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Azimnasab-Sorkhabi P, Soltani-Asl M, Soleiman Ekhtiyari M, Kfoury Junior JR. Landscape of unconventional γδ T cell subsets in cancer. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:238. [PMID: 38289417 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09267-1] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
T cells are broadly categorized into two groups, namely conventional and unconventional T cells. Conventional T cells are the most prevalent and well-studied subset of T cells. On the other hand, unconventional T cells exhibit diverse functions shared between innate and adaptive immune cells. During recent decades, γδ T cells have received attention for their roles in cancer immunity. These cells can detect various molecules, such as lipids and metabolites. Also, they are known for their distinctive ability to recognize and target cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). This feature of γδ T cells could provide a unique therapeutic tool to fight against cancer. Understanding the role of γδ T cells in TME is essential to prepare the groundwork to use γδ T cells for clinical purposes. Here, we provide recent knowledge regarding the role γδ T cell subsets in different cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parviz Azimnasab-Sorkhabi
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Maryam Soltani-Asl
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Jose Roberto Kfoury Junior
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Yan W, Dunmall LSC, Lemoine NR, Wang Y, Wang Y, Wang P. The capability of heterogeneous γδ T cells in cancer treatment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1285801. [PMID: 38077392 PMCID: PMC10704246 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1285801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
γδ T cells, a specialized subset of T lymphocytes, have garnered significant attention within the realm of cancer immunotherapy. Operating at the nexus between adaptive and innate immunological paradigms, these cells showcase a profound tumor discernment repertoire, hinting at novel immunotherapeutic strategies. Significantly, these cells possess the capability to directly identify and eliminate tumor cells without reliance on HLA-antigen presentation. Furthermore, γδ T cells have the faculty to present tumor antigens to αβ T cells, amplifying their anti-tumoral efficacy.Within the diverse and heterogeneous subpopulations of γδ T cells, distinct immune functionalities emerge, manifesting either anti-tumor or pro-tumor roles within the tumor microenvironment. Grasping and strategically harnessing these heterogeneous γδ T cell cohorts is pivotal to their integration in tumor-specific immunotherapeutic modalities. The aim of this review is to describe the heterogeneity of the γδ T cell lineage and the functional plasticity it generates in the treatment of malignant tumors. This review endeavors to elucidate the intricate heterogeneity inherent to the γδ T cell lineage, the consequential functional dynamics in combating malignancies, the latest advancements from clinical trials, and the evolving landscape of γδ T cell-based oncological interventions, while addressing the challenges impeding the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyi Yan
- Sino-British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Louisa S. Chard Dunmall
- Centre for Biomarkers & Biotherapeutics, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas R. Lemoine
- Sino-British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Centre for Biomarkers & Biotherapeutics, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yaohe Wang
- Sino-British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Centre for Biomarkers & Biotherapeutics, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yafeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Pengju Wang
- Sino-British Research Centre for Molecular Oncology, National Centre for International Research in Cell and Gene Therapy, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Li GQ, Xia J, Zeng W, Luo W, Liu L, Zeng X, Cao D. The intestinal γδ T cells: functions in the gut and in the distant organs. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1206299. [PMID: 37398661 PMCID: PMC10311558 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1206299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Located in the frontline against the largest population of microbiota, the intestinal mucosa of mammals has evolved to become an effective immune system. γδ T cells, a unique T cell subpopulation, are rare in circulation blood and lymphoid tissues, but rich in the intestinal mucosa, particularly in the epithelium. Via rapid production of cytokines and growth factors, intestinal γδ T cells are key contributors to epithelial homeostasis and immune surveillance of infection. Intriguingly, recent studies have revealed that the intestinal γδ T cells may play novel exciting functions ranging from epithelial plasticity and remodeling in response to carbohydrate diets to the recovery of ischemic stroke. In this review article, we update regulatory molecules newly defined in lymphopoiesis of the intestinal γδ T cells and their novel functions locally in the intestinal mucosa, such as epithelial remodeling, and distantly in pathological setting, e.g., ischemic brain injury repair, psychosocial stress responses, and fracture repair. The challenges and potential revenues in intestinal γδ T cell studies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Qing Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Research Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Basic and Clinical Pharmacological Research on Gastrointestinal Tumors, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Jiliang Xia
