Understanding the interplay between host immunity and Epstein-Barr virus in NPC patients

The Role of Natural Killer Cells in the Tumor Immune Microenvironment of EBV-Associated Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Endemic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is closely associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which contributes to tumor development and influences the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in NPC. Natural killer (NK) cells, as part of the innate immune system, play a crucial role in responding to viral infections and malignant cell transformations. Notably, NK cells possess a unique ability to target tumor cells independent of major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) expression. This means that MHC I-deficient tumor cells, which can escape from effective T cell attack, are susceptible to NK-cell-mediated killing. The activation of NK cells is determined by the signals generated through inhibitory and activating receptors expressed on their surface. Understanding the role of NK cells in the complex TIME of EBV+ NPC is of utmost importance. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of NK cells in NPC, focusing on their subpopulations, interactions, and cytotoxicity within the TIME. Moreover, we discuss the potential translational therapeutic applications of NK cells in NPC. This review aims to enhance our knowledge of the role of NK cells in NPC and provide valuable insights for future investigations.

Targeting the crosstalk of epigenetic modifications and immune evasion in nasopharyngeal cancer

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a distinct type of head and neck cancer that is highly associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. EBV acts as an epigenetic driver in NPC tumorigenesis, reprogramming the viral and host epigenomes to regulate viral latent gene expression, and creating an environment conducive to the malignant transformation of nasopharyngeal epithelial cells. Targeting epigenetic mechanisms in pre-clinical studies has been shown promise in eradicating tumours and overcoming immune resistance in some solid tumours. However, its efficacy in NPC remains inclusive due to the complex nature of this cancer. In this review, we provide an updated understanding of the roles of epigenetic factors in regulating EBV latent gene expression and promoting NPC progression. We also explore the crosstalk between epigenetic mechanisms and immune evasion in NPC. Particularly, we discuss the potential roles of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors in reversing immune suppression and augmenting antitumour immunity. Furthermore, we highlight the advantages of combining epigenetic therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitor to reverse immune resistance and improve clinical outcomes. Epigenetic drugs have the potential to modulate both epigenetic mediators and immune factors involved in NPC. However, further research is needed to fully comprehend the diverse range of epigenetic modifications in NPC. A deeper understanding of the crosstalk between epigenetic mechanisms and immune evasion during NPC progression is crucial for the development of more effective treatments for this challenging disease.

Constitutive Interleukin-7 Cytokine Signaling Enhances the Persistence of Epstein-Barr Virus-Specific T-Cells

The efficacy of therapeutic T-cells is limited by a lack of positive signals and excess inhibitory signaling in tumor microenvironments. We previously showed that a constitutively active IL7 receptor (C7R) enhanced the persistence, expansion, and anti-tumor activity of T-cells expressing chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), and C7R-modified GD2.CAR T-cells are currently undergoing clinical trials. To determine if the C7R could also enhance the activity of T-cells recognizing tumors via their native T-cell receptors (TCRs), we evaluated its effects in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-specific T-cells (EBVSTs) that have produced clinical benefits in patients with EBV-associated malignancies. EBVSTs were generated by stimulation of peripheral blood T-cells with overlapping peptide libraries spanning the EBV lymphoma antigens, LMP1, LMP2, and EBNA 1, followed by retroviral vector transduction to express the C7R. The C7R increased STAT5 signaling in EBVSTs and enhanced their expansion over 30 days of culture in the presence or absence of exogenous cytokines. C7R-EBVSTs maintained EBV antigen specificity but were dependent on TCR stimulation for continued expansion. C7R-EBVSTs produced more rapid lymphoma control in a murine xenograft model than unmodified EBVSTs and persisted for longer. The findings have led to a clinical trial, evaluating C7R-EBVSTs for the treatment of refractory or relapsed EBV-positive lymphoma (NCT04664179).

Could Immune Checkpoint Disorders and EBV Reactivation Be Connected in the Development of Hematological Malignancies in Immunodeficient Patients?

Primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) and secondary immunodeficiencies (SIDs) are characterized by compromised immune function, rendering individuals susceptible to infections and potentially influencing cancer development. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a widespread herpesvirus, has been linked to cancer, particularly in those with weakened immune systems. This study aims to compare selected immune parameters, focusing on immune checkpoint molecules (PD-1/PD-L1, CTLA-4/CD86, CD200R/CD200), and EBV reactivation in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL, a representative of SIDs) and common variable immunodeficiency (CVID, a representative of PIDs). We performed a correlation analysis involving patients diagnosed with CLL, CVID, and a healthy control group. EBV reactivation was assessed using specific antibody serology and viral load quantification. Peripheral blood morphology, biochemistry, and immunophenotyping were performed, with emphasis on T and B lymphocytes expressing immune checkpoints and their serum concentrations. Our findings revealed elevated EBV reactivation markers in both CLL and CVID patients compared with healthy controls, indicating increased viral activity in immunodeficient individuals. Furthermore, immune checkpoint expression analysis demonstrated significantly altered percentages of T and B lymphocytes expressing PD-1/PD-L1, CTLA-4/CD86, and CD200R/CD200 in CLL and CVID patients. This suggests a potential interplay between immune checkpoint dysregulation and EBV reactivation in the context of immunodeficiency. In conclusion, our study underscores the intricate relationship between immune dysfunction, EBV reactivation, and immune checkpoint modulation in the context of immunodeficiency-associated cancers. The altered expression of immune checkpoints, along with heightened EBV reactivation, suggests a potential mechanism for immune evasion and tumor progression. These findings provide insights into the complex interactions that contribute to cancer development in immunocompromised individuals, shedding light on potential therapeutic targets for improved management and treatment outcomes. Further investigations are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and to explore potential interventions to mitigate cancer risk in these patient populations.

