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Yang K, Zhao Y, Sun G, Zhang X, Cao J, Shao M, Liang X, Wang L. Clinical application and prospect of immune checkpoint inhibitors for CAR-NK cell in tumor immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1081546. [PMID: 36741400 PMCID: PMC9892943 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1081546] [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: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineering of natural killer (NK) cells is an attractive research field in tumor immunotherapy. While CAR is genetically engineered to express certain molecules, it retains the intrinsic ability to recognize tumor cells through its own receptors. Additionally, NK cells do not depend on T cell receptors for cytotoxic killing. CAR-NK cells exhibit some differences to CAR-T cells in terms of more precise killing, numerous cell sources, and increased effectiveness in solid tumors. However, some problems still exist with CAR-NK cell therapy, such as cytotoxicity, low transfection efficiency, and storage issues. Immune checkpoints inhibit immune cells from performing their normal killing function, and the clinical application of immune checkpoint inhibitors for cancer treatment has become a key therapeutic strategy. The application of CAR-T cells and immune checkpoint inhibitors is being evaluated in numerous ongoing basic research and clinical studies. Immune checkpoints may affect the function of CAR-NK cell therapy. In this review, we describe the combination of existing CAR-NK cell technology with immune checkpoint therapy and discuss the research of CAR-NK cell technology and future clinical treatments. We also summarize the progress of clinical trials of CAR-NK cells and immune checkpoint therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangdi Yang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuze Zhao
- School of Basic Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guanqun Sun
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinjin Cao
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingcong Shao
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xijun Liang
- Clinical Cancer Institute, Center for Translational Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Xijun Liang, ; Lina Wang,
| | - Lina Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Xijun Liang, ; Lina Wang,
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Catafal-Tardos E, Baglioni MV, Bekiaris V. Inhibiting the Unconventionals: Importance of Immune Checkpoint Receptors in γδ T, MAIT, and NKT Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13184647. [PMID: 34572874 PMCID: PMC8467786 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13184647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary All conventional major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-restricted T cells transiently express immune checkpoint/inhibitory receptors (ICRs) following activation as a means to counter-regulate overactivation. However, tumors promote chronic ICR expression rendering T cells chronically unresponsive or “exhausted”. Checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) therapy targets and blocks ICRs, restoring T cell activation and anti-tumor immunity. However, CPI therapy often fails, partly because of the tumor’s many abilities to inhibit MHC-driven T cell responses. In this regard, our immune system contains an arsenal of unconventional non-MHC-restricted T cells, whose importance in anti-tumor immunity is rapidly gaining momentum. There is currently little knowledge as to whether unconventional T cells can get exhausted and how CPI therapy affects them. In this article we review the current understanding of the role of ICRs in unconventional T cell biology and discuss the importance of targeting these unique immune cell populations for CPI therapy. Abstract In recent years, checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) therapy has shown promising clinical responses across a broad range of cancers. However, many patients remain unresponsive and there is need for improvement. CPI therapy relies on antibody-mediated neutralization of immune inhibitory or checkpoint receptors (ICRs) that constitutively suppress leukocytes. In this regard, the clinical outcome of CPI therapy has primarily been attributed to modulating classical MHC-restricted αβ T cell responses, yet, it will inevitably target most lymphoid (and many myeloid) populations. As such, unconventional non-MHC-restricted gamma delta (γδ) T, mucosal associated invariant T (MAIT) and natural killer T (NKT) cells express ICRs at steady-state and after activation and may thus be affected by CPI therapies. To which extent, however, remains unclear. These unconventional T cells are polyfunctional innate-like lymphocytes that play a key role in tumor immune surveillance and have a plethora of protective and pathogenic immune responses. The robust anti-tumor potential of γδ T, MAIT, and NKT cells has been established in a variety of preclinical cancer models and in clinical reports. In contrast, recent studies have documented a pro-tumor effect of innate-like T cell subsets that secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines. Consequently, understanding the mechanisms that regulate such T cells and their response to CPI is critical in designing effective cancer immunotherapies that favor anti-tumor immunity. In this Review, we will discuss the current understanding regarding the role of immune checkpoint regulation in γδ T, MAIT, and NKT cells and its importance in anti-cancer immunity.
