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Rannikko JH, Hollmén M. Clinical landscape of macrophage-reprogramming cancer immunotherapies. Br J Cancer 2024:10.1038/s41416-024-02715-6. [PMID: 38831013 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02715-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) sustain a tumour-supporting and immunosuppressive milieu and therefore aggravate cancer prognosis. To modify TAM behaviour and unlock their anti-tumoural potential, novel TAM-reprogramming immunotherapies are being developed at an accelerating rate. At the same time, scientific discoveries have highlighted more sophisticated TAM phenotypes with complex biological functions and contradictory prognostic associations. To understand the evolving clinical landscape, we reviewed current and past clinically evaluated TAM-reprogramming cancer therapeutics and summarised almost 200 TAM-reprogramming agents investigated in more than 700 clinical trials. Observable overall trends include a high frequency of overlapping strategies against the same therapeutic targets, development of more complex strategies to improve previously ineffective approaches and reliance on combinatory strategies for efficacy. However, strong anti-tumour efficacy is uncommon, which encourages re-directing efforts on identifying biomarkers for eligible patient populations and comparing similar treatments earlier. Future endeavours will benefit from considering the shortcomings of past treatment strategies and accommodating the emerging complexity of TAM biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna H Rannikko
- MediCity Research Laboratory and InFLAMES Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Turku Doctoral Program of Molecular Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Maija Hollmén
- MediCity Research Laboratory and InFLAMES Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- Faron Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Turku, Finland.
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2
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Ta HM, Roy D, Zhang K, Alban T, Juric I, Dong J, Parthasarathy PB, Patnaik S, Delaney E, Gilmour C, Zakeri A, Shukla N, Rupani A, Phoon YP, Liu C, Avril S, Gastman B, Chan T, Wang LL. LRIG1 engages ligand VISTA and impairs tumor-specific CD8 + T cell responses. Sci Immunol 2024; 9:eadi7418. [PMID: 38758807 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.adi7418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade is a promising approach to activate antitumor immunity and improve the survival of patients with cancer. V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) is an immune checkpoint target; however, the downstream signaling mechanisms are elusive. Here, we identify leucine-rich repeats and immunoglobulin-like domains 1 (LRIG1) as a VISTA binding partner, which acts as an inhibitory receptor by engaging VISTA and suppressing T cell receptor signaling pathways. Mice with T cell-specific LRIG1 deletion developed superior antitumor responses because of expansion of tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) with increased effector function and survival. Sustained tumor control was associated with a reduction of quiescent CTLs (TCF1+ CD62Lhi PD-1low) and a reciprocal increase in progenitor and memory-like CTLs (TCF1+ PD-1+). In patients with melanoma, elevated LRIG1 expression on tumor-infiltrating CD8+ CTLs correlated with resistance to immunotherapies. These results delineate the role of LRIG1 as an inhibitory immune checkpoint receptor and propose a rationale for targeting the VISTA/LRIG1 axis for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hieu Minh Ta
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Dia Roy
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Keman Zhang
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Tyler Alban
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ivan Juric
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Juan Dong
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Prerana B Parthasarathy
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sachin Patnaik
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Elizabeth Delaney
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Cassandra Gilmour
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Amin Zakeri
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Nidhi Shukla
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Amit Rupani
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Yee Peng Phoon
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Caini Liu
- Department of Inflammation and Immunology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Stefanie Avril
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Brian Gastman
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Timothy Chan
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Li Lily Wang
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Mitra A, Kumar A, Amdare NP, Pathak R. Current Landscape of Cancer Immunotherapy: Harnessing the Immune Arsenal to Overcome Immune Evasion. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:307. [PMID: 38785789 PMCID: PMC11118874 DOI: 10.3390/biology13050307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Cancer immune evasion represents a leading hallmark of cancer, posing a significant obstacle to the development of successful anticancer therapies. However, the landscape of cancer treatment has significantly evolved, transitioning into the era of immunotherapy from conventional methods such as surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. Immunotherapy has emerged as a pivotal component in cancer treatment, harnessing the body's immune system to combat cancer and offering improved prognostic outcomes for numerous patients. The remarkable success of immunotherapy has spurred significant efforts to enhance the clinical efficacy of existing agents and strategies. Several immunotherapeutic approaches have received approval for targeted cancer treatments, while others are currently in preclinical and clinical trials. This review explores recent progress in unraveling the mechanisms of cancer immune evasion and evaluates the clinical effectiveness of diverse immunotherapy strategies, including cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, and antibody-based treatments. It encompasses both established treatments and those currently under investigation, providing a comprehensive overview of efforts to combat cancer through immunological approaches. Additionally, the article emphasizes the current developments, limitations, and challenges in cancer immunotherapy. Furthermore, by integrating analyses of cancer immunotherapy resistance mechanisms and exploring combination strategies and personalized approaches, it offers valuable insights crucial for the development of novel anticancer immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Mitra
- Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Anoop Kumar
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, National Institute of Biologicals, Noida 201309, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nitin P. Amdare
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Rajiv Pathak
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
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Jlassi A, Rejaibi R, Manai M, Sahraoui G, Guerfali FZ, Charfi L, Mezlini A, Manai M, Mrad K, Doghri R. VISTA/CTLA4/PD1 coexpression on tumor cells confers a favorable immune microenvironment and better prognosis in high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1352053. [PMID: 38634058 PMCID: PMC11022690 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1352053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Immunotherapy by blocking immune checkpoints programmed death/ligand (PD1/PDL1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4(CTLA4) has emerged as new therapeutic targets in cancer. However, their efficacy has been limited due to resistance. A new- checkpoint V-domain Ig-containing suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) has appeared, but the use of its inhibition effect in combination with antibodies targeting PDL1/PD1and CTLA4 has not been reported in ovarian cancer. Methods In this study, we investigated the expressions of VISTA, CTLA4, and PDL1 using immunohistochemistry (IHC)on 135 Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE)tissue samples of High-grade serous carcinoma (HGSOC). VISTA, CTLA4, PDL1, PD1, CD8, CD4, and FOXP3 mRNA extracted from 429 patients with ovarian cancer in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was included as a validation cohort. Correlations between these checkpoints, tumor-infiltrating- lymphocytes (TILs), and survival were analyzed. Results and discussion CTLA4 was detectable in 87.3% of samples, VISTA in 64.7%, PD1 in 56.7%, and PDL1 in 48.1%. PDL1 was the only tested protein associated with an advanced stage (p=0.05). VISTA was associated with PDL1, PD1, and CTLA4 expressions (p=0.005, p=0.001, p=0.008, respectively), consistent with mRNA level analysis from the TCGA database. Univariate analyses showed only VISTA expression (p=0.04) correlated with overall survival (OS). Multivariate analyses showed that VISTA expression (p=0.01) and the coexpression of VISTA+/CTLA4+/PD1+ (p=0.05) were associated with better OS independently of the clinicopathological features. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the coexpression of the VISTA+/CTLA4+/PDL1+ and VISTA+/CTLA4+/PD1+ checkpoints on tumor cells (TCs)were associated with OS (p=0.02 and p<0.001; respectively). VISTA+/CTLA4+/PD1+ in TCs and CD4+/CD8+TILswere associated with better 2-yer OS. This correlation may refer to the role of VISTA as a receptor in the TCs and not in the immune cells. Thus, targeting combination therapy blocking VISTA, CTLA4, and PD1 could be a novel and attractive strategy for HGSOC treatment, considering the ambivalent role of VISTA in the HGSOC tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Jlassi
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation Salah Azaiz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Biology, Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Ariana, Tunisia
| | - Rim Rejaibi
- Department of Biology, Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Ariana, Tunisia
| | - Maroua Manai
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ghada Sahraoui
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation Salah Azaiz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Pathology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Fatma Zahra Guerfali
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Lamia Charfi
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation Salah Azaiz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Pathology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Amel Mezlini
- Medical Oncology Department, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Manai
- Department of Biology, Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Ariana, Tunisia
| | - Karima Mrad
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation Salah Azaiz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Pathology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Raoudha Doghri
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation Salah Azaiz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Pathology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
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Hazrati A, Malekpour K, Khorramdelazad H, Rajaei S, Hashemi SM. Therapeutic and immunomodulatory potentials of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells and immune checkpoints related molecules. Biomark Res 2024; 12:35. [PMID: 38515166 PMCID: PMC10958918 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-024-00580-2] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are used in many studies due to their therapeutic potential, including their differentiative ability and immunomodulatory properties. These cells perform their therapeutic functions by using various mechanisms, such as the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, growth factors, direct cell-to-cell contact, extracellular vesicles (EVs) production, and mitochondrial transfer. However, mechanisms related to immune checkpoints (ICPs) and their effect on the immunomodulatory ability of MSCs are less discussed. The main function of ICPs is to prevent the initiation of unwanted responses and to regulate the immune system responses to maintain the homeostasis of these responses. ICPs are produced by various types of immune system regulatory cells, and defects in their expression and function may be associated with excessive responses that can ultimately lead to autoimmunity. Also, by expressing different types of ICPs and their ligands (ICPLs), tumor cells prevent the formation and durability of immune responses, which leads to tumors' immune escape. ICPs and ICPLs can be produced by MSCs and affect immune cell responses both through their secretion into the microenvironment or direct cell-to-cell interaction. Pre-treatment of MSCs in inflammatory conditions leads to an increase in their therapeutic potential. In addition to the effect that inflammatory environments have on the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines by MSCs, they can increase the expression of various types of ICPLs. In this review, we discuss different types of ICPLs and ICPs expressed by MSCs and their effect on their immunomodulatory and therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Hazrati
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kosar Malekpour
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Samira Rajaei
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Seyed Mahmoud Hashemi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Hosseinkhani N, Hemmat N, Baghbani E, Baghbanzadeh A, Kazemi T, Mokhtarzadeh A, Jafarlou M, Amin Doustvandi M, Baradaran B. Dual silencing of tumor-intrinsic VISTA and CTLA-4 stimulates T-cell mediated immune responses and inhibits MCF7 breast cancer development. Gene 2024; 896:148043. [PMID: 38042220 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.148043] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) and V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) can be expressed in tumoral cells and facilitate immune evasion of tumoral cells. Herein, we studied the significance of tumor-intrinsic CTLA-4 and VISTA silencing in tumor development and inflammatory factors expression in a co-culture system with MCF7 and T-cells. METHODS MCF7 cells were transfected with 60 pmol of CTLA-siRNA, VISTA-siRNA, and dual VISTA-/CTLA-4-siRNA. The MTT assay was performed to study the effect of CTLA-4 and VISTA knockdown on the viability of MCF7 cells. Colony formation and wound-healing assays were performed to investigate the effect of CTLA-4 and VISTA silencing on the clonogenicity and migration of MCF7 cells. Flow cytometry was used to study the significance of CTLA-4 and VISTA knockdown on the apoptosis and cell cycle of MCF7 cells. Also, a co-culture system with MCF7 and T-cells was developed to study the expression levels of IL-2, IFN-γ, TNF-α, TGF-β, and IL-10 following CTLA-4 and VISTA knockdown. The expression levels of caspase3, Bax, Bcl2, and MMP-9 were also investigated using quantitative real-time PCR. Finally, the TCGA Breast Cancer and GSE45827 datasets were analyzed to study the potential prognostic values of VISTA and CTLA-4, their expression difference in luminal A breast cancer and non-tumoral tissues, and their correlation in luminal A breast cancer tissues. RESULTS Combined knockdown of tumor-intrinsic VISTA and CTLA-4 is superior in upregulating IL-2, IFN-γ, and TNF-α, downregulating TGF-β and IL-10 in T lymphocytes. Also, the combined silencing arrests the cell cycle at the sub-G1 phase, decreases migration, inhibits clonogenicity, and reduces cell viability of MCF7 cells. This combined treatment upregulates caspase 9 and BAX and downregulates MMP-9 in MCF7 cells. Our in-silico results have demonstrated a significant positive correlation between CTLA-4 and VISTA in luminal A breast cancer. CONCLUSION The additive effect of the combined knockdown of tumor-intrinsic VISTA and CTLA-4 can substantially upregulate pro-inflammatory factors, downregulate anti-inflammatory factors, and inhibit tumor development in MCF7 cells. The significant positive correlation between VISTA and CTLA-4 in luminal A breast cancer might support the idea that a network of inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules regulates anti-tumoral immune responses; thus, combinational immune checkpoint molecules blockade can be suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Negar Hosseinkhani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nima Hemmat