hMSCs treatment attenuates murine herpesvirus-68 (MHV-68) pneumonia through altering innate immune response via ROS/NLRP3 signaling pathway

Immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable to viral infections and reactivation, especially endogenous herpes viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a member of oncogenic gamma-herpesviruses, which are commonly linked to pneumonia and consequently significant morbidity and mortality. In the study of human and animal oncogenic gammaherpesviruses, the murine gamma-herpesviruses-68 (MHV-68) model has been applied, as it can induce pneumonia in immunocompromised mice. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treatment has demonstrated therapeutic potential for pneumonia, as well as other forms of acute lung injury, in preclinical models. In this study, we aim to investigate the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanisms of human bone marrow-derived MSC (hMSC) on MHV-68-induced pneumonia. We found that intravenous administration of hMSCs significantly reduced lung damages, diminished inflammatory mediators and somehow inhibited MHV-68 replication. Furthermore, hMSCs treatment can regulate innate immune response and induce macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 phenotype, could significantly alter leukocyte infiltration and reduce pulmonary fibrosis. Our findings with co-culture system indicated that hMSCs effectively reduced the secretion of of inflammation-related factors and induced a shift in macrophage polarization, consistent with in vivo results. Further investigations revealed that hMSCs treatment suppressed the activation of macrophage ROS/NLRP3 signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, administration of MCC950, a selective NLRP3 inhibitor has been shown to effectively reduce ROS production and subsequently alleviate inflammation induced by MHV-68. Taken together, our work has shown that hMSCs can effectively protect mice from lethal MHV-68 pneumonia, which may throw new light on strategy for combating human EBV-associated pneumonia.

Analysis of NK-92 cytotoxicity in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell lines and patient-derived xenografts using impedance-based growth method

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune cells that can remove viral-infected tumour cells without antigen priming. This characteristic offers NK cells an edge over other immune cells as a potential therapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). In this study, we report how cytotoxicity was evaluated in target NPC cell lines and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) cells with effector NK-92, a commercially available NK cell line, by using xCELLigence RTCA system (a real-time, label-free impedance-based monitoring platform). Cell viability, proliferation and cytotoxicity were examined by RTCA. Cell morphology, growth and cytotoxicity were also monitored by microscopy. RTCA and microscopy showed that both target and effector cells were able to proliferate normally and to maintain original morphology in co-culture medium as they were in their own respective culture medium. As target and effector (T:E) cell ratios increased, cell viability as measured by arbitrary cell index (CI) values in RTCA decreased in all cell lines and PDX cells. NPC PDX cells were more sensitive to the cytotoxicity effect of NK-92 cells, than the NPC cell lines. These data were substantiated by GFP-based microscopy. We have shown how the RTCA system can be used for a high throughput screening of the effects of NK cells in cancer studies to obtain data such as cell viability, proliferation and cytotoxicity.

Epstein-Barr virus envelope glycoprotein 110 inhibits NF-κB activation by interacting with NF-κB subunit p65

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a member of the lymphotropic virus family, and is highly correlated with some human malignant tumors. It has been reported that envelope glycoprotein 110 (gp110) plays an essential role in viral fusion, DNA replication, and nucleocapsid assembly of EBV. However, it has not been established whether gp110 is involved in regulating the host's innate immunity. In this study, we found that gp110 inhibits tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α)-mediated NF-κB promoter activity and the downstream production of NF-κB-regulated cytokines under physiological conditions. Using dual-luciferase reporter assays, we showed that gp110 might impede the NF-κB promoter activation downstream of NF-κB transactivational subunit p65. Subsequently, we used co-immunoprecipitation assays to demonstrate that gp110 interacts with p65 during EBV lytic infection, and that the C-terminal cytoplasmic region of gp110 is the key interaction domain with p65. Furthermore, we determined gp110 can bind to the N-terminal Rel homologous and C-terminal domains of p65. Alternatively, gp110 might not disturb the association of p65 with non-transactivational subunit p50, but we showed it restrains activational phosphorylation (at Ser536) and nuclear translocation of p65, which we also found to be executed by the C-terminal cytoplasmic region of gp110. Altogether, these data suggest that the surface protein gp110 may be a vital component for EBV to antagonize the host's innate immune response, which is also helpful for revealing the infectivity and pathogenesis of EBV.