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Buckle I, Guillerey C. Inhibitory Receptors and Immune Checkpoints Regulating Natural Killer Cell Responses to Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174263. [PMID: 34503073 PMCID: PMC8428224 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Recent years marked the discovery and increased understanding of the role immune checkpoints play in immunity against cancer. This has revolutionized cancer treatment, saving the lives of many patients. For numerous years the spotlight of success has been directed towards T cells; however, it is now appreciated that other cells play vital roles in this protection. In this review we focused on cytotoxic lymphocytes Natural Killer (NK) cells, which are known to be well equipped in the fight against cancer. We explored the role of well-described and newly emerging inhibitory receptors, including immune checkpoints in regulating NK cell activity against cancer. The knowledge summarized in this review should guide the development of immunotherapies targeting inhibitory receptors with the aim of restoring NK cell responses in cancer patients. Abstract The discovery of immune checkpoints provided a breakthrough for cancer therapy. Immune checkpoints are inhibitory receptors that are up-regulated on chronically stimulated lymphocytes and have been shown to hinder immune responses to cancer. Monoclonal antibodies against the checkpoint molecules PD-1 and CTLA-4 have shown early clinical success against melanoma and are now approved to treat various cancers. Since then, the list of potential candidates for immune checkpoint blockade has dramatically increased. The current paradigm stipulates that immune checkpoint blockade therapy unleashes pre-existing T cell responses. However, there is accumulating evidence that some of these immune checkpoint molecules are also expressed on Natural Killer (NK) cells. In this review, we summarize our latest knowledge about targetable NK cell inhibitory receptors. We discuss the HLA-binding receptors KIRS and NKG2A, receptors binding to nectin and nectin-like molecules including TIGIT, CD96, and CD112R, and immune checkpoints commonly associated with T cells such as PD-1, TIM-3, and LAG-3. We also discuss newly discovered pathways such as IL-1R8 and often overlooked receptors such as CD161 and Siglecs. We detail how these inhibitory receptors might regulate NK cell responses to cancer, and, where relevant, we discuss their implications for therapeutic intervention.
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Guo H, He Y, Chen P, Wang L, Li W, Chen B, Liu Y, Wang H, Zhao S, Zhou C. Combinational immunotherapy based on immune checkpoints inhibitors in small cell lung cancer: is this the beginning to reverse the refractory situation? J Thorac Dis 2020; 12:6070-6089. [PMID: 33209440 PMCID: PMC7656422 DOI: 10.21037/jtd-20-1689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC), a particular neuroendocrine tumor, occupies 13% of lung cancers, with the highest mortality among cancers. Immune checkpoints inhibitors (ICIs) based on programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death one ligand (PD-L1) inhibitors and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) inhibitors have been one of the most favorable therapies in SCLC. Simultaneously, not all the patients respond to ICIs due to the lack of biomarkers to predict the immunotherapeutic effect. Multiple combinational approaches are under exploration, including the integrated or successive assessment of additional immunotherapeutic agents, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy with ICIs. The current review offers a general view of the rationale for clinical studies exploring the experimental result of combinational immunotherapy based on ICIs, with both available results and ongoing trials. Moreover, the development of more predictive biomarkers, specific clinical trial designs, enhancement of the efficacy, and decreasing the financial toxicity will become the trend of future research and clinical applications of ICIs. Understanding the evolving immuno-oncology is increasingly relevant and crucial to solve those problems and define therapeutic strategies and potential target populations of combinational immunotherapy. Ultimately, emerging combinational immunotherapy will transform SCLC into a chronic disease to help patients survive from tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyue Guo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yayi He
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peixin Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sha Zhao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Caicun Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Dao TN, Utturkar S, Atallah Lanman N, Matosevic S. TIM-3 Expression Is Downregulated on Human NK Cells in Response to Cancer Targets in Synergy with Activation. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092417. [PMID: 32858904 PMCID: PMC7565804 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Among natural killer (NK) cell receptors, the T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-containing domain (TIM-3) has been associated with both inhibitory and activating functions, depending on context and activation pathway. Ex vivo and in vitro, expression of TIM-3 is inducible and depends on activation stimulus. Here, we report that TIM-3 expression can be downregulated on NK cells under specific conditions. When NK cells are exposed to cancer targets, they synergize with stimulation conditions to induce a substantial decrease in TIM-3 expression on their surface. We found that such downregulation occurs following prior NK activation. Downregulated TIM-3 expression correlated to lower cytotoxicity and lower interferon gamma (IFN-γ) expression, fueling the notion that TIM-3 might function as a benchmark for human NK cell dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tram N. Dao
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
| | - Sagar Utturkar
- Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; (S.U.); (N.A.L.)
