1
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Afolabi LO, Bi J, Chen L, Yang X, Wan X. Suppression of protein quality control system by TRIM30a sensitises tumour cells to NK cell-mediated immune surveillance. Immunology 2024; 171:60-76. [PMID: 37753964 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13694] [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: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenesis entails circumventing cell-intrinsic regulatory mechanisms while avoiding extrinsic immune surveillance and other host defence systems. Nevertheless, how tumour cells' ability to eliminate misfolded proteins affects immune surveillance remains poorly understood. In this study, we find that overexpression of murine tripartite motif-containing protein 30a (TRIM30a) sensitises tumour cells to natural killer (NK) cells-mediated cytolysis. TRIM30a has no effect on tumour cell proliferation or apoptosis in vitro. However, TRIM30a-overexpressing tumour cells grow substantially slower than control tumour cells in immune-competent mice but not in NK cell-depleted mice. [Correction added on 04 October 2023, after first online publication: 'NK-depleted' has been changed to 'NK cell-depleted' in the preceding sentence.] Mechanistically, TRIM30a overexpression impedes the clearance of misfolded proteins and increases the production of reactive oxygen species induced by proteotoxic stress, implying that TRIM30a impairs protein quality control (PQC) systems in tumour cells. Furthermore, TRIM30a reduces expression of genes encoding proteasome subunits and antioxidant proteins. Our study demonstrates that TRIM30a is a potential tumour suppressor and immune modulator that promotes tumour cytolysis by NK cells, and suggests that an enhanced PQC and antioxidant capacity is an integral part of the immune escape mechanism during tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukman O Afolabi
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiacheng Bi
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liang Chen
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Shenzhen Laboratory of Tumor Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaolu Yang
- Department of Cancer Biology and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Xiaochun Wan
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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2
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Xu W, Zou X, Zha Y, Zhang J, Bian H, Shen Z. Novel Bis-Artemisinin-Phloroglucinol hybrid molecules with dual anticancer and immunomodulatory Activities: Synthesis and evaluation. Bioorg Chem 2023; 139:106705. [PMID: 37406517 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Bis-(10-deoxydihydroartemisinin)-phloroglucinol (9), has been synthesized in a one-step reaction and has demonstrated strong inhibition to cancer cell proliferation and immunosuppressive activity. The structure modification of the compound reduced its cytotoxicity, and among the analogs, bis-(10-deoxydihydroartemisinin)-phloroglucinol phenyl decanoate (16) showed significant reduction of ear swelling in a mouse model for DNFB-induced delayed-type hypersensitivity without observable toxicity in a dose-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xu
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaosu Zou
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cai Lun Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yufeng Zha
- Yunnan Baiyao Group Co. Ltd., 3686 Yunnan Baiyao Street, Kunming 650200, China
| | - Jinghua Zhang
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hongzhu Bian
- Yunnan Baiyao Group Co. Ltd., 3686 Yunnan Baiyao Street, Kunming 650200, China
| | - Zhengwu Shen
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 280 South Chongqing Road, Shanghai 200025, China; School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cai Lun Road, Shanghai 201203, China.
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3
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Zeng ZW, Chen D, Chen L, He B, Li Y. A comprehensive overview of Artemisinin and its derivatives as anticancer agents. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 247:115000. [PMID: 36538859 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.115000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Artemisinin is the crucial ingredient of artemisia annua, a traditional Chinese medicine used for the therapy of malaria in China for hundreds of years. In recent years, the anticancer properties of artemisinin and its derivatives have also been reported. This review has summarized the research and development of artemisinin and its derivatives as anticancer agents, which included both natural and synthetic monomers as well as their dimers. In addition, it highlights the antitumor effects of artemisinin and its derivatives after site-modification or after transformation to a nano-delivery system. Moreover, we have further explored their potential mechanisms of action and also discussed the clinical trials of ARTs used to treat cancer, which will facilitate in further development of novel anticancer drugs based on the scaffold of artemisinin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Wei Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM (Ministry of Education), Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Di Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM (Ministry of Education), Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Lei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM (Ministry of Education), Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China
| | - Bin He
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM (Ministry of Education), Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China.
| | - Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Engineering Research Center for the Development and Application of Ethnic Medicine and TCM (Ministry of Education), Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, China.
