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Bindu S, Bibi R, Pradeep R, Sarkar K. The evolving role of B cells in malignancies. Hum Immunol 2025; 86:111301. [PMID: 40132250 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2025.111301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2025] [Accepted: 03/19/2025] [Indexed: 03/27/2025]
Abstract
B cells play diverse roles in different pathological circumstances, such as neoplastic diseases, autoimmune disorders, and neurological maladies. B cells, which are essential elements of the adaptive immune system, demonstrate exceptional functional variety, including the generation of antibodies, the presentation of antigens, and the secretion of cytokines. Within the field of oncology, B cells display a multifaceted nature in the tumor microenvironment, simultaneously manifesting both tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressing characteristics. Studies have found that the existence of tertiary lymphoid structures, which consist of B cells, is linked to better survival rates in different types of cancers. This article examines the involvement of B cells in different types of malignancies, emphasizing their importance in the development of the diseases and their potential as biomarkers. Additionally, the review also examines the crucial role of B cells in autoimmune illnesses and their potential as targets for therapy. The article also analyses the role of B cells in immunization and exploring their potential uses in cancer immunotherapy. This analysis highlights the intricate and occasionally contradictory roles of B cells, underlining the necessity for additional research to clarify their varied actions in various illness scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soham Bindu
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 603203, India
| | - Roshni Bibi
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 603203, India
| | - R Pradeep
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 603203, India
| | - Koustav Sarkar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 603203, India.
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2
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Qian BZ, Ma RY. Immune Microenvironment in Breast Cancer Metastasis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2025; 1464:413-432. [PMID: 39821036 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-70875-6_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2025]
Abstract
Metastatic disease is the final stage of breast cancer that accounts for vast majority of patient death. Mounting data over recent years strongly support the critical roles of the immune microenvironment in determining breast cancer metastasis. The latest single-cell studies provide further molecular evidence illustrating the heterogeneity of this immune microenvironment. This chapter summarizes major discoveries on the role of various immune cells in metastasis progression and discusses future research opportunities. Studies investigating immune heterogeneity within primary breast cancer and across different metastasis target organs can potentially lead to more precise treatment strategies with improved efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin-Zhi Qian
- Department of Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Zhangjiang-Fudan International Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, The Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Ruo-Yu Ma
- Department of Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Zhangjiang-Fudan International Innovation Center, Shanghai Medical College, The Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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3
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Azzouz D, Palaniyar N. How Do ROS Induce NETosis? Oxidative DNA Damage, DNA Repair, and Chromatin Decondensation. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1307. [PMID: 39456240 PMCID: PMC11505619 DOI: 10.3390/biom14101307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 09/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are intricate, DNA-based, web-like structures adorned with cytotoxic proteins. They play a crucial role in antimicrobial defense but are also implicated in autoimmune diseases and tissue injury. The process of NET formation, known as NETosis, is a regulated cell death mechanism that involves the release of these structures and is unique to neutrophils. NETosis is heavily dependent on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can be generated either through NADPH oxidase (NOX) or mitochondrial pathways, leading to NOX-dependent or NOX-independent NETosis, respectively. Recent research has revealed an intricate interplay between ROS production, DNA repair, and NET formation in different contexts. UV radiation can trigger a combined process of NETosis and apoptosis, known as apoNETosis, driven by mitochondrial ROS and DNA repair. Similarly, in calcium ionophore-induced NETosis, both ROS and DNA repair are key components, but only play a partial role. In the case of bacterial infections, the early stages of DNA repair are pivotal. Interestingly, in serum-free conditions, spontaneous NETosis occurs through NOX-derived ROS, with early-stage DNA repair inhibition halting the process, while late-stage inhibition increases it. The intricate balance between DNA repair processes and ROS production appears to be a critical factor in regulating NET formation, with different pathways being activated depending on the nature of the stimulus. These findings not only deepen our understanding of the mechanisms behind NETosis but also suggest potential therapeutic targets for conditions where NETs contribute to disease pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhia Azzouz
- Translational Medicine, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Nades Palaniyar
- Translational Medicine, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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4