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Elham Baghbani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Baghbanzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tohid Kazemi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ahad Mokhtarzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Jafarlou
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Cheng S, Wang H, Kang X, Zhang H. Immunotherapy Innovations in the Fight against Osteosarcoma: Emerging Strategies and Promising Progress. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:251. [PMID: 38399305 PMCID: PMC10892906 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16020251] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunosuppressive elements within the tumor microenvironment are the primary drivers of tumorigenesis and malignant advancement. The presence, as well as the crosstalk between myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), osteosarcoma-associated macrophages (OS-Ms), regulatory T cells (Tregs), and endothelial cells (ECs) with osteosarcoma cells cause the poor prognosis of OS. In addition, the consequent immunosuppressive factors favor the loss of treatment potential. Nanoparticles offer a means to dynamically and locally manipulate immuno-nanoparticles, which present a promising strategy for transforming OS-TME. Additionally, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) technology is effective in combating OS. This review summarizes the essential mechanisms of immunosuppressive cells in the OS-TME and the current immune-associated strategies. The last part highlights the limitations of existing therapies and offers insights into future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigao Cheng
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Orthopedic Research Institute, Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Hunan Loudi Central Hospital, Loudi 417000, China
| | - Huiyuan Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xuejia Kang
- Department of Drug Discovery and Development, Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Hui Zhang
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Orthopedic Research Institute, Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Cao Y, Yu K, Zhang Z, Gu Y, Gu Y, Li W, Zhang W, Shen Z, Xu J, Qin J. Blockade of V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T-cell activation reprograms tumour-associated macrophages and improves efficacy of PD-1 inhibitor in gastric cancer. Clin Transl Med 2024; 14:e1578. [PMID: 38356419 PMCID: PMC10867598 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1578] [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: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In gastric cancer, the response rate of programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) inhibitor is far from satisfactory, indicating additional nonredundant pathways might hamper antitumour immunity. V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) has been reported in several malignancies as a novel immune-checkpoint. Nevertheless, the role of VISTA in gastric cancer still remains obscure. Our purpose is to explore the clinical significance and potential mechanism of VISTA in affecting gastric cancer patients' survival and immunotherapeutic responsiveness. METHODS Our study recruited eight independent cohorts with a total of 1403 gastric cancer patients. Immunohistochemistry, multiplex immunofluorescence, flow cytometry or intracellular flow cytometry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, magnetic-activated cell sorting, smart-seq2, in vitro cell co-culture and ex vivo tumour inhibition assays were applied to investigate the clinical significance and potential mechanism of VISTA in gastric cancer. RESULTS VISTA was predominantly expressed on tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs), and indicated poor clinical outcomes and inferior immunotherapeutic responsiveness. VISTA+ TAMs showed a mixed phenotype. Co-culture of TAMs and CD8+ T cells indicated that VISTA+ TAMs attenuated effective function of CD8+ T cells. Blockade of VISTA reprogrammed TAMs to a proinflammatory phenotype, reactivated CD8+ T cells and promoted apoptosis of tumour cells. Moreover, blockade of VISTA could also enhance the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitor, suggesting that blockade of VISTA might synergise with PD-1 inhibitor in gastric cancer. CONCLUSIONS Our data revealed that VISTA was an immune-checkpoint associated with immunotherapeutic resistance. Blockade of VISTA reprogrammed TAMs, promoted T-cell-mediated antitumour immunity, and enhanced efficacy of PD-1 inhibitor, which might have implications in the treatment of gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Cao
- Department of General SurgeryZhongshan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Kuan Yu
- Department of General SurgeryZhongshan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zihao Zhang
- Department of General SurgeryZhongshan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yun Gu
- Department of General SurgeryZhongshan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yichao Gu
- Department of General SurgeryZhongshan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Wandi Li
- Department of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Weijuan Zhang
- Department of ImmunologySchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zhenbin Shen
- Department of General SurgeryZhongshan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jiejie Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologySchool of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jing Qin
- Department of General SurgeryZhongshan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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9
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Zhang K, Zakeri A, Alban T, Dong J, Ta HM, Zalavadia AH, Branicky A, Zhao H, Juric I, Husich H, Parthasarathy PB, Rupani A, Drazba JA, Chakraborty AA, Ching-Cheng Huang S, Chan T, Avril S, Wang LL. VISTA promotes the metabolism and differentiation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells by STAT3 and polyamine-dependent mechanisms. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113661. [PMID: 38175754 PMCID: PMC10851928 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) impair antitumor immune responses. Identifying regulatory circuits during MDSC development may bring new opportunities for therapeutic interventions. We report that the V-domain suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) functions as a key enabler of MDSC differentiation. VISTA deficiency reduced STAT3 activation and STAT3-dependent production of polyamines, which causally impaired mitochondrial respiration and MDSC expansion. In both mixed bone marrow (BM) chimera mice and myeloid-specific VISTA conditional knockout mice, VISTA deficiency significantly reduced tumor-associated MDSCs but expanded monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) and enhanced T cell-mediated tumor control. Correlated expression of VISTA and arginase-1 (ARG1), a key enzyme supporting polyamine biosynthesis, was observed in multiple human cancer types. In human endometrial cancer, co-expression of VISTA and ARG1 on tumor-associated myeloid cells is associated with poor survival. Taken together, these findings unveil the VISTA/polyamine axis as a central regulator of MDSC differentiation and warrant therapeutically targeting this axis for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keman Zhang
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Amin Zakeri
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Tyler Alban
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Juan Dong
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Hieu M Ta
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ajay H Zalavadia
- Imaging Core Facility, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andrelie Branicky
- Imaging Core Facility, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Haoxin Zhao
- Imaging Core Facility, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ivan Juric
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Hanna Husich
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Prerana B Parthasarathy
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Amit Rupani
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Judy A Drazba
- Imaging Core Facility, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Abhishek A Chakraborty
- Department of Cancer Biology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Stanley Ching-Cheng Huang
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA; Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Timothy Chan
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Stefanie Avril
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA; Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Li Lily Wang
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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10
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Ren R, Chang X, Chen C, Yu H, Han L. VISTA as a prospective immune checkpoint in gynecological malignant tumors: A review of the literature. Open Med (Wars) 2023; 18:20230866. [PMID: 38152334 PMCID: PMC10751886 DOI: 10.1515/med-2023-0866] [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: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA), encoded by the human VSIR gene, is a B7 family checkpoint homologous to the programmed death-Ligand 1 sequence. In gynecologic malignancies, VISTA is abnormally expressed and regulates the tumor immune microenvironment, causing a high upregulation of VISTA expression in T-cells and myeloid cells in the tumor microenvironment and promoting tumor proliferation, progression, and immune tolerance. Here, we review the research progress of VISTA in ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancers through its structure and immunomodulatory mechanism. The comprehensive study of VISTA is expected to improve the current problem of poor immunotherapeutic effects and provide new ideas for immune therapy in patients with gynecologic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Ren
- Department of Gynecology, Dalian Women and Children’s Medical Group, Dalian, 116033, China
- Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Biotherapy of Malignant Tumors in Children and Women in Liaoning Province, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Xin Chang
- Department of Graduate, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
- Department of Gynecology, Dalian Women and Children’s Medical Group, Dalian, 116033, China
- Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Biotherapy of Malignant Tumors in Children and Women in Liaoning Province, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Cong Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Dalian Women and Children’s Medical Group, Dalian, 116033, China
- Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Biotherapy of Malignant Tumors in Children and Women in Liaoning Province, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Hao Yu
- Department of Gynecology, Dalian Women and Children’s Medical Group, Dalian, 116033, China
- Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Biotherapy of Malignant Tumors in Children and Women in Liaoning Province, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Lu Han
- Department of Gynecology, Dalian Women and Children’s Medical Group, Dalian, 116033, China
- Laboratory of Early Diagnosis and Biotherapy of Malignant Tumors in Children and Women in Liaoning Province, Dalian, 116011, China
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11
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Lamas NJ, Lassalle S, Martel A, Nahon-Estève S, Macocco A, Zahaf K, Lalvee S, Fayada J, Lespinet-Fabre V, Bordone O, Pedeutour F, Baillif S, Hofman P. Characterisation of the protein expression of the emerging immunotherapy targets VISTA, LAG-3 and PRAME in primary uveal melanoma: insights from a southern French patient cohort. Pathology 2023; 55:929-944. [PMID: 37863710 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2023.08.003] [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: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common intraocular tumour in adults, with dismal prognosis once metastases develop, since therapeutic options for the metastatic disease are ineffective. Over the past decade, novel cancer therapies based on immunotherapy have changed the landscape of treatment of different forms of cancer leading to many hopes of improvement in patient overall survival (OS). VISTA, LAG-3 and PRAME are novel promising targets of immunotherapy that have recently gained attention in different solid tumours, but whose relevance in UM remained to be comprehensively evaluated until now. Here, we studied the protein expression of VISTA, LAG-3 and PRAME using immunohistochemistry in representative whole tissue sections from primary UM cases in a cohort of 30 patients from a single centre (Nice University Hospital, Nice, France). The expression of each of these markers was correlated with different clinical and pathological parameters, including onset of metastases and OS. We demonstrated the protein expression of VISTA and LAG-3 in small lymphocytes infiltrating the tumour, while no expression of the proteins was detected in UM cells. For PRAME, nuclear expression was observed in UM cells, but no expression in tumour infiltrating immune cells was identified. Increased levels of VISTA expression in tumour infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were associated with nuclear BAP1 expression and better prognosis. Higher levels of LAG-3 in TILs were associated with higher levels of CD8-positive TILs. PRAME nuclear positivity in melanoma cells was associated with epithelioid cell dominant (>90%) UM histological subtype, higher mitotic numbers and a higher percentage of chromosome 8q gain. This study proposes VISTA as a novel relevant immune checkpoint molecule in primary UM and contributes to confirm LAG-3 and PRAME as potentially important immunotherapy targets in the treatment of UM patients, helping to expand the number of immunotherapy candidate molecules that are relevant to modulate in this aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno Jorge Lamas
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; Anatomic Pathology Service, Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António (CHUdSA), Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, Porto, Portugal; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, University of Minho, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Sandra Lassalle
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; IRCAN Team 4, Inserm U1081/CNRS 7284, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Arnaud Martel
- Université Côte d'Azur, Department of Ophthalmology, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Sacha Nahon-Estève
- Université Côte d'Azur, Department of Ophthalmology, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Adam Macocco
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Katia Zahaf
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Salome Lalvee
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Julien Fayada
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Virginie Lespinet-Fabre
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; IRCAN Team 4, Inserm U1081/CNRS 7284, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Olivier Bordone
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; IRCAN Team 4, Inserm U1081/CNRS 7284, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Florence Pedeutour
- Laboratory of Solid Tumour Genetics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Stéphanie Baillif
- Université Côte d'Azur, Department of Ophthalmology, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Paul Hofman
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; IRCAN Team 4, Inserm U1081/CNRS 7284, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France.