| | - Nadia Atallah Lanman
- Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; (S.U.); (N.A.L.)
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Sandro Matosevic
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
- Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; (S.U.); (N.A.L.)
- Correspondence:
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6
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Wang J, Matosevic S. Functional and metabolic targeting of natural killer cells to solid tumors. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2020; 43:577-600. [DOI: 10.1007/s13402-020-00523-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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7
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Ascui G, Gálvez-Jirón F, Kramm K, Schäfer C, Siña J, Pola V, Cristi F, Hernández C, Garrido-Tapia M, Pesce B, Bustamante M, Fluxá P, Molina MC, Ribeiro CH. Decreased invariant natural killer T-cell-mediated antitumor immune response in patients with gastric cancer. Immunol Cell Biol 2020; 98:500-513. [PMID: 32189398 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the third most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are innate-like cytotoxic T lymphocytes involved in tumor immune surveillance. They can be activated either through CD1d-presented glycolipid antigens recognized by their invariant T-cell receptor, cytokines or by sensing tumor-associated stress-induced ligands through the natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) receptor. Although the number and functionality of iNKT cells may be decreased in several types of cancer, here we show that GC patients presented a mild increase in iNKT cell frequencies and numbers in the blood compared with healthy donors. In GC patients, iNKT cells, expanded in vitro with α-galactosyl ceramide and stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and ionomycin, produced higher levels of interleukin-2 and transforming growth factor-beta, while their capacity to degranulate remained preserved. Because tumor-derived epithelial cell adhesion molecule-positive epithelial cells did not display surface CD1d, and NKG2D ligands (NKG2DLs) were detected in the gastric tumor milieu, we envisioned a role for NKG2D in iNKT cell functions. Peripheral iNKT cells from GC patients and controls presented similar levels of NKG2D; nevertheless, the percentages of interferon-γ-producing and CD107a-positive iNKT cells from patients were reduced upon challenge with CD1d-negative, NKG2DL-positive K562 cells, suggesting a compromised response by iNKT cells in GC patients, which may not result from impaired NKG2D/NKG2DL signaling. The decreased response of iNKT cells may explain the fact that higher frequencies of circulating iNKT cells did not confer a survival benefit for GC patients. Therefore, functional impairment of iNKT cells in GC may contribute to tumor immune escape and favor disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Ascui
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunoediting, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Felipe Gálvez-Jirón
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunoediting, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Karina Kramm
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunoediting, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Carolina Schäfer
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunoediting, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Josefina Siña
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunoediting, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Víctor Pola
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunoediting, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Francisca Cristi
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunoediting, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Carolina Hernández
- Laboratory of Immune Surveillance and Immune Evasion, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Macarena Garrido-Tapia
- Laboratory of Immune Surveillance and Immune Evasion, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Bárbara Pesce
- MED.UCHILE-FACS Laboratory, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Marco Bustamante
- Department of Surgery (Oriente), Hospital del Salvador, University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Paula Fluxá
- Department of Surgery (Oriente), Hospital del Salvador, University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - María C Molina
- Laboratory of Immune Surveillance and Immune Evasion, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile.,Centro de InmunoBiotecnología, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Carolina H Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Cancer Immunoediting, Immunology Program, Biomedical Sciences Institute (ICBM), School of Medicine of University of Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