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Santiso A, Heinemann A, Kargl J. Prostaglandin E2 in the Tumor Microenvironment, a Convoluted Affair Mediated by EP Receptors 2 and 4. Pharmacol Rev 2024; 76:388-413. [PMID: 38697857 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.123.000901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The involvement of the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) system in cancer progression has long been recognized. PGE2 functions as an autocrine and paracrine signaling molecule with pleiotropic effects in the human body. High levels of intratumoral PGE2 and overexpression of the key metabolic enzymes of PGE2 have been observed and suggested to contribute to tumor progression. This has been claimed for different types of solid tumors, including, but not limited to, lung, breast, and colon cancer. PGE2 has direct effects on tumor cells and angiogenesis that are known to promote tumor development. However, one of the main mechanisms behind PGE2 driving cancerogenesis is currently thought to be anchored in suppressed antitumor immunity, thus providing possible therapeutic targets to be used in cancer immunotherapies. EP2 and EP4, two receptors for PGE2, are emerging as being the most relevant for this purpose. This review aims to summarize the known roles of PGE2 in the immune system and its functions within the tumor microenvironment. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) has long been known to be a signaling molecule in cancer. Its presence in tumors has been repeatedly associated with disease progression. Elucidation of its effects on immunological components of the tumor microenvironment has highlighted the potential of PGE2 receptor antagonists in cancer treatment, particularly in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitor therapeutics. Adjuvant treatment could increase the response rates and the efficacy of immune-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Santiso
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Akos Heinemann
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Julia Kargl
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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5
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Kellermann G, Leulliot N, Cherfils-Vicini J, Blaud M, Brest P. Activated B-Cells enhance epitope spreading to support successful cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1382236. [PMID: 38571942 PMCID: PMC10989059 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1382236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint therapies (ICT) have transformed the treatment of cancer over the past decade. However, many patients do not respond or suffer relapses. Successful immunotherapy requires epitope spreading, but the slow or inefficient induction of functional antitumoral immunity delays the benefit to patients or causes resistances. Therefore, understanding the key mechanisms that support epitope spreading is essential to improve immunotherapy. In this review, we highlight the major role played by B-cells in breaking immune tolerance by epitope spreading. Activated B-cells are key Antigen-Presenting Cells (APC) that diversify the T-cell response against self-antigens, such as ribonucleoproteins, in autoimmunity but also during successful cancer immunotherapy. This has important implications for the design of future cancer vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicolas Leulliot
- Université Paris Cité, Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Cibles Thérapeutiques et Conception de Médicaments (CiTCoM), Paris, France
| | - Julien Cherfils-Vicini
- Université Côte d’Azur, Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, Nice (IRCAN), Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), Centre Antoine Lacassagne, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU), RESPIRera, Fédérations Hospitalo-Universitaires (FHU)OncoAge, Nice, France
| | - Magali Blaud
- Université Paris Cité, Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Cibles Thérapeutiques et Conception de Médicaments (CiTCoM), Paris, France
| | - Patrick Brest
- Université Côte d’Azur, Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, Nice (IRCAN), Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), Centre Antoine Lacassagne, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU), RESPIRera, Fédérations Hospitalo-Universitaires (FHU)OncoAge, Nice, France
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6
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Walters AA, Ali A, Wang JTW, Al-Jamal KT. Anti-tumor antibody isotype response can be modified with locally administered immunoadjuvants. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023; 13:2032-2040. [PMID: 36417163 PMCID: PMC10238356 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-022-01258-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In situ vaccination with immunostimulatory compounds is a demonstrated means to treat tumors preclinically. While these therapeutic effects have been attributed to the actions of T cells or innate immune activation, characterisation of the humoral immune response is seldom performed. This study aims to identify whether the injection of immunoadjuvants, Addavax (Adda) and cytosine-phosphorothioate-guanine oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG), intratumorally can influence the antibody response. Specifically, whether intratumoral injection of immunoadjuvants can alter the tumor-specific antibody target, titre and isotype. Following this, the study aimed to investigate whether serum obtained from in situ vaccinated mice could neutralise circulating tumor cells. Serum was obtained from mice bearing B16F10-OVA-Luc-GFP tumors treated with immunoadjuvants. Antibody targets' titre and isotype were assessed by indirect ELISA. The ability of serum to neutralise circulating cancer cells was evaluated in a B16F10 pseudo-metastatic model. It was observed that tumor-bearing mice mount a specific anti-tumor antibody response. Antibody titre and target were unaffected by in situ vaccination with immunoadjuvants; however, a higher amount of IgG2c was produced in mice receiving Adda plus CpG. Serum from in situ vaccinated mice was unable to neutralise circulating B16F10 cells. Thus, this study has demonstrated that anti-tumor antibody isotype may be modified using in situ vaccination; however, this alone is not sufficient to neutralise circulating cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam A Walters
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Abrar Ali
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Julie Tzu-Wen Wang
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Khuloud T Al-Jamal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, UK.