Recurrence risk stratification based on Epstein–Barr virus DNA to identify enlarged retropharyngeal lymph nodes of nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A model-histopathologic correlation study

Background

Accurate assessment of the nature of enlarged retropharyngeal lymph nodes (RLN) of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients after radiotherapy is related to selecting appropriate treatments and avoiding unnecessary therapy. This study aimed to develop a non-invasive and effective model for predicting the recurrence of RLN (RRLN) in NPC.

Materials and methods

The data of post-radiotherapy NPC patients (N = 76) with abnormal enlargement of RLN who underwent endonasopharyngeal ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspirations (EPUS-FNA) were examined. They were randomly divided into a discovery (n = 53) and validation (n = 23) cohort. Univariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between variables (magnetic resonance imaging characteristics, EBV DNA) and RRLN. Multiple logistic regression was used to construct a prediction model. The accuracy of the model was assessed by discrimination and calibration, and decision curves were used to assess the clinical reliability of the model for the identification of high risk RLNs for possible recurrence.

Results

Abnormal enhancement, minimum axis diameter (MAD) and EBV-DNA were identified as independent risk factors for RRLN and could stratify NPC patients into three risk groups. The probability of RRLN in the low-, medium-, and high-risk groups were 37.5, 82.4, and 100%, respectively. The AUC of the final predictive model was 0.882 (95% CI: 0.782–0.982) in the discovery cohort and 0.926 (95% CI, 0.827–1.000) in the validation cohort, demonstrating good clinical accuracy for predicting the RRLN of NPC patients. The favorable performance of the model was confirmed by the calibration plot and decision curve analysis.

Conclusion

The nomogram model constructed in the study could be reliable in predicting the risk of RRLN after radiotherapy for NPC patients.

How EBV Infects: The Tropism and Underlying Molecular Mechanism for Viral Infection

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with a variety of human malignancies, including Burkitt's lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease, nasopharyngeal carcinoma and gastric cancers. EBV infection is crucial for the oncogenesis of its host cells. The prerequisite for the establishment of infection is the virus entry. Interactions of viral membrane glycoproteins and host membrane receptors play important roles in the process of virus entry into host cells. Current studies have shown that the main tropism for EBV are B cells and epithelial cells and that EBV is also found in the tumor cells derived from NK/T cells and leiomyosarcoma. However, the process of EBV infecting B cells and epithelial cells significantly differs, relying on heterogenous glycoprotein-receptor interactions. This review focuses on the tropism and molecular mechanism of EBV infection. We systematically summarize the key molecular events that mediate EBV cell tropism and its entry into target cells and provide a comprehensive overview.

The prognostic value of Epstein-Barr virus infection in Hodgkin lymphoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) contributes significantly to the development and occurrence of B-cell lymphomas. However, the association between EBV infection status and clinical outcomes in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) patients has long been controversial. Therefore, we aimed to estimate the prognostic significance of EBV infection in HL survival.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for relevant cohort studies from the date of their inception to February 20, 2022. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for overall survival (OS), Failure-free survival (FFS), Progression-free survival (PFS), Event-free survival (EFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) were extracted from the studies or calculated. Subgroup analyses were conducted independently on the five survival outcomes to investigate the source of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

A total of 42 qualified studies involving 9570 patients were identified in our meta-analysis. There was an association between EBV positivity and significantly poorer OS (HR=1.443, 95% CI: 1.250-1.666) and DSS (HR=2.312, 95% CI: 1.799-2.972). However, the presence of EBV in HL showed no effect on FFS, PFS or EFS. In subgroup analyses of OS, DSS and FFS stratified by age groups, EBV positivity was associated with poorer prognosis in elderly patients. Meanwhile, in children and adolescents with EBV-positive HL, we also observed a trend toward a better prognosis, though the results were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

EBV-positive status is associated with poor OS and DSS in HL patients. EBV infection should therefore be considered a valuable prognostic marker and risk-stratifying factor in HL, especially in older patients.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42022328708.

EBV Infection and Its Regulated Metabolic Reprogramming in Nasopharyngeal Tumorigenesis

Viral oncogenes may drive cellular metabolic reprogramming to modulate the normal epithelia cell malignant transformation. Understanding the viral oncogene–mediated signaling transduction dysregulation that involves in metabolic reprogramming may provide new therapeutic targets for virus-associated cancer treatment. Latent EBV infection and expression of viral oncogenes, including latent membrane proteins 1 and 2 (LMP1/2), and EBV-encoded BamH I-A rightward transcripts (BART) microRNAs (miR-BARTs), have been demonstrated to play fundamental roles in altering host cell metabolism to support nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) pathogenesis. Yet, how do EBV infection and its encoded oncogenes facilitated the metabolic shifting and their roles in NPC carcinogenesis remains unclear. In this review, we will focus on delineating how EBV infection and its encoded oncoproteins altered the metabolic reprograming of infected cells to support their malignances. Furthermore, based on the understanding of the host’s metabolic signaling alterations induced by EBV, we will provide a new perspective on the interplay between EBV infection and these metabolic pathways and offering a potential therapeutic intervention strategy in the treatment of EBV-associated malignant diseases.

Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy of Epstein–Barr Virus-Associated Malignancies

The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) can cause different types of cancer in human beings when the virus infects different cell types with various latent patterns. EBV shapes a distinct and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) to its benefit by influencing and interacting with different components in the TME. Different EBV-associated malignancies adopt similar but slightly specific immunosuppressive mechanisms by encoding different EBV products to escape both innate and adaptive immune responses. Strategies reversing the immunosuppressive TME of EBV-associated malignancies have been under evaluation in clinical practice. As the interactions among EBV, tumor cells, and TME are intricate, in this review, we mainly discuss the epidemiology of EBV, the life cycle of EBV, the cellular and molecular composition of TME, and a landscape of different EBV-associated malignancies and immunotherapy by targeting the TME.

Berberine in Human Oncogenic Herpesvirus Infections and Their Linked Cancers

Human herpesviruses are known to induce a broad spectrum of diseases, ranging from common cold sores to cancer, and infections with some types of these viruses, known as human oncogenic herpesviruses (HOHVs), can cause cancer. Challenges with viral latency, recurrent infections, and drug resistance have generated the need for finding new drugs with the ability to overcome these barriers. Berberine (BBR), a naturally occurring alkaloid, is known for its multiple biological activities, including antiviral and anticancer effects. This paper comprehensively compiles all studies that have featured anti-HOHV properties of BBR along with promising preventive effects against the associated cancers. The mechanisms and pathways induced by BBR via targeting the herpesvirus life cycle and the pathogenesis of the linked malignancies are reviewed. Approaches to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of BBR and its use in clinical practice as an anti-herpesvirus drug are also discussed.

Epstein-Barr virus DNA loads in the peripheral blood cells predict the survival of locoregionally-advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients

OBJECTIVE

Circulating cell-free Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA has been shown to be a valuable biomarker for population screening and prognostic surveillance for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Despite important insights into the biology of persistence, few studies have addressed the clinical significance of cell-based EBV-DNA loads in peripheral blood cells (PBCs).

METHODS

A prospective observational cohort study was conducted involving 1,063 newly diagnosed, locoregionally-advanced NPC patients at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center from 2005 to 2007. Cox regression analysis was conducted to identify the association of PBC EBV DNA loads to overall survival (OS) and other prognostic outcomes. Prognostic nomograms were developed based on PBC EBV DNA loads to predict survival outcomes for NPC patients.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 108 months, patients with higher PBC EBV-DNA loads had significantly worse OS [hazard ratio (HR) of medium, medium-high, and high vs. low were 1.50, 1.52, and 1.85 respectively; Ptrend < 0.001]. Similar results were found for progression-free survival and distant metastasis-free survival. The concordance index of the prognostic nomogram for predicting OS in the training set and validation set were 0.70 and 0.66, respectively. Our data showed that the PBC EBV DNA load was an independent and robust survival biomarker, which remained significant even after adjusting for plasma EBV DNA loads in a subset of 205 patients of the cohort (HR: 1.88; P = 0.025). Importantly, a combination of PBC EBV DNA load and plasma EBV DNA load improved the predicted OS.

CONCLUSIONS

The EBV-DNA load in PBCs may be an independent prognosis marker for NPC patients.

Ent-11α-hydroxy-15-oxo-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid loaded onto fluorescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles for the location and therapy of nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Ent-11α-hydroxy-15-oxo-kaur-16-en-19-oic acid (5F) is a diterpenoid that is isolated and purified from the Chinese herbal medicine Pteris semipinnata L., and is known to exert antitumour activity in several kinds of malignant cancer cells by leading cancer cells to apoptosis. However, the antitumour effect of 5F in vivo is rarely reported due to the complexity of the physiological environment and limitations of 5F as a small anticancer drug. In the present study, we utilized FITC-doped nanoparticles for the accumulation and delivery of 5F in nasopharyngeal carcinoma CNE2 tumours transplanted in nude mice by the enhanced permeation and retention (EPR) effect. In vivo studies demonstrated that nanoparticles could efficiently deliver 5F in CNE2 transplanted tumours, and the tumour growth was effectively inhibited by the drug-loaded nanoparticles with minimal side effects. The study indicated the benefits of combining well-studied nanoparticles with traditional herbal medicine treatment and establishes a delivery platform for 5F chemotherapy.

The molecular march of primary and recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) results from the aberrant and uncontrolled growth of the nasopharyngeal epithelium. It is highly associated with the Epstein-Barr virus, especially in regions where it is endemic. In the last decade, significant advances in genetic sequencing techniques have allowed the discovery of many new abnormal molecular processes that undoubtedly contribute to the establishment, growth and spread of this deadly disease. In this review, we consider NPC as EBV induced. We summarise the recent discoveries and how they add to our understanding of the pathophysiology of NPC in the context of genomics first in primary and then in recurrent disease. Overall, we find key early events lead to p16 inactivation and cyclin D1 expression, allowing latent viral infection. Host and viral factors work together to affect a variety of molecular pathways, the most fundamental being activation of NF-κB. Nonetheless, much still yearns to be discovered, especially in recurrent NPC.