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Cancer Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Weihong Zeng
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Cancer Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Weijia Luo
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Cancer Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Logen Liu
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Basic and Clinical Pharmacological Research on Gastrointestinal Tumors, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xi Zeng
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Cancer Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Deliang Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Research Center, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Cancer Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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Zhu R, Yan Q, Wang Y, Wang K. Biological characteristics of γδT cells and application in tumor immunotherapy. Front Genet 2023; 13:1077419. [PMID: 36685942 PMCID: PMC9846053 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1077419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human γδT cells are a special immune cell type which exist in small quantities in the body, do not require processing and presentation for antigen recognition, and have non-major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-restricted immune response. They play an important role in the body's anti-tumor, anti-infection, immune regulation, immune surveillance and maintenance of immune tolerance. This article reviews the generation and development of human γδT cells, genetic characteristics, classification, recognition and role of antigens, and research progress in tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renhong Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai’an, China,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tai’an Tumor Prevention and Treatment Hospital, Tai’an, China
| | - Qian Yan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Second Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tai’an, China
| | - Yashu Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Tai’an City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Tai’an, China
| | - Keqiang Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Tai’an, China,*Correspondence: Keqiang Wang,
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Pfannes R, Pierzchalski A, Maddalon A, Simion A, Zouboulis CC, Behre G, Zenclussen AC, Westphal S, Fest S, Herberth G. Characterization of post-vaccination SARS-CoV-2 T cell subtypes in patients with different hematologic malignancies and treatments. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1087996. [PMID: 37187728 PMCID: PMC10177659 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1087996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To evaluate the benefits of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in cancer patients it is relevant to understand the adaptive immune response elicited after vaccination. Patients affected by hematologic malignancies are frequently immune-compromised and show a decreased seroconversion rate compared to other cancer patients or controls. Therefore, vaccine-induced cellular immune responses in these patients might have an important protective role and need a detailed evaluation. Methods Certain T cell subtypes (CD4, CD8, Tfh, γδT), including cell functionality as indicated by cytokine secretion (IFN, TNF) and expression of activation markers (CD69, CD154) were assessed via multi-parameter flow cytometry in hematologic malignancy patients (N=12) and healthy controls (N=12) after a second SARS-CoV-2 vaccine dose. The PBMC of post-vaccination samples were stimulated with a spike-peptide pool (S-Peptides) of SARS-CoV-2, with CD3/CD28, with a pool of peptides from the cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus and influenza A virus (CEF-Peptides) or left unstimulated. Furthermore, the concentration of spike-specific antibodies has been analyzed in patients. Results Our results indicate that hematologic malignancy patients developed a robust cellular immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination comparable to that of healthy controls, and for certain T cell subtypes even higher. The most reactive T cells to SARS-CoV-2 spike peptides belonged to the CD4 and Tfh cell compartment, being median (IQR), 3.39 (1.41-5.92) and 2.12 (0.55-4.14) as a percentage of IFN- and TNF-producing Tfh cells in patients. In this regard, the immunomodulatory treatment of patients before the vaccination period seems important as it was strongly associated with a higher percentage of activated CD4 and Tfh cells. SARS-CoV-2- and CEF-specific T cell responses significantly correlated with each other. Compared to lymphoma patients, myeloma patients had an increased percentage of SARS-CoV-2-specific Tfh cells. T-SNE analysis revealed higher frequencies of γδT cells in patients compared to controls, especially in myeloma patients. In general, after vaccination, SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells were also detectable in patients without seroconversion. Conclusion Hematologic malignancy patients are capable of developing a SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4 and Tfh cellular immune response after vaccination, and certain immunomodulatory therapies in the period before vaccination might increase the antigen-specific immune response. A proper response to recall antigens (e.g., CEF-Peptides) reflects immune cellular functionality and might be predictive for generating a newly induced antigen-specific immune response as is expected after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roald Pfannes