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7
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Lam BM, Verrill C. Clinical Significance of Tumour-Infiltrating B Lymphocytes (TIL-Bs) in Breast Cancer: A Systematic Literature Review. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041164. [PMID: 36831506 PMCID: PMC9953777 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041164] [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: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Although T lymphocytes have been considered the major players in the tumour microenvironment to induce tumour regression and contribute to anti-tumour immunity, much less is known about the role of tumour-infiltrating B lymphocytes (TIL-Bs) in solid malignancies, particularly in breast cancer, which has been regarded as heterogeneous and much less immunogenic compared to other common tumours like melanoma, colorectal cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Such paucity of research could translate to limited opportunities for this most common type of cancer in the UK to join the immunotherapy efforts in this era of precision medicine. Here, we provide a systematic literature review assessing the clinical significance of TIL-Bs in breast cancer. Articles published between January 2000 and April 2022 were retrieved via an electronic search of two databases (PubMed and Embase) and screened against pre-specified eligibility criteria. The majority of studies reported favourable prognostic and predictive roles of TIL-Bs, indicating that they could have a profound impact on the clinical outcome of breast cancer. Further studies are, however, needed to better define the functional role of B cell subpopulations and to discover ways to harness this intrinsic mechanism in the fight against breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian M. Lam
- Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Clare Verrill
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Department of Cellular Pathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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8
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Wu H, Chen C, Gu L, Li J, Yue Y, Lyu M, Cui Y, Zhang X, Liu Y, Zhu H, Liao X, Zhang T, Sun F, Hu W. B cell deficiency promotes the initiation and progression of lung cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1006477. [PMID: 36249034 PMCID: PMC9556970 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1006477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently commercialized CAR-T cell therapies targeting CD19 and BCMA show great efficacy to cure B cell malignancies. However, intravenous infusion of these CAR-T cells severely destroys both transformed and normal B cells in most tissues and organs, in particular lung, leading to a critical question that what the impact of normal B cell depletion on pulmonary diseases and lung cancer is. Herein, we find that B cell frequency is remarkably reduced in both smoking carcinogen-treated lung tissues and lung tumors, which is associated with advanced cancer progression and worse patient survival. B cell depletion by anti-CD20 antibody significantly accelerates the initiation and progression of lung tumors, which is mediated by repressed tumor infiltration of T cells and macrophage elimination of tumor cells. These findings unveil the overall antitumor activity of B cells in lung cancer, providing novel insights into both mechanisms underlying lung cancer pathogenesis and clinical prevention post CAR-T cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wu
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Biological Repositories, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lixing Gu
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Science, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiapeng Li
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- College of Science, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunqiang Yue
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengqing Lyu
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yeting Cui
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Liu
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haichuan Zhu
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinghua Liao
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tongcun Zhang
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Tongcun Zhang, ; Fan Sun, ; Weidong Hu,
| | - Fan Sun
- College of Life Sciences and Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Institute of Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Tongcun Zhang, ; Fan Sun, ; Weidong Hu,
| | - Weidong Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Tongcun Zhang, ; Fan Sun, ; Weidong Hu,
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9
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Delvecchio FR, Goulart MR, Fincham REA, Bombadieri M, Kocher HM. B cells in pancreatic cancer stroma. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:1088-1101. [PMID: 35431504 PMCID: PMC8985484 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i11.1088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a disease with high unmet clinical need. Pancreatic cancer is also characterised by an intense fibrotic stroma, which harbours many immune cells. Studies in both human and animal models have demonstrated that the immune system plays a crucial role in modulating tumour onset and progression. In human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, high B-cell infiltration correlates with better patient survival. Hence, B cells have received recent interest in pancreatic cancer as potential therapeutic targets. However, the data on the role of B cells in murine models is unclear as it is dependent on the pancreatic cancer model used to study. Nevertheless, it appears that B cells do organise along with other immune cells such as a network of follicular dendritic cells (DCs), surrounded by T cells and DCs to form tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS). TLS are increasingly recognised as sites for antigen presentation, T-cell activation, B-cell maturation and differentiation in plasma cells. In this review we dissect the role of B cells and provide directions for future studies to harness the role of B cells in treatment of human pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Romana Delvecchio
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle R Goulart
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | | | - Michele Bombadieri
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
| | - Hemant M Kocher
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom
- Barts and the London HPB Centre, Barts Health NHS Trust, London E1 1BB, United Kingdom
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10
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Shklovskaya E, Rizos H. MHC Class I Deficiency in Solid Tumors and Therapeutic Strategies to Overcome It. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136741. [PMID: 34201655 PMCID: PMC8268865 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
It is now well accepted that the immune system can control cancer growth. However, tumors escape immune-mediated control through multiple mechanisms and the downregulation or loss of major histocompatibility class (MHC)-I molecules is a common immune escape mechanism in many cancers. MHC-I molecules present antigenic peptides to cytotoxic T cells, and MHC-I loss can render tumor cells invisible to the immune system. In this review, we examine the dysregulation of MHC-I expression in cancer, explore the nature of MHC-I-bound antigenic peptides recognized by immune cells, and discuss therapeutic strategies that can be used to overcome MHC-I deficiency in solid tumors, with a focus on the role of natural killer (NK) cells and CD4 T cells.