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Holland BC, Sood A, Delfino K, Dynda DI, Ran S, Freed N, Alanee S. Age and sex have no impact on expression levels of markers of immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoint pathways in patients with muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder treated with radical cystectomy. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2019; 68:991-997. [PMID: 30997535 PMCID: PMC11028177 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-019-02340-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Advanced age and female sex have been associated with worse outcomes in patients undergoing radical cystectomy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. A reduced immune response has been implicated as a mechanism. The objective of our study was to analyze the expression patterns of various cellular proteins active in bladder cancer immune pathways, and assess the correlation between age, sex, and the expression of these immune markers. METHODS We obtained surgical tissue samples from equally distributed male/female patients with/without lymph node metastasis who had undergone radical cystectomy for urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the bladder (n = 50). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for CD3 (cluster of differentiation), CD4, CD8, CD56, LAG-3 (lymphocyte-activation gene), TIM-3 (T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain), PD-1 (programmed death) and PD-L1 molecules was performed and scored by a single pathologist (high versus low). Spearman's correlation and Chi square tests investigated the association between age, sex, and IHC results. RESULTS Mean age at surgery was 67 years (range 50-78 years); all patients were Caucasians. The following percent of patients scored high for a stain: 18% CD3, 10% CD4, 0% CD8, 0% CD56, 20% LAG-3, 4% TIM-3, 0% PD-1 and 0% PD-L1. There was no association between patients' age, sex, and the expression of any of the immune markers (p > 0.05 for all). CONCLUSIONS The association between advanced age, female sex, and worse outcomes in bladder cancer may be independent of the immune pathways active in the disease that we examined in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley C Holland
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Akshay Sood
- VCORE-Center for Outcomes Research, Analytics, and Evaluation, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Hospital, 2799 W. Grand Boulevard, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA
| | - Kristin Delfino
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Danuta I Dynda
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Sophia Ran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Natalie Freed
- Pathology Associates of Central Illinois, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Shaheen Alanee
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA.
- VCORE-Center for Outcomes Research, Analytics, and Evaluation, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Hospital, 2799 W. Grand Boulevard, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA.
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He Y, Cao J, Zhao C, Li X, Zhou C, Hirsch FR. TIM-3, a promising target for cancer immunotherapy. Onco Targets Ther 2018; 11:7005-7009. [PMID: 30410357 PMCID: PMC6198883 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s170385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with malignant tumor treated with immunotherapy have received significant clinical benefits over the years. Immune checkpoint blocking agents, such as anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein-4 (anti-CTLA-4) and anti-programmed cell death protein-1 (anti-PD-1) monoclonal antibodies, have produced impressive clinical results in different types of cancer. T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-3 (TIM-3), another immune checkpoint, could inhibit cancer immunity. Recent studies have highlighted that TIM-3 has an important role to play in T-cell exhaustion and correlates with the outcome of anti-PD-1 therapy. Targeting TIM-3 might be a promising approach for cancer immunotherapy. Here, we review the role of TIM-3 in cancer and clinical trials with TIM-3 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yayi He
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China,
| | - Jie Cao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China,
| | - Chao Zhao
- Department of Lung Cancer and Immunology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuefei Li
- Department of Lung Cancer and Immunology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China
| | - Caicun Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University Medical School Cancer Institute, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, People's Republic of China,
| | - Fred R Hirsch
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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Su H, Xie H, Dai C, Ren Y, She Y, Xu L, Chen D, Xie D, Zhang L, Jiang G, Chen C. Characterization of TIM-3 expression and its prognostic value in patients with surgically resected lung adenocarcinoma. Lung Cancer 2018; 121:18-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2018.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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11