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12
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Bangayan NJ, Wang L, Burton Sojo G, Noguchi M, Cheng D, Ta L, Gunn D, Mao Z, Liu S, Yin Q, Riedinger M, Li K, Wu AM, Stoyanova T, Witte ON. Dual-inhibitory domain iCARs improve the efficiency of the AND-NOT gate CAR T strategy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2312374120. [PMID: 37963244 PMCID: PMC10666036 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2312374120] [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: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
CAR (chimeric antigen receptor) T cell therapy has shown clinical success in treating hematological malignancies, but its treatment of solid tumors has been limited. One major challenge is on-target, off-tumor toxicity, where CAR T cells also damage normal tissues that express the targeted antigen. To reduce this detrimental side-effect, Boolean-logic gates like AND-NOT gates have utilized an inhibitory CAR (iCAR) to specifically curb CAR T cell activity at selected nonmalignant tissue sites. However, the strategy seems inefficient, requiring high levels of iCAR and its target antigen for inhibition. Using a TROP2-targeting iCAR with a single PD1 inhibitory domain to inhibit a CEACAM5-targeting CAR (CEACAR), we observed that the inefficiency was due to a kinetic delay in iCAR inhibition of cytotoxicity. To improve iCAR efficiency, we modified three features of the iCAR-the avidity, the affinity, and the intracellular signaling domains. Increasing the avidity but not the affinity of the iCAR led to significant reductions in the delay. iCARs containing twelve different inhibitory signaling domains were screened for improved inhibition, and three domains (BTLA, LAIR-1, and SIGLEC-9) each suppressed CAR T function but did not enhance inhibitory kinetics. When inhibitory domains of LAIR-1 or SIGLEC-9 were combined with PD-1 into a single dual-inhibitory domain iCAR (DiCARs) and tested with the CEACAR, inhibition efficiency improved as evidenced by a significant reduction in the inhibitory delay. These data indicate that a delicate balance between CAR and iCAR signaling strength and kinetics must be achieved to regulate AND-NOT gate CAR T cell selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathanael J. Bangayan
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Giselle Burton Sojo
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Miyako Noguchi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Donghui Cheng
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Lisa Ta
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Donny Gunn
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Zhiyuan Mao
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Shiqin Liu
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Qingqing Yin
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Mireille Riedinger
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Keyu Li
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Anna M. Wu
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Duarte, CA91010
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California - Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA90095
- Department of Radiation Oncology, City of Hope, Duarte, CA91010
| | - Tanya Stoyanova
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
- Department of Urology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Owen N. Witte
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
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13
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Shekari N, Shanehbandi D, Kazemi T, Zarredar H, Baradaran B, Jalali SA. VISTA and its ligands: the next generation of promising therapeutic targets in immunotherapy. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:265. [PMID: 37936192 PMCID: PMC10631023 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03116-0] [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: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) is a novel negative checkpoint receptor (NCR) primarily involved in maintaining immune tolerance. It has a role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders and cancer and has shown promising results as a therapeutic target. However, there is still some ambiguity regarding the ligands of VISTA and their interactions with each other. While V-Set and Immunoglobulin domain containing 3 (VSIG-3) and P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1(PSGL-1) have been extensively studied as ligands for VISTA, the others have received less attention. It seems that investigating VISTA ligands, reviewing their functions and roles, as well as outcomes related to their interactions, may allow an understanding of their full functionality and effects within the cell or the microenvironment. It could also help discover alternative approaches to target the VISTA pathway without causing related side effects. In this regard, we summarize current evidence about VISTA, its related ligands, their interactions and effects, as well as their preclinical and clinical targeting agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najibeh Shekari
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Dariush Shanehbandi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tohid Kazemi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Habib Zarredar
- Tuberculosis and Lung Disease Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Seyed Amir Jalali
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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14
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Del Bello A, Treiner E. Immune Checkpoints in Solid Organ Transplantation. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1358. [PMID: 37887068 PMCID: PMC10604300 DOI: 10.3390/biology12101358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Allogenic graft acceptance is only achieved by life-long immunosuppression, which comes at the cost of significant toxicity. Clinicians face the challenge of adapting the patients' treatments over long periods to lower the risks associated with these toxicities, permanently leveraging the risk of excessive versus insufficient immunosuppression. A major goal and challenge in the field of solid organ transplantation (SOT) is to attain a state of stable immune tolerance specifically towards the grafted organ. The immune system is equipped with a set of inhibitory co-receptors known as immune checkpoints (ICs), which physiologically regulate numerous effector functions. Insufficient regulation through these ICs can lead to autoimmunity and/or immune-mediated toxicity, while excessive expression of ICs induces stable hypo-responsiveness, especially in T cells, a state sometimes referred to as exhaustion. IC blockade has emerged in the last decade as a powerful therapeutic tool against cancer. The opposite action, i.e., subverting IC for the benefit of establishing a state of specific hypo-responsiveness against auto- or allo-antigens, is still in its infancy. In this review, we will summarize the available literature on the role of ICs in SOT and the relevance of ICs with graft acceptance. We will also discuss the possible influence of current immunosuppressive medications on IC functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Del Bello
- Department of Nephrology, University Hospital of Toulouse, 31400 Toulouse, France
- Metabolic and Cardiovascular Research Institute (I2MC), Inserm UMR1297, CEDEX 4, 31432 Toulouse, France
- Faculty of Medicine, University Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Emmanuel Treiner
- Faculty of Medicine, University Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, 31062 Toulouse, France
- Laboratory of Immunology, University Hospital of Toulouse, 31300 Toulouse, France
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases (Infinity), Inserm UMR1291, 31024 Toulouse, France
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15
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Roy D, Gilmour C, Patnaik S, Wang LL. Combinatorial blockade for cancer immunotherapy: targeting emerging immune checkpoint receptors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1264327. [PMID: 37928556 PMCID: PMC10620683 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1264327] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The differentiation, survival, and effector function of tumor-specific CD8+ cytotoxic T cells lie at the center of antitumor immunity. Due to the lack of proper costimulation and the abundant immunosuppressive mechanisms, tumor-specific T cells show a lack of persistence and exhausted and dysfunctional phenotypes. Multiple coinhibitory receptors, such as PD-1, CTLA-4, VISTA, TIGIT, TIM-3, and LAG-3, contribute to dysfunctional CTLs and failed antitumor immunity. These coinhibitory receptors are collectively called immune checkpoint receptors (ICRs). Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting these ICRs have become the cornerstone for cancer immunotherapy as they have established new clinical paradigms for an expanding range of previously untreatable cancers. Given the nonredundant yet convergent molecular pathways mediated by various ICRs, combinatorial immunotherapies are being tested to bring synergistic benefits to patients. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of several emerging ICRs, including VISTA, TIGIT, TIM-3, and LAG-3, and the preclinical and clinical data supporting combinatorial strategies to improve existing ICI therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dia Roy
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Cassandra Gilmour
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Sachin Patnaik
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Li Lily Wang
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
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16
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Kamali AN, Bautista JM, Eisenhut M, Hamedifar H. Immune checkpoints and cancer immunotherapies: insights into newly potential receptors and ligands. Ther Adv Vaccines Immunother 2023; 11:25151355231192043. [PMID: 37662491 PMCID: PMC10469281 DOI: 10.1177/25151355231192043] [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: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Checkpoint markers and immune checkpoint inhibitors have been increasingly identified and developed as potential immunotherapeutic targets in various human cancers. Despite valuable efforts to discover novel immune checkpoints and their ligands, the precise roles of their therapeutic functions, as well as the broad identification of their counterpart receptors, remain to be addressed. In this context, it has been suggested that various putative checkpoint receptors can be induced upon activation. In the tumor microenvironment, T cells, as crucial immune response against malignant diseases as well as other immune central effector cells, such as natural killer cells, are regulated via co-stimulatory or co-inhibitory signals from immune or tumor cells. Studies have shown that exposure of T cells to tumor antigens upregulates the expression of inhibitory checkpoint receptors, leading to T-cell dysfunction or exhaustion. Although targeting immune checkpoint regulators has shown relative clinical efficacy in some tumor types, most trials in the field of cancer immunotherapies have revealed unsatisfactory results due to de novo or adaptive resistance in cancer patients. To overcome these obstacles, combinational therapies with newly discovered inhibitory molecules or combined blockage of several checkpoints provide a rationale for further research. Moreover, precise identification of their receptors counterparts at crucial checkpoints is likely to promise effective therapies. In this review, we examine the prospects for the application of newly emerging checkpoints, such as T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3, lymphocyte activation gene-3, T-cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT), V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA), new B7 family proteins, and B- and T-cell lymphocyte attenuator, in association with immunotherapy of malignancies. In addition, their clinical and biological significance is discussed, including their expression in various human cancers, along with their roles in T-cell-mediated immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali N. Kamali
- CinnaGen Medical Biotechnology Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Simin Dasht Industrial Area, Karaj, Iran
- CinnaGen Research and Production Co., Alborz 3165933155, Iran
| | - José M. Bautista
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Research Institute Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Michael Eisenhut
- Department of Pediatrics, Luton and Dunstable University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Luton, UK
| | - Haleh Hamedifar
- CinnaGen Medical Biotechnology Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
- CinnaGen Research and Production Co., Alborz, Iran
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Lei X, Wang Y, Broens C, Borst J, Xiao Y. Immune checkpoints targeting dendritic cells for antibody-based modulation in cancer. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 382:145-179. [PMID: 38225102 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DC) are professional antigen-presenting cells which link innate to adaptive immunity. DC play a central role in regulating antitumor T-cell responses in both tumor-draining lymph nodes (TDLN) and the tumor microenvironment (TME). They modulate effector T-cell responses via immune checkpoint proteins (ICPs) that can be either stimulatory or inhibitory. Functions of DC are often impaired by the suppressive TME leading to tumor immune escape. Therefore, better understanding of the mechanisms of action of ICPs expressed by (tumor-infiltrating) DC will lead to potential new treatment strategies. Genetic manipulation and high-dimensional analyses have provided insight in the interactions between DC and T-cells in TDLN and the TME upon ICP targeting. In this review, we discuss (tumor-infiltrating) DC lineage cells and tumor tissue specific "mature" DC states and their gene signatures in relation to anti-tumor immunity. We also review a number of ICPs expressed by DC regarding their functions in phagocytosis, DC activation, or inhibition and outline position in, or promise for clinical trials in cancer immunotherapy. Collectively, we highlight the critical role of DC and their exact status in the TME for the induction and propagation of T-cell immunity to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Lei
- Department of Immunology and Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Yizhi Wang
- Department of Immunology and Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Chayenne Broens
- Department of Immunology and Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jannie Borst
- Department of Immunology and Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Yanling Xiao
- Department of Immunology and Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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18
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Zhang Y, Zhang X, Han J, Guo Y, Yang F, Li F, Zhu H, Shen Z, Huang Y, Mao R, Zhang J. Downregulated VISTA enhances Th17 differentiation and aggravates inflammation in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure. Hepatol Int 2023; 17:1000-1015. [PMID: 36944807 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-023-10505-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Persistent inflammatory response and immune activation are the core mechanisms underlying acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Previous studies have shown that deficiency of V-type immunoglobulin domain-containing suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) exacerbates the progression of inflammatory diseases. We aimed to clarify the role of VISTA in the pathogenesis of ACLF. METHODS Blood and liver samples were collected from healthy subjects, stable cirrhosis, and ACLF patients to characterize VISTA expression and function. An ACLF mouse model was used to ascertain potential benefits of anti-VISTA monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatment. RESULTS VISTA expression was significantly reduced in the naïve and central memory CD4+ T cells from patients with ACLF. The expression of VISTA on CD4+ T cells was associated with disease severity and prognosis. VISTA downregulation contributed to the activation and proliferation of CD4+ T cells and enhanced the differentiation of T helper 17 cells (Th17) and secretion of inflammatory cytokines through the activated Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK/STAT3) signaling pathway. Moreover, agonistic anti-VISTA mAb treatment inhibited the activation and cytokine production of CD4+ T cells and reduced mortality and liver inflammation of the ACLF mice. CONCLUSIONS The decreased expression of VISTA may facilitate development of Th17 cells and promote the progression of inflammation in ACLF patients. These findings are helpful for elucidating the pathogenesis of ACLF and for the identification of new drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueyun Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiajia Han
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Yifei Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Feifei Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Fahong Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, MOE/NHC/CAMS), Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haoxiang Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhongliang Shen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, MOE/NHC/CAMS), Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuxian Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Hepatitis Disease, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Richeng Mao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China.