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11
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de Jonge K, Tillé L, Lourenco J, Maby-El Hajjami H, Nassiri S, Racle J, Gfeller D, Delorenzi M, Verdeil G, Baumgaertner P, Speiser DE. Inflammatory B cells correlate with failure to checkpoint blockade in melanoma patients. Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1873585. [PMID: 33643691 PMCID: PMC7872097 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1873585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The understanding of the role of B cells in patients with solid tumors remains insufficient. We found that circulating B cells produced TNFα and/or IL-6, associated with unresponsiveness and poor overall survival of melanoma patients treated with anti-CTLA4 antibody. Transcriptome analysis of B cells from melanoma metastases showed enriched expression of inflammatory response genes. Publicly available single B cell data from the tumor microenvironment revealed a negative correlation between TNFα expression and response to immune checkpoint blockade. These findings suggest that B cells contribute to tumor growth via the production of inflammatory cytokines. Possibly, these B cells are different from tertiary lymphoid structure-associated B cells, which have been described to correlate with favorable clinical outcome of cancer patients. Further studies are required to identify and characterize B cell subsets and their functions promoting or counteracting tumor growth, with the aim to identify biomarkers and novel treatment targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaat de Jonge
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Laure Tillé
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Joao Lourenco
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Sina Nassiri
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland.,Bioinformatics Core Facility, SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Julien Racle
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Gfeller
- Department of Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mauro Delorenzi
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Grégory Verdeil
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Petra Baumgaertner
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Daniel E Speiser
- Department of Fundamental Oncology, University of Lausanne, Epalinges, Switzerland.,Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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12
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Höppener DJ, Nierop PMH, Hof J, Sideras K, Zhou G, Visser L, Gouw ASH, de Jong KP, Sprengers D, Kwekkeboom J, Vermeulen PB, Grünhagen DJ, Verhoef C. Enrichment of the tumour immune microenvironment in patients with desmoplastic colorectal liver metastasis. Br J Cancer 2020; 123:196-206. [PMID: 32418992 PMCID: PMC7374625 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-0881-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with resected colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) who display only the desmoplastic histopathological growth pattern (dHGP) exhibit superior survival compared to patients with any non-desmoplastic growth (non-dHGP). The aim of this study was to compare the tumour microenvironment between dHGP and non-dHGP. METHODS The tumour microenvironment was investigated in three cohorts of chemo-naive patients surgically treated for CRLM. In cohort A semi-quantitative immunohistochemistry was performed, in cohort B intratumoural and peritumoural T cells were counted using immunohistochemistry and digital image analysis, and in cohort C the relative proportions of individual T cell subsets were determined by flow cytometry. RESULTS One hundred and seventeen, 34, and 79 patients were included in cohorts A, B, and C, with dHGP being observed in 27%, 29%, and 15% of patients, respectively. Cohorts A and B independently demonstrated peritumoural and intratumoural enrichment of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells in dHGP, as well as a higher CD8+/CD4+ ratio (cohort A). Flow cytometric analysis of fresh tumour tissues in cohort C confirmed these results; dHGP was associated with higher CD8+ and lower CD4+ T cell subsets, resulting in a higher CD8+/CD4+ ratio. CONCLUSION The tumour microenvironment of patients with dHGP is characterised by an increased and distinctly cytotoxic immune infiltrate, providing a potential explanation for their superior survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diederik J Höppener
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter M H Nierop
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Hof
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Kostandinos Sideras
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guoying Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lydia Visser
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annette S H Gouw
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Koert P de Jong
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dave Sprengers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap Kwekkeboom
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter B Vermeulen
- Translational Cancer Research Unit (GZA Hospitals and University of Antwerp), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Dirk J Grünhagen
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis Verhoef
- Department of Surgical Oncology and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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13
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Chen VE, Greenberger BA, Taylor JM, Edelman MJ, Lu B. The Underappreciated Role of the Humoral Immune System and B Cells in Tumorigenesis and Cancer Therapeutics: A Review. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2020; 108:38-45. [PMID: 32251756 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2020.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The advent of immunotherapy has ushered in a new era in both cancer research and cancer treatment strategies. Published reviews have described potential mechanisms for therapeutic synergisms from the combination of radiation therapy and immunotherapy, largely overlooking the role of humoral immunity by only focusing on cellular immunity. Given that these 2 branches of the immune system are highly interdependent, in this review we detail both what has already been established regarding the role of humoral immunity in cancer and propose potential avenues that are ripe for further investigation and potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor E Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College & Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Benjamin A Greenberger
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College & Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - James M Taylor
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College & Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Martin J Edelman
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Bo Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College & Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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14
