1
|
Che S, Yan Z, Feng Y, Zhao H. Unveiling the intratumoral microbiota within cancer landscapes. iScience 2024; 27:109893. [PMID: 38799560 PMCID: PMC11126819 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in cancer research have unveiled a significant yet previously underappreciated aspect of oncology: the presence and role of intratumoral microbiota. These microbial residents, encompassing bacteria, fungi, and viruses within tumor tissues, have been found to exert considerable influence on tumor development, progression, and the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. This review aims to synthesize these groundbreaking discoveries, providing an integrated overview of the identification, characterization, and functional roles of intratumoral microbiota in cancer biology. We focus on elucidating the complex interactions between these microorganisms and the tumor microenvironment, highlighting their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The purpose of this review is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the microbial dimension in cancer, paving the way for innovative approaches in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shusheng Che
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266005, Shandong, China
| | - Zhiyong Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266005, Shandong, China
| | - Yugong Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266005, Shandong, China
| | - Hai Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266005, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang QW, Zhu MX, Liu WF, Rui WW, Chen Y, Ding XY, Jiang YS, Wu ZY, Liu BB. Identification of clinically relevant subsets CD39 +PD-1 +CD8 + T cells and CD39 + regulatory T cells in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma using single-cell CyTOF. Transl Oncol 2024; 44:101954. [PMID: 38608405 PMCID: PMC11024660 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is an aggressive liver malignancy with limited treatment options and a dismal prognosis. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) is crucial for iCCA progression, yet its comprehensive characterization remains incomplete. This study utilized mass cytometry by time of flight (CyTOF) to comprehensively analyze immune cell populations in fresh iCCA tumor samples and adjacent peritumor liver tissues. Notably, NK cell percentages significantly decreased in iCCA lesions compared to peritumor liver tissues. Conversely, an enrichment of immunosuppressive CD39+Foxp3+CD4+ regulatory T cells (CD39+T-regs) and exhausted-like CD8+T cells (with pronounced CD39 and PD-1 expression) within TIME was identified and confirmed by multiplex immunofluorescence staining in an independent patient cohort (n = 140). Crucially, tumor-infiltrating CD39+T-regs and CD39+PD-1+CD8+T cells emerged as independent prognostic indicators associated with an unfavorable prognosis in iCCA. These findings unveil the intricate immune landscape within iCCA, offering valuable insights for disease management and novel cancer immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Wei Zhang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197, Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Meng-Xuan Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wen-Feng Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wei-Wei Rui
- Department of Pathology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiao-Yi Ding
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197, Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Yong-Sheng Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197, Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai 200025, China; Research Institute of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Zhi-Yuan Wu
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 197, Ruijin Er Road, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Bin-Bin Liu
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Luo T, Tan X, Qing G, Yu J, Liang XJ, Liang P. A natural killer T cell nanoagonist-initiated immune cascade for hepatocellular carcinoma synergistic immunotherapy. NANOSCALE 2024. [PMID: 38787697 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr00847b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cell-mediated immunotherapy shows great promise in hepatocellular carcinoma featuring an inherent immunosuppressive microenvironment. However, targeted delivery of NKT cell agonists remains challenging. Here, we developed a hyaluronic acid (HA) modified metal organic framework (zeolitic imidazolate framework-8, ZIF-8) to encapsulate α-galactosylceramide (α-Galcer), a classic NKT cell agonist, and doxorubicin (DOX) for eliminating liver cancer, denoted as α-Galcer/DOX@ZIF-8@HA. In the tumor microenvironment (TME), these pH-responsive nano-frameworks can gradually collapse to release α-Galcer for activating NKT cells and further boosting other immune cells in order to initiate an antitumor immune cascade. Along with DOX, the released α-Galcer enabled efficient NKT cell activation in TME for synergistic immunotherapy and tumor elimination, leading to evident tumor suppression and prolonged animal survival in both subcutaneous and orthotopic liver tumor models. Manipulating NKT cell agonists into functional nano-frameworks in TME may be matched with other advanced managements applied in a wider range of cancer therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Luo
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China.
| | - Xiaoqiong Tan
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China.
| | - Guangchao Qing
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China.
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology of China, Beijing, 100190, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ping Liang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zhang L, Yu L. The role of the microscopic world: Exploring the role and potential of intratumoral microbiota in cancer immunotherapy. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38078. [PMID: 38758914 PMCID: PMC11098217 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, coexist in the human body, forming a symbiotic microbiota that plays a vital role in human health and disease. Intratumoral microbial components have been discovered in various tumor tissues and are closely linked to the occurrence, progression, and treatment results of cancer. The intratumoral microbiota can enhance antitumor immunity through mechanisms such as activating the stimulator of interferon genes signaling pathway, stimulating T and NK cells, promoting the formation of TLS, and facilitating antigen presentation. Conversely, the intratumoral microbiota might suppress antitumor immune responses by increasing reactive oxygen species levels, creating an anti-inflammatory environment, inducing T cell inactivation, and enhancing immune suppression, thereby promoting cancer progression. The impact of intratumoral microbiota on antitumor immunity varies based on microbial composition, interactions with cancer cells, and the cancer's current state. A deep understanding of the complex interactions between intratumoral microbiota and antitumor immunity holds the potential to bring new therapeutic strategies and targets to cancer immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liqiang Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Liang Yu
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Weifang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang City, Shandong Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang Y, Jin B, Wu X, Xing J, Zhang B, Chen X, Liu X, Wan X, Du S. Exploration of prognostic and treatment markers in hepatocellular carcinoma via GPCR-related genes analysis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29659. [PMID: 38694033 PMCID: PMC11058304 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), the biggest family of signaling receptors, account for 34 % of all the drug targets approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It has been gradually recognized that GPCRs are of significance for tumorigenesis, but in-depth studies are still required to explore specific mechanisms. In this study, the role of GPCRs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was elucidated, and GPCR-related genes were employed for building a risk-score model for the prognosis and treatment efficacy prediction of HCC patients. Methods Patients' data on HCC were sourced from the Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma-Japan (LIRI-JP) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases, while GPCR-related genes were obtained from the Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB). Univariant and multivariant Cox regression analyses, as well as least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were performed with the aim of identifying differentially expressed GPCR-related genes and grouping patients. Differential expression and functional enrichment analyses were performed; protein-protein interaction (PPI) mechanisms were explored; hub genes and micro ribonucleic acid (miRNA)-target gene regulatory networks were constructed. The tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) algorithm was utilized to evaluate immune infiltration levels and genetic variations. Sensitivity to immunotherapy and common antitumor drugs was predicted via the database Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC). Results A GPCR-related risk score containing eight GPCR-related genes (atypical chemokine receptor 3 (ACKR3), C-C chemokine receptor type 3 (CCR3), CCR7, frizzled homolog 5 (FZD5), metabotropic glutamate receptor 8 (GRM8), hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 1 (HCAR1), 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 5A (HTR5A) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 6 (NLRP6)) was set up. In addition, patients were classified into groups with high and low risks. Patients in the high-risk group exhibited a worse prognosis but demonstrated a more favorable immunotherapy response rate compared with those in the low-risk group. Distinct sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs was observed. A clinical prediction model on the basis of GPCR-related risk scores was constructed. Areas under the curves (AUC) corresponding to one-, three- and five-year survival were 0.731, 0.765 and 0.731, respectively. Conclusions In this study, an efficient HCC prognostic prediction model was constructed by only GPCR-related genes, which are all potential targets for HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Wang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Bao Jin
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Xiangan Wu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Jiali Xing
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Baoluhe Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Xiaokun Chen
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Xueshuai Wan
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Shunda Du
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ren Z, Yang K, Zhu L, Yin D, Zhou Y. Regulatory T cells as crucial trigger and potential target for hyperprogressive disease subsequent to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade for cancer treatment. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:111934. [PMID: 38574701 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111934] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy has brought great success to cancer treatment. Nevertheless, limited beneficiary populations and even hyperprogressive disease (HPD) greatly constrain the application of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in clinical treatment. HPD is a special pattern of disease progression with rapid tumor growth and even serious consequences of patient death, which requires urgent attention. Among the many predisposing causes of HPD, regulatory T cells (Tregs) are suspected because they are amplified in cases of HPD. Tregs express PD-1 thus PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy may have an impact on Tregs which leads to HPD. Tregs are a subset of CD4+ T cells expressing FoxP3 and play critical roles in suppressing immunity. Tregs migrate toward tumors in the presence of chemokines to suppress antitumor immune responses, causing cancer cells to grow and proliferate. Studies have shown that deleting Tregs could enhance the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy and reduce the occurrence of HPD. This suggests that immunotherapy combined with Treg depletion may be an effective means of avoiding HPD. In this review, we summarized the immunosuppressive-related functions of Tregs in antitumor therapy and focused on advances in therapy combining Tregs depletion with PD-1/PD-L1 blockade in clinical studies. Moreover, we provided an outlook on Treg-targeted HPD early warning for PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Ren
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China; BGI College & Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, Henan, China
| | - Kaiqing Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China
| | - Detao Yin
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China.
| | - Yubing Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Qian J, Huang C, Wang M, Liu Y, Zhao Y, Li M, Zhang X, Gao X, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Huang J, Li J, Zhou Q, Liu R, Wang X, Cui J, Yang Y. Nuclear translocation of metabolic enzyme PKM2 participates in high glucose-promoted HCC metastasis by strengthening immunosuppressive environment. Redox Biol 2024; 71:103103. [PMID: 38471282 PMCID: PMC10945175 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103103] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Although some cohort studies have indicated a close association between diabetes and HCC, the underlying mechanism about the contribution of diabetes to HCC progression remains largely unknown. In the study, we applied a novel HCC model in SD rat with diabetes and a series of high glucose-stimulated cell experiments to explore the effect of a high glucose environment on HCC metastasis and its relevant mechanism. Our results uncovered a novel regulatory mechanism by which nuclear translocation of metabolic enzyme PKM2 mediated high glucose-promoted HCC metastasis. Specifically, high glucose-increased PKM2 nuclear translocation downregulates chemerin expression through the redox protein TRX1, and then strengthens immunosuppressive environment to promote HCC metastasis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to elucidate the great contribution of a high glucose environment to HCC metastasis from a new perspective of enhancing the immunosuppressive microenvironment. Simultaneously, this work also highlights a previously unidentified non-metabolic role of PKM2 and opens a novel avenue for cross research and intervention for individuals with HCC and comorbid diabetes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Qian
- Department of endocrinology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuxin Huang
- Department of endocrinology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mimi Wang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of endocrinology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingying Zhao
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Miao Li
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangyu Gao
- Department of endocrinology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yawen Zhang
- Department of endocrinology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of endocrinology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinya Huang
- Department of endocrinology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiajun Li
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiwen Zhou
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of endocrinology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuanchun Wang
- Department of endocrinology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiefeng Cui
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yehong Yang
- Department of endocrinology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Shen KY, Zhu Y, Xie SZ, Qin LX. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: current status and prospectives. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:25. [PMID: 38679698 PMCID: PMC11057182 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01549-2] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health concern worldwide, with limited therapeutic options and poor prognosis. In recent years, immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have made great progress in the systemic treatment of HCC. The combination treatments based on ICIs have been the major trend in this area. Recently, dual immune checkpoint blockade with durvalumab plus tremelimumab has also emerged as an effective treatment for advanced HCC. However, the majority of HCC patients obtain limited benefits. Understanding the immunological rationale and exploring novel ways to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy has drawn much attention. In this review, we summarize the latest progress in this area, the ongoing clinical trials of immune-based combination therapies, as well as novel immunotherapy strategies such as chimeric antigen receptor T cells, personalized neoantigen vaccines, oncolytic viruses, and bispecific antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Yu Shen
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Sun-Zhe Xie
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lun-Xiu Qin
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China.