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, MOE/NHC/CAMS), Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiming Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Room 510, Building 5, 12 Middle Wulumuqi Road, Shanghai, China.
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, MOE/NHC/CAMS), Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Jing'An Branch of Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Chmiel P, Gęca K, Michalski A, Kłosińska M, Kaczyńska A, Polkowski WP, Pelc Z, Skórzewska M. Vista of the Future: Novel Immunotherapy Based on the Human V-Set Immunoregulatory Receptor for Digestive System Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9945. [PMID: 37373091 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129945] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
While gastrointestinal tumors remain a multifactorial and prevalent group of malignancies commonly treated surgically in combination with chemotherapy and radiotherapy, advancements regarding immunotherapeutic approaches continue to occur. Entering a new era of immunotherapy focused on overcoming resistance to preceding therapies caused the emergence of new therapeutic strategies. A promising solution surfaces with a V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA), a negative regulator of a T-cell function expressed in hematopoietic cells. Due to VISTA's ability to act as both a ligand and a receptor, several therapeutic approaches can be potentially developed. A broad expression of VISTA was discovered on various tumor-growth-controlling cells, which proved to increase in specific tumor microenvironment (TME) conditions, thus serving as a rationale behind the development of new VISTA-targeting. Nevertheless, VISTA's ligands and signaling pathways are still not fully understood. The uncertain results of clinical trials suggest the need for future examining inhibitor agents for VISTA and implicating a double immunotherapeutic blockade. However, more research is needed before the breakthrough can be achieved. This review discusses perspectives and novel approaches presented in the current literature. Based on the results of the ongoing studies, VISTA might be considered a potential target in combined therapy, especially for treating gastrointestinal malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Chmiel
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 13 St., 20-080 Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Gęca
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 13 St., 20-080 Lublin, Poland
| | - Adam Michalski
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 13 St., 20-080 Lublin, Poland
| | - Martyna Kłosińska
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 13 St., 20-080 Lublin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kaczyńska
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 13 St., 20-080 Lublin, Poland
| | - Wojciech P Polkowski
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 13 St., 20-080 Lublin, Poland
| | - Zuzanna Pelc
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 13 St., 20-080 Lublin, Poland
| | - Magdalena Skórzewska
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 13 St., 20-080 Lublin, Poland
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20
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Dulal D, Boring A, Terrero D, Johnson T, Tiwari AK, Raman D. Tackling of Immunorefractory Tumors by Targeting Alternative Immune Checkpoints. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2774. [PMID: 37345111 PMCID: PMC10216651 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Physiologically, well known or traditional immune checkpoints (ICs), such as CTLA-4 and PD-1, are in place to promote tolerance to self-antigens and prevent generation of autoimmunity. In cancer, the ICs are effectively engaged by the tumor cells or stromal ells from the tumor microenvironment through expression of cognate ligands for the ICs present on the cell surface of CD8+ T lymphocytes. The ligation of ICs on CD8+ T lymphocytes triggers inhibitory signaling pathways, leading to quiescence or an exhaustion of CD8+ T lymphocytes. This results in failure of immunotherapy. To overcome this, several FDA-approved therapeutic antibodies are available, but the clinical outcome is quite variable due to the resistance encountered through upregulated expression of alternate ICs such as VISTA, LAG-3, TIGIT and TIM-3. This review focuses on the roles played by the traditional as well as alternate ICs and the contribution of associated signaling pathways in generating such resistance to immunotherapy. Combinatorial targeting of traditional and alternate ICs might be beneficial for immune-refractory tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharmindra Dulal
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
| | - Andrew Boring
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
| | - David Terrero
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo Main Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Tiffany Johnson
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
| | - Amit K. Tiwari
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
- Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo Main Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Dayanidhi Raman
- Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, Toledo, OH 43614, USA; (D.D.); (A.B.); (A.K.T.)
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21
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Zou W, Huang R, Li P, Liu X, Huang Q, Yue J, Liu C. Clinical significance of immune checkpoint proteins in HPV-infected cervical cancer. J Infect Public Health 2023; 16:542-550. [PMID: 36801634 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.01.019] [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: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domain (TIGIT), V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA), and lymphocyte-activation gene-3 (LAG-3) expression in pathological tissue of human papillomavirus (HPV)-infected cervical cancer (CC) patients and their relationship with patient prognosis. METHODS Clinical data of 175 patients with HPV-infected CC were collected retrospectively. Tumor tissue sections were stained immunohistochemically for TIGIT, VISTA, and LAG-3. The Kaplan-Meier method calculated patient survival. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models analyzed all potential risk factors for survival. RESULTS When combined positive score (CPS)= 1 was used as the cut-off value, the Kaplan-Meier survival curve showed that the progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients with positive expression of TIGIT and VISTA are shorter (both p < 0.05). Univariate COX regression analysis showed that the positive expression of TIGIT and VISTA are related to patient PFS and OS (both HR>1.0 and p < 0.05). Multivariate COX regression analysis showed that TIGIT-positive patients had shorter OS and VISTA-positive patients had shorter PFS (both HR>1.0 and p < 0.05). There is no significant correlation between LAG-3 expression and PFS or OS. When CPS= 10 was used as the cut-off value, Kaplan-Meier survival curve showed that TIGIT-positive patients had shorter OS (p = 0.019). Univariate COX regression analysis showed that TIGIT-positive expression was associated with the OS of patients (HR=2.209, CI: 1.118-4.365, p = 0.023). However, multivariate COX regression analysis showed that TIGIT expression was not associated significantly with OS. There was no significant correlation between VISTA and LAG-3 expression and PFS or OS. CONCLUSION TIGIT and VISTA are associated closely with HPV-infected CC prognosis and are effective biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxue Zou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Peihang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tianjin Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China.
| | - Xiang Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou Institute and Hospital, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Qingyu Huang
- Department of Graduate, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Jinbo Yue
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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22
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Yao K, Zhou E, Schaafsma E, Zhang B, Cheng C. Immune checkpoint gene VSIR predicts patient prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. Cancer Med 2023; 12:5590-5602. [PMID: 36394080 PMCID: PMC10028170 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5409] [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] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint proteins play critical functions during the immune response to cancer and have been targeted by immune checkpoint blockade therapy. V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VSIR) is one of these immune checkpoint genes and has been investigated extensively in recent years due to its conflicting roles in cancer immunity. Specifically, in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the prognostic value of VSIR is debated. RESULTS In both patient tumor samples and cancer cell lines we find that VSIR has the highest expression in AML out of all cancer types and, in AML, has the highest expression out of all other immune checkpoint genes. Survival analysis indicated that AML patients with higher VSIR expression have significantly shorter survival than those patients with lower expression, even within established AML subgroups (e.g., FAB subtypes). Importantly, VSIR expression is predictive of progression from myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) patients into AML, suggesting its potential role during the very early stage of AML development and progression. In addition to AML, VSIR also demonstrates prognostic values in other cancer types, including multiple myeloma and mesothelioma. CONCLUSION In summary, our analyses revealed the prognostic value of VSIR and its potential as a target for immunotherapy, especially in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Yao
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Emily Zhou
- Department of Biosciences, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Evelien Schaafsma
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Baoyi Zhang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chao Cheng
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Institute for Clinical and Transcriptional Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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23
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Mo J, Deng L, Peng K, Ouyang S, Ding W, Lou L, Lin Z, Zhu J, Li J, Zhang Q, Wang P, Wen Y, Chen X, Yue P, Lu JJ, Zhu K, Zheng Y, Wang Y, Zhang X. Targeting STAT3-VISTA axis to suppress tumor aggression and burden in acute myeloid leukemia. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:15. [PMID: 36849939 PMCID: PMC9969711 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01410-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients obtain limited benefits from current immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs), although immunotherapy have achieved encouraging success in numerous cancers. Here, we found that V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA), a novel immune checkpoint, is highly expressed in primary AML cells and associated with poor prognosis of AML patients. Targeting VISTA by anti-VISTA mAb boosts T cell-mediated cytotoxicity to AML cells. Interestingly, high expression of VISTA is positively associated with hyperactive STAT3 in AML. Further evidence showed that STAT3 functions as a transcriptional regulator to modulate VISTA expression by directly binding to DNA response element of VISTA gene. We further develop a potent and selective STAT3 inhibitor W1046, which significantly suppresses AML proliferation and survival. W1046 remarkably enhances the efficacy of VISTA mAb by activating T cells via inhibition of STAT3 signaling and down-regulation of VISTA. Moreover, combination of W1046 and VISTA mAb achieves a significant anti-AML effect in vitro and in vivo. Overall, our findings confirm that VISTA is a potential target for AML therapy which transcriptionally regulated by STAT3 and provide a promising therapeutic strategy for immunotherapy of AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianshan Mo
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Lin Deng
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Keren Peng
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Shumin Ouyang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Wen Ding
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Linlin Lou
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Ziyou Lin
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jianzheng Zhu
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jingwei Li
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Qiyi Zhang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Pengyan Wang
- Innovation Practice Center, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Yuanzhen Wen
- Increasepharm (Hengqin) Innovative Medicine Institute Limited, Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Xiaobing Chen
- Increasepharm (Hengqin) Innovative Medicine Institute Limited, Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Peibin Yue
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, and Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA
| | - Jin-Jian Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, 999078, China
| | - Kai Zhu
- Innovation Practice Center, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, 130117, China
| | - Yongjiang Zheng
- Department of Hematology, Institute of Hematology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China.