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Hof J, Visser L, Höppener DJ, Nierop PMH, Terpstra MM, Gouw ASH, Grünhagen DJ, Verhoef C, Sijmons RH, de Jong KP, Kok K. B Cells as Prognostic Biomarker After Surgery for Colorectal Liver Metastases. Front Oncol 2020; 10:249. [PMID: 32195184 PMCID: PMC7066250 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The aim of this study was to identify more accurate variables to improve prognostication of individual patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). Clinicopathological characteristics only partly explain the large range in survival rates. Methods: MessengerRNA expression profiles of resected CRLM of two patient groups were analysed by mRNA sequencing: poor survivors (death from recurrent disease <30 months after surgery) and good survivors (no recurrent disease >60 months after surgery). Tumour and adjacent liver parenchyma samples were analysed. Results: MessengerRNA expression profiling of the tumour samples identified 77 genes that were differentially expressed between the two survival groups at a False Discovery Rate (FDR) <0.1. In the adjacent liver parenchyma samples only one gene, MTRNR2L1, showed significantly higher expression in the good survivors. Pathway analysis showed higher expression of immune-related and stroma-related genes in tumour samples from good survivors. Expression data was then validated by immunohistochemistry in two cohorts comprising a total of 125 patients. Immunohistochemical markers that showed to be associated with good survival in the total cohort were: high K/L+ infiltration in tumour stroma [p = 0.029; OR 2.500 (95% CI 1.100-5.682)] and high CD79A+ infiltration in tumour stroma [p = 0.036; OR 2.428 (95%CI 1.062-5.552)]. Conclusions: A high stromal infiltration of CD79A+ B cells and K/L+ plasma cells might be favourable prognostic biomarkers after surgery for CRLM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost Hof
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.,Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Lydia Visser
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Diederik J Höppener
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Pieter M H Nierop
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Miente M Terpstra
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Annette S H Gouw
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Dirk J Grünhagen
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Cornelis Verhoef
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rolf H Sijmons
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Koert P de Jong
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Klaas Kok
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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15
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Pembrolizumab for anaplastic thyroid cancer: a case study. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2019; 68:1921-1934. [PMID: 31637475 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-019-02416-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Blockade of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway with targeted monoclonal antibodies has demonstrated encouraging anti-tumour activity in multiple cancer types. We present the case of a patient with BRAF-negative stage IVC anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) treated with the anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody, pembrolizumab, following radiographic progression on chemoradiation. Blood samples were collected prior to and at four time points during treatment with pembrolizumab. Mass cytometry was used to determine expression of relevant biomarkers by peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Faecal samples were collected at baseline and 4 weeks following treatment initiation; taxonomic profiling using 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing was performed. Following treatment, a marked expansion in CD20+ B cell, CD16+ CD56lo NK cell and CD45RO+ CCR7+ central memory CD4+ T-cell populations was observed in the peripheral blood. Proportions of cells expressing the co-receptors TIGIT, OX40 and CD86 also increased during treatment. A high abundance of bacteria of the order Bacteroidales, specifically from the Bacteroidaceae and Rikenellaceae families, was identified in the faecal microbiota. Moreover, the patient's microbiome was enriched in Clostridiales order members Ruminococcaceae, Veillonellaceae and Lachnospiraceae. Alpha diversity of the gut microbiome was significantly higher following initiation of checkpoint therapy as assessed by the Shannon and Simpson index. Our results suggest that treatment with pembrolizumab promotes expansion of T-, B- and NK cell populations in the peripheral blood at the time of tumour regression and have the potential to be implemented as predictive biomarkers in the context of checkpoint blockade therapy. Larger studies to confirm these findings are warranted.
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16
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Zhao KL, Yang XJ, Jin HZ, Zhao L, Hu JL, Qin WJ. Double-edge Role of B Cells in Tumor Immunity: Potential Molecular Mechanism. Curr Med Sci 2019; 39:685-689. [PMID: 31612383 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-019-2092-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
B cells are a heterogeneous population, which have distinct functions of antigen presentation, activating T cells, and secreting antibodies, cytokines as well as protease. It is supposed that the balance among these B cells subpopulation (resting B cells, activated B cells, Bregs, and other differentiated B cells) will determine the ultimate role of B cells in tumor immunity. There has been increasing evidence supporting opposite roles of B cells in tumor immunity, though there are no general acceptable phenotypes for them. Recent years, a new designated subset of B cells identified as Bregs has emerged from immunosuppressive and/or regulatory functions in tumor immune responses. Therefore, transferring activated B cells would be possible to become a promising strategy against tumor via conquering the immunosuppressive status of B cells in future. Understanding the potential mechanism of double-edge role of B cells will help researchers utilize activated B cells to improve their anti-tumor response. Moreover, the molecular pathways related to B cell differentiation are involved in its tumor-promoting effect, such as NF-κB, STAT3, BTK. So, we review the molecular and signaling pathway mechanisms of B cells involved in both tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressive immunity, in order to help researchers optimize B cells to fight cancer better.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Liang Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Xiao-Jia Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Hong-Zhong Jin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Jian-Li Hu
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Wen-Juan Qin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361001, China.
