse events were treatment site erythema, pruritus, dryness and pain. There was no evidence of systemic penetration of the sheep antibody. Lesions were measured prior to and after 28 days of treatment, with 65% of patients showing a reduction in lesion area, 20% showing no change and 15% showing an increase. Histopathology of post-treatment excision of lesion sites showed eight patients with stable disease, nine with partial response and three with complete response. CONCLUSIONS Antibodies against nfP2X7 (BIL010t) provide a novel, safe and well-tolerated treatment for BCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S M Gilbert
- Babraham Research Campus, Biosceptre (U.K.) Limited, Cambridge, U.K
| | - A Gidley Baird
- Biosceptre (Australia) Pty Ltd., 11 Julius Avenue, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - S Glazer
- Glazer Dermatology, Buffalo Grove, IL, U.S.A
| | - J A Barden
- Biosceptre (Australia) Pty Ltd., 11 Julius Avenue, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - A Glazer
- Glazer Dermatology, Buffalo Grove, IL, U.S.A
| | - L C Teh
- Biosceptre (Australia) Pty Ltd., 11 Julius Avenue, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - J King
- Biosceptre (Australia) Pty Ltd., 11 Julius Avenue, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| |
Collapse
|