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Broholm M, Mathiasen AS, Apol ÁD, Weis N. The Adaptive Immune Response in Hepatitis B Virus-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma Is Characterized by Dysfunctional and Exhausted HBV-Specific T Cells. Viruses 2024; 16:707. [PMID: 38793588 PMCID: PMC11125979 DOI: 10.3390/v16050707] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This systematic review investigates the immunosuppressive environment in HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), characterized by dysfunctional and exhausted HBV-specific T cells alongside an increased infiltration of HBV-specific CD4+ T cells, particularly regulatory T cells (Tregs). Heightened expression of checkpoint inhibitors, notably PD-1, is linked with disease progression and recurrence, indicating its potential as both a prognostic indicator and a target for immunotherapy. Nevertheless, using PD-1 inhibitors has shown limited effectiveness. In a future perspective, understanding the intricate interplay between innate and adaptive immune responses holds promise for pinpointing predictive biomarkers and crafting novel treatment approaches for HBV-associated HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malene Broholm
- Department of Infectious Disease, Copenhagen University Hospital, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Anne-Sofie Mathiasen
- Department of Infectious Disease, Copenhagen University Hospital, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Ása Didriksen Apol
- Department of Infectious Disease, Copenhagen University Hospital, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Nina Weis
- Department of Infectious Disease, Copenhagen University Hospital, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Guo Y, Hu P, Shi J. Nanomedicine Remodels Tumor Microenvironment for Solid Tumor Immunotherapy. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:10217-10233. [PMID: 38563421 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c14005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Although immunotherapy is relatively effective in treating hematological malignancies, their efficacy against solid tumors is still suboptimal or even noneffective presently. Compared to hematological cancers, solid tumors exhibit strikingly different immunosuppressive microenvironment, severely deteriorating the efficacy of immunotherapy: (1) chemical features such as hypoxia and mild acidity suppress the activity of immune cells, (2) the pro-tumorigenic domestication of immune cells in the microenvironment within the solid tumors further undermines the effectiveness of immunotherapy, and (3) the dense physical barrier of solid tumor tissues prevents the effective intratumoral infiltration and contact killing of active immune cells. Therefore, we believe that reversing the immunosuppressive microenvironment are of critical priority for the immunotherapy against solid tumors. Due to their unique morphologies, structures, and compositions, nanomedicines have become powerful tools for achieving this goal. In this Perspective, we will first briefly introduce the immunosuppressive microenvironment of solid tumors and then summarize the most recent progresses in nanomedicine-based immunotherapy for solid tumors by remodeling tumor immune-microenvironment in a comprehensive manner. It is highly expected that this Perspective will aid in advancing immunotherapy against solid tumors, and we are highly optimistic on the future development in this burgeoning field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuedong Guo
- Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200331, P. R. China
| | - Ping Hu
- Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200331, P. R. China
- Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Research Unit of Nanocatalytic Medicine in Specific Therapy for Serious Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU012), Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
| | - Jianlin Shi
- Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Research Unit of Nanocatalytic Medicine in Specific Therapy for Serious Disease, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2021RU012), Shanghai 200050, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hsu CY, Mustafa MA, Kumar A, Pramanik A, Sharma R, Mohammed F, Jawad IA, Mohammed IJ, Alshahrani MY, Ali Khalil NAM, Shnishil AT, Abosaoda MK. Exploiting the immune system in hepatic tumor targeting: Unleashing the potential of drugs, natural products, and nanoparticles. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 256:155266. [PMID: 38554489 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic tumors present a formidable challenge in cancer therapeutics, necessitating the exploration of novel treatment strategies. In recent years, targeting the immune system has attracted interest to augment existing therapeutic efficacy. The immune system in hepatic tumors includes numerous cells with diverse actions. CD8+ T lymphocytes, T helper 1 (Th1) CD4+ T lymphocytes, alternative M1 macrophages, and natural killer (NK) cells provide the antitumor immunity. However, Foxp3+ regulatory CD4+ T cells (Tregs), M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are the key immune inhibitor cells. Tumor stroma can also affect these interactions. Targeting these cells and their secreted molecules is intriguing for eliminating malignant cells. The current review provides a synopsis of the immune system components involved in hepatic tumor expansion and highlights the molecular and cellular pathways that can be targeted for therapeutic intervention. It also overviews the diverse range of drugs, natural products, immunotherapy drugs, and nanoparticles that have been investigated to manipulate immune responses and bolster antitumor immunity. The review also addresses the potential advantages and challenges associated with these approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chou-Yi Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan City 71710, Taiwan
| | | | - Ashwani Kumar
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Sciences, Jain (Deemed-to-be) University, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560069, India; Department of Pharmacy, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan 303012, India
| | - Atreyi Pramanik
- Institute of Pharma Sciences and Research, Chandigarh University, Mohali, India
| | - Rajiv Sharma
- Institute of Pharma Sciences and Research, Chandigarh University, Mohali, India
| | - Faraj Mohammed
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Manara College for Medical Sciences, Maysan, Iraq
| | | | - Imad Jasim Mohammed
- College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Y Alshahrani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | | | - Munther Kadhim Abosaoda
- College of technical engineering, the Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq; College of technical engineering, the Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Iraq; College of technical engineering, the Islamic University of Babylon, Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sang X, Gan T, Ge G, Li D, Mei Y, Pan C, Long S, Xie B, Yu X, Chen Z, Wang H. Circulating Immune Landscape Profiling in Psoriasis Vulgaris and Psoriatic Arthritis by Mass Cytometry. J Immunol Res 2024; 2024:9927964. [PMID: 38590608 PMCID: PMC11001477 DOI: 10.1155/2024/9927964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Psoriasis, a systemic disorder mediated by the immune system, can appear on the skin, joints, or both. Individuals with cutaneous psoriasis (PsC) have an elevated risk of developing psoriatic arthritis (PsA) during their lifetime. Despite this known association, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this progression remain unclear. Methods We performed high-dimensional, in-depth immunophenotyping of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in patients with PsA and psoriasis vulgaris (PsV) by mass cytometry. Blood samples were collected before and after therapy for a longitudinal study. Then three sets of comparisons were made here: active PsA vs. active PsV, untreated PsV vs. treated PsV, and untreated PsA vs. treated PsA. Results Marked differences were observed in multiple lymphocyte subsets of PsA related to PsV, with expansion of CD4+ T cells, CD16- NK cells, and B cells. Notably, two critical markers, CD28 and CD127, specifically differentiated PsA from PsV. The expression levels of CD28 and CD127 on both Naïve T cells (TN) and central memory CD4+ T cells (TCM) were considerably higher in PsA than PsV. Meanwhile, after treatment, patients with PsV had higher levels of CD28hi CD127hi CD4+ TCM cells, CD28hi CD127hi CD4+ TN cells, and CD16- NK cells. Conclusion In the circulation of PsA patients, the TN and CD4+ TCM are characterized with more abundant CD28 and CD127, which effectively distinguished PsA from PsV. This may indicate that individuals undergoing PsV could be stratified at high risk of developing PsA based on the circulating levels of CD28 and CD127 on specific cell subsets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Sang
- Zhejiang Institute of Dermatology, Deqing, China
| | - Tian Gan
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Gai Ge
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Dan Li
- Zhejiang Institute of Dermatology, Deqing, China
| | - Youming Mei
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Chun Pan
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Siyu Long
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Bibo Xie
- Zhejiang Institute of Dermatology, Deqing, China
| | - Xiaobing Yu
- Zhejiang Institute of Dermatology, Deqing, China
| | - Zhiming Chen
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongsheng Wang
- Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
He J, Miao R, Chen Y, Wang H, Liu M. The dual role of regulatory T cells in hepatitis B virus infection and related hepatocellular carcinoma. Immunology 2024; 171:445-463. [PMID: 38093705 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13738] [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: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major contributor to cancer-related deaths worldwide. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major etiologic factor leading to HCC. While there have been significant advancements in controlling HBV replication, achieving a complete cure for HBV-related HCC (HBV-HCC) remains an intricate challenge. HBV persistence is attributed to a myriad of mechanisms, encompassing both innate and adaptive immune responses. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are pivotal in upholding immune tolerance and modulating excessive immune activation. During HBV infection, Tregs mediate specific T cell suppression, thereby contributing to both persistent infection and the mitigation of liver inflammatory responses. Studies have demonstrated an augmented expression of circulating and intrahepatic Tregs in HBV-HCC, which correlates with impaired CD8+ T cell function. Consequently, Tregs play a dual role in the context of HBV infection and the progression of HBV-HCC. In this comprehensive review, we discuss pertinent studies concerning Tregs in HBV infection, HBV-related cirrhosis and HCC. Furthermore, we summarize Treg responses to antiviral therapy and provide Treg-targeted therapies specific to HBV and HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinan He
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Rui Miao
- Guangzhou Women and Children Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Northeast Yunnan Regional Central Hospital, Zhaotong, Yunan, China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gupta T, Jarpula NS. Hepatocellular carcinoma immune microenvironment and check point inhibitors-current status. World J Hepatol 2024; 16:353-365. [PMID: 38577535 PMCID: PMC10989304 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v16.i3.353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary tumor of the liver and has a high mortality rate. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system in addition to tumor staging also links the modality of treatment available to a particular stage. The recent description of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in HCC has provided a new concept of immunogenicity within the HCC. Virus-related HCC has been shown to be more immunogenic with higher expression of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and decreased elements for immunosuppression such as regulatory T cells. This immunogenic milieu provides a better response to immunotherapy especially immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). In addition, the recent data on combining locoregional therapies and other strategies may convert the less immunogenic state of the TME towards higher immunogenicity. Therefore, data are emerging on the use of combinations of locoregional therapy and ICIs in unresectable or advanced HCC and has shown better survival outcomes in this difficult population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tarana Gupta
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak 124001, Haryana, India.