- Dessau Medical Center, Center for Oncology, Dessau, Germany
- Department for Gastroenterology and Oncology, Diakonissenkrankenhaus Leipzig, Agaplession Mitteldeutschland GmbH, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Arkadiusz Pierzchalski
- Department of Environmental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ambra Maddalon
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alexandra Simion
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Dessau City Hospital, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Dessau, Germany
| | - Christos C. Zouboulis
- Department of Dermatology, Staedtisches Klinikum Dessau, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane and Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Dessau, Germany
- Department of Venereology, Staedtisches Klinikum Dessau, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane and Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Dessau, Germany
- Department of Allergology, Staedtisches Klinikum Dessau, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane and Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Dessau, Germany
- Department of Immunology, Staedtisches Klinikum Dessau, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane and Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Dessau, Germany
| | - Gerhard Behre
- Department for Internal Medicine I, Dessau Medical Center and Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Dessau, Germany
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Department of Environmental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
- Perinatal Immunology Research Group, Medical Faculty, Saxonian Incubator for Clinical Translation (SIKT), University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sabine Westphal
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Dessau City Hospital, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Dessau, Germany
| | - Stefan Fest
- Department of Environmental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
- Clinic of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Dessau City Hospital, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Dessau, Germany
| | - Gunda Herberth
- Department of Environmental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
- *Correspondence: Gunda Herberth,
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Giannotta C, Autino F, Massaia M. Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell immunotherapy in blood cancers: ready for prime time? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1167443. [PMID: 37143664 PMCID: PMC10153673 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1167443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last years, the tumor microenvironment (TME) has emerged as a promising target for therapeutic interventions in cancer. Cancer cells are highly dependent on the TME to growth and evade the immune system. Three major cell subpopulations are facing each other in the TME: cancer cells, immune suppressor cells, and immune effector cells. These interactions are influenced by the tumor stroma which is composed of extracellular matrix, bystander cells, cytokines, and soluble factors. The TME can be very different depending on the tissue where cancer arises as in solid tumors vs blood cancers. Several studies have shown correlations between the clinical outcome and specific patterns of TME immune cell infiltration. In the recent years, a growing body of evidence suggests that unconventional T cells like natural killer T (NKT) cells, mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, and γδ T cells are key players in the protumor or antitumor TME commitment in solid tumors and blood cancers. In this review, we will focus on γδ T cells, especially Vγ9Vδ2 T cells, to discuss their peculiarities, pros, and cons as potential targets of therapeutic interventions in blood cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannotta
- Laboratorio di Immunologia dei Tumori del Sangue (LITS), Centro Interdipartimentale di Biotecnologie Molecolari “Guido Tarone”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze per la Salute, Università Degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Federica Autino
- Laboratorio di Immunologia dei Tumori del Sangue (LITS), Centro Interdipartimentale di Biotecnologie Molecolari “Guido Tarone”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze per la Salute, Università Degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Massimo Massaia
- Laboratorio di Immunologia dei Tumori del Sangue (LITS), Centro Interdipartimentale di Biotecnologie Molecolari “Guido Tarone”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze per la Salute, Università Degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
- Struttura Complessa (SC) Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliera (AO) S. Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Massimo Massaia,
