1
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Zhou Z, Li T, Li J, Lin W, Zheng Q. Exosomal transfer of HCC-derived miR-17-5p downregulates NK cell function by targeting RUNX1-NKG2D axis. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 136:112361. [PMID: 38820961 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112361] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Natural killer (NK) cells are an integral part of the staunch defense line against malignant tumors within the tumor microenvironment. Existing research indicates that miRNAs can influence the development of NK cells by negatively modulating gene expression. In this study, we aim to explore how the miR-17-5p in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) exosomes regulates the killing function of NK cells towards HCC cells through the transcription factor RNX1. METHODS The exosomes were isolated from HCC tissues and cell lines, followed by a second generation sequencing to compare differential miRNAs. Verification was performed using qRT-PCR and Western blot methods. The mutual interactions between miR-17-5p and RUNX1, as well as between RUNX1 and NKG2D, were authenticated using techniques like luciferase reporter gene assays, Western blotting, and Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP). The cytotoxic activity of NK cells towards HCC cells in vitro was measured using methods such as RTCA and ELISPOT. The zebrafish xenotransplantation was utilized to assess the in vivo killing capacity of NK cells against HCC cells. RESULTS The level of miR-17-5p in exosomes from HCC tissue increased compared to adjacent tissues. We verified that RUNX1 was a target of miR-17-5p and that RUNX1 enhances the transcription of NKG2D. MiR-17-5p was found to downregulate the expression of RUNX1 and NKG2D, subsequently reducing the in vitro and in vivo cytotoxic capabilities of NK cells against HCC cells. CONCLUSIONS The miR-17-5p found within HCC exosomes can target RUNX1, subsequently attenuating the cytotoxic activity of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhifeng Zhou
- Laboratory of Immuno-Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350014, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhu, Fujian, China
| | - Tianchuan Li
- Department of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350014, China
| | - Jieyu Li
- Laboratory of Immuno-Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350014, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhu, Fujian, China
| | - Wansong Lin
- Laboratory of Immuno-Oncology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350014, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhu, Fujian, China.
| | - Qingfeng Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Cancer Hospital, Fuzhou 350014, China.
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2
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Hartmann JA, Cardoso MR, Talarico MCR, Kenney DJ, Leone MR, Reese DC, Turcinovic J, O'Connell AK, Gertje HP, Marino C, Ojeda PE, De Paula EV, Orsi FA, Velloso LA, Cafiero TR, Connor JH, Ploss A, Hoelzemer A, Carrington M, Barczak AK, Crossland NA, Douam F, Boucau J, Garcia-Beltran WF. Evasion of NKG2D-mediated cytotoxic immunity by sarbecoviruses. Cell 2024; 187:2393-2410.e14. [PMID: 38653235 PMCID: PMC11088510 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.03.026] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 and other sarbecoviruses continue to threaten humanity, highlighting the need to characterize common mechanisms of viral immune evasion for pandemic preparedness. Cytotoxic lymphocytes are vital for antiviral immunity and express NKG2D, an activating receptor conserved among mammals that recognizes infection-induced stress ligands (e.g., MIC-A/B). We found that SARS-CoV-2 evades NKG2D recognition by surface downregulation of MIC-A/B via shedding, observed in human lung tissue and COVID-19 patient serum. Systematic testing of SARS-CoV-2 proteins revealed that ORF6, an accessory protein uniquely conserved among sarbecoviruses, was responsible for MIC-A/B downregulation via shedding. Further investigation demonstrated that natural killer (NK) cells efficiently killed SARS-CoV-2-infected cells and limited viral spread. However, inhibition of MIC-A/B shedding with a monoclonal antibody, 7C6, further enhanced NK-cell activity toward SARS-CoV-2-infected cells. Our findings unveil a strategy employed by SARS-CoV-2 to evade cytotoxic immunity, identify the culprit immunevasin shared among sarbecoviruses, and suggest a potential novel antiviral immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan A Hartmann
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Devin J Kenney
- Department of Virology, Immunology, and Microbiology, Chobanian and Avedisian Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Madison R Leone
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Dagny C Reese
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jacquelyn Turcinovic
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Aoife K O'Connell
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hans P Gertje
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Caitlin Marino
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Pedro E Ojeda
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Erich V De Paula
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil; Hematology and Hemotherapy Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda A Orsi
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil; Hematology and Hemotherapy Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Licio Augusto Velloso
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil; Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Thomas R Cafiero
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - John H Connor
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alexander Ploss
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Angelique Hoelzemer
- First Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany; Institute for Infection and Vaccine Development (IIRVD), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany; Research Department Virus Immunology, Leibniz Institute for Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mary Carrington
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA; Laboratory of Integrative Cancer Immunology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Amy K Barczak
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicholas A Crossland
- Department of Virology, Immunology, and Microbiology, Chobanian and Avedisian Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Florian Douam
- Department of Virology, Immunology, and Microbiology, Chobanian and Avedisian Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Julie Boucau
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Wilfredo F Garcia-Beltran
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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3
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Liu Z, Wang H, Liu H, Ding K, Shen H, Zhao X, Fu R. Targeting NKG2D/NKG2DL axis in multiple myeloma therapy. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2024; 76:1-11. [PMID: 38378397 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2024.02.001] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Immune effector cells in patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are at the forefront of many immunotherapy treatments, and several methods have been developed to fully utilise the antitumour potential of immune cells. T and NK cell-derived immune lymphocytes both expressed activating NK receptor group 2 member D(NKG2D). This receptor can identify eight distinct NKG2D ligands (NKG2DL), including major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC) chain-related protein A and B (MICA and MICB). Their binding to NKG2D triggers effector roles in T and NK cells. NKG2DL is polymorphic in MM cells. The decreased expression of NKG2DL on the cell surface is explained by multiple mechanisms of tumour immune escape. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms by which the NKG2D/NKG2DL axis regulates immune effector cells and strategies for promoting NKG2DL expression and inhibiting its release in multiple myeloma and propose therapeutic strategies that increase the expression of NKG2DL in MM cells while enhancing the activation and killing function of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyun Liu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China.
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China
| | - Kai Ding
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China
| | - Hongli Shen
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China
| | - Xianghong Zhao
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China
| | - Rong Fu
- Department of Hematology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Bone Marrow Failure and Malignant Hemopoietic Clone Control, 154 Anshan Street, Heping District, Tianjin 300052, PR China.
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4
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Toledo-Stuardo K, Ribeiro CH, Campos I, Tello S, Latorre Y, Altamirano C, Dubois-Camacho K, Molina MC. Impact of MICA 3'UTR allelic variability on miRNA binding prediction, a bioinformatic approach. Front Genet 2023; 14:1273296. [PMID: 38146340 PMCID: PMC10749337 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1273296] [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: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that participate as powerful genetic regulators. MiRNAs can interfere with cellular processes by interacting with a broad spectrum of target genes under physiological and pathological states, including cancer development and progression. Major histocompatibility complex major histocompatibility complex class I-related chain A (MICA) belongs to a family of proteins that bind the natural-killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) receptor on Natural Killer cells and other cytotoxic lymphocytes. MICA plays a crucial role in the host's innate immune response to several disease settings, including cancer. MICA harbors various single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located in its 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR), a characteristic that increases the complexity of MICA regulation, favoring its post-transcriptional modulation by miRNAs under physiological and pathological conditions. Here, we conducted an in-depth analysis of MICA 3'UTR sequences according to each MICA allele described to date using NCBI database. We also systematically evaluated interactions between miRNAs and their putative targets on MICA 3'UTR containing SNPs using in silico analysis. Our in silico results showed that MICA SNPs rs9266829, rs 1880, and rs9266825, located in the target sequence of miRNAs hsa-miR-106a-5p, hsa-miR-17-5p, hsa-miR-20a-5p, hsa-miR-20b-5p, hsa-miR-93, hsa-miR-1207.5p, and hsa-miR-711 could modify the binding free energy between -8.62 and -18.14 kcal/mol, which may affect the regulation of MICA expression. We believe that our results may provide a starting point for further exploration of miRNA regulatory effects depending on MICA allelic variability; they may also be a guide to conduct miRNA in silico analysis for other highly polymorphic genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Toledo-Stuardo
- Faculty of Medicine, Immunology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carolina H. Ribeiro
- Faculty of Medicine, Immunology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ivo Campos
- Faculty of Medicine, Immunology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Samantha Tello
- Faculty of Medicine, Immunology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Yesenia Latorre
- Faculty of Medicine, Immunology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- School of Biochemical Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Claudia Altamirano
- School of Biochemical Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Karen Dubois-Camacho
- Faculty of Medicine, Immunology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Faculty of Medicine, Clinical and Molecular Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Maria Carmen Molina
- Faculty of Medicine, Immunology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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5
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Cadonic IG, Heath JW, Dixon B, Craig PM. Diploid and triploid Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) have altered microRNA responses in immune tissues after infection with Vibrio anguillarum. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. PART D, GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2023; 48:101121. [PMID: 37634278 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2023.101121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Production of sterile fishes through artificial retention of a third set of chromosomes (triploidy) is a sustainable alternative for aquaculture since it reduces escapee pressure on wild populations. However, these fishes have reduced survival in stressful conditions and in response to infection. In this study, the impact of Vibrio anguillarum infection on diploid and triploid Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) was investigated to identify if there was any significant immune regulation by microRNAs (miRNA). Small RNAs from hindgut, head kidney, and spleen were sequenced to determine if miRNA transcript abundance was altered due to ploidy and infection in nine-month old full-sibling diploids and triploids. All three tissues had differentially expressed miRNA prior to infection, indicating subtle changes in epigenetic regulation due to increased ploidy. Additionally, miRNA were altered by infection, but there was only a difference in spleen miRNA expression between diploids and triploids at three days of infection. Furthermore, one miRNA (ssa-miR-2188-3p) was confirmed as having an altered response to infection in triploids compared to diploids, implicating potential immune dysregulation due to increased ploidy. The miRNAs identified in this study are predicted to target immune pathways, providing evidence for their importance in regulating responses to pathogens. This study is the first to investigate how increased ploidy alters miRNA expression in response to infection. Additionally, it provides evidence for epigenetic dysregulation in triploid fishes, which may contribute to their poor performance in response to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan G Cadonic
- Dept. of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada. https://twitter.com/@IvanCadonic
| | - John W Heath
- Yellow Island Aquaculture Limited, Heriot Bay, BC. Canada
| | - Brian Dixon
- Dept. of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Paul M Craig
- Dept. of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada.