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4
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Bernitsa S, Dayan R, Stephanou A, Tzvetanova ID, Patrikios IS. Natural biomolecules and derivatives as anticancer immunomodulatory agents. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1070367. [PMID: 36700235 PMCID: PMC9868674 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1070367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advancements in chemotherapy, the issue of resistance and non-responsiveness to many chemotherapeutic drugs that are currently in clinical use still remains. Recently, cancer immunotherapy has gathered attention as a novel treatment against select cancers. Immunomodulation is also emerging as an effective strategy to improve efficacy. Natural phytochemicals, with known anticancer properties, been reported to mediate their effects by modulating both traditional cancer pathways and immunity. The mechanism of phytochemical mediated-immunomodulatory activity may be attributed to the remodeling of the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment and the sensitization of the immune system. This allows for improved recognition and targeting of cancer cells by the immune system and synergy with chemotherapeutics. In this review, we will discuss several well-known plant-derived biomolecules and examine their potential as immunomodulators, and therefore, as novel immunotherapies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rotem Dayan
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
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5
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Yuan W, Wu Y, Zhang Z, Shi G, Han W, Li K, Gu J, Chen C, Ge J, Zhou W, Cui J, Wang M. Optimization of surface enhanced Raman scattering performance based on Ag nanoparticle-modified vanadium-titanium nanorods with tunable nanogaps. OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 30:38613-38629. [PMID: 36258422 DOI: 10.1364/oe.474108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The combination of new noble metal nanomaterials and surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology has become a new strategy to solve the problem of low sensitivity in the detection of traditional Chinese medicine. In this work, taking natural cicada wing (C.w.) as a template, by optimizing the magnetron sputtering experimental parameters for the growth of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) on vanadium-titanium (V-Ti) nanorods, the nanogaps between the nanorods were effectively regulated and the Raman signal intensity of the Ag15/V-Ti20/C.w. substrate was improved. The proposed homogeneous nanostructure exhibited high SERS activity through the synergistic effect of the electromagnetic enhancement mechanism at the nanogaps between the Ag NPs modified V-Ti nanorods. The analytical enhancement factor (AEF) value was as high as 1.819 × 108, and the limit of detection (LOD) was 1 × 10-11 M for R6G. The large-scale distribution of regular electromagnetic enhancement "hot spots" ensured the good reproducibility with the relative standard deviation (RSD) value less than 7.31%. More importantly, the active compound of Artemisinin corresponded the pharmacological effect of Artemisia annua was screened out by SERS technology, and achieved a LOD of 0.01 mg/l. This reliable preparation technology was practically applicable to produce SERS-active substrates in detection of pharmacodynamic substance in traditional Chinese medicine.
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6
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Targeting Inhibition of Accumulation and Function of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells by Artemisinin via PI3K/AKT, mTOR, and MAPK Pathways Enhances Anti-PD-L1 Immunotherapy in Melanoma and Liver Tumors. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:2253436. [PMID: 35785030 PMCID: PMC9247850 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2253436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the remarkable success and efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy such as anti-PD-L1 antibody in treating cancers, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) that lead to the formation of the protumor immunosuppressive microenvironment are one of the major contributors to ICB resistance. Therefore, inhibition of MDSC accumulation and function is critical for further enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of anti-PD-L1 antibody in a majority of cancer patients. Artemisinin (ART), the most effective antimalarial drug with tumoricidal and immunoregulatory activities, is a potential option for cancer treatment. Although ART is reported to reduce MDSC levels in 4T1 breast tumor model and improve the therapeutic efficacy of anti-PD-L1 antibody in T cell lymphoma-bearing mice, how ART influences MDSC accumulation, function, and molecular pathways as well as MDSC-mediated anti-PD-L1 resistance in melanoma or liver tumors remains unknown. Here, we reported that ART blocks the accumulation and function of MDSCs by polarizing M2-like tumor-promoting phenotype towards M1-like antitumor one. This switch is regulated via PI3K/AKT, mTOR, and MAPK signaling pathways. Targeting MDSCs by ART could significantly reduce tumor growth in various mouse models. More importantly, the ART therapy remarkably enhanced the efficacy of anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy in tumor-bearing mice through promoting antitumor T cell infiltration and proliferation. These findings indicate that ART controls the functional polarization of MDSCs and targeting MDSCs by ART provides a novel therapeutic strategy to enhance anti-PD-L1 cancer immunotherapy.