| | - Nikhil Sai Jarpula
- Division of Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak 124001, Haryana, India
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Varghese N, Majeed A, Nyalakonda S, Boortalary T, Halegoua-DeMarzio D, Hann HW. Review of Related Factors for Persistent Risk of Hepatitis B Virus-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:777. [PMID: 38398168 PMCID: PMC10887172 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16040777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the largest global cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Current HBV treatment options include pegylated interferon-alpha and nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs), which have been shown to be effective in reducing HBV DNA levels to become undetectable. However, the literature has shown that some patients have persistent risk of developing HCC. The mechanism in which this occurs has not been fully elucidated. However, it has been discovered that HBV's covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) integrates into the critical HCC driver genes in hepatocytes upon initial infection; additionally, these are not targets of current NA therapies. Some studies suggest that HBV undergoes compartmentalization in peripheral blood mononuclear cells that serve as a sanctuary for replication during antiviral therapy. The aim of this review is to expand on how patients with HBV may develop HCC despite years of HBV viral suppression and carry worse prognosis than treatment-naive HBV patients who develop HCC. Furthermore, HCC recurrence after initial surgical or locoregional treatment in this setting may cause carcinogenic cells to behave more aggressively during treatment. Curative novel therapies which target the life cycle of HBV, modulate host immune response, and inhibit HBV RNA translation are being investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nevin Varghese
- Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (N.V.); (A.M.); (S.N.); (T.B.); (D.H.-D.)
| | - Amry Majeed
- Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (N.V.); (A.M.); (S.N.); (T.B.); (D.H.-D.)
| | - Suraj Nyalakonda
- Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (N.V.); (A.M.); (S.N.); (T.B.); (D.H.-D.)
| | - Tina Boortalary
- Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (N.V.); (A.M.); (S.N.); (T.B.); (D.H.-D.)
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Dina Halegoua-DeMarzio
- Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (N.V.); (A.M.); (S.N.); (T.B.); (D.H.-D.)
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Hie-Won Hann
- Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; (N.V.); (A.M.); (S.N.); (T.B.); (D.H.-D.)
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cao Y, Xia H, Tan X, Shi C, Ma Y, Meng D, Zhou M, Lv Z, Wang S, Jin Y. Intratumoural microbiota: a new frontier in cancer development and therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:15. [PMID: 38195689 PMCID: PMC10776793 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01693-0] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Human microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, play key roles in several physiological and pathological processes. Some studies discovered that tumour tissues once considered sterile actually host a variety of microorganisms, which have been confirmed to be closely related to oncogenesis. The concept of intratumoural microbiota was subsequently proposed. Microbiota could colonise tumour tissues through mucosal destruction, adjacent tissue migration, and hematogenic invasion and affect the biological behaviour of tumours as an important part of the tumour microenvironment. Mechanistic studies have demonstrated that intratumoural microbiota potentially promote the initiation and progression of tumours by inducing genomic instability and mutations, affecting epigenetic modifications, promoting inflammation response, avoiding immune destruction, regulating metabolism, and activating invasion and metastasis. Since more comprehensive and profound insights about intratumoral microbiota are continuously emerging, new methods for the early diagnosis and prognostic assessment of cancer patients have been under examination. In addition, interventions based on intratumoural microbiota show great potential to open a new chapter in antitumour therapy, especially immunotherapy, although there are some inevitable challenges. Here, we aim to provide an extensive review of the concept, development history, potential sources, heterogeneity, and carcinogenic mechanisms of intratumoural microorganisms, explore the potential role of microorganisms in tumour prognosis, and discuss current antitumour treatment regimens that target intratumoural microorganisms and the research prospects and limitations in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaqi Cao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Major Respiratory Diseases, Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases of National Health Commission, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Engineering Research Center for Tumour-Targeted Biochemotherapy, MOE Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Hui Xia
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Major Respiratory Diseases, Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases of National Health Commission, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Engineering Research Center for Tumour-Targeted Biochemotherapy, MOE Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Xueyun Tan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Major Respiratory Diseases, Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases of National Health Commission, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Engineering Research Center for Tumour-Targeted Biochemotherapy, MOE Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Chunwei Shi
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Yanling Ma
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Major Respiratory Diseases, Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases of National Health Commission, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Daquan Meng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Major Respiratory Diseases, Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases of National Health Commission, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Mengmeng Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Major Respiratory Diseases, Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases of National Health Commission, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Zhilei Lv
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Major Respiratory Diseases, Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases of National Health Commission, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Sufei Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Major Respiratory Diseases, Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases of National Health Commission, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China.
- Hubei Province Engineering Research Center for Tumour-Targeted Biochemotherapy, MOE Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China.
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China.
| | - Yang Jin
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Hubei Province Clinical Research Center for Major Respiratory Diseases, Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases of National Health Commission, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China.
- Hubei Province Engineering Research Center for Tumour-Targeted Biochemotherapy, MOE Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China.
- Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ouyang L, Sun MM, Zhou PS, Ren YW, Liu XY, Wei WY, Song ZS, Lu K, Yang LX. LncRNA FOXD1-AS1 regulates pancreatic cancer stem cell properties and 5-FU resistance by regulating the miR-570-3p/SPP1 axis as a ceRNA. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:4. [PMID: 38167126 PMCID: PMC10763109 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03181-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of human cancers. Previous studies have highlighted the role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in modulating the stemness of CSCs. In our investigation, we identified an upregulation of lncRNA FOXD1-AS1 in CSCs. The enforced expression of lncRNA FOXD1-AS1 promotes tumorigenesis and self-renewal in pancreatic cancer CSCs. Conversely, the knockdown of lncRNA FOXD1-AS1 inhibits tumorigenesis and self-renewal in pancreatic cancer CSCs. Furthermore, our findings reveal that lncRNA FOXD1-AS1 enhances self-renewal and tumorigenesis in pancreatic cancer CSCs by up-regulating osteopontin/secreted phosphoprotein 1(SPP1) and acting as a ceRNA to sponge miR-570-3p in pancreatic cancer (PC) CSCs. Additionally, lncRNA FOXD1-AS1 depleted pancreatic cancer cells exhibit heightened sensitivity to 5-FU-indued cell growth inhibition and apoptosis. Analysis of patient-derived xenografts (PDX) indicates that a low level of lncRNA FOXD1-AS1 may serve as a predictor of 5-FU benefits in PC patients. Moreover, the introduction of SPP1 can reverse the sensitivity of lncRNA FOXD1-AS1-knockdown PC cells to 5-FU-induced cell apoptosis. Importantly, molecular studies have indicated that the elevated levels of lncRNAFOXD1-AS1 in PC are facilitated through METTL3 and YTHDF1-dependent m6A methylation. In summary, our results underscore the critical functions of lncRNA FOXD1-AS1 in the self-renewal and tumorigenesis of pancreatic cancer CSCs, positioning lncRNA FOXD1-AS1 as a promising therapeutic target for PC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liu Ouyang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic (HBP) Surgery, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200434, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic (HBP) Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Min-Min Sun
- Department of Hepatic Surgery I, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Ping-Sheng Zhou
- Department of Ultrasonic Intervention, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Yi-Wei Ren
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic (HBP) Surgery, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200434, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic (HBP) Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Xin-Yu Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic (HBP) Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Wan-Ying Wei
- Department of Biliary Tract Surgery II, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Zhen-Shun Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic (HBP) Surgery, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200434, China.