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Xu Y, Wang Z, Du X, Liu Y, Song X, Wang T, Tan S, Liang X, Gao L, Ma C. Tim-3 blockade promotes iNKT cell function to inhibit HBV replication. J Cell Mol Med 2018; 22:3192-3201. [PMID: 29602251 PMCID: PMC5980221 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased expression of T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-3 (Tim-3) on invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells is reported in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. However, whether Tim-3 regulates iNKT cells in chronic HBV condition remains unclear. In this study, our results showed that the expression of Tim-3 was up-regulated on hepatic iNKT cells from HBV-transgenic (Tg) mice or iNKT cells stimulated with α-galactosylceramide (α-Galcer). Compared with Tim-3- iNKT cells, Tim-3+ iNKT cells expressed more IFN-γ, IL-4 and CD107a, indicating a strong relationship between Tim-3 and iNKT cell activation. Constantly, treatment of Tim-3 blocking antibodies significantly enhanced the production of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-4 and CD107a in iNKT cells both in vivo and in vitro. This Tim-3- mediated suppression of iNKT cells was further confirmed in Tim-3 knockout (KO) mice. Moreover, Tim-3 blockade promoted α-Galcer-triggered inhibition of HBV replication, displaying as the decreased HBV DNA and HBsAg level in serum, and down-regulated pgRNA expression in liver tissues. Collectively, our data, for the first time, demonstrated the potential role of Tim-3 blockade in promoting iNKT cell-mediated HBV inhibition. Therefore, combination of α-Galcer with Tim-3 blockade might be a promising approach in chronic hepatitis B therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Xu
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Zehua Wang
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Xianhong Du
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Yuan Liu
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Xiaojia Song
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Tixiao Wang
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Siyu Tan
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Xiaohong Liang
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Lifen Gao
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Chunhong Ma
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of EducationKey Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong ProvinceDepartment of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical SciencesShandong UniversityJinanChina
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12
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Villanueva N, Bazhenova L. New strategies in immunotherapy for lung cancer: beyond PD-1/PD-L1. Ther Adv Respir Dis 2018; 12:1753466618794133. [PMID: 30215300 PMCID: PMC6144513 DOI: 10.1177/1753466618794133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has significantly altered the treatment landscape for many cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Currently approved immuno-oncology agents for lung cancer are aimed at the reversal of immune checkpoints, programmed death protein-1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1). Although responses to checkpoint inhibitors are encouraging, and in some cases durable, these successes are not universal among all treated patients. In order to optimize our treatment approach utilizing immunotherapy, we must better understand the interaction between cancer and the immune system and evasion mechanisms. In this review, we will provide an overview of the immune system and cancer, and review novel therapies that promote tumor antigen release for immune system detection, activate the effector T-cell response, and reverse inhibitory antitumor signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Villanueva
- University of California, San Diego, Moore’s Cancer Center, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Lyudmila Bazhenova
- 3855 Health Sciences Drive, #0987 La Jolla, University of California, San Diego, Moore’s Cancer Center, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
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13
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Zhang N, Zhang M, Liu RT, Zhang P, Yang CL, Yue LT, Li H, Li YK, Duan RS. Statins reduce the expressions of Tim-3 on NK cells and NKT cells in atherosclerosis. Eur J Pharmacol 2017; 821:49-56. [PMID: 29288118 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2017.12.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) have an immuno-regulatory effect in addition to lowing-lipids. Accumulated evidence showed that the expressions of T cell immunoglobulin- and mucin-domain-containing molecule-3 (Tim-3) on natural killer (NK) cells increased in atherosclerotic patients and animal models. In this study, 14 patients treated with rosuvastatin and 12 patients with atorvastatin for more than 3 months were included and 20 patients without statins treatment as control. Both statins treatment reduced the expressions of Tim-3 on NK cells and their subtypes, natural killer T (NKT) cells and CD3+ T cells, and increased the proportions of NKT cells among peripheral blood mononuclear cells, accompanied by the decreased levels of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, and increased ratios of high density lipoprotein to cholesterol. These may contribute to the functions of statins in the treatment of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250014, PR China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250014, PR China
| | - Ru-Tao Liu
- Department of Neurology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250014, PR China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250014, PR China
| | - Chun-Lin Yang
- Department of Neurology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250014, PR China
| | - Long-Tao Yue
- Central laboratory, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250014, PR China
| | - Heng Li
- Department of Neurology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250014, PR China
| | - Yong-Kang Li
- Department of Cardiology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250014, PR China
| | - Rui-Sheng Duan
- Department of Neurology, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250014, PR China.