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7
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Wu HY, Li KX, Pan WY, Guo MQ, Qiu DZ, He YJ, Li YH, Huang YX. Venetoclax enhances NK cell killing sensitivity of AML cells through the NKG2D/NKG2DL activation pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 104:108497. [PMID: 34999394 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Venetoclax, a selective B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL2) inhibitor, has a potential therapeutic effect when combined with demethylating agents in the first-line setting of unfit elderly patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML); however, efficacy is still limited in refractory/recurrent AML. Therefore, exploration of a suitable novel treatment scheme is urgently needed.However, combining venetoclax with NK cell-based immunotherapy has not been studied. METHODS The cytotoxicity of NK cell combined with venetoclax was assessed in vitro using flow cytometry. Venetoclax-induced natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D) ligand (NKG2DL) expression was detected by flow cytometry and western blotting. Mechanisms underlying venetoclax-induced NKG2DL expression were found by GSE127200 analysis and investigated using real-time PCR (Q-PCR) and western blotting. RESULTS Flow cytometric analysis showed that combining venetoclax with NK cells produced synergistic anti-leukaemia effects similar to those of venetoclax + azacitidine. Venetoclax could render AML cell lines and primary AML cells sensitive to NK cell killing by promoting NK cell degranulation, NK-AML cell recognition and NK cell secretion of interferon (IFN)-γ and granzyme B. The synergistic effect resulted from venetoclax-induced NKG2DL upregulation in AML cells and could be undermined by blocking NKG2D on NK cells. This finding suggests that venetoclax enhances NK cell killing activity by activating the NKG2D/NKG2DL ligand-receptor pathway. Furthermore, the nuclear factor-kappa-B (NFKB) signalling pathway was involved in venetoclax-induced NKG2DL upregulation. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our data confirm that venetoclax combined with NK cells induces synergistic AML cell cytolysis and preliminarily revealed that venetoclax could selectively induce NKG2DLs on AML cells via NFKB signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Yang Wu
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, China
| | - Ke-Xin Li
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, China
| | - Wan-Ying Pan
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, China
| | - Meng-Qi Guo
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, China
| | - Dei-Zhi Qiu
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, China
| | - Yan-Jie He
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, China
| | - Yu-Hua Li
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, China
| | - Yu-Xian Huang
- Department of Hematology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510282, China.