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6
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Zhang J, Luo Q, Li X, Guo J, Zhu Q, Lu X, Wei L, Xiang Z, Peng M, Ou C, Zou Y. Novel role of immune-related non-coding RNAs as potential biomarkers regulating tumour immunoresponse via MICA/NKG2D pathway. Biomark Res 2023; 11:86. [PMID: 37784183 PMCID: PMC10546648 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00530-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Major histocompatibility complex class I related chain A (MICA) is an important and stress-induced ligand of the natural killer group 2 member D receptor (NKG2D) that is expressed in various tumour cells. Given that the MICA/NKG2D signalling system is critically embedded in the innate and adaptive immune responses, it is particularly involved in the surveillance of cancer and viral infections. Emerging evidence has revealed the important roles of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) in different cancer types. We searched for all relevant publications in the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science database using the keywords ncRNA, MICA, NKG2D, cancer, and miRNAs. All relevant studies published from 2008 to the 2023 were retrieved and collated. Notably, we found that miRNAs can target to NKG2D mRNA and MICA mRNA 3'-untranslated regions (3'-UTR), leading to translation inhibition of NKG2D and MICA degradation. Several immune-related MICA/NKG2D pathways may be dysregulated in cancer with aberrant miRNA expressions. At the same time, the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) hypothesis holds that circRNAs, lncRNAs, and mRNAs induce an abnormal MICA expression by directly targeting downstream miRNAs to mediate mRNA suppression in cancer. This review summarizes the novel mechanism of immune escape in the ncRNA-related MICA/NKG2D pathway mediated by NK cells and cancer cells. Moreover, we identified the miRNA-NKG2D, miRNA-MICA and circRNA/lncRNA/mRNA-miRNA-mRNA/MICA axis. Thus, we were particularly concerned with the regulation of mediated immune escape in the MICA/NKG2D pathway by ncRNAs as potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers of immunity and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Qizhi Luo
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Junshuang Guo
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Quan Zhu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaofang Lu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Leiyan Wei
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Zhiqing Xiang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Manqing Peng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China
| | - Chunlin Ou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China.
| | - Yizhou Zou
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, China.
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7
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Khaleafi R, Zeleznjak J, Cordela S, Drucker S, Rovis TL, Jonjic S, Bar-On Y. Reovirus infection of tumor cells reduces the expression of NKG2D ligands, leading to impaired NK-cell cytotoxicity and functionality. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1231782. [PMID: 37753084 PMCID: PMC10518469 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1231782] [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: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, reoviruses have been of major interest in immunotherapy because of their oncolytic properties. Preclinical and clinical trials, in which reovirus was used for the treatment of melanoma and glioblastoma, have paved the way for future clinical use of reovirus. However, little is known about how reovirus infection affects the tumor microenvironment and immune response towards infected tumor cells. Studies have shown that reovirus can directly stimulate natural killer (NK) cells, but how reovirus affects cellular ligands on tumor cells, which are ultimately key to tumor recognition and elimination by NK cells, has not been investigated. We tested how reovirus infection affects the binding of the NK Group-2 member D (NKG2D) receptor, which is a dominant mediator of NK cell anti-tumor activity. Using models of human-derived melanoma and glioblastoma tumors, we demonstrated that NKG2D ligands are downregulated in tumor cells post-reovirus-infection due to the impaired translation of these ligands in reovirus-infected cells. Moreover, we showed that downregulation of NKG2D ligands significantly impaired the binding of NKG2D to infected tumor cells. We further demonstrated that reduced recognition of NKG2D ligands significantly alters NK cell anti-tumor cytotoxicity in human primary NK cells and in the NK cell line NK-92. Thus, this study provides novel insights into reovirus-host interactions and could lead to the development of novel reovirus-based therapeutics that enhance the anti-tumor immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghad Khaleafi
- Department of Immunology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Jelena Zeleznjak
- Department of Histology and Embryology/Center for Proteomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Sapir Cordela
- Department of Immunology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Shani Drucker
- Department of Immunology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tihana Lenac Rovis
- Department of Histology and Embryology/Center for Proteomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Stipan Jonjic
- Department of Histology and Embryology/Center for Proteomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Yotam Bar-On
- Department of Immunology, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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8
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Tan G, Spillane KM, Maher J. The Role and Regulation of the NKG2D/NKG2D Ligand System in Cancer. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1079. [PMID: 37626965 PMCID: PMC10452210 DOI: 10.3390/biology12081079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
The family of human NKG2D ligands (NKG2DL) consists of eight stress-induced molecules. Over 80% of human cancers express these ligands on the surface of tumour cells and/or associated stromal elements. In mice, NKG2D deficiency increases susceptibility to some types of cancer, implicating this system in immune surveillance for malignancy. However, NKG2DL can also be shed, released via exosomes and trapped intracellularly, leading to immunosuppressive effects. Moreover, NKG2D can enhance chronic inflammatory processes which themselves can increase cancer risk and progression. Indeed, tumours commonly deploy a range of countermeasures that can neutralise or even corrupt this surveillance system, tipping the balance away from immune control towards tumour progression. Consequently, the prognostic impact of NKG2DL expression in human cancer is variable. In this review, we consider the underlying biology and regulation of the NKG2D/NKG2DL system and its expression and role in a range of cancer types. We also consider the opportunities for pharmacological modulation of NKG2DL expression while cautioning that such interventions need to be carefully calibrated according to the biology of the specific cancer type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Tan
- CAR Mechanics Group, Guy’s Cancer Centre, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK;
| | | | - John Maher
- CAR Mechanics Group, Guy’s Cancer Centre, School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK;
- Department of Immunology, Eastbourne Hospital, Kings Drive, Eastbourne BN21 2UD, UK
- Leucid Bio Ltd., Guy’s Hospital, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK
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9
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Alkhayer R, Ponath V, Frech M, Adhikary T, Graumann J, Neubauer A, von Strandmann EP. KLF4-mediated upregulation of the NKG2D ligand MICA in acute myeloid leukemia: a novel therapeutic target identified by enChIP. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:94. [PMID: 37143070 PMCID: PMC10157933 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01118-z] [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: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The immunoreceptor NKG2D, which is expressed on NK cells and T cell subsets is critically involved in tumor immune surveillance. This applies in particular to acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which evades immune detection by downregulation of NKG2D ligands (NKG2D-L), including MICA. The absence of NKG2D-L on AML cells is moreover associated with leukemia stem cell characteristics. The NKG2D/NKG2D-L system thus qualifies as an interesting and promising therapeutic target.Here we aimed to identify transcription factors susceptible to pharmacological stimulation resulting in the expression of the NKG2D-L MICA in AML cells to restore anti-tumor activity. Using a CRISPR-based engineered ChIP (enChIP) assay for the MICA promoter region and readout by mass spectrometry-based proteomics, we identified the transcription factor krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) as associated with the promoter. We demonstrated that the MICA promoter comprises functional binding sites for KLF4 and genetic as well as pharmacological gain- and loss-of-function experiments revealed inducible MICA expression to be mediated by KLF4.Furthermore, induction in AML cells was achieved with the small compound APTO253, a KLF4 activator, which also inhibits MYC expression and causes DNA damage. This induction in turn yielded increased expression and cell surface presentation of MICA, thus rendering AML cells more susceptible to NK cell-mediated killing. These data unravel a novel link between APTO253 and the innate anti-tumor immune response providing a rationale for targeting AML cells via APTO253-dependent KFL4/MICA induction to allow elimination by endogenous or transplanted NK and T cells in vivo. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Alkhayer
- Institute for Tumor Immunology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- Clinic for Hematology, Oncology, and Immunology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Viviane Ponath
- Institute for Tumor Immunology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- Clinic for Hematology, Oncology, and Immunology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Miriam Frech
- Clinic for Hematology, Oncology, and Immunology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Till Adhikary
- Institute for Molecular Biology and Tumor Research, Institute for Medical Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Graumann
- Institute of Translational Proteomics, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Neubauer
- Clinic for Hematology, Oncology, and Immunology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Elke Pogge von Strandmann
- Institute for Tumor Immunology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
- Clinic for Hematology, Oncology, and Immunology, Center for Tumor Biology and Immunology, Philipps University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
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10
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Hojjatipour T, Maali A, Azad M. Natural killer cell epigenetic reprogramming in tumors and potential for cancer immunotherapy. Epigenomics 2023; 15:249-266. [PMID: 37125432 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2022-0454] [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: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are critical members of the innate lymphoid cell population and have a pivotal role in cancer eradication. NK cell maturation, development and function are tightly regulated by epigenetic modifications, which can also be recruited for cancer propagation and immune escape. NK cells have the potential to be activated against tumors through several epigenetic regulators. Given that epigenetic changes are inducible and reversible, focusing on aberrant epigenetic regulations recruited by tumor cells provides a tremendous opportunity for cancer treatment. This review presents a comprehensive picture of NK cell normal epigenetic regulation and cancer-driven epigenetic modifications. From our perspective, a better understanding of epigenetic regulators that can edit and revise NK cells' activity is a promising avenue for NK cell-based therapy in cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahereh Hojjatipour
- Department of Hematology & Blood Transfusion, Students Research Center, School of Allied Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirhosein Maali
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Paramedicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Mehdi Azad
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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11
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Chai H, Chen X, Shi R, Miao P. Irregular DNA Triangular Prism/Triplex Assembly for Duplicate MiRNA Analysis with Nicking Endonuclease-Mediated Amplification. Anal Chem 2023; 95:4564-4569. [PMID: 36812460 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c00087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Highly sensitive and selective detection of microRNA (miRNA) is becoming more and more important in the discovery, diagnosis, and prognosis of various diseases. Herein, we develop a three-dimensional DNA nanostructure based electrochemical platform for duplicate detection of miRNA amplified by nicking endonuclease. Target miRNA first helps construction of three-way junction structures on the surfaces of gold nanoparticles. After nicking endonuclease-powered cleavage reactions, single-stranded DNAs labeled with electrochemical species are released. These strands can be facilely immobilized at four edges of the irregular triangular prism DNA (iTPDNA) nanostructure via triplex assembly. By evaluating the electrochemical response, target miRNA levels can be determined. In addition, the triplexes can be disassociated by simply changing pH conditions, and the iTPDNA biointerface can be regenerated for duplicate analyses. The developed electrochemical method not only exhibits an excellent prospect in the detection of miRNA but also may inspire the engineering of recyclable biointerfaces for biosensing platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Chai
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215163, China
| | - Xifeng Chen
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215163, China.,Jinan Guoke Medical Technology Development Co., Ltd., Jinan 250103, China
| | - Ruiju Shi
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215163, China
| | - Peng Miao
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou 215163, China.,Jinan Guoke Medical Technology Development Co., Ltd., Jinan 250103, China
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12
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Youlin K, Simin L, Jian K, Li Z. Inhibition of miR-20a by pterostilbene facilitates prostate cancer cells killed by NK cells via up-regulation of NKG2D ligands and TGF-β1down-regulation. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14957. [PMID: 37064475 PMCID: PMC10102449 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells play a potent role in antitumor immunity via spontaneously eliminating tumor directly. However, some tumors such as prostate cancer constantly escape this immune response by down-regulating cell surface molecule recognition and/or secreting immune impressive cytokines. Here, we found pterostilbene, a natural agent with potent anticancer activity, could enhance expression of major histocompatibility complex class I chain-related proteins A and B (MICA/B) on prostate cancer cells surface, which are ligands of the natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D) expressed by NK cells, and inhibit TGF-β1 secretion by prostate cancer cells. Further, we discovered that these effects were caused by inhibition of miR-20a in prostate cancer cells by pterostilbene. MiR-20a could target the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of MICA/B, resulting in their expression down-regulation. Inhibition of TGF-β1 function by its specific antibody attenuated its impairment to NKG2D on NK cells. Finally, we observed that pterostilbene-treated prostate cancer cells were more easily to be killed by NK cells. Taken together, our findings demonstrated inhibition of miR-20a by pterostilbene in prostate cancer cells could increase MICA/B expression and decrease TGF-β1 secretion, which enhanced NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity againt prostate cancer cells, suggesting a potential approach for increasing anti-prostate cancer immune.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuang Youlin
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Liang Simin
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Kang Jian
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Zhang Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Corresponding author.