| | - Kai Lu
- Department of Biliary Tract Surgery II, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
| | - Li-Xue Yang
- Department of Biliary Tract Surgery II, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Luo T, Wang Z, Yu X, Han Z, Cheng Z, Liu F, Yu J, Liang P. More Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Microwave Ablation Leads to Higher Immune-Related Gene Expression and Boosts PD-1 Monoclonal Antibodies for Liver Cancer. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2024; 50:150-157. [PMID: 37867090 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2023.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the work described here was to investigate the relative contribution of subtotal ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation (MWA) to amplifying programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) inhibition in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS Between April 2019 and December 2021, advanced HCC patient demographics, tumor response, survival data, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and peripheral lymphocyte profiles were retrospectively collected and analyzed. In hepa1-6 tumor-bearing C57BL/6J mice, RNA sequencing, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry staining and cytokine tests were also performed. RESULTS Twenty-nine HCC patients were enrolled, with a median follow-up duration of 15.1 mo. Compared with the ablation rate (AR) ≤50% group (n = 10), the AR >50% group (n = 19) had a higher disease control rate, a longer time to progression and a longer overall survival. More patients in the AR >50% group had an early decrease in NLR and better immune activation. RNA sequencing of murine tumors subjected to MWA >50% AR showed that immune-related gene expression upregulated. CD8+ T cells, interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were also increased, indicating that MWA >50% AR boosted the immunomodulatory effect of PD-1 inhibitors. CONCLUSION More MWA could induce superior antitumor immunity by enhancing immune-related gene expression, priming CD8+ T cells and thereby boosting PD-1 inhibition. It is advisable that eradication of tumors to the degree possible should be considered within technical access to obtain a better prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Luo
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China; Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoling Yu
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyu Han
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhigang Cheng
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fangyi Liu
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Liang
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China; Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Fifth Medical Center of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Xiong D, Zhang L, Sun ZJ. Targeting the epigenome to reinvigorate T cells for cancer immunotherapy. Mil Med Res 2023; 10:59. [PMID: 38044445 PMCID: PMC10694991 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-023-00496-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy using immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized the field of cancer treatment; however, ICI efficacy is constrained by progressive dysfunction of CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), which is termed T cell exhaustion. This process is driven by diverse extrinsic factors across heterogeneous tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Simultaneously, tumorigenesis entails robust reshaping of the epigenetic landscape, potentially instigating T cell exhaustion. In this review, we summarize the epigenetic mechanisms governing tumor microenvironmental cues leading to T cell exhaustion, and discuss therapeutic potential of targeting epigenetic regulators for immunotherapies. Finally, we outline conceptual and technical advances in developing potential treatment paradigms involving immunostimulatory agents and epigenetic therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dian Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
| | - Zhi-Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, School and and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Lin S, Cao Y, Zhu K, Yang C, Zhu X, Zhang H, Zhang R. Identification of a Novel Prognostic Signature Based on N-Linked Glycosylation and Its Correlation with Immunotherapy Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2023; 10:1749-1765. [PMID: 37841372 PMCID: PMC10575065 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s417407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The complex tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has led to a low response to immune checkpoints inhibitors (ICIs) and a poor prognosis. PD-L1, as one of the indications for ICIs, is rich in glycosylation modifications, which result in untimely ICIs. Our study constructed a prognostic model based on N-linked glycosylation related genes for predicting the prognosis and the response to ICIs. Methods The list of N-linked glycosylation related genes is from the AmiGO2 database. The patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) cohorts were enrolled. The Cox regression was performed to develop a prognostic model and patients were divided into a low- and high-risk subgroups. The role of signature in HCC was well investigated by prognostic analysis, gene set enrichment analysis, and immune infiltration analysis. 21 recurrent HCC patients who received postoperative adjuvant ICIs were recruited to evaluate the relationship between immunotherapy response and the signature. In vitro studies were conducted to investigate the oncogenic effects of DDOST, STT3A and TMEM165 in HCC. Results 59 N-linked glycosylation related differentially expressed genes were screened from HCC and normal tissues in the TCGA cohort. The prognostic model was developed with DDOST, STT3A and TMEM165. The risk score could be an independent prognostic factor. Patients in the high-risk subgroup showed a worse prognosis than patients in the low-risk one. ssGSEA showed that patients in the low-risk subgroup tended to be in the immune-activated state, with higher levels of B cell and macrophage cell infiltrations and lower levels of regulatory T cell (Treg) infiltrations in both TCGC and GEO cohorts. Immunohistochemistry studies showed that DDOST, STT3A and TMEM165 are highly expressed in tumor tissues and patients with a high-risk score correlated with poor progression free survival and worse immunotherapeutic response. Furthermore, the proliferation of HCC cells was reduced after the knockdown of DDOST, as well as upon the knockdown of STT3A and TMEM165. Conclusion In this study, we establish that the risk model based on N-linked glycosylation related genes could efficiently predict the prognosis and tumor microenvironment immune state of HCC patients, and the risk score could serve as a novel indicator of immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shusheng Lin
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Cao
- Emergency Department, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ke Zhu
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong TCRCure Biopharma Technology Co., Ltd, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Caini Yang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiangping Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Honghua Zhang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
You M, Gao Y, Fu J, Xie R, Zhu Z, Hong Z, Meng L, Du S, Liu J, Wang FS, Yang P, Chen L. Epigenetic regulation of HBV-specific tumor-infiltrating T cells in HBV-related HCC. Hepatology 2023; 78:943-958. [PMID: 36999652 PMCID: PMC10442105 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS HBV shapes the T-cell immune responses in HBV-related HCC. T cells can be recruited to the nidus, but limited T cells participate specifically in response to the HBV-related tumor microenvironment and HBV antigens. How epigenomic programs regulate T-cell compartments in virus-specific immune processes is unclear. APPROACH AND RESULTS We developed Ti-ATAC-seq. 2 to map the T-cell receptor repertoire, epigenomic, and transcriptomic landscape of αβ T cells at both the bulk-cell and single-cell levels in 54 patients with HCC. We deeply investigated HBV-specific T cells and HBV-related T-cell subsets that specifically responded to HBV antigens and the HBV + tumor microenvironment, respectively, characterizing their T-cell receptor clonality and specificity and performing epigenomic profiling. A shared program comprising NFKB1/2-, Proto-Oncogene, NF-KB Sub unit, NFATC2-, and NR4A1-associated unique T-cell receptor-downstream core epigenomic and transcriptomic regulome commonly regulated the differentiation of HBV-specific regulatory T-cell (Treg) cells and CD8 + exhausted T cells; this program was also selectively enriched in the HBV-related Treg-CTLA4 and CD8-exhausted T cell-thymocyte selection associated high mobility subsets and drove greater clonal expansion in HBV-related Treg-CTLA4 subset. Overall, 54% of the effector and memory HBV-specific T cells are governed by transcription factor motifs of activator protein 1, NFE2, and BACH1/2, which have been reported to be associated with prolonged patient relapse-free survival. Moreover, HBV-related tumor-infiltrating Tregs correlated with both increased viral titer and poor prognosis in patients. CONCLUSIONS This study provides insight into the cellular and molecular basis of the epigenomic programs that regulate the differentiation and generation of HBV-related T cells from viral infection and HBV + HCC unique immune exhaustion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maojun You
- Chongqing International Institute for Immunology, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of CAS, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanan Gao
- Chongqing International Institute for Immunology, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of CAS, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Junliang Fu
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Runze Xie
- Chongqing International Institute for Immunology, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of CAS, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhu
- Senior Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA Centeral Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhixian Hong
- Senior Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA Centeral Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lingzhan Meng
- Senior Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA Centeral Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shunda Du
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and PUMC, Beijing, China
| | - Junliang Liu
- Chongqing International Institute for Immunology, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of CAS, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fu-Sheng Wang
- Senior Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Pengyuan Yang
- Chongqing International Institute for Immunology, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of CAS, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Chen
- School of Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Huang CH, Hsieh SY. More immunosuppressive, more immunotherapy responsive? A double-edged sword of HBV-induced immune response in HCC. Hepatology 2023; 78:706-708. [PMID: 37013921 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Hao Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wu D, Sun Y. The Functional Redundancy of Neddylation E2s and E3s in Modulating the Fitness of Regulatory T Cells. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2023; 6:0212. [PMID: 37600496 PMCID: PMC10437198 DOI: 10.34133/research.0212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Neddylation is necessary for activation of Cullin-RING ligases (CRLs), which degrade various immune regulatory proteins. Our recent study showed that while depletion of neddylation E2-E3 pair Ube2f-Sag in regulatory T (Treg) cells had no obvious phenotype, the same depletion of either Ube2m or Rbx1 caused inflammation disorders with different severity. Whether these E2s or E3s compensate each other in functional regulations of Treg cells is, however, previously unknown. In this report, we generated Foxp3Cre;Ube2mfl/fl;Ube2ffl/fl or Foxp3Cre;Rbx1fl/fl;Sagfl/fl double-null mice by simultaneous deletion of both neddylation E2s or E3s in Treg cells, respectively. Remarkably, Ube2m&Ube2f double-null mice developed much severe autoimmune phenotypes than did Ube2m-null mice, indicating that Ube2m markedly compensates Ube2f in Treg cells. The minor worsened autoimmune phenotypes seen at the very early stage in Rbx1&Sag double-null than Rbx1-null mice is likely due to already severe phenotypes of the later, indicating a minor compensation of Rbx1 for Sag. The RNA profiling-based analyses revealed that up- and down-regulations of few signaling pathways in Treg cells are associated with the severity of autoimmune phenotypes. Finally, severer inflammation phenotypes seen in mice with double E3-null than with double E2-null Treg cells indicate a neddylation-independent mechanism of 2 E3s, also known to serve as the RING component of CRLs in regulation of Treg cell fitness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Wu
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education) of the Second Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310029, China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310029, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Zhejiang Province, China.
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education) of the Second Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310029, China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310029, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Zhejiang Province, China.