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8
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Xia W, Qi X, Li M, Wu Y, Sun L, Fan X, Yuan Y, Li J. Metformin promotes anticancer activity of NK cells in a p38 MAPK dependent manner. Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1995999. [PMID: 34745769 PMCID: PMC8565822 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1995999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Metformin, a drug prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes, has been reported to possess antitumor activity via immunity activation. However, the influence of metformin on natural killer (NK) cells is not fully understood. Here, we investigated whether metformin exerts a potent anticancer effect by activating NK cells. The results showed that sustained exposure to metformin enhances the cytolytic activity of NK-92 cells. Moreover, this enhancement of cytotoxicity by metformin was also observed in NK cells from healthy peripheral blood and cancer patient ascites. Mechanistically, metformin induced activation of the JAK1/2/3/STAT5 and AKT/mTOR pathways in a p38 MAPK-dependent manner rather than an AMPK-dependent manner. In vivo experiments, metformin also improved cancer surveillance of NK cells in mouse models of lymphoma clearance and metastatic melanoma. Additionally, combination treatment with metformin and anti-PD-1 antibodies increased the therapy response rates of B16F10 melanoma. Moreover, metformin treatment increased NK cell and T cell infiltration in tumors. Therefore, these results provide a deeper understanding of metformin on the effector function of NK cells and will contribute to the development and applications of metformin in cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjiao Xia
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Xin Qi
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Mingfeng Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Yu Wu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Lulu Sun
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Xinglong Fan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Department of Laboratory, Yushan Campus Hospital, Hospital of Ocean University of China, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Jing Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, P. R. China.,Open Studio for Druggability Research of Marine Natural Products, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts of Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, P. R. China
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9
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Afolabi LO, Bi J, Li X, Adeshakin AO, Adeshakin FO, Wu H, Yan D, Chen L, Wan X. Synergistic Tumor Cytolysis by NK Cells in Combination With a Pan-HDAC Inhibitor, Panobinostat. Front Immunol 2021; 12:701671. [PMID: 34531855 PMCID: PMC8438531 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.701671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Histone deacetylases (HDAC) are frequently overexpressed in tumors, and their inhibition has shown promising anti-tumor effects. However, the synergistic effects of HDAC inhibition with immune cell therapy have not been fully explored. Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic lymphocytes for anti-tumor immune surveillance, with immunotherapy potential. We showed that a pan-HDAC inhibitor, panobinostat, alone demonstrated anti-tumor and anti-proliferative activities on all tested tumors in vitro. Additionally, panobinostat co-treatment or pretreatment synergized with NK cells to mediate tumor cell cytolysis. Mechanistically, panobinostat treatment increased the expression of cell adhesion and tight junction-related genes, promoted conjugation formation between NK and tumor cells, and modulates NK cell-activating receptors and ligands on tumor cells, contributing to the increased tumor cytolysis. Finally, panobinostat therapy led to better tumor control and synergized with anti-PD-L1 therapy. Our data highlights the anti-tumor potential of HDAC inhibition through tumor-intrinsic toxicity and enhancement of NK -based immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukman O. Afolabi
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-Based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiacheng Bi
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-Based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xuguang Li
- Department of Stomatology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy, Shenzhen, China
| | - Adeleye O. Adeshakin
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-Based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Funmilayo O. Adeshakin
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-Based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haisi Wu
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-Based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dehong Yan
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-Based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-Based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaochun Wan
- Guangdong Immune Cell Therapy Engineering and Technology Research Center, Center for Protein and Cell-Based Drugs, Institute of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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10