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13
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Doghish AS, Ismail A, El-Mahdy HA, Elkhawaga SY, Elsakka EGE, Mady EA, Elrebehy MA, Khalil MAF, El-Husseiny HM. miRNAs insights into rheumatoid arthritis: Favorable and detrimental aspects of key performers. Life Sci 2023; 314:121321. [PMID: 36574943 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a severe autoimmune inflammation that mostly affects the joints. It's a multifactorial disease. Its clinical picture depends on genetic and epigenetic factors such as miRNAs. The miRNAs are small noncoding molecules that are able to negatively or positively modulate their target gene expression. In RA, miRNAs are linked to its pathogenesis. They disrupt immunity balance by controlling granulocytes, triggering the release of several proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, finally leading to synovium hyperplasia and inflammation. Besides, they also may trigger activation of some pathways as nuclear factor kappa-β disrupts the balance between osteoclast and osteoblast activity, leading to increased bone destruction. Moreover, miRNAs are also applied with efficiency in RA diagnosis and prognosis. Besides the significant association between miRNAs and RA response to treatment, they are also applied as a choice for treatment based on their effects on the immune system and inflammatory cytokines. Hence, the review aims to present an updated overview of miRNAs, their biogenesis, implications in RA pathogenesis, and finally, the role of miRNAs in RA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt; Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, 11231, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed Ismail
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, 11231, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hesham A El-Mahdy
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, 11231, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Samy Y Elkhawaga
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, 11231, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Elsayed G E Elsakka
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, 11231, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Eman A Mady
- Department of Animal Hygiene, Behavior and Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Moshtohor, Toukfh, Elqaliobiya 13736, Egypt; Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai Cho, Fuchu-shi, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Mahmoud A Elrebehy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud A F Khalil
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Fayoum University, Fayoum 63514, Egypt
| | - Hussein M El-Husseiny
- Laboratory of Veterinary Surgery, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai Cho, Fuchu-shi, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan; Department of Surgery, Anesthesiology, and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Moshtohor, Toukh, Elqaliobiya 13736, Egypt
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14
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Goswami B, Ahuja D, Pastré D, Ray PS. p53 and HuR combinatorially control the biphasic dynamics of microRNA-125b in response to genotoxic stress. Commun Biol 2023; 6:110. [PMID: 36707647 PMCID: PMC9883498 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04507-9] [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: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Post-transcriptional regulation of p53, by the microRNA miR-125b and the RNA-binding protein HuR, controls p53 expression under genotoxic stress. p53 mRNA translation is repressed by miR-125b, tightly regulating its basal level of expression. The repression is relieved upon DNA damage by a decrease in miR-125b level, contributing to pulsatile expression of p53. The pulse of p53, as also of HuR, in response to UV irradiation coincides with a time-dependent biphasic change in miR-125b level. We show that the cause for the decrease in miR-125b level immediately post DNA-damage is enhanced exosomal export mediated by HuR. The subsequent increase in miR-125b level is due to p53-mediated transcriptional upregulation and enhanced processing, demonstrating miR-125b as a transcriptional and processing target of p53. p53 activates the transcription of primary miR-125b RNA from a cryptic promoter in response to UV irradiation. Together, these regulatory processes constitute reciprocal feedback loops that determine the biphasic change in miR-125b level, ultimately contributing to the fine-tuned temporal regulation of p53 expression in response to genotoxic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binita Goswami
- grid.417960.d0000 0004 0614 7855Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur, Nadia, 741246 West Bengal India
| | - Deepika Ahuja
- grid.417960.d0000 0004 0614 7855Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur, Nadia, 741246 West Bengal India
| | - David Pastré
- grid.460789.40000 0004 4910 6535SABNP, Univ Evry, INSERM U1204, Université Paris-Saclay, 91025 Evry, France
| | - Partho Sarothi Ray
- grid.417960.d0000 0004 0614 7855Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, Mohanpur, Nadia, 741246 West Bengal India
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15
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Yaghobi R, Afshari A, Roozbeh J. Host and viral
RNA
dysregulation during
BK
polyomavirus
infection in kidney transplant recipients. WIRES RNA 2022:e1769. [DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ramin Yaghobi
- Shiraz Transplant Research Center Shiraz University of Medical Sciences Shiraz Iran
| | - Afsoon Afshari
- Shiraz Nephro‐Urology Research Center Shiraz University of Medical Sciences Shiraz Iran
| | - Jamshid Roozbeh
- Shiraz Nephro‐Urology Research Center Shiraz University of Medical Sciences Shiraz Iran
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16
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Otmani K, Rouas R, Lewalle P. OncomiRs as noncoding RNAs having functions in cancer: Their role in immune suppression and clinical implications. Front Immunol 2022; 13:913951. [PMID: 36189271 PMCID: PMC9523483 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.913951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, microRNAs have been established as central players in tumorigenesis, but above all, they have opened an important door for our understanding of immune and tumor cell communication. This dialog is largely due to onco-miR transfer from tumor cells to cells of the tumor microenvironment by exosome. This review outlines recent advances regarding the role of oncomiRs in enhancing cancer and how they modulate the cancer-related immune response in the tumor immune microenvironment.MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a type of noncoding RNA that are important posttranscriptional regulators of messenger RNA (mRNA) translation into proteins. By regulating gene expression, miRNAs enhance or inhibit cancer development and participate in several cancer biological processes, including proliferation, invasion metastasis, angiogenesis, chemoresistance and immune escape. Consistent with their widespread effects, miRNAs have been categorized as oncogenes (oncomiRs) or tumor suppressor (TS) miRNAs. MiRNAs that promote tumor growth, called oncomiRs, inhibit messenger RNAs of TS genes and are therefore overexpressed in cancer. In contrast, TS miRNAs inhibit oncogene messenger RNAs and are therefore underexpressed in cancer. Endogenous miRNAs regulate different cellular pathways in all cell types. Therefore, they are not only key modulators in cancer cells but also in the cells constituting their microenvironments. Recently, it was shown that miRNAs are also involved in intercellular communication. Indeed, miRNAs can be transferred from one cell type to another where they regulate targeted gene expression. The primary carriers for the transfer of miRNAs from one cell to another are exosomes. Exosomes are currently considered the primary carriers for communication between the tumor and its surrounding stromal cells to support cancer progression and drive immune suppression. Exosome and miRNAs are seen by many as a hope for developing a new class of targeted therapy. This review outlines recent advances in understanding the role of oncomiRs in enhancing cancer and how they promote its aggressive characteristics and deeply discusses the role of oncomiRs in suppressing the anticancer immune response in its microenvironment. Additionally, further understanding the mechanism of oncomiR-related immune suppression will facilitate the use of miRNAs as biomarkers for impaired antitumor immune function, making them ideal immunotherapy targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid Otmani
- Experimental Hematology Laboratory, Hematology Department, Jules Bordet Institute, Brussels, Belgium
- Hematology Department, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Khalid Otmani,
| | - Redouane Rouas
- Hematology Department, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Hematological Cell Therapy Unit, Hematology Department, Jules Bordet Institute, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Philippe Lewalle
- Experimental Hematology Laboratory, Hematology Department, Jules Bordet Institute, Brussels, Belgium
- Hematology Department, Université libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Hematological Cell Therapy Unit, Hematology Department, Jules Bordet Institute, Brussels, Belgium
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17
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Zhang Z, Yao S, Hu Y, Zhao X, Lee RJ. Application of lipid-based nanoparticles in cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:967505. [PMID: 36003395 PMCID: PMC9393708 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.967505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is revolutionizing the clinical management of patients with different cancer types by sensitizing autologous or allogenic immune cells to the tumor microenvironment which eventually leads to tumor cell lysis without rapidly killing normal cells. Although immunotherapy has been widely demonstrated to be superior to chemotherapies, only a few populations of patients with specific cancer types respond to such treatment due to the failure of systemic immune activation. In addition, severe immune-related adverse events are rapidly observed when patients with very few responses are given higher doses of such therapies. Recent advances of lipid-based nanoparticles (NPs) development have made it possible to deliver not only small molecules but also mRNAs to achieve systemic anticancer immunity through cytotoxic immune cell activation, checkpoint blockade, and chimeric antigen receptor cell therapies, etc. This review summarized recent development and applications of LNPs in anticancer immunotherapy. The diversity of lipid-based NPs would encapsulate payloads with different structures and molecular weights to achieve optimal antitumor immunity through multiple mechanisms of action. The discussion about the components of lipid-based NPs and their immunologic payloads in this review hopefully shed more light on the future direction of anticancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongkun Zhang
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Siyu Yao
- Department of Food Science and Technology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Yingwen Hu
- The Whiteoak Group, Inc., Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Xiaobin Zhao
- The Whiteoak Group, Inc., Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Robert J. Lee
- Division of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Robert J. Lee,
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18