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14
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Dal Bello MG, Alama A, Coco S, Vanni I, Grossi F. Understanding the checkpoint blockade in lung cancer immunotherapy. Drug Discov Today 2017; 22:1266-1273. [PMID: 28600190 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2017.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapies have changed the treatment strategy of some types of tumor including melanoma and, more recently, non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Immune checkpoints are crucial for the maintenance of self-tolerance and it is known that some tumors use checkpoint systems to evade antitumor immune response. The treatment of advanced NSCLC by immune-checkpoint blockade targeting the programmed cell death protein-1 (PD1/PDL1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA4) pathways has led to significant clinical benefit either as monotherapy or in combination therapy. Moreover, checkpoint receptors such as lymphocyte activation gene 3 protein (LAG3), T-cell immunoglobulin mucin domain 3 (TIM3) and killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) are also being investigated as potential immunotherapeutic targets. This review focuses on the mechanisms of action of the main checkpoint inhibitors in lung cancer and presents the most relevant results from preclinical and clinical studies on immune-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giovanna Dal Bello
- Lung Cancer Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico per l'Oncologia, Largo R. Benzi, 10-16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Angela Alama
- Lung Cancer Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico per l'Oncologia, Largo R. Benzi, 10-16132 Genoa, Italy.
| | - Simona Coco
- Lung Cancer Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico per l'Oncologia, Largo R. Benzi, 10-16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Irene Vanni
- Lung Cancer Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico per l'Oncologia, Largo R. Benzi, 10-16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesco Grossi
- Lung Cancer Unit, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico per l'Oncologia, Largo R. Benzi, 10-16132 Genoa, Italy
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15
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Wang Y, Sun J, Gao W, Song B, Shao Q, Zhao L, Zhang Y, Wang Q, Zhang Y, Qu X. Preoperative Tim‑3 expression on peripheral NK cells is correlated with pathologic TNM staging in colorectal cancer. Mol Med Rep 2017; 15:3810-3818. [PMID: 28440449 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has indicated that T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (Tim-3) serves an important regulatory role in lymphocytes and in several cancers. However, the association between Tim‑3 expression on various lymphocyte subsets and human colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been elucidated. The present study aimed to characterize Tim‑3 expression on peripheral lymphocytes, including cluster of differentiation CD3+CD56‑ T cells, CD3‑CD56+ natural killer (NK) cells and CD3+CD56+ natural killer T (NKT) cells, in patients with CRC. The frequency of T cells, NK cells and NKT cells expressing Tim‑3 was assessed by multicolor flow cytometry of peripheral blood collected from 36 preoperative CRC patients and 38 healthy donors. The expression of Tim‑3 on lymphocyte subsets from 53 postoperative blood samples of CRC patients was also analyzed. There were fewer circulating NK cells in patients with CRC compared with healthy controls (P=0.0027); NK cell expression of Tim‑3 was also significantly decreased (P=0.0239). The frequency of circulating NK cells and Tim‑3+ NK cells was negatively correlated with clinical cancer stage, compared with healthy controls, but not with other clinicopathological parameters or serum concentrations of CRC biomarkers. Furthermore, the expression of Tim‑3 in NK cells was higher in CRC patients without metastasis. Notably, NK cell Tim‑3 expression in CRC patients was significantly restored following surgical resection of the primary tumor. In conclusion, the present study indicates the presence of an altered frequency and expression of Tim‑3 in peripheral NK cells in CRC patients. Preoperative Tim‑3 expression on peripheral NK cells is correlated with differential staging in colorectal cancer, and may be useful as a serum biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wang
- Department of Tumor Immunity, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Jintang Sun
- Department of Tumor Immunity, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Wenjuan Gao
- Department of Tumor Immunity, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Bingfeng Song
- Department of Tumor Immunity, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Qianqian Shao
- Department of Tumor Immunity, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Tumor Immunity, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Department of Tumor Immunity, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Qingjie Wang