The Therapeutic Potential of Targeting BARF1 in EBV-Associated Malignancies

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is closely linked to the development of a number of human cancers. EBV-associated malignancies are characterized by a restricted pattern of viral latent protein expression which is sufficient for the virus to both initiate and sustain cell growth and to protect virus-infected cells from immune attack. Expression of these EBV proteins in malignant cells provides an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. Among the viral proteins expressed in the EBV-associated epithelial malignancies, the protein encoded by the BamHI-A rightward frame 1 (BARF1) is of particular interest. BARF1 is a viral oncoprotein selectively expressed in latently infected epithelial cancers, nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and EBV-positive gastric cancer (EBV-GC). Here, we review the roles of BARF1 in oncogenesis and immunomodulation. We also discuss potential strategies for targeting the BARF1 protein as a novel therapy for EBV-driven epithelial cancers.

New Viral Facets in Oral Diseases: The EBV Paradox

The oral cavity contributes to overall health, psychosocial well-being and quality of human life. Oral inflammatory diseases represent a major global health problem with significant social and economic impact. The development of effective therapies, therefore, requires deeper insights into the etiopathogenesis of oral diseases. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection results in a life-long persistence of the virus in the host and has been associated with numerous oral inflammatory diseases including oral lichen planus (OLP), periodontal disease and Sjogren’s syndrome (SS). There is considerable evidence that the EBV infection is a strong risk factor for the development and progression of these conditions, but is EBV a true pathogen? This long-standing EBV paradox yet needs to be solved. This review discusses novel viral aspects of the etiopathogenesis of non-tumorigenic diseases in the oral cavity, in particular, the contribution of EBV in OLP, periodontitis and SS, the tropism of EBV infection, the major players involved in the etiopathogenic mechanisms and emerging contribution of EBV-pathogenic bacteria bidirectional interaction. It also proposes the involvement of EBV-infected plasma cells in the development and progression of oral inflammatory diseases. A new direction for preventing and treating these conditions may focus on controlling pathogenic EBV with anti-herpetic drugs.

Immunogenomic landscape of hepatocellular carcinoma with immune cell stroma and EBV-positive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The immunogenomic characteristics of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) with immune cell stroma (HCC-IS), defined histologically, have not been clarified. We investigated the clinical and molecular features of HCC-IS and the prognostic impact of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection.

METHODS

We evaluated 219 patients with conventional HCC (C-HCC) and 47 with HCC-IS using in situ hybridization for EBV, immunohistochemistry, multiplex immunofluorescence staining, and whole exome and transcriptome sequencing. Human leukocyte antigen types were also extracted from the sequencing data. Genomic and prognostic parameters were compared between HCC-IS and C-HCC.

RESULTS

CD8 T cell infiltration was more frequent in HCC-IS than C-HCC (mean fraction/sample, 22.6% vs. 8.9%, false discovery rate q <0.001), as was EBV positivity in CD20-positive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) (74.5% vs. 4.6%, p <0.001). CTNNB1 mutations were not identified in any HCC-IS, while they were present in 24.1% of C-HCC (p = 0.016). Inhibitory and stimulatory immune modulators were expressed at similar levels in HCC-IS and EBV-positive C-HCC. Global hypermethylation, and expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 in TILs, and PD-L1 in tumors, were also associated with HCC-IS (p <0.001), whereas human leukocyte antigen type did not differ according to HCC type or EBV positivity. HCC-IS was an independent factor for favorable recurrence-free survival (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.23; p = 0.002). However, a subgroup of tumors with a high density of EBV-positive TILs had poorer recurrence-free (aHR 25.48; p <0.001) and overall (aHR 9.6; p = 0.003) survival, and significant enrichment of CD8 T cell exhaustion signatures (q = 0.0296).

CONCLUSIONS

HCC-IS is a distinct HCC subtype associated with a good prognosis and frequent EBV-positive TILs. However, paradoxically, a high density of EBV-positive TILs in tumors is associated with inferior prognostic outcomes. Patients with HCC-IS could be candidates for immunotherapy.

LAY SUMMARY

Hepatocellular carcinomas with histologic evidence of abundant immune cell infiltration are characterized by frequent activation of Epstein-Barr virus in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and less aggressive clinical behavior. However, a high density of Epstein-Barr virus-positive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes is associated with inferior prognostic outcomes, possibly as a result of immune escape due to significant CD8 T cell exhaustion.

ELF-1 expression in nasopharyngeal carcinoma facilitates proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells via modulation of CCL2/CCR2 signaling

Background: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a prevalent malignant tumor in Southeast Asia. The management of NPC has remained a challenge until now. ELF-1 is a member of the ETS family of transcription factors that regulate genes involved in cellular growth. ELF-1 expression has been reported in various cancers and is required for tumor growth and angiogenesis; however, its function in NPC remains unclear. In the present study, we characterized the role and underlying mechanism of ELF-1 in NPC.