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Gong Y, Chen W, Chen X, He Y, Jiang H, Zhang X, Pan L, Ni B, Yang F, Xu Y, Zhang Q, Zhou L, Cheng Y. An Injectable Epigenetic Autophagic Modulatory Hydrogel for Boosting Umbilical Cord Blood NK Cell Therapy Prevents Postsurgical Relapse of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2201271. [PMID: 35712750 PMCID: PMC9376812 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202201271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) exhibits resistance to conventional treatments due to the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), causing postsurgical relapse and a dismal prognosis. Umbilical cord blood natural killer (UCB-NK) cell-based immunotherapy represents a promising strategy for cancer treatment. However, its therapeutic efficacy is greatly restrained by downregulation of the NK cell activation ligand MHC class I-related chain A/B (MICA/B) and autophagy-mediated degradation of NK cell-derived granzyme B (GZMB) in CSCs. Herein, it is demonstrated that suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) epigenetically downregulates let-7e-5p and miR-615-3p to increase MICA/B expression and that 3-methyl adenine (3MA) inhibits autophagy-mediated GZMB degradation, thereby sensitizing breast CSCs to UCB-NK cells. Then, an injectable hydrogel is designed to codeliver SAHA and 3MA to enhance UCB-NK cell infusion efficacy in TNBC. The hydrogel precursors can be smoothly injected into the tumor resection bed and form a stable gel in situ, allowing for a pH-sensitive sustained release of SAHA and 3MA. Moreover, UCB-NK cell infusion in combination with the hydrogel efficiently controls postsurgical relapse of TNBC. In addition, the hydrogel exhibits good hemostasis and wound-healing functions. Therefore, the work provides proof of concept that an injectable epigenetic autophagic modulatory hydrogel augments UCB-NK cell therapy to combat postsurgical relapse of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihang Gong
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease ResearchThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
| | - Wenjie Chen
- Biotherapy Centre & Cell‐Gene Therapy Translational Medicine Research CentreThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
| | - Xiuxing Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene RegulationDepartment of Medical OncologySun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510120China
| | - Yizhan He
- Biotherapy Centre & Cell‐Gene Therapy Translational Medicine Research CentreThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
| | - Hua Jiang
- Department of Breast & Thyroid SurgeryThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
| | - Xijian Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease ResearchThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
| | - Lijie Pan
- Biotherapy Centre & Cell‐Gene Therapy Translational Medicine Research CentreThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
| | - Beibei Ni
- Biotherapy Centre & Cell‐Gene Therapy Translational Medicine Research CentreThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
| | - Fan Yang
- Biotherapy Centre & Cell‐Gene Therapy Translational Medicine Research CentreThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
| | - Yan Xu
- Biotherapy Centre & Cell‐Gene Therapy Translational Medicine Research CentreThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Biotherapy Centre & Cell‐Gene Therapy Translational Medicine Research CentreThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Spine Disease Prevention and TreatmentDepartment of Spine SurgeryThe Third Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhou510150China
| | - Yusheng Cheng
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease ResearchThe Third Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhou510630China
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19
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Chitadze G, Kabelitz D. Immune surveillance in glioblastoma: role of the NKG2D system and novel cell-based therapeutic approaches. Scand J Immunol 2022; 96:e13201. [PMID: 35778892 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma, formerly known as Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most frequent and most aggressive brain tumor in adults. The brain is an immunopriviledged organ and the blood brain barrier shields the brain from immune surveillance. In this review we discuss the composition of the immunosuppressive tumor micromilieu and potential immune escape mechanisms in GBM. In this respect, we focus on the role of the NKG2D receptor/ligand system. NKG2D ligands are frequently expressed on GBM tumor cells and can activate NKG2D-expressing killer cells including NK cells and γδ T cells. Soluble NKG2D ligands, however, contribute to tumor escape from immunological attack. We also discuss the current immunotherapeutic strategies to improve the survival of GBM patients. Such approaches include the modulation of the NKG2D receptor/ligand system, the application of checkpoint inhibitors, the adoptive transfer of ex vivo expanded and/or modified immune cells, or the application of antibodies and antibody constructs to target cytotoxic effector cells in vivo. In view of the multitude of pursued strategies, there is hope for improved overall survival of GBM patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guranda Chitadze
- Unit for Hematological Diagnostics, Department of Internal Medicine II
| | - Dieter Kabelitz
- Institute of Immunology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH) Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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20
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Expressional regulation of NKG2DLs is associated with the tumor development and shortened overall survival in lung adenocarcinoma. Immunobiology 2022; 227:152239. [PMID: 35780757 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2022.152239] [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: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer group 2D ligands (NKG2DLs) are expressed on tumor cells as a ligand for Natural killer group 2D (NKG2D) receptors. NKG2DLs interact with NKG2D to induce immune cell-mediated cytotoxicity for eliminating tumors. Studies demonstrated that tumor cells can reduce NKG2DLs' expression to escape from anti-tumor immunity, leading to an aggressive cancer phenotype and poor prognosis in some cancers. However, these studies are limited and there is no comprehensive work on the regulation of NKG2DLs in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) which is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide. Here, we conducted an in silico analysis to evaluate the changes in NKG2DLs in LUAD by analyzing The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Gene Expression Omnibus datasets including tumor vs. normal comparisons, TNM stages, survival and infiltrating immune estimation profile. Results indicated that some members of NKG2DL were downregulated in LUAD as compared to normal samples. We determined that MICA (MHC class I polypeptide-related sequence A) was the most and significantly downregulated ligand among others and the results were nearly consistent with the different datasets which we used. Furthermore, survival analysis revealed that down-regulated MICA transcript expression might be one of the prognostic indicators of LUAD. Interestingly, according to the immune cell infiltrating analysis, there wasn't a direct correlation between the MICA transcript expression and immune cell infiltration, while for MICB there was. In addition, in genetic alteration, DNA methylation and miRNA analyses, we did not observe critical outcomes that would clarify the down-regulated MICA expression in detail. Regardless, this study is highly comprehensive and contributes valuable suggestions to further functional studies about the regulation of NKG2DLs and promising immunotherapeutic approaches in LUAD.
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21
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Vaněk O, Kalousková B, Abreu C, Nejadebrahim S, Skořepa O. Natural killer cell-based strategies for immunotherapy of cancer. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2022; 129:91-133. [PMID: 35305726 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are a family of lymphocytes with a natural ability to kill infected, harmed, or malignantly transformed cells. As these cells are part of the innate immunity, the cytotoxic mechanisms are activated upon recognizing specific patterns without prior antigen sensitization. This recognition is crucial for NK cell function in the maintenance of homeostasis and immunosurveillance. NK cells not only act directly toward malignant cells but also participate in the complex immune response by producing cytokines or cross-talk with other immune cells. Cancer may be seen as a break of all immune defenses when malignant cells escape the immunity and invade surrounding tissues creating a microenvironment supporting tumor progression. This process may be reverted by intervening immune response with immunotherapy, which may restore immune recognition. NK cells are important effector cells for immunotherapy. They may be used for adoptive cell transfer, genetically modified with chimeric antigen receptors, or triggered with appropriate antibodies and other antibody-fragment-based recombinant therapeutic proteins tailored specifically for NK cell engagement. NK cell receptors, responsible for target recognition and activation of cytotoxic response, could also be targeted in immunotherapy, for example, by various bi-, tri-, or multi-specific fusion proteins designed to bridge the gap between tumor markers present on target cells and activation receptors expressed on NK cells. However, this kind of immunoactive therapeutics may be developed only with a deep functional and structural knowledge of NK cell receptor: ligand interactions. This review describes the recent developments in the fascinating protein-engineering field of NK cell immunotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondřej Vaněk
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Barbora Kalousková
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Celeste Abreu
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Shiva Nejadebrahim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Skořepa
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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22
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Regulation of HTLV-1 Transformation. Biosci Rep 2022; 42:230803. [PMID: 35169839 PMCID: PMC8919135 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20211921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is the only identified oncogenic human retrovirus. HTLV-1 infects approximately 5–10 million people worldwide and is the infectious cause of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) and several chronic inflammatory diseases, including HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), dermatitis, and uveitis. Unlike other oncogenic retroviruses, HTLV-1 does not capture a cellular proto-oncogene or induce proviral insertional mutagenesis. HTLV-1 is a trans-activating retrovirus and encodes accessory proteins that induce cellular transformation over an extended period of time, upwards of several years to decades. Inarguably the most important viral accessory protein involved in transformation is Tax. Tax is a multifunctional protein that regulates several different pathways and cellular processes. This single viral protein is able to modulate viral gene expression, activate NF-κB signaling pathways, deregulate the cell cycle, disrupt apoptosis, and induce genomic instability. The summation of these processes results in cellular transformation and virus-mediated oncogenesis. Interestingly, HTLV-1 also encodes a protein called Hbz from the antisense strand of the proviral genome that counters many Tax functions in the infected cell, such as Tax-mediated viral transcription and NF-κB activation. However, Hbz also promotes cellular proliferation, inhibits apoptosis, and disrupts genomic integrity. In addition to viral proteins, there are other cellular factors such as MEF-2, superoxide-generating NAPDH oxidase 5-α (Nox5α), and PDLIM2 which have been shown to be critical for HTLV-1-mediated T-cell transformation. This review will highlight the important viral and cellular factors involved in HTLV-1 transformation and the available in vitro and in vivo tools used to study this complex process.