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Giannotta C, Castella B, Tripoli E, Grimaldi D, Avonto I, D’Agostino M, Larocca A, Kopecka J, Grasso M, Riganti C, Massaia M. Immune dysfunctions affecting bone marrow Vγ9Vδ2 T cells in multiple myeloma: Role of immune checkpoints and disease status. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1073227. [PMID: 36605214 PMCID: PMC9808386 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1073227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Bone marrow (BM) Vγ9Vδ2 T cells are intrinsically predisposed to sense the immune fitness of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in multiple myeloma (MM) and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). Methods In this work, we have used BM Vγ9Vδ2 T cells to interrogate the role of the immune checkpoint/immune checkpoint-ligand (ICP/ICP-L) network in the immune suppressive TME of MM patients. Results PD-1+ BM MM Vγ9Vδ2 T cells combine phenotypic, functional, and TCR-associated alterations consistent with chronic exhaustion and immune senescence. When challenged by zoledronic acid (ZA) as a surrogate assay to interrogate the reactivity to their natural ligands, BM MM Vγ9Vδ2 T cells further up-regulate PD-1 and TIM-3 and worsen TCR-associated alterations. BM MM Vγ9Vδ2 T cells up-regulate TIM-3 after stimulation with ZA in combination with αPD-1, whereas PD-1 is not up-regulated after ZA stimulation with αTIM-3, indicating a hierarchical regulation of inducible ICP expression. Dual αPD-1/αTIM-3 blockade improves the immune functions of BM Vγ9Vδ2 T cells in MM at diagnosis (MM-dia), whereas single PD-1 blockade is sufficient to rescue BM Vγ9Vδ2 T cells in MM in remission (MM-rem). By contrast, ZA stimulation induces LAG-3 up-regulation in BM Vγ9Vδ2 T cells from MM in relapse (MM-rel) and dual PD-1/LAG-3 blockade is the most effective combination in this setting. Discussion These data indicate that: 1) inappropriate immune interventions can exacerbate Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell dysfunction 2) ICP blockade should be tailored to the disease status to get the most of its beneficial effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Giannotta
- Laboratorio di Immunologia dei Tumori del Sangue (LITS), Centro Interdipartimentale di Biotecnologie Molecolari “Guido Tarone”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Barbara Castella
- Laboratorio di Immunologia dei Tumori del Sangue (LITS), Centro Interdipartimentale di Biotecnologie Molecolari “Guido Tarone”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy,Struttura Complessa (SC) Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliera (AO) S.Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Ezio Tripoli
- Laboratorio di Immunologia dei Tumori del Sangue (LITS), Centro Interdipartimentale di Biotecnologie Molecolari “Guido Tarone”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy,Struttura Complessa (SC) Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliera (AO) S.Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Daniele Grimaldi
- Struttura Complessa (SC) Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliera (AO) S.Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Ilaria Avonto
- Servizio Interdipartimentale di Immunoematologia e Medicina Trasfusionale, Azienda Ospedaliera (AO) S.Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Mattia D’Agostino
- Struttura Complessa (SC) Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Alessandra Larocca
- Struttura Complessa (SC) Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria (AOU) Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Joanna Kopecka
- Dipartimento di Oncologia, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Mariella Grasso
- Struttura Complessa (SC) Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliera (AO) S.Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Dipartimento di Oncologia, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Massimo Massaia
- Laboratorio di Immunologia dei Tumori del Sangue (LITS), Centro Interdipartimentale di Biotecnologie Molecolari “Guido Tarone”, Dipartimento di Biotecnologie Molecolari e Scienze della Salute, Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy,Struttura Complessa (SC) Ematologia, Azienda Ospedaliera (AO) S.Croce e Carle, Cuneo, Italy,*Correspondence: Massimo Massaia,
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Human Vδ2 T Cells and Their Versatility for Immunotherapeutic Approaches. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223572. [PMID: 36429001 PMCID: PMC9688761 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Gamma/delta (γδ) T cells are innate-like immune effectors that are a critical component linking innate and adaptive immune responses. They are recognized for their contribution to tumor surveillance and fight against infectious diseases. γδ T cells are excellent candidates for cellular immunotherapy due to their unique properties to recognize and destroy tumors or infected cells. They do not depend on the recognition of a single antigen but rather a broad-spectrum of diverse ligands through expression of various cytotoxic receptors. In this manuscript, we review major characteristics of the most abundant circulating γδ subpopulation, Vδ2 T cells, their immunotherapeutic potential, recent advances in expansion protocols, their preclinical and clinical applications for several infectious diseases and malignancies, and how additional modulation could enhance their therapeutic potential.