- Department of Tumor Immunity, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Yun Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education and Chinese Ministry of Health, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
| | - Xun Qu
- Department of Tumor Immunity, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, P.R. China
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16
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Tietze JK, Angelova D, Heppt MV, Ruzicka T, Berking C. Low baseline levels of NK cells may predict a positive response to ipilimumab in melanoma therapy. Exp Dermatol 2017; 26:622-629. [DOI: 10.1111/exd.13263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julia K. Tietze
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Munich University Hospital (LMU); Munich Germany
| | - Daniela Angelova
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Munich University Hospital (LMU); Munich Germany
| | - Markus V. Heppt
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Munich University Hospital (LMU); Munich Germany
| | - Thomas Ruzicka
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Munich University Hospital (LMU); Munich Germany
| | - Carola Berking
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Munich University Hospital (LMU); Munich Germany
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17
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Xu L, Huang Y, Tan L, Yu W, Chen D, Lu C, He J, Wu G, Liu X, Zhang Y. Increased Tim-3 expression in peripheral NK cells predicts a poorer prognosis and Tim-3 blockade improves NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity in human lung adenocarcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2015; 29:635-641. [PMID: 26428847 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2015.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
T cell immunoglobulin- and mucin-domain-containing molecule-3 (Tim-3) has been shown to play an important role in mediating NK-cell function in human diseases. However, the relationship between Tim-3 expression in natural killer (NK) cells and human lung adenocarcinoma remains unclear. We therefore investigated the expression of Tim-3 in NK cells and explored the effect of Tim-3 blockade on NK cell-mediated activity in human lung adenocarcinoma. Upregulated expression of Tim-3 on CD3-CD56+ cells (P<0.05) and CD3-CD56(dim) cells (P<0.05) of patients with lung adenocarcinoma was detected by flow cytometry. Moreover, Tim-3 expression in CD3-CD56+ NK cells was higher in patients with lung adenocarcinoma with lymph node metastasis (LNM) (P<0.05) or with tumor stage T3-T4 (P<0.05). Tim-3 expression in CD56(dim) NK-cell subset was higher in patients with tumor size ≥3cm (P<0.05), or LNM (P<0.05) or with tumor stage T3-T4 (P<0.05). Further analysis showed that higher expressions of Tim-3 on both CD3-CD56+ NK cells and CD56(dim) NK-cell subset were independently correlated with shorter overall survival of patients with lung adenocarcinoma (log-rank test, P=0.0418, 0.0406, respectively). Importantly, blockade of Tim-3 signaling with anti-Tim-3 antibodies resulted in the increased cytotoxicity and IFN-γ production of peripheral NK cells from patients with lung adenocarcinoma. Our data indicate that Tim-3 expression in NK cells can function as a prognostic biomarker in human lung adenocarcinoma and support that Tim-3 could be a new target for an immunotherapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyun Xu
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Affiliated Zhoushan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 316000, China
| | - Yanyan Huang
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Affiliated Zhoushan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 316000, China
| | - Linlin Tan
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Affiliated Zhoushan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 316000, China
| | - Wei Yu
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Affiliated Zhoushan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 316000, China
| | - Dongdong Chen
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Affiliated Zhoushan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 316000, China
| | - ChangChang Lu
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Affiliated Zhoushan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 316000, China
| | - Jianying He
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Affiliated Zhoushan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 316000, China
| | - Guoqing Wu
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Biotherapy Center, Zhejiang Province People's Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Xiaoguang Liu
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Affiliated Zhoushan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 316000, China.
| | - Yongkui Zhang
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Zhoushan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 316000, China.
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