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Huang H, He Q, Guo B, Xu X, Wu Y, Li X. Progress in Redirecting Antiparasitic Drugs for Cancer Treatment. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2021; 15:2747-2767. [PMID: 34188451 PMCID: PMC8235938 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s308973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Drug repurposing is a feasible strategy in developing novel medications. Regarding the cancer field, scientists are continuously making efforts to redirect conventional drugs into cancer treatment. This approach aims at exploring new applications in the existing agents. Antiparasitic medications, including artemisinin derivatives (ARTs), quinine-related compounds, niclosamide, ivermectin, albendazole derivatives, nitazoxanide and pyrimethamine, have been deeply investigated and widely applied in treating various parasitic diseases for a long time. Generally, their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties are well understood, while the side effects are roughly acceptable. Scientists noticed that some of these agents have anticancer potentials and explored the underlying mechanisms to achieve drug repurposing. Recent studies show that these agents inhibit cancer progression via multiple interesting ways, inducing ferroptosis induction, autophagy regulation, mitochondrial disturbance, immunoregulation, and metabolic disruption. In this review, we summarize the recent advancement in uncovering antiparasitic drugs' anticancer properties from the perspective of their pharmacological targets. Instead of paying attention to the previously discovered mechanisms, we focus more on newly emerging ones that are worth noticing. While most investigations are focusing on the mechanisms of their antiparasitic effect, more in vivo exploration in clinical trials in the future is necessary. Moreover, we also paid attention to what limits the clinical application of these agents. For some of these agents like ARTs and niclosamide, drug modification, novel delivery system invention, or drug combination are strongly recommended for future exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyang Huang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing He
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory for Tropical Diseases Control of Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.,Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biological Vector Control, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.,CAEA Center of Excellence on Nuclear Technology Applications for Insect Control, Beijing, 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Binghua Guo
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Xudong Xu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinjuan Wu
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory for Tropical Diseases Control of Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.,Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biological Vector Control, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.,CAEA Center of Excellence on Nuclear Technology Applications for Insect Control, Beijing, 100048, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuerong Li
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory for Tropical Diseases Control of Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.,Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biological Vector Control, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, People's Republic of China.,CAEA Center of Excellence on Nuclear Technology Applications for Insect Control, Beijing, 100048, People's Republic of China
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11
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Afolabi LO, Afolabi MO, Sani MM, Okunowo WO, Yan D, Chen L, Zhang Y, Wan X. Exploiting the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing system for human cancers and immunotherapy. Clin Transl Immunology 2021; 10:e1286. [PMID: 34188916 PMCID: PMC8219901 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats and CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) technology has brought advances in the genetic manipulation of eukaryotic cells, which has revolutionised cancer research and treatment options. It is increasingly being used in cancer immunotherapy, including adoptive T and natural killer (NK) cell transfer, secretion of antibodies, cytokine stimulation and overcoming immune checkpoints. CRISPR-Cas9 technology is used in autologous T cells and NK cells to express various innovative antigen designs and combinations of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) targeted at specific antigens for haematological and solid tumors. Additionally, advanced engineering in immune cells to enhance their sensing circuits with sophisticated functionality is now possible. Intensive research on the CRISPR-Cas9 system has provided scientists with the ability to overcome the hostile tumor microenvironment and generate more products for future clinical use, especially off-the-shelf, universal cellular products, bringing exciting milestones for immunotherapy. This review discussed the application and challenges of CRISPR technology in cancer research and immunotherapy, its advances and prospects for promoting new cell-based therapeutic beyond immune oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukman O Afolabi
- Guangdong Immune Cell therapy Engineering and Technology research CenterCenter for Protein and Cell‐based DrugsInstitute of Biomedicine and BiotechnologyShenzhen Institutes of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
- Department of BiochemistryFaculty of ScienceFederal University DutseDutseNigeria
| | - Mariam O Afolabi
- Open FIESTA CenterTsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsGraduate School at ShenzhenTsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
| | - Musbahu M Sani
- Department of BiochemistryFaculty of ScienceFederal University DutseDutseNigeria
| | - Wahab O Okunowo
- Department of BiochemistryCollege of MedicineUniversity of LagosLagosNigeria
| | - Dehong Yan
- Guangdong Immune Cell therapy Engineering and Technology research CenterCenter for Protein and Cell‐based DrugsInstitute of Biomedicine and BiotechnologyShenzhen Institutes of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Liang Chen
- Guangdong Immune Cell therapy Engineering and Technology research CenterCenter for Protein and Cell‐based DrugsInstitute of Biomedicine and BiotechnologyShenzhen Institutes of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Yaou Zhang