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Province, China
- Research Center for Life Science and Human Health, Binjiang Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Chen S, Du Y, Guan XY, Yan Q. The current status of tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cells in sorafenib resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1204513. [PMID: 37576900 PMCID: PMC10412930 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1204513] [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: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a heterogeneous and aggressive liver cancer that presents limited treatment options. Despite being the standard therapy for advanced HCC, sorafenib frequently encounters resistance, emphasizing the need to uncover the underlying mechanisms and develop effective treatments. This comprehensive review highlights the crucial interplay between the tumor microenvironment, cancer stem cells (CSCs), and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the context of sorafenib resistance. The tumor microenvironment, encompassing hypoxia, immune cells, stromal cells, and exosomes, exerts a significant impact on HCC progression and therapy response. Hypoxic conditions and immune cell infiltration create an immunosuppressive milieu, shielding tumor cells from immune surveillance and hindering therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, the presence of CSCs emerges as a prominent contributor to sorafenib resistance, with CD133+ CSCs implicated in drug resistance and tumor initiation. Moreover, CSCs undergo EMT, a process intimately linked to tumor progression, CSC activation, and further promotion of sorafenib resistance, metastasis, and tumor-initiating capacity. Elucidating the correlation between the tumor microenvironment, CSCs, and sorafenib resistance holds paramount importance in the quest to develop reliable biomarkers capable of predicting therapeutic response. Novel therapeutic strategies must consider the influence of the tumor microenvironment and CSC activation to effectively overcome sorafenib resistance in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaqing Du
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceuticals, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin-Yuan Guan
- State Key Laboratory for Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qian Yan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery (Colorectal Surgery), The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Fu S, Liu M, Zhu C, Zhang H, Zhao C, Xie Y, Chen G, Sheng D, Pan J, He Z, Dai Y, Gao Y, Li X, Chen L, Qian Y, Jin T, Sun C, Tian Z, Wang H, Bai L. Regulatory mucosa-associated invariant T cells controlled by β1 adrenergic receptor signaling contribute to hepatocellular carcinoma progression. Hepatology 2023; 78:72-87. [PMID: 36626624 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The innate-like mucosa-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are enriched in human liver and have been linked to human HCC. However, their contributions to the progression of HCC are controversial due to the heterogeneity of MAIT cells, and new MAIT cell subsets remain to be explored. APPROACH AND RESULTS Combining single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and flow cytometry analysis, we performed phenotypic and functional studies and found that FOXP3 + CXCR3 + MAIT cells in HCC patients were regulatory MAIT cells (MAITregs) with high immunosuppressive potential. These MAITregs were induced under Treg-inducing condition and predominantly from FOXP3 - CXCR3 + MAIT cells, which displayed mild Treg-related features and represented a pre-MAITreg reservoir. In addition, the induction and function of MAITregs were promoted by β1 adrenergic receptor signaling in pre-MAITregs and MAITregs, respectively. In HCC patients, high proportion of the intratumoral MAITregs inhibited antitumor immune responses and was associated with poor clinical outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Together, we reveal an immunosuppressive subset of MAIT cells in HCC patients that contributes to HCC progression, and propose a control through neuroimmune crosstalk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sicheng Fu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Oncology of the First Affiliated Hospital, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Muziying Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Anhui Institute of Pediatric Research, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Chenwen Zhu
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Huimin Zhang
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Oncology of the First Affiliated Hospital, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Changfeng Zhao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yaping Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Guanghou Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Organ Transplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Daping Sheng
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jun Pan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ziqing He
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ying Dai
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yufeng Gao
- Department of Infectious Disease, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaomei Li
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, the First Affiliated Hospital, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Lijian Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yeben Qian
- Department of General Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Tengchuan Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Cheng Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhigang Tian
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Oncology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Bai
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Department of Oncology of the First Affiliated Hospital, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Health and Medicine, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China
- National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Li Y, Cao H, Jiang Z, Yan K, Shi J, Wang S, Wang F, Wang W, Li X, Sun N, Liu L, Chen L, Chen Y, Guo R, Song Y. CCL17 acts as an antitumor chemokine in micromilieu‐driven immune skewing. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 118:110078. [PMID: 37001380 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemokines are critical players in the local immune responses to tumors. CCL17 (thymus and activation-regulated chemokine, TARC) and CCL22 (macrophage-derived chemokine, MDC) can attract CCR4-bearing cells involving the immune landscape of cancer. However, their direct roles and functional states in tumors remain largely unclear. METHODS We analyzed the lymphoma-related scRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq datasets and identified the CCL17/CCL22-CCR4 axis as the unique participant of the tumor microenvironment. Then we edited the A20 lymphoma cell line to express CCL17 and CCL22 and assessed their function using three mouse models (Balb/C mouse, Nude mouse, and NSG mouse). In addition, we retrospectively checked the relationship between the CCL17/CCL22-CCR4 axis and the survival rates of cancer patients. RESULTS The active CCL17/CCL22-CCR4 axis is a distinctive feature of the Hodgkin lymphoma microenvironment. CCR4 is widely expressed in immune cells but highly exists on the surface of NK, NKT, and Treg cells. The tumor model of Balb/C mice showed that CCL17 acts as an anti-tumor chemokine mediated by activated T cell response. In addition, the tumor model of Nude mice showed that CCL17 recruits NK cells for inhibiting lymphoma growth and enhances the NK-cDC1 interaction for resisting IL4i1-mediated immunosuppression. Interestingly, CCL17-mediated antitumor immune responses depend on lymphoid lineages but not mainly myeloid ones. Furthermore, we found CCL17/CCL22-CCR4 axis cannot be regarded as biomarkers of poor prognosis in most cancer types from the TCGA database. CONCLUSION We provided direct evidence of antitumor functions of CCL17 mediated by the recruitment of conventional T cells, NKT cells, and NK cells. Clinical survival outcomes of target gene (CCL17, CCL22, and CCR4) expression also identified that CCL17/CCL22-CCR4 axis is not a marker of poor prognosis.
Collapse
|
27
|
Wei S, Wei F, Li M, Yang Y, Zhang J, Li C, Wang J. Target immune components to circumvent sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114798. [PMID: 37121146 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib, a multi-kinase inhibitor, has been approved for cancer treatment for decades, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although sorafenib produced substantial clinical benefits in the initial stage, a large proportion of cancer patients acquired drug resistance in subsequent treatment, which always disturbs clinical physicians. Cumulative evidence unraveled the underlying mechanism of sorafenib, but few reports focused on the role of immune subpopulations, since the immunological rationale of sorafenib resistance has not yet been defined. Here, we reviewed the immunoregulatory effects of sorafenib on the tumor microenvironment and emphasized the potential immunological mechanisms of therapeutic resistance to sorafenib. Moreover, we also summarized the clinical outcomes and ongoing trials in combination of sorafenib with immunotherapy, highlighted the immunotherapeutic strategies to improve sorafenib efficacy, and put forward several prospective questions aimed at guiding future research in overcoming sorafenib resistance in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuhua Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Fenghua Wei
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Mengyuan Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yuhan Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- R & D Management Department, China National Biotec Group, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Chunxiao Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
| | - Junjie Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wang X, Chen J, Lin L, Li Y, Tao Q, Lang Z, Zheng J, Yu Z. Machine learning integrations develop an antigen-presenting-cells and T-Cells-Infiltration derived LncRNA signature for improving clinical outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:284. [PMID: 36978017 PMCID: PMC10053113 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-10766-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
As a highly heterogeneous cancer, the prognostic stratification and personalized management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are still challenging. Recently, Antigen-presenting-cells (APCs) and T-cells-infiltration (TCI) have been reported to be implicated in modifying immunology in HCC. Nevertheless, the clinical value of APCs and TCI-related long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) in the clinical outcomes and precision treatment of HCC is still obscure. In this study, a total of 805 HCC patients were enrolled from three public datasets and an external clinical cohort. 5 machine learning (ML) algorithms were transformed into 15 kinds of ML integrations, which was used to construct the preliminary APC-TCI related LncRNA signature (ATLS). According to the criterion with the largest average C-index in the validation sets, the optimal ML integration was selected to construct the optimal ATLS. By incorporating several vital clinical characteristics and molecular features for comparison, ATLS was demonstrated to have a relatively more significantly superior predictive capacity. Additionally, it was found that the patients with high ATLS score had dismal prognosis, relatively high frequency of tumor mutation, remarkable immune activation, high expression levels of T cell proliferation regulators and anti-PD-L1 response as well as extraordinary sensitivity to Oxaliplatin/Fluorouracil/Lenvatinib. In conclusion, ATLS may serve as a robust and powerful biomarker for improving the clinical outcomes and precision treatment of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Wang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Liver Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Ji Chen
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Lifan Lin
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Yifei Li
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Qiqi Tao
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Zhichao Lang
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Jianjian Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
| | - Zhengping Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, No.2 Fuxue Lane, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Zhuo B, Zhang Q, Xie T, Wang Y, Chen Z, Zuo D, Guo B. Integrative epigenetic analysis reveals AP-1 promotes activation of tumor-infiltrating regulatory T cells in HCC. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:103. [PMID: 36941472 PMCID: PMC11071886 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04746-3] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells that infiltrate human tumors exhibit stronger immunosuppressive activity compared to peripheral blood Treg cells (PBTRs), thus hindering the induction of effective antitumor immunity. Previous transcriptome studies have identified a set of genes that are conserved in tumor-infiltrating Treg cells (TITRs). However, epigenetic profiles of TITRs have not yet been completely deciphered. Here, we employed ATAC-seq and CUT&Tag assays to integrate transcriptome profiles and identify functional regulatory elements in TITRs. We observed a global difference in chromatin accessibility and enhancer landscapes between TITRs and PBTRs. We identified two types of active enhancer formation in TITRs. The H3K4me1-predetermined enhancers are poised to be activated in response to tumor microenvironmental stimuli. We found that AP-1 family motifs are enriched at the enhancer regions of TITRs. Finally, we validated that c-Jun binds at regulatory regions to regulate signature genes of TITRs and AP-1 is required for Treg cells activation in vitro. High c-Jun expression is correlated with poor survival in human HCC. Overall, our results provide insights into the mechanism of AP-1-mediated activation of TITRs and can hopefully be used to develop new therapeutic strategies targeting TITRs in liver cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baowen Zhuo
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
- Medical Research Institute, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518102, Guangdong, China
| | - Qifan Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Division of Hepatobiliopancreatic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Tingyan Xie
- Medical Research Institute, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518102, Guangdong, China
| | - Yidan Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518102, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhengliang Chen
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Daming Zuo
- Department of Medical Laboratory, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
| | - Bo Guo
- Medical Research Institute, Shenzhen Baoan Women's and Children's Hospital, Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518102, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Zhang J, Hu C, Xie X, Qi L, Li C, Li S. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in HBV-Caused Hepatocellular Carcinoma Therapy. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11030614. [PMID: 36992198 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11030614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the main risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer, with high incidence and mortality worldwide. Surgery, liver transplantation, and ablation therapies have been used to treat early HBV-caused HCC (HBV-HCC); meanwhile, in the advanced stage, chemoradiotherapy and drug-targeted therapy are regularly considered, but with limited efficacy. Recently, immunotherapies, such as tumor vaccine therapy, adoptive cell transfer therapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, have demonstrated promising efficacy in cancer treatment. In particular, immune checkpoint inhibitors can successfully prevent tumors from achieving immune escape and promote an anti-tumor response, thereby boosting the therapeutic effect in HBV-HCC. However, the advantages of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of HBV-HCC remain to be exploited. Here, we describe the basic characteristics and development of HBV-HCC and introduce current treatment strategies for HBV-HCC. Of note, we review the principles of immune checkpoint molecules, such as programmed cell death protein 1(PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) in HBV-HCC, as well as related inhibitors being considered in the clinic. We also discuss the benefits of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of HBV-HCC and the efficacy of those inhibitors in HCC with various etiologies, aiming to provide insights into the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of HBV-HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhang
- School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Changwei Hu
- School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Xie
- School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Linzhi Qi
- School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Chuanzhou Li
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Shangze Li
- School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ferroptosis-Related Gene SLC1A5 Is a Novel Prognostic Biomarker and Correlates with Immune Microenvironment in HBV-Related HCC. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12051715. [PMID: 36902506 PMCID: PMC10003624 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12051715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide with limited treatment satisfaction. Finding new therapeutic targets has remained a major challenge. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent cell death program that plays a regulatory role in HBV infection and HCC development. It is necessary to classify the roles of ferroptosis or ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) in HBV-related HCC progression. (2) Methods: We conducted a matched case-control study from the TCGA database, retrospectively collecting demographic data and common clinical indicators from all subjects. The Kaplan-Meier curve, univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis of the FRGs were used to explore the risk factors for HBV-related HCC. The CIBERSORT algorithm and TIDE algorithm were executed to evaluate the functions of FRGs in the tumor-immune environment. (3) Results: A total of 145 HBV-positive HCC patients and 266 HBV-negative HCC patients were enrolled in our study. Four ferroptosis related genes (FANCD2, CS, CISD1 and SLC1A5) were positively correlated with the progression of HBV-related HCC. Among them, SLC1A5 was an independent risk factor for HBV-related HCC, and correlated with poor prognosis, advanced progression and an immunosuppression microenvironment. (4) Conclusions: Here, we revealed that a ferroptosis-related gene, SLC1A5, may be an excellent predictor of HBV-related HCC and may provide insight into the development of innovative possible therapeutic techniques.