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23
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Alves E, McLeish E, Blancafort P, Coudert JD, Gaudieri S. Manipulating the NKG2D Receptor-Ligand Axis Using CRISPR: Novel Technologies for Improved Host Immunity. Front Immunol 2021; 12:712722. [PMID: 34456921 PMCID: PMC8397441 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.712722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The activating immune receptor natural killer group member D (NKG2D) and its cognate ligands represent a fundamental surveillance system of cellular distress, damage or transformation. Signaling through the NKG2D receptor-ligand axis is critical for early detection of viral infection or oncogenic transformation and the presence of functional NKG2D ligands (NKG2D-L) is associated with tumor rejection and viral clearance. Many viruses and tumors have developed mechanisms to evade NKG2D recognition via transcriptional, post-transcriptional or post-translational interference with NKG2D-L, supporting the concept that circumventing immune evasion of the NKG2D receptor-ligand axis may be an attractive therapeutic avenue for antiviral therapy or cancer immunotherapy. To date, the complexity of the NKG2D receptor-ligand axis and the lack of specificity of current NKG2D-targeting therapies has not allowed for the precise manipulation required to optimally harness NKG2D-mediated immunity. However, with the discovery of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs) and CRISPR-associated (Cas) proteins, novel opportunities have arisen in the realm of locus-specific gene editing and regulation. Here, we give a brief overview of the NKG2D receptor-ligand axis in humans and discuss the levels at which NKG2D-L are regulated and dysregulated during viral infection and oncogenesis. Moreover, we explore the potential for CRISPR-based technologies to provide novel therapeutic avenues to improve and maximize NKG2D-mediated immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Alves
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Emily McLeish
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Pilar Blancafort
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Cancer Epigenetics Laboratory, The Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA, Australia
- The Greehey Children’s Cancer Research Institute, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jerome D. Coudert
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, WA, Australia
| | - Silvana Gaudieri
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
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24
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Neuchel C, Fürst D, Tsamadou C, Schrezenmeier H, Mytilineos J. Extended loci histocompatibility matching in HSCT-Going beyond classical HLA. Int J Immunogenet 2021; 48:299-316. [PMID: 34109752 DOI: 10.1111/iji.12545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Unrelated haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has evolved from an experimental protocol to a potentially curative first-line treatment in a variety of haematologic malignancies. The continuous refinement of treatment protocols and supportive care paired with ongoing achievements in the technological field of histocompatibility testing enabled this transformation. Without a doubt, HLA matching is still the foremost criterion for donor selection in unrelated HSCT. However, HSCT-related treatment complications still occur frequently, often resulting in patients suffering severely or even dying as a consequence of such complications. Current literature indicates that other immune system modulating factors may play a role in the setting of HSCT. In this review, we discuss the current clinical evidence of a possible influence of nonclassical HLA antigens HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G as well as the HLA-like molecules MICA and MICB, in HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Neuchel
- Institute of Clinical Transfusion Medicine and Immunogenetics Ulm, German Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Baden Wuerttemberg-Hessen, and University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Daniel Fürst
- Institute of Clinical Transfusion Medicine and Immunogenetics Ulm, German Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Baden Wuerttemberg-Hessen, and University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Chrysanthi Tsamadou
- Institute of Clinical Transfusion Medicine and Immunogenetics Ulm, German Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Baden Wuerttemberg-Hessen, and University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Hubert Schrezenmeier
- Institute of Clinical Transfusion Medicine and Immunogenetics Ulm, German Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Baden Wuerttemberg-Hessen, and University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Transfusion Medicine, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Joannis Mytilineos
- ZKRD - Zentrales Knochenmarkspender-Register für Deutschland, German National Bone Marrow Donor Registry, Ulm, Germany
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25
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Xia M, Wang B, Wang Z, Zhang X, Wang X. Epigenetic Regulation of NK Cell-Mediated Antitumor Immunity. Front Immunol 2021; 12:672328. [PMID: 34017344 PMCID: PMC8129532 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.672328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are critical innate lymphocytes that can directly kill target cells without prior immunization. NK cell activation is controlled by the balance of multiple germline-encoded activating and inhibitory receptors. NK cells are a heterogeneous and plastic population displaying a broad spectrum of functional states (resting, activating, memory, repressed, and exhausted). In this review, we present an overview of the epigenetic regulation of NK cell-mediated antitumor immunity, including DNA methylation, histone modification, transcription factor changes, and microRNA expression. NK cell-based immunotherapy has been recognized as a promising strategy to treat cancer. Since epigenetic alterations are reversible and druggable, these studies will help identify new ways to enhance NK cell-mediated antitumor cytotoxicity by targeting intrinsic epigenetic regulators alone or in combination with other strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaoran Xia
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bingbing Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zihan Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xulong Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory for Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Department of Oncology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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26
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Ramaiah MJ, Tangutur AD, Manyam RR. Epigenetic modulation and understanding of HDAC inhibitors in cancer therapy. Life Sci 2021; 277:119504. [PMID: 33872660 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The role of genetic and epigenetic factors in tumor initiation and progression is well documented. Histone deacetylases (HDACs), histone methyl transferases (HMTs), and DNA methyl transferases. (DNMTs) are the main proteins that are involved in regulating the chromatin conformation. Among these, histone deacetylases (HDAC) deacetylate the histone and induce gene repression thereby leading to cancer. In contrast, histone acetyl transferases (HATs) that include GCN5, p300/CBP, PCAF, Tip 60 acetylate the histones. HDAC inhibitors are potent drug molecules that can induce acetylation of histones at lysine residues and induce open chromatin conformation at tumor suppressor gene loci and thus resulting in tumor suppression. The key processes regulated by HDAC inhibitors include cell-cycle arrest, chemo-sensitization, apoptosis induction, upregulation of tumor suppressors. Even though FDA approved drugs are confined mainly to haematological malignancies, the research on HDAC inhibitors in glioblastoma multiforme and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) are providing positive results. Thus, several combinations of HDAC inhibitors along with DNA methyl transferase inhibitors and histone methyl transferase inhibitors are in clinical trials. This review focuses on how HDAC inhibitors regulate the expression of coding and non-coding genes with specific emphasis on their anti-cancer potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Janaki Ramaiah
- Laboratory of Functional genomics and Disease Biology, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Anjana Devi Tangutur
- Department of Applied Biology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad 500 007, Telangana, India
| | - Rajasekhar Reddy Manyam
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram, Andhra Pradesh, India
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27
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Papadaki C, Thomopoulou K, Monastirioti A, Koronakis G, Papadaki MA, Rounis K, Vamvakas L, Nikolaou C, Mavroudis D, Agelaki S. MicroRNAs Regulating Tumor and Immune Cell Interactions in the Prediction of Relapse in Early Stage Breast Cancer. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9040421. [PMID: 33924670 PMCID: PMC8069787 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9040421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the regulation of immune response and hold an important role in tumor immune escape. We investigated the differential expression of the immunomodulatory miR-10b, miR-19a, miR-20a, miR-126, and miR-155 in the plasma of healthy women and patients with early stage breast cancer and interrogated their role in the prediction of patients’ relapse. Blood samples were obtained from healthy women (n = 20) and patients with early stage breast cancer (n = 140) before adjuvant chemotherapy. Plasma miRNA expression levels were assessed by RT-qPCR. Relapse predicting models were developed using binary logistic regression and receiver operating curves (ROC) were constructed to determine miRNA sensitivity and specificity. Only miR-155 expression was lower in patients compared with healthy women (p = 0.023), whereas miR-155 and miR-10b were lower in patients who relapsed compared with healthy women (p = 0.039 and p = 0.002, respectively). MiR-155 expression combined with axillary lymph node infiltration and tumor grade demonstrated increased capability in distinguishing relapsed from non-relapsed patients [(area under the curve, (AUC = 0.861; p < 0.001)]. Combined miR-19a and miR-20a expression had the highest performance in discriminating patients with early relapse (AUC = 0.816; p < 0.001). Finally, miR-10b in combination with lymph node status and grade had the highest accuracy to discriminate patients with late relapse (AUC = 0.971; p < 0.001). The robustness of the relapse predicting models was further confirmed in a 10-fold cross validation. Deregulation of circulating miRNAs involved in tumor-immune interactions may predict relapse in early stage breast cancer. Their successful clinical integration could potentially address the significance challenge of treatment escalation or de-escalation according to the risk of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chara Papadaki
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71003 Crete, Greece; (C.P.); (A.M.); (M.A.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Konstantina Thomopoulou
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71110 Crete, Greece; (K.T.); (G.K.); (K.R.); (L.V.)
| | - Alexia Monastirioti
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71003 Crete, Greece; (C.P.); (A.M.); (M.A.P.); (D.M.)
| | - George Koronakis
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71110 Crete, Greece; (K.T.); (G.K.); (K.R.); (L.V.)
| | - Maria A. Papadaki
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71003 Crete, Greece; (C.P.); (A.M.); (M.A.P.); (D.M.)
| | - Konstantinos Rounis
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71110 Crete, Greece; (K.T.); (G.K.); (K.R.); (L.V.)
| | - Lambros Vamvakas
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71110 Crete, Greece; (K.T.); (G.K.); (K.R.); (L.V.)
| | - Christoforos Nikolaou
- Department of Biology, University of Crete, Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 70013 Crete, Greece;
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation of Research and Technology (FORTH), Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 70013 Crete, Greece
- Biomedical Science Research Center “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Bioinnovation, 16672 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Mavroudis
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71003 Crete, Greece; (C.P.); (A.M.); (M.A.P.); (D.M.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71110 Crete, Greece; (K.T.); (G.K.); (K.R.); (L.V.)
| | - Sofia Agelaki
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71003 Crete, Greece; (C.P.); (A.M.); (M.A.P.); (D.M.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Vassilika Vouton, 71110 Crete, Greece; (K.T.); (G.K.); (K.R.); (L.V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-281-039-2438
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28
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Hu J, Xia X, Zhao Q, Li S. Lysine acetylation of NKG2D ligand Rae-1 stabilizes the protein and sensitizes tumor cells to NKG2D immune surveillance. Cancer Lett 2021; 502:143-153. [PMID: 33279621 PMCID: PMC10142196 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Shedding, loss of expression, or internalization of natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) ligands from the tumor cell surface leads to immune evasion, which is associated with poor prognosis in patients with cancer. In many cancers, matrix metalloproteinases cause the proteolytic shedding of NKG2D ligands. However, it remained unclear how to protect NKG2D ligands from shedding. Here, we showed that the shedding of the mouse NKG2D ligand Rae-1 can be prevented by two critical acetyltransferases, GCN5 and PCAF, which acetylate the lysine residues of Rae-1 to avoid shedding both in vitro and in vivo. In contrast, mutations at lysines 80 and 87 of Rae-1 abrogated this acetylation and thereby desensitized tumor cells to NKG2D-dependent immune surveillance. Notably, the protein levels of GCN5 correlated with the expression levels of the human NKG2D ligand ULPB1 in a human tumor tissue microarray and, more importantly, with prolonged overall survival in many cancers. Our results suggest that the acetylation of Rae-1 protein at lysines 80 and 87 by GCN5 and PCAF protects Rae-1 from shedding so as to activate NKG2D-dependent immune surveillance. This discovery may shed light on new targets for NKG2D immunotherapy in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiemiao Hu
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 853, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Xueqing Xia
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 853, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Qingnan Zhao
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 853, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Shulin Li
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 853, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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29
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Machuldova A, Holubova M, Caputo VS, Cedikova M, Jindra P, Houdova L, Pitule P. Role of Polymorphisms of NKG2D Receptor and Its Ligands in Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Human Stem Cell Transplantation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:651751. [PMID: 33868289 PMCID: PMC8044845 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.651751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells possess key regulatory function in various malignant diseases, including acute myeloid leukemia. NK cell activity is driven by signals received through ligands binding activating or inhibitory receptors. Their activity towards elimination of transformed or virally infected cells can be mediated through MICA, MICB and ULBP ligands binding the activating receptor NKG2D. Given the efficiency of NK cells, potential target cells developed multiple protecting mechanisms to overcome NK cells killing on various levels of biogenesis of NKG2D ligands. Targeted cells can degrade ligand transcripts via microRNAs or modify them at protein level to prevent their presence at cell surface via shedding, with added benefit of shed ligands to desensitize NKG2D receptor and avert the threat of destruction via NK cells. NK cells and their activity are also indispensable during hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, crucial treatment option for patients with malignant disease, including acute myeloid leukemia. Function of both NKG2D and its ligands is strongly affected by polymorphisms and particular allelic variants, as different alleles can play variable roles in ligand-receptor interaction, influencing NK cell function and HSCT outcome differently. For example, role of amino acid exchange at position 129 in MICA or at position 98 in MICB, as well as the role of other polymorphisms leading to different shedding of ligands, was described. Finally, match or mismatch between patient and donor in NKG2D ligands affect HSCT outcome. Having the information beyond standard HLA typing prior HSCT could be instrumental to find the best donor for the patient and to optimize effects of treatment by more precise patient-donor match. Here, we review recent research on the NKG2D/NKG2D ligand biology, their regulation, description of their polymorphisms across the populations of patients with AML and the influence of particular polymorphisms on HSCT outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena Machuldova
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Immunotherapy, Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Monika Holubova
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Immunotherapy, Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia.,Department of Haematology and Oncology, University Hospital Pilsen, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Valentina S Caputo
- Hugh & Josseline Langmuir Center for Myeloma Research, Center for Hematology, Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Cancer Biology and Therapy Laboratory, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Miroslava Cedikova
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Immunotherapy, Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Pavel Jindra
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, University Hospital Pilsen, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Lucie Houdova
- NTIS, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of West Bohemia, Pilsen, Czechia
| | - Pavel Pitule
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology and Immunotherapy, Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czechia
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30
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DHA Abolishes the Detrimental Effect of Docetaxel on Downregulation of the MICA via Decreasing the Expression Level of MicroRNA-20a in Gastric Cancer. J Gastrointest Cancer 2021; 51:545-551. [PMID: 31368060 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-019-00280-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND MHC class I chain-related protein A (MICA) is a membrane glycoprotein expressed abnormally on some malignant cells including gastric cancer (GC) cell and elicits anti-tumor immune responses. Downregulation of MICA expression could lead to immune-evasion of cancer cells. OBJECTIVE(S) In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and docetaxel alone or in combination on the expression level of MICA and its regulating microRNA (miRNA), miR-20a in MKN45 GC cell line. METHOD(S) MKN45 GC cell line was cultured and MTT assay was performed to determine IC50 of docetaxel. Cells were treated by 18.5 μM docetaxel and 100 μM DHA. After that, RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis were done and the expression level of MICA and miR-20a were determined by quantitative real-time PCR for both treated and untreated cell lines. RESULTS Our findings showed less downregulation of the expression level of MICA by the combination of docetaxel/DHA (5.34-fold) compared with docetaxel (45.45-fold) and DHA (55.55-fold). Consistently, combination therapy led to the more downregulation of the expression level of the miR-20a (5.20-fold) in comparison to docetaxel (2.38-fold) and DHA (1.60-fold). CONCLUSION(S) As an unwanted effect of docetaxel therapy in GC, downregulation of MICA expression could lead to weak anti-tumor immune responses. By increasing the expression level of MICA, combination therapy of docetaxel with DHA would be useful to overcome this side effect.