Methods: The biological functions of ELF-1 in NPC cells such as proliferation, migration, invasion, and drug resistance were investigated using MTT, BrdU incorporation, and Transwell assays. To gain more insight into the mechanism of ELF-1 in NPC, we analyzed CCL2/CCR2 signaling by Western blotting, ELISA, siRNAs, and CCR2 antagonist.

Results: Gain-of-function of ELF-1 in TW01 and TW04 cells promoted NPC cell proliferation, BrdU incorporation, migration, invasion and cisplatin resistance. By contrast, knockdown of ELF-1 produced opposite results. Overexpression of ELF-1 enhanced the expression of CCL2 via binding to its promoter region and increased the level of the extracellular matrix protein CCL2 in cell culture medium. ELF-1 expression also modulated the downstream targets of CCL2/CCR2 signaling. Most importantly, ELF-1-induced NPC malignant phenotypes were abrogated by a CCR2 inhibitor, implying that the CCL2/CCR2 signaling axis was involved in ELF-1-mediated regulation in NPC.

Conclusion: Our data suggest that ELF-1 plays an oncogenic role in NPC development associated with the CCL2/CCR2 signaling pathway and may therefore be a potential target for NPC therapy.

High HLA-F Expression Is a Poor Prognosis Factor in Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Background and Aims

In patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), local treatment failure and distant metastasis contribute largely to poor outcomes. The nasopharynx is an important lymphoid tissue, and NPC tumourigenesis and development are partly attributed to immune system disorders. Human leukocyte antigen F (HLA-F) has shown a close correlation with NPC in many genome-wide association studies (GWASs). However, clinical studies rarely explore the relationship of HLA-F expression with the clinical parameters and outcomes in patients with NPC.

Methods

In this study, we used immunohistochemistry to evaluate HLA-F expression in 74 paraffin-embedded NPC tissue sections and then analysed the association between HLA-F expression and clinical parameters and outcomes. The plasma concentration of soluble HLA-F (sHLA-F) in NPC patients and normal controls was also detected, via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Low, moderate, and high HLA-F expression levels were observed in 47.3% (35/74), 35.1% (26/74), and 17.6% (13/74), respectively, of the tissue samples. HLA-F expression showed a significant correlation with local recurrence (p = 0.037) and distant metastasis (p = 0.024) and was also an independent factor for local recurrence-free survival (LRFS; p = 0.016) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS; p = 0.004). Although the mean concentration of plasma sHLA-F in the NPC patients was higher than that in the normal controls (13.63 pg/ml vs. 10.06 pg/ml), no statistical significance was observed (p = 0.118).

Conclusions

Our study provides the first evidence that high HLA-F expression is associated with NPC local recurrence and distant metastasis and may be regarded as a poor prognostic factor for NPC patients. Additional studies using larger sample sizes may be necessary to determine whether sHLA-F is a feasible NPC diagnostic indicator.

Follistatin-Like Protein-1 Upregulates Dendritic Cell-Based Immunity in Patients with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

Follistatin-like protein-1 (FSTL1) is an inflammatory factor that can induce an inflammatory response and is expressed in cancers. However, little is known about its content and function in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-4 are primarily secreted by dendritic cells (DCs) and activated T lymphocytes, respectively; these factors can induce Th cell differentiation and cytotoxic lymphocyte production, both of which facilitate tumors through the STAT4 and STAT6 pathways, respectively. In this study, the relationship between FSTL1 and both IL-12 and IL-4 as well as the functional mechanism of these cytokines was explored. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, and Western blotting were used to assess the levels of key inflammatory factors and DC markers as well as elucidate the mechanism by which FSTL-1 mediates and exerts it antitumor effects. The results revealed that serum FSTL1 and IL-12 levels were significantly decreased in NPC patients compared with those in the control group (P < 0.05); conversely, IL-4 levels were increased (P < 0.05). Supernatants from the experimental groups (EGs) contained higher IL-4 and IL-12 levels than those from the control groups (P < 0.05). Additionally, phosphorylated-STAT6 and phosphorylated-STAT4 were increased in the EGs (P < 0.05). These results suggest that DC-mediated immunity was activated by FSTL1, which leads to an increase of IL-12 and IL-4 production and consequently activates the STAT4 and STAT6 pathways through upregulation of STAT4 and STAT6 phosphorylation, respectively.

Human Endophthalmitis Caused By Pseudorabies Virus Infection, China, 2017

We report human endophthalmitis caused by pseudorabies virus infection after exposure to sewage on a hog farm in China. High-throughput sequencing and real-time PCR of vitreous humor showed pseudorabies virus sequences. This case showed that pseudorabies virus might infect humans after direct contact with contaminants.