| | - Yuanxiang Wang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Xiaolei Zhang
- National-Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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24
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Jlassi A, Manai M, Morjen M, Sahraoui G, Elasmi Allal M, ELBini-Dhouib I, Naija L, Charfi L, Rejaibi R, Ben Ahmed M, Marrakchi N, Srairi-Abid N, Mezlini A, Manai M, Mrad K, Doghri R. VISTA+/CD8+ status correlates with favorable prognosis in Epithelial ovarian cancer. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278849. [PMID: 36952478 PMCID: PMC10035885 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy by blocking immune checkpoint regulators has emerged as a new targeted therapy for some cancers. Among them V-domain Ig suppressor of Tcell activation (VISTA) which is identified as a novel checkpoint regulator in ovarian cancer. This study aimed to investigate the VISTA role in Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), and its relationship with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) markers and its prognostic value. The expression of VISTA, CD3, CD8, CD4, FOXP3, and CD56 was assessed in 168 EOC tissue microarrays (TMA) by immunohistochemistry (IHC). In addition, associations between VISTA, TILs, clinicopathological variables, and overall survival (OS) were analyzed. VISTA expression in IGRov1 cells, as well as in PBMC of EOC patient, was evaluated by western blot. VISTA expression was detected in 64,28% of tissues, among which 42.3% were positive for tumor cells (TCs), and 47,9% were positive for immune cells (ICs). In univariate analysis, VISTA expression was significantly associated with a high density of TILs:CD3+ (p = 0,001), CD4+ (p = 0,002) and CD8+ (p≤0,001), in ICs but not in TCs. In terms of OS, multivariate analysis showed a significant association between the high density of CD8+ TILs and VISTA positive staining in ICs (p = 0,044), but not in TCs (p = 0,108). Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated no correlation between VISTA expression and prolonged OS in both ICs (p = 0,841) and TCs (p = 0,090). Classification of EOC tumor microenvironment based on VISTA and CD8+TILs expression, demonstrated four immune subtypes: VISTA+/CD8+, VISTA+/CD8-, VISTA-/CD8+ and VISTA-/CD8-. The dual positive VISTA+/CD8+ subtype was significantly associated with prolonged OS in both TCs and ICs (p = 0,012 and p≤0,01, respectively), whereas patients with VISTA+/CD8- had the worst OS. Our results showed that VISTA is highly expressed in the IGRov1 cell line and LT-CD8 from a patient with EOC. Our results highlighted the association of VISTA expression and CD8+ TILs in EOC, with prolonged OS in patients with VISTA+/CD8+ and proposed VISTA as a potential immunotherapeutic target in EOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Jlassi
- Department of Biology, Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers Laboratory (LR16ES05), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Ariana, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation (LR21SP01), Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Maroua Manai
- Department of Biology, Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers Laboratory (LR16ES05), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Ariana, Tunisia
- Human Genetics Laboratory (LR99ES10), Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-oncology, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Maram Morjen
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications (LR20IPT01), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ghada Sahraoui
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation (LR21SP01), Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Pathology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Ines ELBini-Dhouib
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications (LR20IPT01), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Lamia Naija
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Salah Aziz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Lamia Charfi
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation (LR21SP01), Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Pathology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Rim Rejaibi
- Department of Biology, Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers Laboratory (LR16ES05), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Ariana, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation (LR21SP01), Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Pathology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Melika Ben Ahmed
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections - LR16IPT02, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Naziha Marrakchi
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications (LR20IPT01), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Najet Srairi-Abid
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications (LR20IPT01), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Amel Mezlini
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation (LR21SP01), Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Salah Aziz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Manai
- Department of Biology, Mycology, Pathologies and Biomarkers Laboratory (LR16ES05), Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Ariana, Tunisia
| | - Karima Mrad
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation (LR21SP01), Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Pathology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Raoudha Doghri
- Research Laboratory of Precision Medicine/Personalized Medicine and Oncology Investigation (LR21SP01), Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Pathology, Salah Azaiez Institute, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis, El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
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25
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Rezouki I, Zohair B, Ssi SA, Karkouri M, Razzouki I, Elkarroumi M, Badou A. High VISTA expression is linked to a potent epithelial-mesenchymal transition and is positively correlated with PD1 in breast cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1154631. [PMID: 37152039 PMCID: PMC10157209 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1154631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common type of tumor in women worldwide. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, particularly anti-PDL1, have shown promise as a therapeutic approach for managing this disease. However, this type of immunotherapy still fails to work for some patients, leading researchers to explore alternative immune checkpoint targets. The Ig suppressor of T cell activation domain V (VISTA) has emerged as a novel immune checkpoint that delivers inhibitory signals to T cells and has demonstrated encouraging results in various cancers. Our study investigated the association of VISTA expression with clinicopathological parameters in breast cancer patients, its involvement in the Epithelial-Mesenchymal-Transition (EMT) process, and its correlation with PD1 expression. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that VISTA was associated with lobular and metaplastic histological type, tumor size, lymph node status, ER and PR negative status, and the TNBC molecular subtype. Furthermore, VISTA expression was strongly associated with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Immunohistochemistry analysis corroborated the transcriptomic results, indicating that VISTA was expressed in most immune cells (94%) and was significantly expressed in breast cancer tumor cells compared to matched adjacent tissues. Our study also showed for the first time that VISTA overexpression in breast cancer cells could be associated with the EMT process. Additionally, we identified a positive correlation between VISTA and PD-1 expression. Together, these results highlight the immunosuppressive effect of VISTA in breast cancer patients and suggest that bi-specific targeting of VISTA and PD-1 in combination therapy could be beneficial for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibtissam Rezouki
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Basma Zohair
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Saadia Ait Ssi
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mehdi Karkouri
- Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, University Hospital Center (CHU) Ibn Rochd, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Ibtissam Razzouki
- Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, University Hospital Center (CHU) Ibn Rochd, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Elkarroumi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Center (CHU) Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdallah Badou
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
- Mohammed VI Center for Research and Innovation, Rabat, Morocco, and Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca, Morocco
- *Correspondence: Abdallah Badou, ; ;
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Catalano M, Shabani S, Venturini J, Ottanelli C, Voltolini L, Roviello G. Lung Cancer Immunotherapy: Beyond Common Immune Checkpoints Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:6145. [PMID: 36551630 PMCID: PMC9777293 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is an ever-expanding field in lung cancer treatment research. Over the past two decades, there has been significant progress in identifying immunotherapy targets and creating specific therapeutic agents, leading to a major paradigm shift in lung cancer treatment. However, despite the great success achieved with programmed death protein 1/ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) monoclonal antibodies and with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 plus anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), only a minority of lung cancer patients respond to treatment, and of these many subsequently experience disease progression. In addition, immune-related adverse events sometimes can be life-threatening, especially when anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 are used in combination. All of this prompted researchers to identify novel immune checkpoints targets to overcome these limitations. Lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG-3), T cell immunoglobulin (Ig) and Immunoreceptor Tyrosine-Based Inhibitory Motif (ITIM) domain (TIGIT), T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3) are promising molecules now under investigation. This review aims to outline the current role of immunotherapy in lung cancer and to examine efficacy and future applications of the new immune regulating molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Catalano
- School of Human Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Sonia Shabani
- School of Human Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Jacopo Venturini
- School of Human Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Carlotta Ottanelli
- School of Human Health Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Luca Voltolini
- Thoraco-Pulmonary Surgery Unit, Careggi University Hospital, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Giandomenico Roviello
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
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27
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Mortezaee K, Majidpoor J, Najafi S. VISTA immune regulatory effects in bypassing cancer immunotherapy: Updated. Life Sci 2022; 310:121083. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Lorentz A, Bilotta S, Civelek M. Molecular links between allergy and cancer. Trends Mol Med 2022; 28:1070-1081. [PMID: 35794030 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2022.06.003] [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: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiologic studies show both positive and negative associations between allergies and cancer. Allergic diseases may protect against tumorigenesis by promoting the immune surveillance, while carcinogenesis may be promoted through inflammatory responses from allergies. Histamine receptor antagonists are the focus of recent cancer studies because of their promising beneficial effect on tumor development. Also, cytokines, particularly IL-4 or IL-33, IgE as well as allergy-related immune cells such as eosinophils can contribute to tumor growth suppression. Depending on cancer types, cancer therapy may be more beneficial when considering combinatorial immunotherapy. In this review, we give an overview on molecular links between allergies and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Lorentz
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Sabrina Bilotta
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Mehtap Civelek
- Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
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29
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Chen X, Li J, Chen Y, Que Z, Du J, Zhang J. B7 Family Members in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Attractive Targets for Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315005. [PMID: 36499340 PMCID: PMC9740860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315005] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest cancers, with a five-year survival rate of approximately 5-10%. The immune checkpoint blockade represented by PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors has been effective in a variety of solid tumors but has had little clinical response in pancreatic cancer patients. The unique suppressive immune microenvironment is the primary reason for this outcome, and it is essential to identify key targets to remodel the immune microenvironment. Some B7 family immune checkpoints, particularly PD-L1, PD-L2, B7-H3, B7-H4, VISTA and HHLA2, have been identified as playing a significant role in the control of tumor immune responses. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the recent research progress of some members of the B7 family in pancreatic cancer, which revealed that they can be involved in tumor progression through immune-dependent and non-immune-dependent pathways, highlighting the mechanisms of their involvement in tumor immune escape and assessing the prospects of their clinical application. Targeting B7 family immune checkpoints is expected to result in novel immunotherapeutic treatments for patients with pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Function Imaging, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yue Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ziting Que
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jiawei Du
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Function Imaging, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jianqiong Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Function Imaging, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-25-83272314
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30
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Pagliuca S, Gurnari C, Zhang K, Kewan T, Bahaj W, Mori M, Nautiyal I, Rubio MT, Ferraro F, Maciejewski JP, Wang L, Visconte V. Comprehensive Transcriptomic Analysis of VISTA in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Insights into Its Prognostic Value. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314885. [PMID: 36499220 PMCID: PMC9735915 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314885] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) has been recognized as a critical negative regulator of antitumor immune response and is gaining growing interest as a potential pharmacological target in immunotherapy. This molecule is highly expressed in hematopoietic stem cells and myeloid compartment, and it has been found upmodulated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, VISTA-associated immune features are relatively unexplored in myeloid malignancies. Herein, we aimed to explore whether this immune checkpoint regulator could play a role in the generation of an immune escape environment in AML patients. We characterized VISTA mRNA expression levels in leukemia cell lines and in large publicly available cohorts of specimens from bone marrow of healthy individuals and AML patients at diagnosis by deploying bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing. We also defined the correlations with leukemia-associated burden using results of whole-exome sequencing of AML samples at disease onset. We showed that VISTA expression linearly increased across the myeloid differentiation tree in normal hematopoiesis. Accordingly, its transcript was highly enriched in AML cell lines as well as in AML patients at diagnosis presenting with myelomonocytic and monocytic differentiation. A strong correlation was seen with NPM1 mutations regardless of the presence of FLT3 lesions. Furthermore, VISTA expression levels at baseline correlated with disease recurrence in patients with normal karyotype and NPM1 mutations, a subgroup traditionally considered as favorable according to current diagnostic schemes. Indeed, when compared to patients with long-term remission (>5 years after standard chemotherapy regimens), cases relapsing within 2 years from diagnosis had increased VISTA expression in both leukemia and T cells. Our results suggest a rationale for developing VISTA-targeted therapeutic strategies to treat molecularly defined subgroups of AML patients to prevent disease recurrence and treatment resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Pagliuca
- Translational Hematology and Oncology Research Department of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Service d’hématologie, Hôpital Brabois, CHRU Nancy and CNRS UMR 7365 IMoPa, Biopôle de l’Université de Lorraine, 54500 Vandoeuvre les Nancy, France
| | - Carmelo Gurnari
- Translational Hematology and Oncology Research Department of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Keman Zhang
- Translational Hematology and Oncology Research Department of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Tariq Kewan
- Translational Hematology and Oncology Research Department of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Waled Bahaj