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Chan KF, Duarte JDG, Ostrouska S, Behren A. γδ T Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment-Interactions With Other Immune Cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:894315. [PMID: 35880177 PMCID: PMC9307934 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.894315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing number of studies have shown that γδ T cells play a pivotal role in mediating the clearance of tumors and pathogen-infected cells with their potent cytotoxic, cytolytic, and unique immune-modulating functions. Unlike the more abundant αβ T cells, γδ T cells can recognize a broad range of tumors and infected cells without the requirement of antigen presentation via major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. Our group has recently demonstrated parts of the mechanisms of T-cell receptor (TCR)-dependent activation of Vγ9Vδ2+ T cells by tumors following the presentation of phosphoantigens, intermediates of the mevalonate pathway. This process is mediated through the B7 immunoglobulin family-like butyrophilin 2A1 (BTN2A1) and BTN3A1 complexes. Such recognition results in activation, a robust immunosurveillance process, and elicits rapid γδ T-cell immune responses. These include targeted cell killing, and the ability to produce copious quantities of cytokines and chemokines to exert immune-modulating properties and to interact with other immune cells. This immune cell network includes αβ T cells, B cells, dendritic cells, macrophages, monocytes, natural killer cells, and neutrophils, hence heavily influencing the outcome of immune responses. This key role in orchestrating immune cells and their natural tropism for tumor microenvironment makes γδ T cells an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy. Here, we review the current understanding of these important interactions and highlight the implications of the crosstalk between γδ T cells and other immune cells in the context of anti-tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kok Fei Chan
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, and School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessica Da Gama Duarte
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, and School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Simone Ostrouska
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, and School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Andreas Behren
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, and School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Nezhad Shamohammadi F, Yazdanifar M, Oraei M, Kazemi MH, Roohi A, Mahya Shariat Razavi S, Rezaei F, Parvizpour F, Karamlou Y, Namdari H. Controversial role of γδ T cells in pancreatic cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 108:108895. [PMID: 35729831 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.108895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
γδ T cells are rare lymphocytes with cogent impact on immune responses. These cells are one of the earliest cells to be recruited in the sites of infection or tumors and play a critical role in coordinating innate and adaptive immune responses. The anti-tumor activity of γδ T cells have been numerously reported; nonetheless, there is controversy among published studies regarding their anti-tumor vs pro-tumor effect- especially in pancreatic cancer. A myriad of studies has confirmed that activated γδ T cells can potently lyse a broad variety of solid tumors and leukemia/lymphoma cells and produce an array of cytokines; however, early γδ T cell-based clinical trials did not lead to optimal efficacy, despite acceptable safety. Depending on the local micromilieu, γδ T cells can differentiate into tumor promoting or suppressing cells such as Th1-, Th2-, or Th17-like cells and produce prototypical cytokines such as interferon-γ (IFNγ) and interleukin (IL)-4/-10, IL-9, or IL-17. In an abstruse tumor such as pancreatic cancer- also known as immunologically cold tumor- γδ T cells are more likely to switch to their immunosuppressive phenotype. In this review we will adduce the accumulated knowledge on these two controversial aspects of γδ T cells in cancers- with a focus on solid tumors and pancreatic cancer. In addition, we propose strategies for enhancing the anti-tumor function of γδ T cells in cancers and discuss the potential future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahboubeh Yazdanifar
- Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Mona Oraei
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad H Kazemi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Roohi
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Farhad Rezaei
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Parvizpour
- Iranian Tissue Bank and Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yalda Karamlou
- Iranian Tissue Bank and Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Haideh Namdari
- Iranian Tissue Bank and Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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11