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17
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Silina K, Kroeger D. Editorial: Immune Outposts on the Inflammatory Frontier: Tertiary Lymphoid Structures as Targets for Immunotherapy of Cancer and Autoimmunity. Front Immunol 2019; 10:993. [PMID: 31130966 PMCID: PMC6509549 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Karina Silina
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Kroeger
- Formerly Deeley Research Centre, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Victoria, BC, Canada
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18
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Poultsidi A, Dimopoulos Y, He TF, Chavakis T, Saloustros E, Lee PP, Petrovas C. Lymph Node Cellular Dynamics in Cancer and HIV: What Can We Learn for the Follicular CD4 (Tfh) Cells? Front Immunol 2018; 9:2233. [PMID: 30319664 PMCID: PMC6170630 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymph nodes (LNs) are central in the generation of adaptive immune responses. Follicular helper CD4 T (Tfh) cells, a highly differentiated CD4 population, provide critical help for the development of antigen-specific B cell responses within the germinal center. Throughout the past decade, numerous studies have revealed the important role of Tfh cells in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) pathogenesis as well as in the development of neutralizing antibodies post-infection and post-vaccination. It has also been established that tumors influence various immune cell subsets not only in their proximity, but also in draining lymph nodes. The role of local or tumor associated lymph node Tfh cells in disease progression is emerging. Comparative studies of Tfh cells in chronic infections and cancer could therefore provide novel information with regards to their differentiation plasticity and to the mechanisms regulating their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antigoni Poultsidi
- Department of Surgery, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Yiannis Dimopoulos
- Tissue Analysis Core, Immunology Laboratory, Vaccine Research Center, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Ting-Fang He
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, United States
| | - Triantafyllos Chavakis
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Emmanouil Saloustros
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Peter P Lee
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, United States
| | - Constantinos Petrovas
- Tissue Analysis Core, Immunology Laboratory, Vaccine Research Center, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
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19
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Haro M, Orsulic S. A Paradoxical Correlation of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts With Survival Outcomes in B-Cell Lymphomas and Carcinomas. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:98. [PMID: 30211161 PMCID: PMC6120974 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is increasingly recognized as an active participant in tumor progression. A recent pan-cancer genomic profile analysis has revealed that gene signatures representing components of the tumor microenvironment are robust predictors of survival. A stromal gene signature representing fibroblasts and extracellular matrix components has been associated with good survival in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Paradoxically, a closely related gene signature has been shown to correlate with poor survival in carcinomas, including breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and colorectal cancer. To date, there has been no explanation for this paradoxical inverse correlation with survival outcomes in DLBCL and carcinomas. Using public gene data sets, we confirm that the DLBCL stromal gene signature is associated with good survival in DLBCL and several other B-cell lymphomas while it is associated with poor survival in ovarian cancer and several other solid tumors. We show that the DLBCL stromal gene signature is enriched in lymphoid fibroblasts in normal lymph nodes and in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in ovarian cancer. Based on these findings, we propose several possible mechanisms by which CAFs may contribute to opposite survival outcomes in B-cell lymphomas and carcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Haro
- Women's Cancer Program at the Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Sandra Orsulic
- Women's Cancer Program at the Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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20
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Hou L, Liu Q, Shen L, Liu Y, Zhang X, Chen F, Huang L. Nano-delivery of fraxinellone remodels tumor microenvironment and facilitates therapeutic vaccination in desmoplastic melanoma. Theranostics 2018; 8:3781-3796. [PMID: 30083259 PMCID: PMC6071534 DOI: 10.7150/thno.24821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Tumor-associated fibroblasts (TAFs) play a critical role in the suppressive immune tumor microenvironment (TME), compromising the efficacy of immunotherapy. To overcome this therapeutic hurdle, we developed a nanoemulsion (NE) formulation to deliver fraxinellone (Frax), an anti-fibrotic medicine, to TAFs, as an approach to reverse immunosuppressive TME of desmoplastic melanoma. Methods: Frax NE was prepared by an ultrasonic emulsification method. The tumor inhibition effect was evaluated by immunofluorescence staining, masson trichrome staining and western blot analysis. Immune cell populations in tumor and LNs were detected by flow cytometry. Results: This Frax NE, with a particle size of around 145 nm, can efficiently accumulate in the tumor site after systemic administration and was taken up by TAFs and tumor cells. A significant decrease in TAFs and stroma deposition was observed after intravenous administration of Frax NE, and Frax NE treatment also remolded the tumor immune microenvironment, as was reflected by an increase of natural-killer cells, cytotoxic T cells (CTLs) as well as a decrease of regulatory B cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells in the TME. In addition, after treatment by Frax NEs, T helper 1 (Th1) cytokines of interferon gamma (IFN-γ), which effectively elicit anti-tumor immunity, were enhanced. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) and interleukin 6 (IL6), which inhibit the development of anti-tumor immunity, were reduced. Although Frax NE demonstrated an inhibitory effect on tumor growth, this mono-therapy could only achieve partial antitumor efficacy, and the tumor growth effect was not maintained long-term after dosing stopped. Therefore, a tumor-specific peptide vaccine was combined with Frax NEs. The combination led to enhanced tumor-specific T-cell infiltration, activated death receptors on the tumor cell surface, and induced increased apoptotic tumor cell death. Conclusion: Collectively, Frax NE combined with tumor-specific peptide vaccine might be an effective and safe strategy to remodel fibrotic TME, thereby enhancing immune response activation, resulting in a prolonged efficiency for advanced desmoplastic melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Hou
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Avenue, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of New Drug Research and Safety Evaluation, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Targeting and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Henan Province, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Limei Shen