- Translational Hematology and Oncology Research Department of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Minako Mori
- Translational Hematology and Oncology Research Department of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Ishani Nautiyal
- Translational Hematology and Oncology Research Department of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Marie Thérèse Rubio
- Service d’hématologie, Hôpital Brabois, CHRU Nancy and CNRS UMR 7365 IMoPa, Biopôle de l’Université de Lorraine, 54500 Vandoeuvre les Nancy, France
| | - Francesca Ferraro
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jaroslaw P. Maciejewski
- Translational Hematology and Oncology Research Department of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Li Wang
- Translational Hematology and Oncology Research Department of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Valeria Visconte
- Translational Hematology and Oncology Research Department of Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Correspondence:
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31
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Huang S, Zhao Y, Liao P, Wang J, Li Z, Tan J, Zha X, Chen S, Li Y, Zhong L. Different expression patterns of VISTA concurrent with PD-1, Tim-3, and TIGIT on T cell subsets in peripheral blood and bone marrow from patients with multiple myeloma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1014904. [PMID: 36439426 PMCID: PMC9684650 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1014904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
V-type immunoglobulin domain-containing suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) is considered as an immunosuppressive factor and potential therapeutic target for anticancer therapy. However, little is known about VISTA expression and its role in immunosuppression in multiple myeloma (MM). In this study, VISTA expression and co-expression with programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1), T cell immunoglobulin mucin-domain-containing-3 (Tim-3), and T cell immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT) in CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and regulatory T (Treg) cells were analyzed in patients with MM by multi-color fluorescent flow cytometry of peripheral blood (PB) and bone marrow (BM) samples from 36 patients with MM and compared to 36 PB samples and 10 BM samples from healthy individuals (HIs), which served as controls. The results demonstrated a significant increased percentage of VISTA co-expression with PD-1, Tim-3, and TIGIT in CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and Treg cells in PB from MM patients compared with HIs. A similar trend for VISTA+CD8+ T cells was found in BM. Moreover, a trend of a high percentage on VISTA expression and co-expression in PB rather than BM was found. Furthermore, significant positive correlations existed for VISTA expression concurrent with PD-1, Tim-3, and TIGIT in T cell subsets and clinical indicators, including Revised International Staging System (R-ISS) staging of multiple myeloma, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score, and beta-2-microglobulin (β2-MG). In conclusion, higher VISTA expression concurrent with PD-1, Tim-3, and TIGIT on T cells, particularly in the PB of patients with MM, may result in T cell exhaustion and dysfunction and be closely associated with disease progression and clinical indicators. Thus, VISTA may be considered a potential target for reversing T cell exhaustion and improving T cell function in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuxin Huang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yujie Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pengjun Liao
- Department of Hematology, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinghua Wang
- Department of Hematology, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyan Li
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxiong Tan
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianfeng Zha
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaohua Chen
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangqiu Li
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liye Zhong
- Department of Hematology, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, China
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32
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Anticancer natural products targeting immune checkpoint protein network. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:1008-1032. [PMID: 34838956 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Normal cells express surface proteins that bind to immune checkpoint proteins on immune cells to turn them off, whereby the immune system does not attack normal healthy cells. Cancer cells can also utilize this same protective mechanism by expressing surface proteins that can interact with checkpoint proteins on immune cells to overcome the immune surveillance. Immunotherapy is making the best use of the body's own immune system to reinforce anti-tumor responses. The most generally used immunotherapy is the control of immune checkpoints including the cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated molecule 4 (CTLA-4), programmed cell deathreceptor 1 (PD-1), or programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1). In spite of the clinical effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors, the overall response rate still remains low. Therefore, there have been considerable efforts in searching for alternative immune checkpoint proteins that may work as new therapeutic targets for treatment of cancer. Recent studies have identified several additional novel immune checkpoint targets, including lymphocyte activation gene-3, T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3, T cell immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif domain, V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation, B7 homolog 3 protein, B and T cell lymphocyte attenuator, and inducible T cell COStimulator. Natural compounds, especially those present in medicinal or dietary plants, have been investigated for their anti-tumor effects in various in vitro and in vivo models. Some phytochemicals exert anti-tumor activities based on immunoregulatioby blocking interaction between proteins involved in immune checkpoint signal transduction or regulating their expression/activity. Recently, synergistic anti-cancer effects of diverse phytochemicals with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 or anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibody drugs have been continuously reported. Considering an increasing attention to noteworthy therapeutic effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the cancer therapy, this review focuses on regulatory effects of selected phytochemicals on immune checkpoint protein network and their combinational effectiveness with immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting tumor cells.
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Anderson TS, Wooster AL, Piersall SL, Okpalanwaka IF, Lowe DB. Disrupting cancer angiogenesis and immune checkpoint networks for improved tumor immunity. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:981-996. [PMID: 35149179 PMCID: PMC9357867 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have advanced the field of cancer immunotherapy in patients by sustaining effector immune cell activity within the tumor microenvironment. However, the approach in general is still faced with issues related to ICI response duration/resistance, treatment eligibility, and safety, which indicates a need for further refinements. As immune checkpoint upregulation is inextricably linked to cancer-induced angiogenesis, newer clinical efforts have demonstrated the feasibility of disrupting both tumor-promoting networks to mediate enhanced immune-driven protection. This review focuses on such key evidence stipulating the necessity of co-applying ICI and anti-angiogenic strategies in cancer patients, with particular interest in highlighting newer engineered antibody approaches that may provide theoretically superior multi-pronged and safe therapeutic combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor S Anderson
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, 79601, United States
| | - Amanda L Wooster
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, 79601, United States
| | - Savanna L Piersall
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, 79601, United States
| | - Izuchukwu F Okpalanwaka
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, 79601, United States
| | - Devin B Lowe
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, 79601, United States.
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34
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Zhang M, Zhang J, Liu N, Wang B, Zhou Y, Yang J. VISTA is associated with immune infiltration and predicts favorable prognosis in TNBC. Front Oncol 2022; 12:961374. [PMID: 36158663 PMCID: PMC9493462 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.961374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background V-domain Ig-containing suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA), a critical immune checkpoint protein, can regulate the immune system. Nevertheless, little information is available on the expression level of VISTA and its clinical significance as well. The immunological and prognostic role of VISTA in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) still remains unclear. Methods The clinical significance and expression of VISTA in TNBC were examined using RNA sequencing and clinical data. Cancer single-cell state atlas (CancerSEA), gene set enrichment analyses (GSEA), single sample GSEA, ESTIMATE algorithm, immunohistochemistry (IHC) were utilized to assess the functions of VISTA. Results VISTA was down-regulated and closely associated with good prognosis in TNBC. The expression of VISTA was higher in Immunity-H group and immunomodulatory (IM) subtype. The level of VISTA expression in TNBC gradually increased with the degree of stromal tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (sTILs) infiltration. In addition, the high expression of VISTA was strongly linked to higher proportion of CD8 (+) T cell and M1 macrophages. Conclusion VISTA was remarkably correlated with a favorable prognosis and high immune infiltration in patients with TNBC.
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35
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Bote H, Mesas A, Baena J, Herrera M, Paz-Ares L. Emerging immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2022; 27:289-300. [PMID: 36203360 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2022.2113377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Over the last decade, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have impacted on the standard therapy for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). ICIs first showed efficacy in patients with advanced disease who had progressed after chemotherapy, later reaching the first-line therapy context alone, in combination with chemotherapy, and/or with dual-immunotherapy regimens. AREAS COVERED Most of their benefit is, however, restricted to just 20% of patients due to primary or emergence of acquired resistance. In this review, we will describe the role of new emerging ICIs in the current panorama of NSCLC therapeutic approaches, not only in metastatic disease but also in locally advanced stage disease, with specific focus on those drugs under investigation in Phase 2/3 clinical trials. EXPERT OPINION Several new ICIs are now under investigation to optimize NSCLC patient management; these are usually used in combination with other well-known agents, such as 'traditional' ICIs and chemotherapy, or with other newly developed drugs. Identification of better biomarkers will provide personalized treatment approaches to overcome patient-specific immune resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Bote
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,H12O-CNIO Lung Cancer Clinical Research Unit, Health Research Institute Hospital Universitario 12 de Octbure (i+12)/Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Andrés Mesas
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, Málaga, Spain
| | - Javier Baena
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,H12O-CNIO Lung Cancer Clinical Research Unit, Health Research Institute Hospital Universitario 12 de Octbure (i+12)/Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Herrera
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,H12O-CNIO Lung Cancer Clinical Research Unit, Health Research Institute Hospital Universitario 12 de Octbure (i+12)/Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Paz-Ares
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain.,H12O-CNIO Lung Cancer Clinical Research Unit, Health Research Institute Hospital Universitario 12 de Octbure (i+12)/Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain.,CIBERONC, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
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Hemmatzadeh M, Ahangar Parvin E, Mohammadi H, Azizi G, Shomali N, Jadidi-Niaragh F. The role of immune regulatory molecules in rheumatoid arthritis: Implication for etiopathogenesis and prospective for treatment. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:3541-3553. [PMID: 35938550 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30855] [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: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered an autoimmune chronic disorder and the most common inflammatory arthropathy. Disease progression in RA begins with asymptomatic autoimmune responses in cases with a genetic or environmental predisposition, that alters to arthralgia phase as autoantibodies reach the joints and subjects begin demonstrating nonspecific musculoskeletal presentations lacking any clinical symptoms of synovial inflammation. After that, patients' symptoms develop to undifferentiated arthritis (UA)/idiopathic arthritis (IA) whenever the subjects progress to clinical synovitis systemic comorbidities affecting the vasculature, metabolism, and bone, and eventually with augmented immune cell infiltration, IA/UA patients progress to clinically classifiable RA. RA is mainly correlated with different immune cells and each of them contributes variously to the pathogenesis of the disease. The pathogenesis of RA is altered by the contribution of both T and B cells in an autoimmune irregularity. Modulation of the immune responses occurs through regulatory and inhibitory molecules that control activation of the adaptive system as well as immune hemostasis. To confine the exorbitant T cell-associated inflammatory reactions, the immune system provides a system of inhibitory feedbacks, collectively named immune checkpoints. In this review, we aimed to discuss about inhibitory members of immune checkpoint molecules, including programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/PD-L1, cytotoxic-T-lymphocyte-antigen-4, lymphocyte activation gene-3, T cell immunoglobulin-3, V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation, B- and T-lymphocyte attenuator, and T cell immunoglobulin and ITIM domain and their role in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Hemmatzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Elham Ahangar Parvin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Azizi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Navid Shomali
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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37
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Tang XY, Xiong YL, Shi XG, Zhao YB, Shi AP, Zheng KF, Liu YJ, Jiang T, Ma N, Zhao JB. IGSF11 and VISTA: a pair of promising immune checkpoints in tumor immunotherapy. Biomark Res 2022; 10:49. [PMID: 35831836 PMCID: PMC9277907 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00394-0] [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: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has become the major treatment for tumors in clinical practice, but some intractable problems such as the low response rate and high rates of immune-related adverse events still hinder the progress of tumor immunotherapy. Hence, it is essential to explore additional immunotherapy treatment targets. In this review, we focus on the structure, expression and expression-related mechanisms, interactions, biological functions and the progress in preclinical/clinical research of IGSF11 and VISTA in tumors. We cover the progress in recent research with this pair of immune checkpoints in tumor immune regulation, proliferation, immune resistance and predictive prognosis. Both IGSF11 and VISTA are highly expressed in tumors and are modulated by various factors. They co-participate in the functional regulation of immune cells and the inhibition of cytokine production. Besides, in the downregulation of IGSF11 and VISTA, both inhibit the growth of some tumors. Preclinical and clinical trials all emphasize the predictive role of IGSF11 and VISTA in the prognosis of tumors, and that the predictive role of the same gene varies from tumor to tumor. At present, further research is proving the enormous potential of IGSF11 and VISTA in tumors, and especially the role of VISTA in tumor immune resistance. This may prove to be a breakthrough to solve the current clinical immune resistance, and most importantly, since research has focused on VISTA but less on IGSF11, IGSF11 may be the next candidate for tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Yang Tang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yan-Lu Xiong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xian-Gui Shi
- College of Basic Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ya-Bo Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - An-Ping Shi
- Department of Radiology & Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Lab of Shaanxi Province, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University (Air Force Medical University), 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Kai-Fu Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yu-Jian Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Nan Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, 710038, Xi'an, China.
| | - Jin-Bo Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China.