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McGraw JM, Witherden DA. γδ T cell costimulatory ligands in antitumor immunity. EXPLORATION OF IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 2:79-97. [PMID: 35480230 PMCID: PMC9041367 DOI: 10.37349/ei.2022.00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Antitumor immunity relies on the ability of T cells to recognize and kill tumor targets. γδ T cells are a specialized subset of T cells that predominantly localizes to non-lymphoid tissue such as the skin, gut, and lung where they are actively involved in tumor immunosurveillance. γδ T cells respond to self-stress ligands that are increased on many tumor cells, and these interactions provide costimulatory signals that promote their activation and cytotoxicity. This review will cover costimulatory molecules that are known to be critical for the function of γδ T cells with a specific focus on mouse dendritic epidermal T cells (DETC). DETC are a prototypic tissue-resident γδ T cell population with known roles in antitumor immunity and are therefore useful for identifying mechanisms that may control activation of other γδ T cell subsets within non-lymphoid tissues. This review concludes with a brief discussion on how γδ T cell costimulatory molecules can be targeted for improved cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph M. McGraw
- 1Department of Biology, Calibr at The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Deborah A. Witherden
- 2Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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12
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Yazdanifar M, Mashkour N, Bertaina A. Making a case for using γδ T cells against SARS-CoV-2. Crit Rev Microbiol 2020; 46:689-702. [PMID: 33023358 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2020.1822279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Intensive worldwide efforts are underway to determine both the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the immune responses in COVID-19 patients in order to develop effective therapeutics and vaccines. One type of cell that may contribute to these immune responses is the γδ T lymphocyte, which plays a key role in immunosurveillance of the mucosal and epithelial barriers by rapidly responding to pathogens. Although found in low numbers in blood, γδ T cells consist the majority of tissue-resident T cells and participate in the front line of the host immune defense. Previous studies have demonstrated the critical protective role of γδ T cells in immune responses to other respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-1. However, no studies have profoundly investigated these cells in COVID-19 patients to date. γδ T cells can be safely expanded in vivo using existing inexpensive FDA-approved drugs such as bisphosphonate, in order to test its protective immune response to SARS-CoV-2. To support this line of research, we review insights gained from previous coronavirus research, along with recent findings, discussing the potential role of γδ T cells in controlling SARS-CoV-2. We conclude by proposing several strategies to enhance γδ T cell's antiviral function, which may be used in developing therapies for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahboubeh Yazdanifar
- Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Narges Mashkour
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, CPHMVS, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia
| | - Alice Bertaina
- Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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13
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Kabelitz D, Serrano R, Kouakanou L, Peters C, Kalyan S. Cancer immunotherapy with γδ T cells: many paths ahead of us. Cell Mol Immunol 2020; 17:925-939. [PMID: 32699351 PMCID: PMC7609273 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-020-0504-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
γδ T cells play uniquely important roles in stress surveillance and immunity for infections and carcinogenesis. Human γδ T cells recognize and kill transformed cells independently of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) restriction, which is an essential feature of conventional αβ T cells. Vγ9Vδ2 γδ T cells, which prevail in the peripheral blood of healthy adults, are activated by microbial or endogenous tumor-derived pyrophosphates by a mechanism dependent on butyrophilin molecules. γδ T cells expressing other T cell receptor variable genes, notably Vδ1, are more abundant in mucosal tissue. In addition to the T cell receptor, γδ T cells usually express activating natural killer (NK) receptors, such as NKp30, NKp44, or NKG2D which binds to stress-inducible surface molecules that are absent on healthy cells but are frequently expressed on malignant cells. Therefore, γδ T cells are endowed with at least two independent recognition systems to sense tumor cells and to initiate anticancer effector mechanisms, including cytokine production and cytotoxicity. In view of their HLA-independent potent antitumor activity, there has been increasing interest in translating the unique potential of γδ T cells into innovative cellular cancer immunotherapies. Here, we discuss recent developments to enhance the efficacy of γδ T cell-based immunotherapy. This includes strategies for in vivo activation and tumor-targeting of γδ T cells, the optimization of in vitro expansion protocols, and the development of gene-modified γδ T cells. It is equally important to consider potential synergisms with other therapeutic strategies, notably checkpoint inhibitors, chemotherapy, or the (local) activation of innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Kabelitz