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Yun Liu
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Xueqiong Zhang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Fengqian Chen
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, The Institute of Environmental and Human Health (TIEHH) and the Center for Biotechnology & Genomics, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79416, USA
| | - Leaf Huang
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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21
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DeFalco J, Harbell M, Manning-Bog A, Baia G, Scholz A, Millare B, Sumi M, Zhang D, Chu F, Dowd C, Zuno-Mitchell P, Kim D, Leung Y, Jiang S, Tang X, Williamson KS, Chen X, Carroll SM, Espiritu Santo G, Haaser N, Nguyen N, Giladi E, Minor D, Tan YC, Sokolove JB, Steinman L, Serafini TA, Cavet G, Greenberg NM, Glanville J, Volkmuth W, Emerling DE, Robinson WH. Non-progressing cancer patients have persistent B cell responses expressing shared antibody paratopes that target public tumor antigens. Clin Immunol 2017; 187:37-45. [PMID: 29031828 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
There is significant debate regarding whether B cells and their antibodies contribute to effective anti-cancer immune responses. Here we show that patients with metastatic but non-progressing melanoma, lung adenocarcinoma, or renal cell carcinoma exhibited increased levels of blood plasmablasts. We used a cell-barcoding technology to sequence their plasmablast antibody repertoires, revealing clonal families of affinity matured B cells that exhibit progressive class switching and persistence over time. Anti-CTLA4 and other treatments were associated with further increases in somatic hypermutation and clonal family size. Recombinant antibodies from clonal families bound non-autologous tumor tissue and cell lines, and families possessing immunoglobulin paratope sequence motifs shared across patients exhibited increased rates of binding. We identified antibodies that caused regression of, and durable immunity toward, heterologous syngeneic tumors in mice. Our findings demonstrate convergent functional anti-tumor antibody responses targeting public tumor antigens, and provide an approach to identify antibodies with diagnostic or therapeutic utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff DeFalco
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | | | | | - Gilson Baia
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | | | | | - May Sumi
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Danhui Zhang
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Felix Chu
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Christine Dowd
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | | | - Dongkyoon Kim
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Yvonne Leung
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Shuwei Jiang
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Xiaobin Tang
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | | | - Xiaomu Chen
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Sean M Carroll
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | | | - Nicole Haaser
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Ngan Nguyen
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Eldar Giladi
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - David Minor
- California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute, 2200 Webster St., San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Yann Chong Tan
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA; Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, 269 Campus Dr., Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jeremy B Sokolove
- Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, 269 Campus Dr., Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Lawrence Steinman
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences and Pediatrics, Stanford University, 279 Campus Dr., Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | | | - Guy Cavet
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | | | - Jacob Glanville
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University, 279 Campus Dr., Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Wayne Volkmuth
- Atreca, Inc., 500 Saginaw Dr., Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | | | - William H Robinson
- Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, 269 Campus Dr., Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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22
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Bruno TC, Ebner PJ, Moore BL, Squalls OG, Waugh KA, Eruslanov EB, Singhal S, Mitchell JD, Franklin WA, Merrick DT, McCarter MD, Palmer BE, Kern JA, Slansky JE. Antigen-Presenting Intratumoral B Cells Affect CD4 + TIL Phenotypes in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients. Cancer Immunol Res 2017; 5:898-907. [PMID: 28848053 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-17-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Effective immunotherapy options for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are becoming increasingly available. The immunotherapy focus has been on tumor-infiltrating T cells (TILs); however, tumor-infiltrating B cells (TIL-Bs) have also been reported to correlate with NSCLC patient survival. The function of TIL-Bs in human cancer has been understudied, with little focus on their role as antigen-presenting cells and their influence on CD4+ TILs. Compared with other immune subsets detected in freshly isolated primary tumors from NSCLC patients, we observed increased numbers of intratumoral B cells relative to B cells from tumor-adjacent tissues. Furthermore, we demonstrated that TIL-Bs can efficiently present antigen to CD4+ TILs and alter the CD4+ TIL phenotype using an in vitro antigen-presentation assay. Specifically, we identified three CD4+ TIL responses to TIL-Bs, which we categorized as activated, antigen-associated, and nonresponsive. Within the activated and antigen-associated CD4+ TIL population, activated TIL-Bs (CD19+CD20+CD69+CD27+CD21+) were associated with an effector T-cell response (IFNγ+ CD4+ TILs). Alternatively, exhausted TIL-Bs (CD19+CD20+CD69+CD27-CD21-) were associated with a regulatory T-cell phenotype (FoxP3+ CD4+ TILs). Our results demonstrate a new role for TIL-Bs in NSCLC tumors in their interplay with CD4+ TILs in the tumor microenvironment, establishing them as a potential therapeutic target in NSCLC immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(10); 898-907. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tullia C Bruno
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Peggy J Ebner
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Brandon L Moore
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Olivia G Squalls
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Katherine A Waugh
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Evgeniy B Eruslanov
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sunil Singhal
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - John D Mitchell
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Wilbur A Franklin
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Daniel T Merrick
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Martin D McCarter
- Department of Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Brent E Palmer
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jeffrey A Kern
- Division of Oncology, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado
| | - Jill E Slansky
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado.