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31
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Wu Z, Zhang H, Wu M, Peng G, He Y, Wan N, Zeng Y. Targeting the NKG2D/NKG2D-L axis in acute myeloid leukemia. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 137:111299. [PMID: 33508619 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) receptor is a crucial activating receptor in the immune recognition and eradication of abnormal cells by natural killer (NK) cells, and T lymphocytes. NKG2D can transmit activation signals and activate the immune system by recognizing the NKG2D ligands (NKG2D-L) on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells. Downregulation of NKG2D-L in AML can circumvent resistance to chemotherapy and immune recognition. Considering this effect, the exploration of targeting the NKG2D/NKG2D-L axis is considered to have tremendous potential for the discovery of novel biomacromolecule antibodies and pharmacological modulators in AML. This review was to outline the impact of NKG2D/NKG2D-L axis on intrinsic immunosurveillance and the development of AML. Furthermore, the NKG2D/NKG2D-L axis related modulators and progress in preclinical and clinical trials was also to be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhui Wu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Min Wu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Guorui Peng
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Yanqiu He
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Na Wan
- Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, Jiangxi Province, China.
| | - Yingjian Zeng
- The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi Province, China.
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32
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Choi YB, Cousins E, Nicholas J. Novel Functions and Virus-Host Interactions Implicated in Pathogenesis and Replication of Human Herpesvirus 8. Recent Results Cancer Res 2021; 217:245-301. [PMID: 33200369 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57362-1_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) is classified as a γ2-herpesvirus and is related to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a γ1-herpesvirus. One important aspect of the γ-herpesviruses is their association with neoplasia, either naturally or in animal model systems. HHV-8 is associated with B-cell-derived primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) and multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD), endothelial-derived Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), and KSHV inflammatory cytokine syndrome (KICS). EBV is also associated with a number of B-cell malignancies, such as Burkitt's lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma, and posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease, in addition to epithelial nasopharyngeal and gastric carcinomas. Despite the similarities between these viruses and their associated malignancies, the particular protein functions and activities involved in key aspects of virus biology and neoplastic transformation appear to be quite distinct. Indeed, HHV-8 specifies a number of proteins for which counterparts had not previously been identified in EBV, other herpesviruses, or even viruses in general, and these proteins are believed to play vital functions in virus biology and to be involved centrally in viral pathogenesis. Additionally, a set of microRNAs encoded by HHV-8 appears to modulate the expression of multiple host proteins to provide conditions conductive to virus persistence within the host and possibly contributing to HHV-8-induced neoplasia. Here, we review the molecular biology underlying these novel virus-host interactions and their potential roles in both virus biology and virus-associated disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Bong Choi
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.
| | - Emily Cousins
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - John Nicholas
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
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Stock C. Circulating Tumor Cells: Does Ion Transport Contribute to Intravascular Survival, Adhesion, Extravasation, and Metastatic Organotropism? Rev Physiol Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 182:139-175. [DOI: 10.1007/112_2021_68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Baugh R, Khalique H, Seymour LW. Convergent Evolution by Cancer and Viruses in Evading the NKG2D Immune Response. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3827. [PMID: 33352921 PMCID: PMC7766243 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The natural killer group 2 member D (NKG2D) receptor and its family of NKG2D ligands (NKG2DLs) are key components in the innate immune system, triggering NK, γδ and CD8+ T cell-mediated immune responses. While surface NKG2DL are rarely found on healthy cells, expression is significantly increased in response to various types of cellular stress, viral infection, and tumour cell transformation. In order to evade immune-mediated cytotoxicity, both pathogenic viruses and cancer cells have evolved various mechanisms of subverting immune defences and preventing NKG2DL expression. Comparisons of the mechanisms employed following virus infection or malignant transformation reveal a pattern of converging evolution at many of the key regulatory steps involved in NKG2DL expression and subsequent immune responses. Exploring ways to target these shared steps in virus- and cancer-mediated immune evasion may provide new mechanistic insights and therapeutic opportunities, for example, using oncolytic virotherapy to re-engage the innate immune system towards cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Leonard W. Seymour
- Anticancer Viruses and Cancer Vaccines Research Group, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK; (R.B.); (H.K.)
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Wu J, Zhang F, Zhang J, Sun Z, Wang W. Advances of miRNAs in kidney graft injury. Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2020; 35:100591. [PMID: 33309915 DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2020.100591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Kidney transplantation is the preferred treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease. However, various types of kidney graft injury after transplantation are still key factors that affect the survival of the kidney graft. Therefore, exploring the underlying mechanisms involved is very important. Current diagnostic measures for kidney graft injury (including needle biopsy, blood creatinine, eGFR, etc.) have many limiting factors such as invasiveness, insufficient sensitivity and specificity, so they cannot provide timely and effective information to clinicians. As for kidney grafts that have occurred injury, the traditional treatment has a little efficacy and many side effects. Therefore, there is an urgent need for developing new biomarkers and targeted treatment for kidney graft injury. Recently, studies have found that miRNAs are involved in the regulation of the progression of kidney graft injury. At the same time, it has high stability in blood, urine, and other body fluids, so it is suggested to have the potential as a biomarker and therapeutic target for kidney graft injury. Here, we reviewed the miRNAs involved in the pathophysiology of kidney graft injury such as ischemia/reperfusion injury, acute rejection, drug-induced nephrotoxicity, chronic allograft dysfunction, BK virus infection, and the latest advances of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets of kidney graft injury, then summarized the specific data of miRNAs expression level in kidney graft injury, which aims to provide a reference for subsequent basic research and clinical transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyue Wu
- Institute of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical Unversity, China
| | - Feilong Zhang
- Institute of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical Unversity, China
| | - Jiandong Zhang
- Institute of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical Unversity, China
| | - Zejia Sun
- Institute of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical Unversity, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Institute of Urology, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical Unversity, China.
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36
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Høgh RI, Møller SH, Jepsen SD, Mellergaard M, Lund A, Pejtersen M, Fitzner E, Andresen L, Skov S. Metabolism of short-chain fatty acid propionate induces surface expression of NKG2D ligands on cancer cells. FASEB J 2020; 34:15531-15546. [PMID: 32996653 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000162r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
SCFAs are primarily produced in the colon by bacterial fermentation of nondigestible carbohydrates. Besides providing energy, SCFAs can suppress development of colon cancer. The mechanism, however, remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that the SCFA propionate upregulates surface expression of the immune stimulatory NKG2D ligands, MICA/B by imposing metabolic changes in dividing cells. Propionate-mediated MICA/B expression did not rely on GPR41/GPR43 receptors but depended on functional mitochondria. By siRNA-directed knockdown, we could further link phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), the rate-limiting enzyme in gluconeogenesis to propionate regulation of MICA/B expression. Moreover, knockdown of Rictor and specific mTOR inhibitors implicated mTORC2 activity with metabolic changes that control MICA/B expression. SCFAs are precursors to short-chain acyl-CoAs that are used for histone acylation thereby linking the metabolic state to chromatin structure and gene expression. Propionate increased the overall acetylation and propionylation and inhibition of lysine acetyltransferases (KATs) that are responsible for adding acyl-CoAs to histones reduced propionate-mediated MICA/B expression, suggesting that propionate-induced acylation increases MICA/B expression. Notably, propionate upregulated MICA/B surface expression on colon cancer cells in an acylation-dependent manner; however, the impact of mitochondrial metabolism on MICA/B expression was different in colon cancer cells compared with Jurkat cells, suggesting that continuous exposure to propionate in the colon may provide an enhanced capacity to metabolize propionate. Together, our findings support that propionate causes metabolic changes resulting in NKG2D ligand surface expression, which holds potential as an immune activating anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Illum Høgh
- Laboratory of Immunology, Section for Experimental Animal Models, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sofie Hedlund Møller
- Laboratory of Immunology, Section for Experimental Animal Models, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stine Dam Jepsen
- Laboratory of Immunology, Section for Experimental Animal Models, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maiken Mellergaard
- Laboratory of Immunology, Section for Experimental Animal Models, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Astrid Lund
- Laboratory of Immunology, Section for Experimental Animal Models, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikala Pejtersen
- Laboratory of Immunology, Section for Experimental Animal Models, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emil Fitzner
- Laboratory of Immunology, Section for Experimental Animal Models, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Andresen
- Laboratory of Immunology, Section for Experimental Animal Models, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Skov
- Laboratory of Immunology, Section for Experimental Animal Models, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Cantoni C, Wurzer H, Thomas C, Vitale M. Escape of tumor cells from the NK cell cytotoxic activity. J Leukoc Biol 2020; 108:1339-1360. [PMID: 32930468 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.2mr0820-652r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, NK cells, initially identified as potent cytotoxic effector cells, have revealed an unexpected complexity, both at phenotypic and functional levels. The discovery of different NK cell subsets, characterized by distinct gene expression and phenotypes, was combined with the characterization of the diverse functions NK cells can exert, not only as circulating cells, but also as cells localized or recruited in lymphoid organs and in multiple tissues. Besides the elimination of tumor and virus-infected cells, these functions include the production of cytokines and chemokines, the regulation of innate and adaptive immune cells, the influence on tissue homeostasis. In addition, NK cells display a remarkable functional plasticity, being able to adapt to the environment and to develop a kind of memory. Nevertheless, the powerful cytotoxic activity of NK cells remains one of their most relevant properties, particularly in the antitumor response. In this review, the process of tumor cell recognition and killing mediated by NK cells, starting from the generation of cytolytic granules and recognition of target cell, to the establishment of the NK cell immunological synapse, the release of cytotoxic molecules, and consequent tumor cell death is described. Next, the review focuses on the heterogeneous mechanisms, either intrinsic to tumors or induced by the tumor microenvironment, by which cancer cells can escape the NK cell-mediated attack.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Cantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Integrated Department of Services and Laboratories, IRCCS Istituto G. Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Hannah Wurzer
- Cytoskeleton and Cancer Progression, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Luxembourg, Luxembourg.,Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
| | - Clément Thomas
- Cytoskeleton and Cancer Progression, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Massimo Vitale
- UO Immunologia, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genova, Genoa, Italy
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Sartorius K, Swadling L, An P, Makarova J, Winkler C, Chuturgoon A, Kramvis A. The Multiple Roles of Hepatitis B Virus X Protein (HBx) Dysregulated MicroRNA in Hepatitis B Virus-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HBV-HCC) and Immune Pathways. Viruses 2020; 12:v12070746. [PMID: 32664401 PMCID: PMC7412373 DOI: 10.3390/v12070746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, the treatment of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) [HBV-HCC] relies on blunt tools that are unable to offer effective therapy for later stage pathogenesis. The potential of miRNA to treat HBV-HCC offer a more targeted approach to managing this lethal carcinoma; however, the complexity of miRNA as an ancillary regulator of the immune system remains poorly understood. This review examines the overlapping roles of HBx-dysregulated miRNA in HBV-HCC and immune pathways and seeks to demonstrate that specific miRNA response in immune cells is not independent of their expression in hepatocytes. This interplay between the two pathways may provide us with the possibility of using candidate miRNA to manipulate this interaction as a potential therapeutic option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Sartorius
- Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
- UKZN Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Centre, Durban 4041, South Africa
- Correspondence:
| | - Leo Swadling
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London WC1E6BT, UK;
| | - Ping An
- Basic Research Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. Frederick Nat. Lab. for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 20878, USA; (P.A.); (C.W.)