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, D-24105, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Ruben Serrano
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, D-24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Léonce Kouakanou
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, D-24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Christian Peters
- Institute of Immunology, Christian-Albrechts University of Kiel and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein Campus Kiel, D-24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Shirin Kalyan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
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14
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Yazdanifar M, Barbarito G, Bertaina A, Airoldi I. γδ T Cells: The Ideal Tool for Cancer Immunotherapy. Cells 2020; 9:E1305. [PMID: 32456316 PMCID: PMC7290982 DOI: 10.3390/cells9051305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
γδ T cells have recently gained considerable attention as an attractive tool for cancer adoptive immunotherapy due to their potent anti-tumor activity and unique role in immunosurveillance. The remarkable success of engineered T cells for the treatment of hematological malignancies has revolutionized the field of adoptive cell immunotherapy. Accordingly, major efforts are underway to translate this exciting technology to the treatment of solid tumors and the development of allogeneic therapies. The unique features of γδ T cells, including their major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-independent anti-cancer activity, tissue tropism, and multivalent response against a broad spectrum of the tumors, render them ideal for designing universal 'third-party' cell products, with the potential to overcome the challenges of allogeneic cell therapy. In this review, we describe the crucial role of γδ T cells in anti-tumor immunosurveillance and we summarize the different approaches used for the ex vivo and in vivo expansion of γδ T cells suitable for the development of novel strategies for cancer therapy. We further discuss the different transduction strategies aiming at redirecting or improving the function of γδ T cells, as well as, the considerations for the clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahboubeh Yazdanifar
- Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA; (M.Y.); (G.B.)
| | - Giulia Barbarito
- Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA; (M.Y.); (G.B.)
| | - Alice Bertaina
- Stem Cell Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA; (M.Y.); (G.B.)
| | - Irma Airoldi
- Laboratorio Cellule Staminali post-natali e Terapie Cellulari, IRCCS G. Gaslini, Via G. Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy
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15
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In the Absence of a TCR Signal IL-2/IL-12/18-Stimulated γδ T Cells Demonstrate Potent Anti-Tumoral Function Through Direct Killing and Senescence Induction in Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12010130. [PMID: 31947966 PMCID: PMC7017313 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abundant IFN-γ secretion, potent cytotoxicity, and major histocompatibility complex-independent targeting of a large spectrum of tumors make γδ T cells attractive candidates for cancer immunotherapy. Upon tumor recognition through the T-cell receptor (TCR), NK-receptors, or NKG2D, γδ T cells generate the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ, or granzymes and perforin that mediate cellular apoptosis. Despite these favorable potentials, most clinical trials testing the adoptive transfer of pharmacologically TCR-targeted and expanded γδ T cells resulted in a limited response. Recently, the TCR-independent activation of γδ T cells was identified. However, the modulation of γδ T cell’s effector functions solely by cytokines remains to be elucidated. In the present study, we systematically analyzed the impact of IL-2, IL-12, and IL-18 in parallel with TCR stimulation on proliferation, cytokine production, and anti-tumor activity of γδ T cells. Our results demonstrate that IL-12 and IL-18, when combined, constitute the most potent stimulus to enhance anti-tumor activity and induce proliferation and IFN-γ production by γδ T cells in the absence of TCR signaling. Intriguingly, stimulation with IL-12 and IL-18 without TCR stimulus induces a comparable degree of anti-tumor activity in γδ T cells to TCR crosslinking by killing tumor cells and driving cancer cells into senescence. These findings approve the use of IL-12/IL-18-stimulated γδ T cells for adoptive cell therapy to boost anti-tumor activity by γδ T cells.
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