Collapse
|
32
|
Oura K, Morishita A, Hamaya S, Fujita K, Masaki T. The Roles of Epigenetic Regulation and the Tumor Microenvironment in the Mechanism of Resistance to Systemic Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032805. [PMID: 36769116 PMCID: PMC9917861 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032805] [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: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer and the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major histologic type with a poor prognosis owing to the difficulty in early detection, the chemotherapy resistance, and the high recurrence rate of the disease. Despite recent advancements in HCC prevention and diagnosis, over 50% of patients are diagnosed at Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer Stage B or C. Systemic therapies are recommended for unresectable HCC (uHCC) with major vascular invasion, extrahepatic metastases, or intrahepatic lesions that have a limited response to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, but the treatment outcome tends to be unsatisfactory due to acquired drug resistance. Elucidation of the mechanisms underlying the resistance to systemic therapies and the appropriate response strategies to solve this issue will contribute to improved outcomes in the multidisciplinary treatment of uHCC. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the mechanisms of resistance to drugs such as sorafenib, regorafenib, and lenvatinib in molecularly targeted therapy, with a focus on epigenetic regulation and the tumor microenvironment and outline the approaches to improve the therapeutic outcome for patients with advanced HCC.
Collapse
|
33
|
Ozato Y, Kojima Y, Kobayashi Y, Hisamatsu Y, Toshima T, Yonemura Y, Masuda T, Kagawa K, Goto Y, Utou M, Fukunaga M, Gamachi A, Imamura K, Kuze Y, Zenkoh J, Suzuki A, Niida A, Hirose H, Hayashi S, Koseki J, Oki E, Fukuchi S, Murakami K, Tobo T, Nagayama S, Uemura M, Sakamoto T, Oshima M, Doki Y, Eguchi H, Mori M, Iwasaki T, Oda Y, Shibata T, Suzuki Y, Shimamura T, Mimori K. Spatial and single-cell transcriptomics decipher the cellular environment containing HLA-G+ cancer cells and SPP1+ macrophages in colorectal cancer. Cell Rep 2023; 42:111929. [PMID: 36656712 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The cellular interactions in the tumor microenvironment of colorectal cancer (CRC) are poorly understood, hindering patient treatment. In the current study, we investigate whether events occurring at the invasion front are of particular importance for CRC treatment strategies. To this end, we analyze CRC tissues by combining spatial transcriptomics from patients with a public single-cell transcriptomic atlas to determine cell-cell interactions at the invasion front. We show that CRC cells are localized specifically at the invasion front. These cells induce human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) to produce secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1)+ macrophages while conferring CRC cells with anti-tumor immunity, as well as proliferative and invasive properties. Taken together, these findings highlight the signaling between CRC cell populations and stromal cell populations at the cellular level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Ozato
- Department of Surgery, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu 874-0838, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Kojima
- Division of Systems Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yuta Kobayashi
- Department of Surgery, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu 874-0838, Japan; Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuuichi Hisamatsu
- Department of Surgery, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu 874-0838, Japan
| | - Takeo Toshima
- Department of Surgery, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu 874-0838, Japan
| | - Yusuke Yonemura
- Department of Surgery, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu 874-0838, Japan
| | - Takaaki Masuda
- Department of Surgery, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu 874-0838, Japan
| | - Kouichi Kagawa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shinbeppu Hospital, Beppu 874-8538, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Goto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shinbeppu Hospital, Beppu 874-8538, Japan
| | - Mitsuaki Utou
- Department of Pathology, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu 874-0838, Japan
| | - Mituko Fukunaga
- Department of Surgery, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu 874-0838, Japan
| | - Ayako Gamachi
- Department of Pathology, Almeida Memorial Hospital, Oita 870-1195, Japan
| | - Kiyomi Imamura
- Laboratory of Systems Genomics, Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, the University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8561, Japan
| | - Yuta Kuze
- Laboratory of Systems Genomics, Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, the University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8561, Japan
| | - Junko Zenkoh
- Laboratory of Systems Genomics, Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, the University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8561, Japan
| | - Ayako Suzuki
- Laboratory of Systems Genomics, Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, the University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8561, Japan
| | - Atsushi Niida
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, the Institute of Medical Science, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Haruka Hirose
- Division of Systems Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Shuto Hayashi
- Division of Systems Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Jun Koseki
- Division of Systems Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Eiji Oki
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Satoshi Fukuchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Medicine, Almeida Memorial Hospital, Oita 870-1195, Japan
| | - Kazunari Murakami
- Department of Gastroenterology, Oita University Hospital, Yufu 879-5593, Japan
| | - Taro Tobo
- Department of Pathology, Almeida Memorial Hospital, Oita 870-1195, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nagayama
- Gastroenterological Center, Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Mamoru Uemura
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Takeharu Sakamoto
- Department of Cancer Biology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata 573-1010, Japan
| | - Masanobu Oshima
- Division of Genetics, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Doki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masaki Mori
- Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara 259-1193, Japan
| | - Takeshi Iwasaki
- Department of Pathology, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Yoshinao Oda
- Department of Pathology, Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiro Shibata
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, the Institute of Medical Science, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Yutaka Suzuki
- Laboratory of Systems Genomics, Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, the University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8561, Japan
| | - Teppei Shimamura
- Division of Systems Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan.
| | - Koshi Mimori
- Department of Surgery, Kyushu University Beppu Hospital, Beppu 874-0838, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Intratumoral microbiota: roles in cancer initiation, development and therapeutic efficacy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:35. [PMID: 36646684 PMCID: PMC9842669 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01304-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other eukaryotes, play critical roles in human health. An altered microbiome can be associated with complex diseases. Intratumoral microbial components are found in multiple tumor tissues and are closely correlated with cancer initiation and development and therapy efficacy. The intratumoral microbiota may contribute to promotion of the initiation and progression of cancers by DNA mutations, activating carcinogenic pathways, promoting chronic inflammation, complement system, and initiating metastasis. Moreover, the intratumoral microbiota may not only enhance antitumor immunity via mechanisms including STING signaling activation, T and NK cell activation, TLS production, and intratumoral microbiota-derived antigen presenting, but also decrease antitumor immune responses and promote cancer progression through pathways including upregulation of ROS, promoting an anti-inflammatory environment, T cell inactivation, and immunosuppression. The effect of intratumoral microbiota on antitumor immunity is dependent on microbiota composition, crosstalk between microbiota and the cancer, and status of cancers. The intratumoral microbiota may regulate cancer cell physiology and the immune response by different signaling pathways, including ROS, β-catenin, TLR, ERK, NF-κB, and STING, among others. These viewpoints may help identify the microbiota as diagnosis or prognosis evaluation of cancers, and as new therapeutic strategy and potential therapeutic targets for cancer therapy.
Collapse
|
35
|
Chen Y, Sun T, Gu L, Ouyang S, Liu K, Yuan P, Liu C. Identification of hub genes and biological mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of asthenozoospermia and chronic epididymitis. Front Genet 2023; 14:1110218. [PMID: 37152990 PMCID: PMC10160426 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1110218] [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: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Asthenozoospermia (AZS) is one of the most common causes of male fertility, affecting family wellbeing and population growth. Chronic epididymitis (CE) is a common and lingering inflammatory disease in the scrotum. Inflammation in the epididymis has a severe impact on sperm motility. This study aimed to explore the genetic profile and critical pathways involved in the pathological mechanisms of AZS and CE, and discover potential biomarkers. Methods: Genomic datasets of AZS and CE were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and relevant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. GO and pathway enrichment analyses, construction of a protein-protein interaction network, and receiver operator characteristic curve analysis were conducted. The expression profile of hub genes was validated in immunohistochemical data and testicular cell data. Immune infiltration, miRNA-hub gene interactions, and gene-disease interactions were explored. The mRNA levels of hub genes were further measured by qRT-PCR. Results: A total of 109 DEGs were identified between the AZS/CE and healthy control groups. Pathways of the immune system, neutrophil degranulation, and interleukin-4 and interleukin-13 signaling were enriched in AZS and CE. Five hub genes (CD300LB, CMKLR1, CCR4, B3GALT5, and CTSK) were selected, and their diagnostic values were validated in AZS, CE, and independent validation sets (area under the curve >0.7). Furthermore, the five-hub gene signature was well characterized in testicular immunohistochemical staining and testicular cells from healthy controls. Immune infiltration analysis showed that infiltration of CD8+ cells and T helper cells was significantly related to the expression level of five hub genes. In addition, a miRNA-hub gene network and interaction of other diseases were displayed. The mRNA levels of hub genes (CD300LB, CMKLR1, CCR4, and B3GALT5) were significantly elevated in the patient group. The mRNA level of CTSK also showed a similar trend. Conclusion: Our study uncovered the genetic profile involved in AZS and CE, and elucidated enriched pathways and molecular associations between hub genes and immune infiltration. This finding provides novel insight into the common pathogenesis of both diseases as well as the potential biomarkers for CE-associated AZS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yinwei Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Taotao Sun
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Longjie Gu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Song Ouyang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Kang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Penghui Yuan
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- *Correspondence: Penghui Yuan, ; Chang Liu,
| | - Chang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- *Correspondence: Penghui Yuan, ; Chang Liu,
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Khanam A, Kottilil S. New Therapeutics for HCC: Does Tumor Immune Microenvironment Matter? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010437. [PMID: 36613878 PMCID: PMC9820509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010437] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of liver cancer is continuously rising where hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains the most common form of liver cancer accounting for approximately 80-90% of the cases. HCC is strongly prejudiced by the tumor microenvironment and being an inflammation-associated condition, the contribution of various immune mechanisms is critical in its development, progression, and metastasis. The tumor immune microenvironment is initially inflammatory which is subsequently replenished by the immunosuppressive cells contributing to tumor immune escape. Regardless of substantial advancement in systemic therapy, HCC has poor prognosis and outcomes attributed to the drug resistance, recurrence, and its metastatic behavior. Therefore, currently, new immunotherapeutic strategies are extensively targeted in preclinical and clinical settings in order to elicit robust HCC-specific immune responses and appear to be quite effective, extending current treatment alternatives. Understanding the complex interplay between the tumor and the immune cells and its microenvironment will provide new insights into designing novel immunotherapeutics to overcome existing treatment hurdles. In this review, we have provided a recent update on immunological mechanisms associated with HCC and discussed potential advancement in immunotherapies for HCC treatment.