| | - Julia Makarova
- National Research University Higher School of Economics, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, 10100 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Cheryl Winkler
- Basic Research Laboratory, Centre for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. Frederick Nat. Lab. for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 20878, USA; (P.A.); (C.W.)
| | - Anil Chuturgoon
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa;
| | - Anna Kramvis
- Hepatitis Virus Diversity Research Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa;
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Labani-Motlagh A, Ashja-Mahdavi M, Loskog A. The Tumor Microenvironment: A Milieu Hindering and Obstructing Antitumor Immune Responses. Front Immunol 2020; 11:940. [PMID: 32499786 PMCID: PMC7243284 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 373] [Impact Index Per Article: 93.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of cancer immunotherapy relies on the knowledge of the tumor microenvironment and the immune evasion mechanisms in which the tumor, stroma, and infiltrating immune cells function in a complex network. The potential barriers that profoundly challenge the overall clinical outcome of promising therapies need to be fully identified and counteracted. Although cancer immunotherapy has increasingly been applied, we are far from understanding how to utilize different strategies in the best way and how to combine therapeutic options to optimize clinical benefit. This review intends to give a contemporary and detailed overview of the different roles of immune cells, exosomes, and molecules acting in the tumor microenvironment and how they relate to immune activation and escape. Further, current and novel immunotherapeutic options will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Angelica Loskog
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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40
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High MICB expression as a biomarker for good prognosis of colorectal cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2020; 146:1405-1413. [PMID: 32306128 PMCID: PMC7230058 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-020-03159-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) plays an important role in colorectal cancer (CRC) immunity. However, the function of MHC class I chain-related B (MICB) molecule is not very clear. In this study, we explored the prognostic effect of MICB in colorectal cancer. Material and methods From 2008-05 to 2012-11, consecutive CRC patients of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University were retrospectively enrolled as primary cohort. The inclusion criteria were as follows: receiving primary radical resection, pathologically confirmed colorectal adenocarcinoma, no treatment before surgery, clinicopathological data available. Another cohort of CRC patients were collected from a public dataset GSE39582 of GEO database from 1987 to 2007 in the same criteria for validation. MICB was detected using immunochemistry and evaluated as prognostic biomarker. The cut-off value of MICB expression was calculated using X-tile software. Results Finally, 863 patients were enrolled in the primary cohort, and 556 patients were enrolled in the validation cohort. MICB expression was significantly associated with tumor size and primary histological type in primary cohort, and with primary tumor location and distant metastases in validation cohort. The survival analysis showed that patients with high MICB expression had significantly better overall survival in both primary (P = 0.002) and validation (P = 0.001) cohorts. The multivariate analysis also confirmed that high MICB expression was a significantly independent protective factor for overall survival in both primary (hazard ratio HR = 0.741, 95% CI 0.594–0.924) and validation (HR = 0.699, 95% CI 0.508–0.961) cohorts. Conclusion For stage I–IV CRC patients, MICB was confirmed a novel independent prognostic factor. It could help better stratification of CRC prognosis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00432-020-03159-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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microRNAs in the Antitumor Immune Response and in Bone Metastasis of Breast Cancer: From Biological Mechanisms to Therapeutics. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082805. [PMID: 32316552 PMCID: PMC7216039 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, and the occurrence of metastasis drastically worsens the prognosis and reduces overall survival. Understanding the biological mechanisms that regulate the transformation of malignant cells, the consequent metastatic transformation, and the immune surveillance in the tumor progression would contribute to the development of more effective and targeted treatments. In this context, microRNAs (miRNAs) have proven to be key regulators of the tumor-immune cells crosstalk for the hijack of the immunosurveillance to promote tumor cells immune escape and cancer progression, as well as modulators of the metastasis formation process, ranging from the preparation of the metastatic site to the transformation into the migrating phenotype of tumor cells. In particular, their deregulated expression has been linked to the aberrant expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes to promote tumorigenesis. This review aims at summarizing the role and functions of miRNAs involved in antitumor immune response and in the metastasis formation process in breast cancer. Additionally, miRNAs are promising targets for gene therapy as their modulation has the potential to support or inhibit specific mechanisms to negatively affect tumorigenesis. With this perspective, the most recent strategies developed for miRNA-based therapeutics are illustrated.
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Yi M, Xu L, Jiao Y, Luo S, Li A, Wu K. The role of cancer-derived microRNAs in cancer immune escape. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:25. [PMID: 32222150 PMCID: PMC7103070 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00848-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
During malignant transformation, accumulated somatic mutations endow cancer cells with increased invasiveness and immunogenicity. Under selective pressure, these highly immunogenic cancer cells develop multiple strategies to evade immune attack. It has been well established that cancer cells could downregulate the expression of major histocompatibility complex, acquire alterations in interferon pathway, and upregulate the activities of immune checkpoint pathways. Besides, cancer cells secret numerous cytokines, exosomes, and microvesicles to regulate the functions and abundances of components in the tumor microenvironment including immune effector cells and professional antigen presentation cells. As the vital determinant of post-transcriptional regulation, microRNAs (miRNAs) not only participate in cancer initiation and progression but also regulate anti-cancer immune response. For instance, some miRNAs affect cancer immune surveillance and immune escape by interfering the expression of immune attack-associated molecules. A growing body of evidence indicated that cancer-derived immune modulatory miRNAs might be promising targets to counteract cancer immune escape. In this review, we summarized the role of some miRNAs in cancer immune escape and discussed their potential clinical application as treatment targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yi
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Linping Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008, China
| | - Ying Jiao
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Suxia Luo
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008, China
| | - Anping Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008, China
| | - Kongming Wu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China. .,Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008, China.
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Zhang L, Yu J, Liu Z. MicroRNAs expressed by human cytomegalovirus. Virol J 2020; 17:34. [PMID: 32164742 PMCID: PMC7069213 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-020-1296-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs about 22 nucleotides in length, which play an important role in gene regulation of both eukaryotes and viruses. They can promote RNA cleavage and repress translation via base-pairing with complementary sequences within mRNA molecules. Main body Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) encodes a large number of miRNAs that regulate transcriptions of both host cells and themselves to favor viral infection and inhibit the host’s immune response. To date, ~ 26 mature HCMV miRNAs have been identified. Nevertheless, their roles in viral infection are ambiguous, and the mechanisms have not been fully revealed. Therefore, we discuss the methods used in HCMV miRNA research and summarize the important roles of HCMV miRNAs and their potential mechanisms in infection. Conclusions To study the miRNAs encoded by viruses and their roles in viral replication, expression, and infection will not only contribute to the planning of effective antiviral therapies, but also provide new molecular targets for the development of antiviral drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lichen Zhang
- Clinical School, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Jiaqi Yu
- Clinical School, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Zhijun Liu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China.
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Tian Y, Shang Y, Guo R, Ding J, Li X, Chang Y. miR-10 involved in salinity-induced stress responses and targets TBC1D5 in the sea cucumber, Apostichopus japonicas. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 242:110406. [PMID: 31904427 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2019.110406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The sea cucumber is an economically important aquaculture species in China, where it encounter hypo-saline conditions caused by freshwater outflow from rivers and rainfall. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small noncoding RNAs of about 22 nucleotides, which are crucial regulators of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and are involved in a variety of physiological and pathophysiological processes. miR-10 is differentially expressed in salinity acclimation, and has a seed-region match with TBC1D5. The expression profiles of miR-10 and TBC1D5 indicate that miR-10 negatively regulates the expression of TBC1D5 in coelomocytes and sea cucumbers with a miR-10 agomir or antagomir. During salinity acclimation, up-regulation of miR-10 was induced after transfection in coelomocytes with a miR-10 inhibitor, while down-regulation of TBC1D5 was induced. The miR-10 expression maximum in coelomocytes appeared at 48 h post-transfection with a miR-10 inhibitor, was later than that of in sea cucumbers, which appeared 24 h after miR-10 antagomir injection. There was no longer a negative relationship between miR-10 and TBC1D5 expression in coelomocytes and sea cucumbers with miR-10 mimics or agomir during salinity acclimation. The miR-10 antagomir or agomir only affected sodium and NKA enzyme activities, and has little effect on other chloride and potassium ions. Our results demonstrate miR-10 directly regulates TBC1D5 by targeting its 3'-UTR, and that miR-10 suppression substantially increases TBC1D5 mRNA levels in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, miR-10 and TBC1D5 fluctuating expression patterns after treatment with a miR-10 inhibitor or mimics during salinity acclimation may indicate that they are required for adaptation to salinity stress caused by environmental change. Especially, the miR-10 up-regulation in coelomocytes with miR-10 inhibitor during salinity acclimation indicated that they are required for adaptation to salinity stress caused by environmental change. We propose that miR-10 participates in a regulatory circuit that allows for rapid gene program transitions in response to osmotic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Tian
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture & Stock Enhancement in North China's Sea, Ministry of Agriculture, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116023, China.
| | - Yanpeng Shang
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture & Stock Enhancement in North China's Sea, Ministry of Agriculture, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Ran Guo
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture & Stock Enhancement in North China's Sea, Ministry of Agriculture, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Jun Ding
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture & Stock Enhancement in North China's Sea, Ministry of Agriculture, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture & Stock Enhancement in North China's Sea, Ministry of Agriculture, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Yaqing Chang
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture & Stock Enhancement in North China's Sea, Ministry of Agriculture, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian 116023, China.