Epstein-Barr virus infection and nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with multiple types of human cancer, including lymphoid and epithelial cancers. The closest association with EBV infection is seen in undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), which is endemic in the southern Chinese population. A strong association between NPC risk and the HLA locus at chromosome 6p has been identified, indicating a link between the presentation of EBV antigens to host immune cells and NPC risk. EBV infection in NPC is clonal in origin, strongly suggesting that NPC develops from the clonal expansion of a single EBV-infected cell. In epithelial cells, the default program of EBV infection is lytic replication. However, latent infection is the predominant mode of EBV infection in NPC. The establishment of latent EBV infection in pre-invasive nasopharyngeal epithelium is believed to be an early stage of NPC pathogenesis. Recent genomic study of NPC has identified multiple somatic mutations in the upstream negative regulators of NF-κB signalling. Dysregulated NF-κB signalling may contribute to the establishment of latent EBV infection in NPC. Stable EBV infection and the expression of latent EBV genes are postulated to drive the transformation of pre-invasive nasopharyngeal epithelial cells to cancer cells through multiple pathways.This article is part of the themed issue 'Human oncogenic viruses'.

[Mechanism of Platycarya strobilacea Sieb. et Zucc extract-induced methuosis in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma CNE1 and CNE2 cells]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of Platycarya strobilacea Sieb. et Zucc (PSZ) extract on methuosis of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma CNE1 and CNE2 cells and explore the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

CNE1 and CNE2 cells were treated with 1 mg/mL PSZ extract and the expressions of Rac1 mRNA and Rac1 protein were detected using RT-qPCR and Western blotting, respectively. Results CNE1 and CNE2 cells showed obvious morphological changes typical of methuosis following treatment with PSZ extract characterized by cell merging, accumulation of large cytoplasmic vacuoles, and membrane rupture without obvious changes in the nuclei. PSZ treatment resulted in up-regulated Rac1 mRNA and Rac1 protein expressions in the cells. Application of EHT 1864 obviously blocked the effect of PSZ extract in inducing methuosis in CNE1 and CNE2 cells.

CONCLUSION

PSZ extract can induce methuosis in CNE1 and CNE2 cells by inducing the overexpression of Rac1.

Association of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in DC-SIGN with Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Susceptibility

The aim of this study was to explore potential relationships of four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene encoding dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule 3-grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN) with risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The DC-SIGN SNPs rs7252229, rs4804803, rs2287886, and rs735240 were genotyped in 477 unrelated NPC patients and 561 cancer-free controls. At rs7252229, risk of NPC was significantly lower in individuals with GC (odds ratio [OR] 0.076, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.008-0.690), GG (OR 0.056, 95%CI 0.006-0.487), or GC + GG (OR 0.059, 95%CI 0.007-0.515) than in individuals with the CC genotype, after adjusting for age, gender, smoking history, and EBV-VCA-IgA status. At rs4804803, risk of NPC was significantly higher in individuals with the genotype GG than in those with the genotype AA (adjusted OR 9.038, 95%CI 1.708-47.822). At rs735240, risk of NPC did not change significantly with genotypes AG, GG, or AG + GG after adjusting for age, gender, and smoking history. However, when data were also adjusted for EBV-VCA-IgA status, three genotypes emerged as associated with significantly higher risk of NPC than the AA genotype: AG (OR 2.976, 95%CI 1.123-7.888), GG (OR 3.314, 95%CI 1.274-8.622), or GG + AG (OR 3.191, 95%CI 1.237-8.230). Our results suggest that DC-SIGN SNPs rs7252229, rs4804803, and rs735240 may influence NPC risk in the Chinese population. The mechanisms mediating this risk require a further study.

Berberine inhibits the proliferation of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells via an Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen 1-dependent mechanism

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignancy derived from the epithelial cells of the nasopharynx cavity, and is closely associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. In addition to NPC, EBV causes various human malignancies, such as gastric cancer, hematological tumors and lymphoepithelioma-like carcinomas. Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1) encoded by EBV is indispensable for replication, partition, transcription and maintenance of viral genomes. Berberine, a naturally occurring isoquinoline alkaloid, shows anti-inflammatory, anticholinergic, antioxidative, and anticancer activities. In the present study, the antitumor effect of berberine was studied. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assays were performed to demonstrate whether the proliferation of EBV-positive NPC cells was inhibited by berberine. Flow cytometric results revealed that berberine induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Quantitative-PCR and western blotting results indicated that berberine decreased the expression of EBNA1 at both the mRNA and protein levels in the EBV-positive NPC cells. The function of EBNA1 promoter Qp which is to drive EBNA1 transcription in type Ⅱ latent infection was strongly suppressed by berberine. Overexpression of EBNA1 attenuated this inhibitory effect. Berberine also suppressed the activity of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 which is a new therapeutic target in a series of malignancies, including NPC. Viral titer experiments demonstrated that berberine decreased the production of virions in HONE1 and HK1-EBV cells. In a mouse xenograft model of NPC induced by HONE1 cells, berberine significantly inhibited tumor formation. Altogether, these results indicate that berberine decreases the expression of EBNA1 and exhibits an antitumor effect against NPC both in vitro and in vivo.