Collapse
|
37
|
Potential of Compounds Originating from the Nature to Act in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Therapy by Targeting the Tumor Immunosuppressive Microenvironment: A Review. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 28:molecules28010195. [PMID: 36615387 PMCID: PMC9822070 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28010195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most prevalent subtype of liver cancer, is the second main reason for cancer-related deaths worldwide. In recent decades, sufficient evidence supported that immunotherapy was a safe and effective treatment option for HCC. However, tolerance and frequent recurrence and metastasis occurred in patients after immunotherapy due to the complicated crosstalk in the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME) in HCC. Therefore, elucidating the TIME in HCC and finding novel modulators to target TIME for attenuating immune suppression is critical to optimize immunotherapy. Recently, studies have shown the potentially immunoregulatory activities of natural compounds, characterized by multiple targets and pathways and low toxicity. In this review, we concluded the unique role of TIME in HCC. Moreover, we summarized evidence that supports the hypothesis of natural compounds to target TIME to improve immunotherapy. Furthermore, we discussed the comprehensive mechanisms of these natural compounds in the immunotherapy of HCC. Accordingly, we present a well-grounded review of the naturally occurring compounds in cancer immunotherapy, expecting to shed new light on discovering novel anti-HCC immunomodulatory drugs from natural sources.
Collapse
|
38
|
Bogacka J, Pawlik K, Ciapała K, Ciechanowska A, Mika J. CC Chemokine Receptor 4 (CCR4) as a Possible New Target for Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415638. [PMID: 36555280 PMCID: PMC9779674 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415638] [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: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemokines and their receptors participate in many biological processes, including the modulation of neuroimmune interactions. Approximately fifty chemokines are distinguished in humans, which are classified into four subfamilies based on the N-terminal conserved cysteine motifs: CXC, CC, C, and CX3C. Chemokines activate specific receptors localized on the surface of various immune and nervous cells. Approximately twenty chemokine receptors have been identified, and each of these receptors is a seven-transmembrane G-protein coupled receptor. Recent studies provide new evidence that CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4) is important in the pathogenesis of many diseases, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, asthma, dermatitis, and cancer. This review briefly characterizes CCR4 and its ligands (CCL17, CCL22, and CCL2), and their contributions to immunological and neoplastic diseases. The review notes a significant role of CCR4 in nociceptive transmission, especially in painful neuropathy, which accompanies many diseases. The pharmacological blockade of CCR4 seems beneficial because of its pain-relieving effects and its influence on opioid efficacy. The possibilities of using the CCL2/CCL17/CCL22/CCR4 axis as a target in new therapies for many diseases are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Joanna Mika
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +48-12-6623-298; Fax: +48-12-6374-500
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
Significance: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a liver malignancy with high mortality rate, limited treatment options, and poor prognosis. Sorafenib has been the only systemic treatment option for patients with advanced HCC for more than a decade. HCC is a typical inflammation-related tumor with a distinct immunosuppressive microenvironment especially the upregulation of immune checkpoints. Recent Advances: Immunotherapy has shown persistent and powerful efficacy in HCC treatment. Several preclinical and clinical studies have prompted the application of immunotherapy in first-line, second-line, and postline treatment of HCC, which has profoundly shifted the paradigm for advanced HCC treatment in the past few years. Critical Issues and Future Directions: Major unaddressed challenges in HCC immunotherapy include the discovery and validation of biological markers that predict the efficacy, the application of immunotherapy in patients with impaired liver function and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-associated HCC, and the exploration of immunotherapy combinations with better effectiveness. This review provides the latest advances in the research of immune microenvironment and immunotherapy in HCC. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 1325-1338.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Institute of Digestive Disease and the Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Oncology; Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Institute of Digestive Disease and the Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ming Kuang
- Center of Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery; The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Digestive Disease and the Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhang J, Han H, Wang L, Wang W, Yang M, Qin Y. Overcoming the therapeutic resistance of hepatomas by targeting the tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2022; 12:988956. [DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.988956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for the majority of primary liver cancers and is the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Multifactorial drug resistance is regarded as the major cause of treatment failure in HCC. Accumulating evidence shows that the constituents of the tumor microenvironment (TME), including cancer-associated fibroblasts, tumor vasculature, immune cells, physical factors, cytokines, and exosomes may explain the therapeutic resistance mechanisms in HCC. In recent years, anti-angiogenic drugs and immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown satisfactory results in HCC patients. However, due to enhanced communication between the tumor and TME, the effect of heterogeneity of the microenvironment on therapeutic resistance is particularly complicated, which suggests a more challenging research direction. In addition, it has been reported that the three-dimensional (3D) organoid model derived from patient biopsies is more intuitive to fully understand the role of the TME in acquired resistance. Therefore, in this review, we have focused not only on the mechanisms and targets of therapeutic resistance related to the contents of the TME in HCC but also provide a comprehensive description of 3D models and how they contribute to the exploration of HCC therapies.
Collapse
|
41
|
Ge W, Dong Y, Deng Y, Chen L, Chen J, Liu M, Wu J, Wang W, Ma X. Potential biomarkers: Identifying powerful tumor specific T cells in adoptive cellular therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1003626. [PMID: 36451828 PMCID: PMC9702804 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1003626] [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: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-specific T cells (TSTs) are essential components for the success of personalized tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL)-based adoptive cellular therapy (ACT). Therefore, the selection of a common biomarker for screening TSTs in different tumor types, followed by ex vivo expansion to clinical number levels can generate the greatest therapeutic effect. However, studies on shared biomarkers for TSTs have not been realized yet. The present review summarizes the similarities and differences of a number of biomarkers for TSTs in several tumor types studied in the last 5 years, and the advantages of combining biomarkers. In addition, the review discusses the possible shortcomings of current biomarkers and highlights strategies to identify TSTs accurately using intercellular interactions. Finally, the development of TSTs in personalized TIL-based ACT for broader clinical applications is explored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wu Ge
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuqian Dong
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yao Deng
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lujuan Chen
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Muqi Liu
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianmin Wu
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoqian Ma
- Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy Institute, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Radiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Qiu Y, Ke S, Chen J, Qin Z, Zhang W, Yuan Y, Meng D, Zhao G, Wu K, Li B, Li D. FOXP3+ regulatory T cells and the immune escape in solid tumours. Front Immunol 2022; 13:982986. [PMID: 36569832 PMCID: PMC9774953 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.982986] [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: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
FOXP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells play critical roles in establishing the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment, which is achieved and dynamically maintained with the contribution of various stromal and immune cell subsets. However, the dynamics of non-lymphoid FOXP3+ Treg cells and the mutual regulation of Treg cells and other cell types in solid tumour microenvironment remains largely unclear. In this review, we summarize the latest findings on the dynamic connections and reciprocal regulations of non-lymphoid Treg cell subsets in accordance with well-established and new emerging hallmarks of cancer, especially on the immune escape of tumour cells in solid tumours. Our comprehension of the interplay between FOXP3+ Treg cells and key hallmarks of cancer may provide new insights into the development of next-generation engineered T cell-based immune treatments for solid tumours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Qiu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shouyu Ke
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jieqiong Chen
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhizhen Qin
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenle Zhang
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaqin Yuan
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dehua Meng
- Department of Orthopedics, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kejin Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Li
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Arthritis Research, Guanghua Integrative Medicine Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Integrated TCM & Western Medicine at Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Li
- Center for Immune-Related Diseases at Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Han Q, Wang M, Dong X, Wei F, Luo Y, Sun X. Non-coding RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma: Insights into regulatory mechanisms, clinical significance, and therapeutic potential. Front Immunol 2022; 13:985815. [PMID: 36300115 PMCID: PMC9590653 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.985815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex and heterogeneous malignancy with high incidence and poor prognosis. In addition, owing to the lack of diagnostic and prognostic markers, current multimodal treatment options fail to achieve satisfactory outcomes. Tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, metastasis, metabolism, and drug resistance are important factors influencing tumor development and therapy. The intercellular communication of these important processes is mediated by a variety of bioactive molecules to regulate pathophysiological processes in recipient cells. Among these bioactive molecules, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), account for a large part of the human transcriptome, and their dysregulation affects the progression of HCC. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the potential regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs in HCC, summarize novel biomarkers from somatic fluids (plasma/serum/urine), and explore the potential of some small-molecule modulators as drugs. Thus, through this review, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the regulatory mechanisms, early diagnosis, prognosis, and precise treatment of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qin Han
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Mengchen Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Dong
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Wei
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Luo
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yun Luo, ; Xiaobo Sun,
| | - Xiaobo Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Resources Utilization of Chinese Herbal Medicine, Ministry of Education, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Innovative Drug Discovery of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Natural Medicine) and Translational Medicine, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmacovigilance, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yun Luo, ; Xiaobo Sun,
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance in malignant tumors: molecular mechanisms and future perspective. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:329. [PMID: 36115852 PMCID: PMC9482625 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01168-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractProtein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) are a class of proteins with tyrosine kinase activity that phosphorylate tyrosine residues of critical molecules in signaling pathways. Their basal function is essential for maintaining normal cell growth and differentiation. However, aberrant activation of PTKs caused by various factors can deviate cell function from the expected trajectory to an abnormal growth state, leading to carcinogenesis. Inhibiting the aberrant PTK function could inhibit tumor growth. Therefore, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), target-specific inhibitors of PTKs, have been used in treating malignant tumors and play a significant role in targeted therapy of cancer. Currently, drug resistance is the main reason for limiting TKIs efficacy of cancer. The increasing studies indicated that tumor microenvironment, cell death resistance, tumor metabolism, epigenetic modification and abnormal metabolism of TKIs were deeply involved in tumor development and TKI resistance, besides the abnormal activation of PTK-related signaling pathways involved in gene mutations. Accordingly, it is of great significance to study the underlying mechanisms of TKIs resistance and find solutions to reverse TKIs resistance for improving TKIs efficacy of cancer. Herein, we reviewed the drug resistance mechanisms of TKIs and the potential approaches to overcome TKI resistance, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for improving the efficacy of TKIs.