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23
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Gu-Trantien C, Migliori E, Buisseret L, de Wind A, Brohée S, Garaud S, Noël G, Dang Chi VL, Lodewyckx JN, Naveaux C, Duvillier H, Goriely S, Larsimont D, Willard-Gallo K. CXCL13-producing TFH cells link immune suppression and adaptive memory in human breast cancer. JCI Insight 2017; 2:91487. [PMID: 28570278 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.91487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 266] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
T follicular helper cells (TFH cells) are important regulators of antigen-specific B cell responses. The B cell chemoattractant CXCL13 has recently been linked with TFH cell infiltration and improved survival in human cancer. Although human TFH cells can produce CXCL13, their immune functions are currently unknown. This study presents data from human breast cancer, advocating a role for tumor-infiltrating CXCL13-producing (CXCR5-) TFH cells, here named TFHX13 cells, in promoting local memory B cell differentiation. TFHX13 cells potentially trigger tertiary lymphoid structure formation and thereby generate germinal center B cell responses at the tumor site. Follicular DCs are not potent CXCL13 producers in breast tumor tissues. We used the TFH cell markers PD-1 and ICOS to identify distinct effector and regulatory CD4+ T cell subpopulations in breast tumors. TFHX13 cells are an important component of the PD-1hiICOSint effector subpopulation and coexpanded with PD-1intICOShiFOXP3hi Tregs. IL2 deprivation induces CXCL13 expression in vitro with a synergistic effect from TGFβ1, providing insight into TFHX13 cell differentiation in response to Treg accumulation, similar to conventional TFH cell responses. Our data suggest that human TFHX13 cell differentiation may be a key factor in converting Treg-mediated immune suppression to de novo activation of adaptive antitumor humoral responses in the chronic inflammatory breast cancer microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laurence Buisseret
- Molecular Immunology Unit.,Breast Cancer Translational Research Laboratory
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hugues Duvillier
- Flow Cytometry Core Facility, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stanislas Goriely
- Welbio and Institute for Medical Immunology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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24
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Del Prete A, Schioppa T, Tiberio L, Stabile H, Sozzani S. Leukocyte trafficking in tumor microenvironment. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2017; 35:40-47. [PMID: 28577499 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2017.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment consists of both malignant and non-malignant cells and a plethora of soluble mediators. Different types of tumors have specific tumor microenvironments characterized by distinct chemokines and chemotactic factors that influence leukocyte recruitment. The immune cell infiltrate continuously interacts with stroma cells and influence tumor growth. Emerging evidence suggests that the regulation of the composition and the metabolic state of tumor-associated leukocytes may represent a new promising intervention strategy. Here we summarize the current knowledge on the role of tumor-associated immune cells in tumor growth and dissemination, with a specific focus on the nature of the chemotactic factors responsible for their accumulation and activation in tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Del Prete
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; IRCCS-Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano-Milan, Italy
| | - Tiziana Schioppa
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Laura Tiberio
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Helena Stabile
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Italy
| | - Silvano Sozzani
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; IRCCS-Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano-Milan, Italy.
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25
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Zhang Z, Zhu Y, Wang Z, Zhang T, Wu P, Huang J. Yin-yang effect of tumor infiltrating B cells in breast cancer: From mechanism to immunotherapy. Cancer Lett 2017; 393:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2017.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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26
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Jacquelot N, Pitt JM, Enot DP, Roberti MP, Duong CPM, Rusakiewicz S, Eggermont AM, Zitvogel L. Immune biomarkers for prognosis and prediction of responses to immune checkpoint blockade in cutaneous melanoma. Oncoimmunology 2017; 6:e1299303. [PMID: 28919986 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2017.1299303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Existing clinical, anatomopathological and molecular biomarkers fail to reliably predict the prognosis of cutaneous melanoma. Biomarkers for determining which patients receive adjuvant therapies are needed. The emergence of new technologies and the discovery of new immune populations with different prognostic values allow the immune network in the tumor to be better understood. Importantly, new molecules identified and expressed by immune cells have been shown to reduce the antitumor immune efficacy of therapies, prompting researchers to develop antibodies targeting these so-called "immune checkpoints", which have now entered the oncotherapeutic armamentarium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Jacquelot
- Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, INSERM U1015, Villejuif, F-94805, France
| | - Jonathan M Pitt
- Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, INSERM U1015, Villejuif, F-94805, France
| | - David P Enot
- Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-saclay, Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, Villejuif, F-94805, France
| | - Maria Paula Roberti
- Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, INSERM U1015, Villejuif, F-94805, France
| | - Connie P M Duong
- Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, INSERM U1015, Villejuif, F-94805, France
| | - Sylvie Rusakiewicz
- Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, INSERM U1015, Villejuif, F-94805, France.,Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-saclay, CIC Biothérapie IGR Curie CIC 1428, Villejuif, F-94805, France
| | | | - Laurence Zitvogel
- Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, INSERM U1015, Villejuif, F-94805, France.,Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-saclay, CIC Biothérapie IGR Curie CIC 1428, Villejuif, F-94805, France
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