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Biggi AFB, Elgui de Oliveira D. The Epstein-Barr Virus Hacks Immune Checkpoints: Evidence and Consequences for Lymphoproliferative Disorders and Cancers. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12030397. [PMID: 35327589 PMCID: PMC8946074 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a gammaherpesvirus involved in the etiopathogenesis of a variety of human cancers, mostly of lymphoid and epithelial origin. The EBV infection participates in both cell transformation and tumor progression, also playing an important role in subverting immune responses against cancers. The homeostasis of the immune system is tightly regulated by inhibitory mechanisms affecting key immune effectors, such as T lymphocytes and NK cells. Collectively known as immune checkpoints, these mechanisms rely on a set of cellular receptors and ligands. These molecules may be candidate targets for immune checkpoints blockade—an emergent and promising modality of immunotherapy already proven to be valuable for a variety of human cancers. The EBV was lately suspected to interfere with the expression of immune checkpoint molecules, notably PD-1 and its ligands, found to be overexpressed in cases of Hodgkin lymphoma, nasopharyngeal, and gastric adenocarcinomas associated with the viral infection. Even though there is compelling evidence showing that the EBV interferes with other immune checkpoint regulators (e.g., CTLA-4, LAG-3, TIM-3, and VISTA), the published data are still scarce. Herein, we discuss the current state of the knowledge on how the EBV interferes with the activity of immune checkpoints regulators, as well as its implications considering the immune checkpoints blockade for clinical management of the EBV-associated malignancies, notably lymphomas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Deilson Elgui de Oliveira
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-687, SP, Brazil
- ViriCan, Institute for Biotechnology (IBTEC), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18607-440, SP, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-14-3880-1573
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Hu L, Chen L, Xiao Z, Zheng X, Chen Y, Xian N, Cho C, Luo L, Huang G, Chen L. Ablation of T cell-associated PD-1H enhances functionality and promotes adoptive immunotherapy. JCI Insight 2021; 7:148247. [PMID: 34905507 PMCID: PMC8855794 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.148247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed death-1 homolog (PD-1H) is a co-inhibitory molecule that negatively regulates T cell-mediated immune responses. In this study, we determined whether ablation of T cell-associated PD-1H could enhance adoptive T cell therapy in experimental tumor models. The expression of PD-1H is up-regulated in activated and tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells. Activated CD8+ T cells from PD-1H deficient (KO) mice exhibited increased cell proliferation, cytokine production and anti-tumor activity in vitro. Adoptive transfer of PD-1H-KO CD8+ T cells resulted in the regression of established syngeneic mouse tumors. Similar results were obtained when PD-1H was ablated in T cells by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene silencing. Furthermore, ablation of PD-1H in CAR-T cells significantly improved their anti-tumor activity against human xenografts in vivo. Our results indicate that T cell-associated PD-1H could suppress immunity in the tumor microenvironment and targeting PD-1H may improve T cell adoptive immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Hu
- Institute of Immunotherapy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Institute of Immunotherapy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zexiu Xiao
- Laboratory of Immunotherapy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu Zheng
- Laboratory of Immunotherapy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuangui Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Na Xian
- Institute of Immunotherapy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Christina Cho
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University, New Haven, United States of America
| | - Liqun Luo
- Institute of Immunotherapy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Gangxiong Huang
- Institute of Immunotherapy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lieping Chen
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University, New Haven, United States of America
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Costa AC, Santos JMO, Gil da Costa RM, Medeiros R. Impact of immune cells on the hallmarks of cancer: A literature review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 168:103541. [PMID: 34801696 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) are critical players in the tumor microenvironment, modulating cancer cell functions. TIICs are highly heterogenic and plastic and may either suppress cancers or provide support for tumor growth. A wide range of studies have shed light on how tumor-associated macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, mast cells, natural killer cells and lymphocytes contribute for the establishment of several hallmarks of cancer and became the basis for successful immunotherapies. Many of those TIICs play pivotal roles in several hallmarks of cancer. This review contributes to elucidate the multifaceted roles of immune cells in cancer development, highlighting molecular components that constitute promising therapeutic targets. Additional studies are needed to clarify the relation between TIICs and hallmarks such as enabling replicative immortality, evading growth suppressors, sustaining proliferative signaling, resisting cell death and genome instability and mutation, to further explore their therapeutic potential and improve the outcomes of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra C Costa
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Joana M O Santos
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Rui M Gil da Costa
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Inov4Agro, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; Postgraduate Programme in Adult Health (PPGSAD), Department of Morphology, Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), and UFMA University Hospital (HUUFMA), 65080-805, São Luís, Brazil.
| | - Rui Medeiros
- Molecular Oncology and Viral Pathology Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319, Porto, Portugal; Virology Service, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto), 4200-072, Porto, Portugal; CEBIMED, Faculty of Health Sciences of the Fernando Pessoa University, 4249-004, Porto, Portugal; Research Department of the Portuguese League Against Cancer-Regional Nucleus of the North (Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro-Núcleo Regional do Norte), 4200-177, Porto, Portugal.
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Katabathula R, Joseph P, Singh S, Zhao S, Kumar B, Gaule P, Pan Q, Old M, Tuck DP, Varadan V. Multi-scale Pan-cancer Integrative Analyses Identify the STAT3-VSIR Axis as a key Immunosuppressive Mechanism in Head and Neck Cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2021; 28:984-992. [PMID: 34785584 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-21-1978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE VSIR is a novel immune checkpoint protein whose expression on tumor cells across cancers remains largely uncharacterized. Here we purposed to decode the pan-cancer biologic and clinical significance of VSIR over-expression in the tumor compartment. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We performed multi-omics integrative analyses of 9735 tumor samples to identify cancers with non-leukocytic expression of VSIR (VSIR-High), followed by association with overall survival and immune cell infiltration levels. Orthogonal assessments of VSIR protein expression and lymphocytic infiltration were performed using Quantitative immunofluorescence. RESULTS Integrative modeling identified a subset of cancer types as being enriched for VSIR-High tumors. VSIR-High tumors were associated with significantly poorer overall survival in immunogenic Ovarian Serous Adenocarcinoma (SA) and Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). QIF assessments in an independent validation cohort confirmed over-expression of VSIR as being associated with poorer overall survival within immunogenic Oral Cavity SCC. VSIR over-expression was associated with lower CD4 Helper T-cell infiltration in both Ovarian SA and Oral Cavity SCC, but did not impact CD8 T-cell infiltration. VSIR over-expressing tumors in both cancer types exhibited significantly higher STAT3 signaling activity. Pharmacologic inhibition of STAT3 signaling resulted in dose-dependent reduction of VSIR expression in Ovarian SA & Oral Cavity SCC cells. CONCLUSIONS The STAT3-VSIR axis is a potentially significant immuno-modulatory mechanism in oral cavity and ovarian cancers, whose activation is associated with poorer survival and an immune microenvironment marked by decreased CD4 helper T-cell activity. The role of VSIR as a tumor-intrinsic modulator of resistance to immunotherapy warrants further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peronne Joseph
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Case Western Reserve University
| | - Salendra Singh
- General Medical Sciences - Oncology, Case Western Reserve University
| | | | - Bhavna Kumar
- Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University
| | | | - Quintin Pan
- Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center
| | - Matthew Old
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University
| | - David P Tuck
- VA Boston Healthcare System; Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Vinay Varadan
- General Medical Sciences - Oncology, Case Western Reserve University
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Gameiro A, Nascimento C, Correia J, Ferreira F. VISTA Is a Diagnostic Biomarker and Immunotherapy Target of Aggressive Feline Mammary Carcinoma Subtypes. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215559. [PMID: 34771722 PMCID: PMC8583306 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Mammary tumors are common in cats, showing aggressive behavior and few therapeutic options. Recently, feline mammary carcinomas have become a reliable cancer model for human breast cancer studies, due to the similarities between the two species. Thus, the identification of new tumor biomarkers and therapeutic targets to improve cat’s prognosis is needed. VISTA is an important immune checkpoint protein that has gained importance over the past few years in women’s cancers. In this study, the serum VISTA levels and tumor expression were analyzed in cats with mammary tumors, being correlated with other immune checkpoints. In the diseased animals, VISTA is overexpressed in more aggressive tumor subtypes (HER2-positive and triple-negative), showing a positive correlation with the expression of VISTA in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and is associated with an immunosuppressive status, suggesting that VISTA could be a promising non-invasive prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in cats with mammary carcinomas, as reported in humans. Abstract Feline mammary carcinoma (FMC) is a common neoplasia, showing aggressive clinicopathological features, without viable therapeutic options. The study of tumor microenvironment has gained importance, due to the ability to control tumor progression by regulating the immune response. Considering the lack of knowledge, feline serum VISTA levels from cats with mammary carcinoma were compared with healthy controls, and with serum levels of PD-1/PD-L1, CTLA-4, LAG-3, IL-6, and TNF-α. In parallel, VISTA tumor expression was evaluated in FMC samples. The obtained data revealed that serum VISTA levels were significantly higher in cats presenting HER2-positive (p = 0.0025) or triple-negative subtypes (p = 0.0019), with higher serum levels in luminal A (p = 0.0025) correlated to the presence of metastasis (p = 0.0471). Furthermore, in HER2-positive or triple-negative tumors, correlations were obtained between serum VISTA levels and the serum levels of the above-mentioned molecules. In tumors, VISTA expression revealed a stronger intensity in cancer cells, when compared to TILs (p < 0.0001). Stratifying the samples by subtypes, a higher number of VISTA-positive TILs was observed in the HER2-positive subtype, compared with triple-negative tumors (p = 0.0138). In conclusion, results support the development of therapeutic strategies for HER2-positive and triple-negative FMC subtypes, reinforcing the use of cats as a human oncology model.
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Yang F, Zhang Y, Chen Z, Zhang L. VISTA Blockade Aggravates Bone Loss in Experimental Murine Apical Periodontitis. Front Immunol 2021; 12:738586. [PMID: 34691045 PMCID: PMC8529274 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.738586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) is a novel coinhibitory immune checkpoint molecule that maintains immune homeostasis. The present study explored the role of VISTA in human and murine inflammatory tissues of apical periodontitis (AP). VISTA was upregulated in inflammatory tissues of human AP. In mice, the expression of VISTA gradually increased with the development of mouse experimental apical periodontitis (MAP), the CD3+ T cells, CD11b+ myeloid cells, and FOXP3+ regulatory T cells also gradually accumulated. Moreover, a blockade of VISTA using a mouse in vivo anti-VISTA antibody aggravated periapical bone loss and enhanced the infiltration of immune cells in an experimental mouse periapical periodontitis model. The collective results suggest that VISTA serves as a negative regulator of the development and bone loss of apical periodontitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuhua Yang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) and Key Laboratory for Oral Biomedicine of Ministry of Education (KLOBM), School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yifei Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) and Key Laboratory for Oral Biomedicine of Ministry of Education (KLOBM), School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhi Chen
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) and Key Laboratory for Oral Biomedicine of Ministry of Education (KLOBM), School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Endodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) and Key Laboratory for Oral Biomedicine of Ministry of Education (KLOBM), School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Endodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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The Metabolic Features of Tumor-Associated Macrophages: Opportunities for Immunotherapy? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 2021:5523055. [PMID: 34476174 PMCID: PMC8407977 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5523055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Besides transformed cells, the tumors are composed of various cell types that contribute to undesirable tumor progression. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant innate immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Within the TME, TAMs exhibit high plasticity and undergo specific functional metabolic alterations according to the availability of tumor tissue oxygen and nutrients, thus further contributing to tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Here, we review the main functional TAM metabolic patterns influenced by TME, including glycolysis, amino acid, and fatty acid metabolism. Moreover, this review discusses antitumor immunotherapies that affect TAM functionality by inducing cell repolarizing and metabolic profiles towards an antitumoral phenotype. Also, new macrophage-based cell therapeutic technologies recently developed using chimeric antigen receptor bioengineering are exposed, which may overcome all solid tumor physical barriers impeding the current adoptive cell therapies and contribute to developing novel cancer immunotherapies.