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Lazarova M, Steinle A. Impairment of NKG2D-Mediated Tumor Immunity by TGF-β. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2689. [PMID: 31803194 PMCID: PMC6873348 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) suppresses innate and adaptive immune responses via multiple mechanisms. TGF-β also importantly contributes to the formation of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment thereby promoting tumor growth. Amongst others, TGF-β impairs tumor recognition by cytotoxic lymphocytes via NKG2D. NKG2D is a homodimeric C-type lectin-like receptor expressed on virtually all human NK cells and cytotoxic T cells, and stimulates their effector functions upon engagement by NKG2D ligands (NKG2DL). While NKG2DL are mostly absent from healthy cells, their expression is induced by cellular stress and malignant transformation, and, accordingly, frequently detected on various tumor cells. Hence, the NKG2D axis is thought to play a decisive role in cancer immunosurveillance and, obviously, often is compromised in clinically apparent tumors. There is mounting evidence that TGF-β, produced by tumor cells and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, plays a key role in blunting the NKG2D-mediated tumor surveillance. Here, we review the current knowledge on the impairment of NKG2D-mediated cancer immunity through TGF-β and discuss therapeutic approaches aiming at counteracting this major immune escape pathway. By reducing tumor-associated expression of NKG2DL and blinding cytotoxic lymphocytes through down-regulation of NKG2D, TGF-β is acting upon both sides of the NKG2D axis severely compromising NKG2D-mediated tumor rejection. Consequently, novel therapies targeting the TGF-β pathway are expected to reinvigorate NKG2D-mediated tumor elimination and thereby to improve the survival of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Lazarova
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Alexander Steinle
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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BCL11B regulates MICA/B-mediated immune response by acting as a competitive endogenous RNA. Oncogene 2019; 39:1514-1526. [PMID: 31673069 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-1083-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immune surveillance is an important host protection process that inhibits carcinogenesis and maintains cellular homeostasis. The major histocompatibility complex class I-related molecules A and B (MICA and MICB) are NKG2D ligands that play important roles in tumor immune surveillance. In the present study, by a combined bioinformatics prediction and experimental approach, we identify BCL11B 3'-UTR as a putative MICA and MICB ceRNA. We demonstrate in several human cell lines of different origins that the knockdown of BCL11B downregulates surface expression of MICA and MICB. Furthermore, we demonstrate miRNA dependency of BCL11B-mediated MICA and MICB regulation in Dicer knockdown HCT116 cells. In addition, MICA/B-targeting miRNAs (miR-17, miR-93, miR-20a, miR-20b, miR-106a, and miR-106b) repressed the expression of BCL11B by targeting its 3'-UTR. Moreover, we showed that the BCL11B knockdown-mediated downregulation of MICA/B resulted in reduced NK cell elimination in vitro and in vivo through reduced recognition of NKG2D. Of particular significance, BCL11B displays tumor-suppressive properties. The expression of BCL11B is downregulated in colon cancer tissues and associated with a reduced median survival of colon cancer patients. Taken together, our study revealed a new mechanism of BCL11B that prevents immune evasion of cancerous cells by upregulation of the NKG2D ligands MICA and MICB in a ceRNA manner.
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Zeng G, Wang Z, Huang Y, Abedin Z, Liu Y, Randhawa P. Cellular and viral miRNA expression in polyomavirus BK infection. Transpl Infect Dis 2019; 21:e13159. [PMID: 31410940 DOI: 10.1111/tid.13159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Polyomavirus BK (BKV) is an important pathogen in kidney transplant patients. Regulation of BKV encoded microRNAs (miRNAs) is not well understood. Therefore, tubular epithelial cells infected with BKV were examined for changes in small RNA expression. The observed changes were further evaluated by real-time PCR and RNA-seq analysis of renal allograft biopsies. BKV-miR-B1-5p and BKV-miR-B1-3p showed a 1000-fold increase over 12 days but did not prevent cell lysis. Downregulation of host miR-10b and miR-30a could be confirmed on all three platforms evaluated. Whereas, the BKV genome expressed more 3p than 5p miRNA species, the reverse was true for the human genome. Decreased expression of TP53INP2, and increased expression of BCL2A1, IL-6, IL8 and other proinflammatory cytokines were shown in biopsies with BKV nephropathy. No change in expression was seen in miR-10a dependent expression of NKG2D ligands ULBP3, MICA, or MICB. In conclusion, BKV infection results in regulation of cellular genes regulated by and possibly amenable to therapies targeting miR-10 and miR-30.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zeng
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Zijie Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuchen Huang
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Yang Liu
- PrimBio Research Institute LLC, Exton, PA, USA
| | - Parmjeet Randhawa
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Cox ST, Hernandez D, Danby R, Turner TR, Madrigal JA. Diversity and characterisation of polymorphic 3' untranslated region haplotypes of MICA and MICB genes. HLA 2019; 92:392-402. [PMID: 30471210 DOI: 10.1111/tan.13434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
MICA and MICB genes encode ligands that interact with the natural killer (NK) cell activating receptor, NKG2D. These ligands display a highly polymorphic allelic repertoire, although the true functional significance of this polymorphism remains elusive. We previously reported additional polymorphism in the 5' untranslated region (UTR) proximal promoter region of these genes by sequencing international histocompatibility workshop (IHW) cell line DNA promoter and coding regions. The present study extends this analysis by further characterising the 3'UTR region of the same IHW reference panel to achieve a more complete understanding of MICA and MICB haplotype diversity and possible functional relevance. We found 17 extended MICA haplotypes encompassing the coding region and 3'UTR, including four novel haplotypes identified in IHW cell line DNA. This increased to 21 when also considering the 5'UTR proximal promoter region. Analysis of the MICB 3'UTR revealed two novel sequences in cell lines KLO and WIN designated MICB-UTR8 and UTR9, respectively. A total of 11 MICB haplotypes were identified in this study and five were unique. The present study, characterising MICA/B 3'UTR polymorphism utilising IHW reference cell lines, could be useful for future studies investigating the role of microRNA in post-transcriptional repression of gene expression and for immunotherapy strategies to combat cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven T Cox
- Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.,UCL Cancer Institute, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Diana Hernandez
- Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.,UCL Cancer Institute, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - Robert Danby
- Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.,Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas R Turner
- Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.,UCL Cancer Institute, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
| | - J Alejandro Madrigal
- Anthony Nolan Research Institute, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.,UCL Cancer Institute, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
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Huang Y, Zeng G, Randhawa PS. Detection of BKV encoded mature MicroRNAs in kidney transplant patients: Clinical and biologic insights. J Clin Virol 2019; 119:6-10. [PMID: 31422199 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2019.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polyomavirus BK (BKV) encodes two mature miRNAs that regulate the viral life cycle. OBJECTIVES This study investigated the autoregulatory and immunomodulatory effects of these miRNAs that have been defined in culture systems, but subject to only limited exploration in clinical samples. METHODS BKV-miR-B1-5p, BKV-miR-BJ1-3p, BKV DNA and BKV VP-1 mRNA levels were measured in 32 paired obtained plasma & urine samples from kidney transplant patients with (a) early stage infection manifesting as viruria, and (b) later stage infections complicated by viremia. RESULTS All patients showed abundant urine miRNAs (7.84E + 02-1.91E + 06 copies/ml, but plasma miRNA was below the limit of detection. There was no statistically significant difference in urinary miRNA levels between viruric and viremic patients. Median 5p miRNA load was 4-6 logs lower than the BKV genomic load. Higher miRNA levels in the urine were associated not with lower but higher urinary viral loads. BKV preferentially used the 3p miRNA for its interactions with host cell mRNAs. The mean ratio of 5p/3p in patients with viruria was 0.09, and 0.03 in patients with viremia. CONCLUSIONS The data suggest that immune evasion functions of BKV miRNAs over-ride the negative autoregulatory feedback effects in kidney transplant patients with active viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Huang
- Department of Pathology, The Thomas E Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States
| | - Gang Zeng
- Department of Pathology, The Thomas E Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States
| | - Parmjeet S Randhawa
- Department of Pathology, The Thomas E Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States.
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Nutalai R, Gaudieri S, Jumnainsong A, Leelayuwat C. Regulation of KIR3DL3 Expression via Mirna. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10080603. [PMID: 31405037 PMCID: PMC6723774 DOI: 10.3390/genes10080603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) 3DL3 is a framework gene present in all human KIR haplotypes. Although the structure of KIR3DL3 is suggestive of an inhibitory receptor, the function of KIR3DL3 has not been demonstrated and cognate ligands have not been identified. KIR3DL3 has been shown to be constitutively expressed at a low RNA level in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and decidual natural kill (NK) cells, but cell surface expression of KIR3DL3 cannot be detected. Accordingly, post-transcriptional regulation of KIR3DL3 should exist. Using bioinformatics analysis, we identified three candidate micro ribonucleic acids (miRNAs; miR-26a-5p, -26b-5p and -185-5p) that potentially regulate KIR3DL3 expression. Luciferase reporter assays utilizing constructs with mutated miRNA-binding sites of miR-26a-5p, -26b-5p and -185-5p in the 3’-untranslated region (3’ UTR) of KIR3DL3 resulted in up-regulation of luciferase activity demonstrating a potential mechanism of gene regulation. Furthermore, knockdown of the same endogenous miRNAs using silencing ribonucleic acid (siRNA) led to induced surface expression of KIR3DL3. In conclusion, we provide a novel mechanism of functional regulation of KIR3DL3 via miRNAs. These findings are relevant in understanding the generation of KIR repertoire and NK cell clonality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rungtiwa Nutalai
- Biomedical Sciences Program, Graduates School of Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Sciences, School of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- The Centre for Research and Development of Medical Diagnostic Laboratories (CMDL), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Silvana Gaudieri
- School of Human Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Amonrat Jumnainsong
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Sciences, School of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- The Centre for Research and Development of Medical Diagnostic Laboratories (CMDL), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Chanvit Leelayuwat
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Sciences, School of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
- The Centre for Research and Development of Medical Diagnostic Laboratories (CMDL), Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand.
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