A human Fab exclusively binding to the extracellular domain of LMP2A

In the areas of North Africa, Southeast Asia as well as South China, Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is among the most widespread cancers. Plenty of research findings confirmed that Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) played a crucial role in NPC. EBV-encoded Latent membrane protein 2A (LMP2A) which continuously expressed in cell membrane protein induced an epithelial-mesenchymal transition and increased the number of side population stem-like cancer cells in NPC. This reveals that LMP2A could contribute to the development and recurrence in NPC. Above evidences suggest that LMP2A could be the potential target molecule in the treatment of NPC. In the current study, a novel human antibody Fab (Fab29) against the extracellular domain of LMP2A was produced with success. Through immunofluorescence experiment it was proved that human antibody Fab29 exclusively combined the surface of SUNE cells (LMP2A-positive). Then flow cytometry result exhibited that the fluorescent intensities of SUNE cells and CNE cells were distinct (96.89% and 0.02% respectively). After that, it was shown by affinity test that the Fab29 fragment had high affinity (KD (M) 1.79E-09) with LMP2A. It was also revealed by immunohistochemical analysis that the Fab29 fragment could combine with LMP2A-positive human NPC tissues in comparison with the control group. Finally, the MTT result indicated that the Fab29 fragment could inhibit the proliferation of LMP2A-positive NPC cells. The inhibiting rate to SUNE cell proliferation reached a peak by Fab29 (19.67%) compared with unrelated Fab and CNE with Fab29 at a concentration of 500 μg/L in first 24 h and in the next 24 h the inhibition rate grew to 22.54%. In brief, it was shown that Fab29, a characteristic human antibody, could recognize LMP2A protein and inhibit the proliferation of LMP2A-expressing NPC cells in vitro.

Follistatin-like protein 1 contributes to dendritic cell and T-lymphocyte activation in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients by altering nuclear factor κb and Jun N-terminal kinase expression

Follistatin‐like protein 1 (FSTL1) is a newly characterized protein that can regulate the immune response in various ways. Dendritic cells (DCs) are central to immune regulation. In this study, we explored the impact of FSTL1 on DC activity in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients. The surface expression of CD40, CD86, and HLA‐DR on DCs was analyzed and showed significantly elevated expression levels, indicating DC maturity. After FSTL1 was added to DCs collected from NPC patients (n = 50), controls (n = 47), and healthy donors (n = 10), interferon γ secretion and T‐cell receptor expression in cytotoxic T lymphocytes were also investigated. In the experimental groups, the expression of the critical immune protein nuclear factor (NF)‐κb was upregulated, whereas Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) was downregulated. Our findings demonstrate that FSTL1 plays a critical role in immune regulation, enhancing the antigen presentation ability of DCs by up‐regulating NF‐κb expression and down‐regulating JNK expression.

Correlation of TP53 and MDM2 genotypes and clinical outcome in platinum-treated head and neck cancer patients with more than 10 years' follow-up

PURPOSE

Adequate biomarkers are still required to optimize therapy in patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous carcinomas (HNSCC) treated with chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

METHODS

We updated the follow-up of 66 HNSCC patients treated with CRT we described more than 10 years ago, focusing on SNP Arg/Pro (R/P) at codon 72 and somatic mutations in TP53 and on SNP309 in the MDM2 gene.

RESULTS

In wild-type TP53 cases, overall survival (OS) was longer in 72RR and less favorable in 72PP (p = 0.005); when TP53 was mutated, OS was longest in 72PP and less favorable in 72RR and 72RP (p = 0.058). Median OS was significantly shorter in patients with MDM2 SNP309 GG or GT genotypes compared with the TT genotype (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

TP53 SNP72 may be useful in selecting patients for CRT, but has to be related to somatic TP53 mutations. The MDM2 SNP309, easily determined in peripheral blood, might be more convenient as a predictive biomarker.

HYOU1, Regulated by LPLUNC1, Is Up-Regulated in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma and Associated with Poor Prognosis

Objective: This study aims to investigate the roles and mechanisms of long palate, lung and nasal epithelium clone 1 (LPLUNC1) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods: The two-dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis (2-D DIGE) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-TOF-MS/MS) was applied to identify differentially expressed proteins after over-expressing LPLUNC1 in NPC cells. The qRT-PCR and Western Blot were used to further validate differentially expression of Hypoxia up-regulated 1 (HYOU1). We also applied immunohistochemistry (IHC) to validate the expression of HYOU1 protein in NPC tissues.

Results: Totally 44 differentially expressed proteins were identified, among which 19 proteins were up-regulated and 25 proteins were down-regulated. Function annotation indicated that these proteins were involved in molecular chaperone, cytoskeleton, metabolism and signal transduction. It was shown that the expression of HYOU1 both at mRNA level and protein level was up-regulated significantly in NPC tissues, and HYOU1 protein expression was positively correlated with clinical staging and metastasis of NPC. Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed that high expression of HYOU1 protein in NPC patients had shorter progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). COX multivariate regression analysis further indicated that over-expressed HYOU1 was one of the predictors for poor prognosis in NPC patients.

Conclusion: Through regulating proteins in different pathways, LPLUNC1 may inhibit the growth of NPC through participating in cell metabolism, proliferation, transcription and signaling transduction. HYOU1 can be regarded as potential molecular biomarker for progression and prognosis of NPC.