Collapse
|
45
|
Wang Q, Yu P, Liu C, He X, Wang G. Mitochondrial fragmentation in liver cancer: Emerging player and promising therapeutic opportunities. Cancer Lett 2022; 549:215912. [PMID: 36103914 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Enhanced mitochondrial fragmentation (MF) is associated with poor prognosis in HCC patients. However, its molecular mechanism in HCC remains elusive. Although enhanced MF activates effector T cells and dendritic cells, it induces immunoescape by decreasing the number and cytotoxicity of natural killer cells in the HCC immune microenvironment. Therefore, the influence of MF on the activity of different immune cells is a great challenge. Enhanced MF contributes to maintaining stemness by promoting the asymmetric division of liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs), suggesting that MF may become a potential target for HCC recurrence, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance. Moreover, mechanistic studies suggest that MF may promote tumour progression through autophagy, oxidative stress, and metabolic reprogramming. Human-induced hepatocyte organoids are a recently developed system that can be genetically manipulated to mimic cancer initiation and identify potential preventive treatments. We can use it to screen MF-related candidate inhibitors of HCC progression and further explore the role of MF in hepatocarcinogenesis. We herein describe the mechanisms by which MF contributes to HCC development, discuss potential therapeutic approaches, and highlight the possibility that MF modulation has a synergistic effect with immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Pengfei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Chaoxu Liu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Xianli He
- Department of General Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The 74th Group Army Hospital, Guangzhou, 510318, China.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zhou L, Chen G, Liu T, Liu X, Yang C, Jiang J. MJDs family members: Potential prognostic targets and immune-associated biomarkers in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Genet 2022; 13:965805. [PMID: 36159990 PMCID: PMC9500549 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.965805] [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: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal malignancies. It is not easy to be diagnosed in the early stage and is prone to relapse, with a very poor prognosis. And immune cell infiltration and tumor microenvironment play important roles in predicting therapeutic response and prognosis of HCC. Machado-Joseph domain-containing proteases (MJDs), as a gene family extensively involved in tumor progression, has pro-cancer and anti-cancer effects. However, the relationship between MJDs family members and immune cell infiltration and tumor microenvironment in HCC remains unclear. Therefore, cBio Cancer Genomics Portal (cBioPortal), The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), UALCAN, Human Protein Atlas (HPA), MethSurv, and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) databases were performed to investigate the mRNA expression, DNA methylation, clinicopathologic features, immune cell infiltration and other related functions of MJDs family members in HCC. The results indicated that the expression of ATXN3, JOSD1, and JOSD2 was dramatically increased in HCC tissues and cell lines, and was correlated with histological grade, specimen type, TP53 mutation, lymph node metastatic, gender, and age of patients with HCC. Meanwhile, these genes also showed clinical value in improving the overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), progression free survival (PFS), and relapse-free survival (RFS) in patients with HCC. The prognostic model indicated that the worse survival was associated with overall high expression of MJDs members. Next, the results suggested that promotor methylation levels of the MJDs family were closely related to these family mRNA expression levels, clinicopathologic features, and prognostic values in HCC. Moreover, the MJDs family were significantly correlated with CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, B cells, neutrophils, macrophages, and DCs. And MJDs family members’ expression were substantially associated with the levels of several lymphocytes, immunomoinhibitors, immunomostimulators, chemokine ligands, and chemokine receptors. In addition, the expression levels of MJDs family were significantly correlated with cancer-related signaling pathways. Taken together, our results indicated that the aberrant expression of MJDs family in HCC played a critical role in clinical feature, prognosis, tumor microenvironment, immune-related molecules, mutation, gene copy number, and promoter methylation level. And MJDs family may be effective immunotherapeutic targets for patients with HCC and have the potential to be prognostic biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Guojie Chen
- Hunan YoBon Biotechnology Limited Company, Changsha, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xinyuan Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Chengxiao Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jianxin Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Jianxin Jiang,
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Fu J, Wang S, Li Z, Qin W, Tong Q, Liu C, Wang Z, Liu Z, Xu X. Comprehensive multiomics analysis of cuproptosis-related gene characteristics in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Genet 2022; 13:942387. [PMID: 36147507 PMCID: PMC9486098 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.942387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The mechanism of copper-induced cell death, which is called cuproptosis, has recently been clarified. However, the integrated role of cuproptosis-related genes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its relationship with immune characteristics are still completely unknown. Methods: In this study, the expression, genetic, and transcriptional regulation states of 16 cuproptosis-related genes in HCC were systematically investigated. An unsupervised clustering method was used to identify distinct expression patterns in 370 HCC patients from the TCGA-HCC cohort. Differences in functional characteristics among different expression clusters were clarified by gene set variation analysis (GSVA). The abundances of immune cells in each HCC sample were calculated by the CIBERSORT algorithm. Next, a cuproptosis-related risk score was established based on the significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) among different expression clusters. Results: A specific cluster of HCC patients with poor prognosis, an inhibitory immune microenvironment, and high expression levels of immune checkpoint molecules was identified based on the expression of the 16 cuproptosis-related genes. This cluster of patients could be well-identified by a cuproptosis-related risk score system. The prognostic value of this risk score was validated in the training and two validation cohorts (TCGA-HCC, China-HCC, and Japan-HCC cohorts). Moreover, the overall expression status of the cuproptosis-related genes and the genes used to establish the cuproptosis-related risk score in specific cell types of the tumor microenvironment were preliminarily clarified by single-cell RNA (scRNA) sequencing data. Conclusion: These results indicated that cuproptosis-related genes play an important role in HCC, and targeting these genes may ameliorate the inhibitory immune microenvironment to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Fu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Sixue Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhenghao Li
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Qin
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qing Tong
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chun Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zicheng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhiqiang Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xundi Xu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of General Surgery, South China Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Xundi Xu,
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Guizhen Z, Guanchang J, Liwen L, Huifen W, Zhigang R, Ranran S, Zujiang Y. The tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma and its targeting strategy by CAR-T cell immunotherapy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:918869. [PMID: 36093115 PMCID: PMC9452721 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.918869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the major subtype of liver cancer, which ranks sixth in cancer incidence and third in mortality. Although great strides have been made in novel therapy for HCC, such as immunotherapy, the prognosis remains less than satisfactory. Increasing evidence demonstrates that the tumor immune microenvironment (TME) exerts a significant role in the evolution of HCC and has a non-negligible impact on the efficacy of HCC treatment. In the past two decades, the success in hematological malignancies made by chimeric antigen receptor-modified T (CAR-T) cell therapy leveraging it holds great promise for cancer treatment. However, in the face of a hostile TME in solid tumors like HCC, the efficacy of CAR-T cells will be greatly compromised. Here, we provide an overview of TME features in HCC, discuss recent advances and challenges of CAR-T immunotherapy in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Guizhen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ji Guanchang
- Department of Urology People’s Hospital of Puyang, Puyang, China
| | - Liu Liwen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wang Huifen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ren Zhigang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sun Ranran
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yu Zujiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Presion Medicine Cencter Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Tian X, Yan T, Liu F, Liu Q, Zhao J, Xiong H, Jiang S. Link of sorafenib resistance with the tumor microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma: Mechanistic insights. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:991052. [PMID: 36071839 PMCID: PMC9441942 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.991052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib, a multi-kinase inhibitor with antiangiogenic, antiproliferative, and proapoptotic properties, is the first-line treatment for patients with late-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the therapeutic effect remains limited due to sorafenib resistance. Only about 30% of HCC patients respond well to the treatment, and the resistance almost inevitably happens within 6 months. Thus, it is critical to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and identify effective approaches to improve the therapeutic outcome. According to recent studies, tumor microenvironment (TME) and immune escape play critical roles in tumor occurrence, metastasis and anti-cancer drug resistance. The relevant mechanisms were focusing on hypoxia, tumor-associated immune-suppressive cells, and immunosuppressive molecules. In this review, we focus on sorafenib resistance and its relationship with liver cancer immune microenvironment, highlighting the importance of breaking sorafenib resistance in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinchen Tian
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Tinghao Yan
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Fen Liu
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People’s Hospital, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Qingbin Liu
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People’s Hospital, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People’s Hospital, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Huabao Xiong
- Institute of Immunology and Molecular Medicine, Basic Medical School, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- *Correspondence: Huabao Xiong, ; Shulong Jiang,
| | - Shulong Jiang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Clinical Medical Laboratory Center, Jining First People’s Hospital, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
- *Correspondence: Huabao Xiong, ; Shulong Jiang,
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Zhang CY, Liu S, Yang M. Regulatory T cells and their associated factors in hepatocellular carcinoma development and therapy. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:3346-3358. [PMID: 36158267 PMCID: PMC9346458 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i27.3346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide with primary type hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Factors, including carcinogens, infection of hepatitis viruses, alcohol abuse, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), can induce HCC initiation and promote HCC progression. The prevalence of NAFLD accompanying the increased incidence of obesity and type 2 diabetes becomes the most increasing factor causing HCC worldwide. However, the benefit of current therapeutic options is still limited. Intrahepatic immunity plays critically important roles in HCC initiation, development, and progression. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) and their associated factors such as metabolites and secreting cytokines mediate the immune tolerance of the tumor microenvironment in HCC. Therefore, targeting Tregs and blocking their mediated factors may prevent HCC progression. This review summarizes the functions of Tregs in HCC-inducing factors including alcoholic and NAFLD, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and viral infections. Overall, a better understanding of the role of Tregs in the development and progression of HCC provides treatment strategies for liver cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Ye Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, United States
| | - Shuai Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, United States
| |
Collapse
|