- Open FIESTA CenterTsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical OncogenomicsGraduate School at ShenzhenTsinghua UniversityShenzhenChina
- School of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Xiaochun Wan
- Guangdong Immune Cell therapy Engineering and Technology research CenterCenter for Protein and Cell‐based DrugsInstitute of Biomedicine and BiotechnologyShenzhen Institutes of Advanced TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesShenzhenChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
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Li YQ, Zheng Z, Liu QX, Lu X, Zhou D, Zhang J, Zheng H, Dai JG. Repositioning of Antiparasitic Drugs for Tumor Treatment. Front Oncol 2021; 11:670804. [PMID: 33996598 PMCID: PMC8117216 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.670804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug repositioning is a strategy for identifying new antitumor drugs; this strategy allows existing and approved clinical drugs to be innovatively repurposed to treat tumors. Based on the similarities between parasitic diseases and cancer, recent studies aimed to investigate the efficacy of existing antiparasitic drugs in cancer. In this review, we selected two antihelminthic drugs (macrolides and benzimidazoles) and two antiprotozoal drugs (artemisinin and its derivatives, and quinolines) and summarized the research progresses made to date on the role of these drugs in cancer. Overall, these drugs regulate tumor growth via multiple targets, pathways, and modes of action. These antiparasitic drugs are good candidates for comprehensive, in-depth analyses of tumor occurrence and development. In-depth studies may improve the current tumor diagnoses and treatment regimens. However, for clinical application, current investigations are still insufficient, warranting more comprehensive analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Qi Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Quan-Xing Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao Lu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Dong Zhou
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jiao Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Ji-Gang Dai
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
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Artesunate Switches Monocytes to an Inflammatory Phenotype with the Ability to Kill Leukemic Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020608. [PMID: 33435371 PMCID: PMC7827848 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Monocytes are components of the tumor microenvironment related to cancer progression and immune escape. Therapeutic strategies for reprogramming monocytes from a tumor-supporting phenotype towards a tumoricidal phenotype are of great interest. Artesunate (ART) may be an interesting option for cancer treatment; however, the role of ART in regulating the inflammatory tumor microenvironment has not yet been investigated. Our aim is to evaluate the immunomodulatory potential of ART in vitro in human primary monocytes. ART treatment induced an increase in inflammatory monocytes (CD14highCD16−) with HLA-DR high expression and MCP-1/IL-1β release. On the other hand, ART treatment reduced CD206 and CD163 expression, and abolished the monocyte population known as non-classical and intermediate. Leukemia cells in contact with monocytes programmed with ART presented enhanced in vitro apoptosis suggesting that monocytes acquired the ability to kill leukemic cells. ART induced changes in the monocyte phenotype were mediated by JAK2/STAT3 downregulation. The induction of immunosuppressive environment is an important step for cancer progression. ART showed an immunomodulatory activity, leading immune cells to an antitumor phenotype and could be a candidate for immunotherapy in cancer patients.
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Bailly C. Pyronaridine: An update of its pharmacological activities and mechanisms of action. Biopolymers 2020; 112:e23398. [PMID: 33280083 DOI: 10.1002/bip.23398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pyronaridine (PYR) is an erythrocytic schizonticide with a potent antimalarial activity against multidrug-resistant Plasmodium. The drug is used in combination with artesunate for the treatment of uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria, in adults and children. The present review briefly retraces the discovery of PYR and recent antimalarial studies which has led to the approval of PYR/artesunate combination (Pyramax) by the European Medicines Agency to treat uncomplicated malaria worldwide. PYR also presents a marked antitumor activity and has revealed efficacy for the treatment of other parasitic diseases (notably Babesia and Trypanosoma infections) and to mitigate the Ebola virus propagation. On the one hand, PYR functions has an inhibitor of hemozoin (biomineral malaria pigment, by-product of hemoglobin digestion) formation, blocking the biopolymerization of β-hematin and thus facilitating the accumulation of toxic hematin into the digestive vacuole of the parasite. On the other hand, PYR is a bona fide DNA-intercalating agent and an inhibitor of DNA topoisomerase 2, leading to DNA damages and cell death. Inhibition of hematin polymerization represents the prime mechanism at the origin of the antimalarial activity, whereas anticancer effects relies essentially on the interference with DNA metabolism, as with structurally related anticancer drugs like amsacrine and quinacrine. In addition, recent studies point to an immune modulatory activity of PYR and the implication of a mitochondrial oxidative pathway. An analogy with the mechanism of action of artemisinin drugs is underlined. In brief, the biological actions of pyronaridine are recapitulated to shed light on the diverse health benefits of this unsung drug.
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