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Kong F, Wang Z, Liao D, Zuo J, Xie H, Li X, Jia Y. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Challenge and Improvement of Immune Drug Resistance. Front Oncol 2021; 11:739191. [PMID: 34532293 PMCID: PMC8438235 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.739191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the world. At present, immunotherapy has made a great breakthrough in lung cancer treatment. A variety of immune checkpoint inhibitors have been applied into clinical practice, including antibodies targeting the programmed cell death-1, programmed cell death-ligand 1, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4. However, in the actual clinical process, about 30%-50% of patients still do not receive long-term benefits. Abnormal antigen presentation, functional gene mutation, tumor microenvironment, and other factors can lead to primary or secondary resistance. In this paper, we reviewed the immune mechanism of immune checkpoint inhibitor resistance, various combination strategies, and prediction of biomarkers to overcome resistance in order to accurately screen out the advantageous population, expand the beneficiary population, and enable precise and individualized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanming Kong
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Ziwei Wang
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Dongying Liao
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinhui Zuo
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongxia Xie
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaojiang Li
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingjie Jia
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
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Xu X, Petersen S, Rodriguez C, Yi G. VISTA facilitates phagocytic clearance of HIV infected CEM-SS T cells. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07496. [PMID: 34401556 PMCID: PMC8353305 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07496] [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: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Phagocytosis is a critical component of the innate immune response to viral infection, resulting in the clearance of infected cells while minimizing the exposure of uninfected cells. On the other hand, phagocytosis of HIV-infected T cells may cause phagocytes, such as macrophages and dendritic cells, to be infected, thus leading to HIV cell-to-cell transmission. V domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA, gene Vsir, aliases Gi24, Dies-1, PD-1H, and DD1α) has been identified as an immune checkpoint molecule that possesses dual activities when expressed on APCs and T cells. Our study found that VISTA might play a significant role during the immune response to HIV infection via apoptosis upregulation and subsequent phagocytosis of infected CEM-SS T cells. HIV-induced apoptosis and monocytic cell engulfment were tested utilizing CEM-SS T cells as target cells and the monocytic cell line THP-1 as phagocytic cells. Cells were infected with a GFP-labeled HIV strain, NL4-3. HIV-infected CEM-SS T cells displayed greater apoptotic activity (approximately 18.0%) than mock-infected controls. Additionally, phagocytosis of HIV-infected CEM-SS T cells was increased approximately 4-fold. Expression of VISTA on infected CEM-SS T cells was detected in 16.7% of cells, which correlated with the increased phagocytosis observed. When an antagonistic antibody against VISTA was used, the number of phagocytosed cells was reduced by a factor of 2, which was replicated utilizing human stem cell-derived dendritic cells. Phagocytosis was also confirmed by the upregulation of IL-1β expression, which was 5-fold higher in infected cells than in control cells. We also found that VISTA overexpression on both phagocytes and HIV-infected CEM-SS T cells facilitated phagocytosis. Our study suggests that VISTA may act as a direct ligand in the phagocytosis of HIV-infected T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuequn Xu
- Center of Emphasis in Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, United States
| | - Sean Petersen
- Center of Emphasis in Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, United States
| | - Cynthia Rodriguez
- Center of Emphasis in Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, United States
| | - Guohua Yi
- Center of Emphasis in Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, United States.,Department of Pulmonary Immunology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, United States
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Pan J, Chen Y, Zhang Q, Khatun A, Palen K, Xin G, Wang L, Yang C, Johnson BD, Myers CR, Sei S, Shoemaker RH, Lubet RA, Wang Y, Cui W, You M. Inhibition of lung tumorigenesis by a small molecule CA170 targeting the immune checkpoint protein VISTA. Commun Biol 2021; 4:906. [PMID: 34302042 PMCID: PMC8302676 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02381-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Expressed on cells of the myeloid and lymphoid lineages, V-domain Ig Suppressor of T cell Activation (VISTA) is an emerging target for cancer immunotherapy. Blocking VISTA activates both innate and adaptive immunity to eradicate tumors in mice. Using a tripeptide small molecule antagonist of VISTA CA170, we found that it exhibited potent anticancer efficacy on carcinogen-induced mouse lung tumorigenesis. Remarkably, lung tumor development was almost completely suppressed when CA170 was combined with an MHCII-directed KRAS peptide vaccine. Flow cytometry and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) revealed that CA170 increased CD8+ T cell infiltration and enhanced their effector functions by decreasing the tumor infiltration of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and Regulatory T (Treg) cells, while the Kras vaccine primarily induced expansion of CD4+ effector T cells. VISTA antagonism by CA170 revealed strong efficacy against lung tumorigenesis with broad immunoregulatory functions that influence effector, memory and regulatory T cells, and drives an adaptive T cell tumor-specific immune response that enhances the efficacy of the KRAS vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Pan
- Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Center for Cancer Prevention, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yao Chen
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Qi Zhang
- Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Center for Cancer Prevention, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Achia Khatun
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Katie Palen
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Gang Xin
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Translational Hematology and Oncology Research, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Chuanjia Yang
- Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Bryon D Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Charles R Myers
- Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Shizuko Sei
- Chemopreventive Agent Development Research Group, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Robert H Shoemaker
- Chemopreventive Agent Development Research Group, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ronald A Lubet
- Chemopreventive Agent Development Research Group, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Yian Wang
- Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Center for Cancer Prevention, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Weiguo Cui
- Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
| | - Ming You
- Center for Disease Prevention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
- Center for Cancer Prevention, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA.
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48
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Tagliamento M, Bironzo P, Novello S. New emerging targets in cancer immunotherapy: the role of VISTA. ESMO Open 2021; 4:e000683. [PMID: 32554470 PMCID: PMC7305420 DOI: 10.1136/esmoopen-2020-000683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune surveillance system is complex and regulated by different actors. Programmed death protein-ligand 1 (PD-L1), the only approved biomarker in clinical practice, has proven to be imperfect in selecting patients to immune checkpoint inhibitors treatment. Therefore, new biomarkers, and new therapeutic targets, are needed to maximise the efficacy of immunotherapy. V-domain Ig Suppressor of T-cell Activation (VISTA) is a programmed death protein-1 (PD-1) homolog expressed on T cells and on antigen-presenting cells, which regulates processes of activation and repression of the immune system with not yet completely clarified mechanisms. Its blockage has demonstrated in vitro and in vivo antitumour activity. The clinical research of VISTA antagonists is ongoing. Particularly, CA-170, an orally delivered dual inhibitor of VISTA and PD-L1, has shown to have clinical efficacy in phase I and II clinical trials in different advanced solid tumour types. Further data are needed to define whether this drug class can become a new therapeutic option for patients with VISTA expressing cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Tagliamento
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medical Oncology 2, University of Genova & IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.
| | - Paolo Bironzo
- Oncology Department, Thoracic Oncology, University of Turin & San Luigi Hospital, Orbassano (Turin), Italy
| | - Silvia Novello
- Oncology Department, Thoracic Oncology, University of Turin & San Luigi Hospital, Orbassano (Turin), Italy
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49
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Shibru B, Fey K, Fricke S, Blaudszun AR, Fürst F, Weise M, Seiffert S, Weyh MK, Köhl U, Sack U, Boldt A. Detection of Immune Checkpoint Receptors - A Current Challenge in Clinical Flow Cytometry. Front Immunol 2021; 12:694055. [PMID: 34276685 PMCID: PMC8281132 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.694055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunological therapy principles are increasingly determining modern medicine. They are used to treat diseases of the immune system, for tumors, but also for infections, neurological diseases, and many others. Most of these therapies base on antibodies, but small molecules, soluble receptors or cells and modified cells are also used. The development of immune checkpoint inhibitors is amazingly fast. T-cell directed antibody therapies against PD-1 or CTLA-4 are already firmly established in the clinic. Further targets are constantly being added and it is becoming increasingly clear that their expression is not only relevant on T cells. Furthermore, we do not yet have any experience with the long-term systemic effects of the treatment. Flow cytometry can be used for diagnosis, monitoring, and detection of side effects. In this review, we focus on checkpoint molecules as target molecules and functional markers of cells of the innate and acquired immune system. However, for most of the interesting and potentially relevant parameters, there are still no test kits suitable for routine use. Here we give an overview of the detection of checkpoint molecules on immune cells in the peripheral blood and show examples of a possible design of antibody panels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Shibru
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katharina Fey
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stephan Fricke
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Friederike Fürst
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Max Weise
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sabine Seiffert
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maria Katharina Weyh
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ulrike Köhl
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Leipzig, Germany
- Institute for Cellular Therapeutics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ulrich Sack
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology (IZI), Leipzig, Germany
| | - Andreas Boldt
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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50
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Tagliamento M, Agostinetto E, Borea R, Brandão M, Poggio F, Addeo A, Lambertini M. VISTA: A Promising Target for Cancer Immunotherapy? Immunotargets Ther 2021; 10:185-200. [PMID: 34189130 PMCID: PMC8235942 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s260429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Agents targeting the B7 family co-inhibitory receptors cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1), or its ligand (PD-L1), have a pivotal role in clinical practice. V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) is a protein highly conserved between species, with a similar amino acid sequence to the B7 family members, characterized by a particularly structural homology to PD-1. It has been counted as an emerging target within the list of novel targetable immune checkpoints in oncology. Physiologically, VISTA exerts a regulatory function on the immune system at several levels, particularly by modulating T cells activation. Its altered activity plays a role in many autoimmune diseases, and its expression has been found to be prognostically implicated in different cancer types in preclinical models. We hereby present the main evidence on the value of VISTA as an immune checkpoint in solid and hematological malignancies. We also review its value as a potential target for cancer immunotherapy, by reporting the results of Phase I and II clinical trials assessing the use of drugs targeting VISTA. The complexity of its pathway, along with some unclear biological aspects concerning its molecular interactions, currently represent a limit to the applicability of VISTA as an effective biomarker for immunotherapy in oncology. A deeper characterization of this immune checkpoint may help defining its value within immune signatures of solid and hematological malignancies, and to design future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Tagliamento
- Department of Medical Oncology, Medical Oncology 2, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (Di.M.I.), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Elisa Agostinetto
- Institut Jules Bordet and Université Libre de Bruxelles (U.L.B), Brussels, Belgium.,Medical Oncology and Hematology Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Clinical and Research Center and Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Borea
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (Di.M.I.), University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,Department of Medical Oncology, Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Mariana Brandão
- Institut Jules Bordet and Université Libre de Bruxelles (U.L.B), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francesca Poggio
- Breast Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Alfredo Addeo
- Oncology Department, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Matteo Lambertini
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (Di.M.I.), University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,Department of Medical Oncology, UOC Clinica di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
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