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Taechasan N, Scherwitzl I, Supasa P, Dejnirattisai W, Sriruksa K, Limpitikul W, Malasit P, Screaton GR, Mongkolsapaya J, Duangchinda T. The alteration of NK cells phenotypes related to the functions and dengue disease outcomes. Virus Res 2024; 345:199382. [PMID: 38697295 PMCID: PMC11101892 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199382] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer cells (NK cells) are the front line of immune cells to combat pathogens and able to influence the subsequent adaptive immune responses. One of the factors contributing to pathogenesis in dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) disease is aberrant immune activation during early phase of infection. This study explored the profile of NK cells in dengue infected pediatric patients with different degrees of disease severity. DHF patients contained higher frequency of activated NK cells but lower ratio of CD56dim:CD56bright NK subsets. Activated NK cells exhibited alterations in several NK receptors. Interestingly, the frequencies of NKp30 expressing activated NK cells were more pronounced in dengue fever (DF) than in DHF pediatric patients. In vitro functional analysis indicated that degranulation of NK cells in responding to dengue infected dendritic cells (DCs) required cell-cell contact and type I IFNs. Meanwhile, Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) production initially required cell-cell contact and type I IFNs followed by Interleukin-12 (IL-12), Interleukin-15 (IL-15) and Interleukin-18 (IL-18) resulting in the amplification of IFN-γ producing NK cells over time. This study highlighted the complexity and the factors influencing NK cells responses to dengue virus. Degree of activation, phenotypes of activated cells and the crosstalk between NK cells and other immune cells, could modulate the outcome of NK cells function in the dengue disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Napas Taechasan
- Department of Immunology, Graduate Program in Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand; Department of Research and Development, Division of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok-Noi, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Iris Scherwitzl
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, Hammersmith Campus, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Piyada Supasa
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Wanwisa Dejnirattisai
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Division of Emerging Infectious Disease, Research Department, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok-Noi, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Kanokwan Sriruksa
- Pediatric Department, Khon Kaen Hospital, Ministry of Public Health, Khon Kaen 40000, Thailand
| | - Wannee Limpitikul
- Pediatric Department, Songkhla Hospital, Ministry of Public Health, Songkhla 90100, Thailand
| | - Prida Malasit
- Department of Research and Development, Division of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok-Noi, Bangkok 10700, Thailand; Molecular Biology of Dengue and Flaviviruses Research Team, Medical Molecular Biotechnology Research Group, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Bangkok 12120, Thailand
| | - Gavin R Screaton
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Science (CAMS) Oxford Institute (COI), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Juthathip Mongkolsapaya
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Science (CAMS) Oxford Institute (COI), University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Thaneeya Duangchinda
- Department of Research and Development, Division of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok-Noi, Bangkok 10700, Thailand; Molecular Biology of Dengue and Flaviviruses Research Team, Medical Molecular Biotechnology Research Group, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Bangkok 12120, Thailand.
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Beeton K, Mitra D, Akinleye AA, Howell JA, Yu CS, Bidwell GL, Tandon R. An Elastin-like Polypeptide-fusion peptide targeting capsid-tegument interface as an antiviral against cytomegalovirus infection. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10253. [PMID: 38704431 PMCID: PMC11069587 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60691-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The tegument protein pp150 of Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is known to be essential for the final stages of virus maturation and mediates its functions by interacting with capsid proteins. Our laboratory has previously identified the critical regions in pp150 important for pp150-capsid interactions and designed peptides similar in sequence to these regions, with a goal to competitively inhibit capsid maturation. Treatment with a specific peptide (PepCR2 or P10) targeted to pp150 conserved region 2 led to a significant reduction in murine CMV (MCMV) growth in cell culture, paving the way for in vivo testing in a mouse model of CMV infection. However, the general pharmacokinetic parameters of peptides, including rapid degradation and limited tissue and cell membrane permeability, pose a challenge to their successful use in vivo. Therefore, we designed a biopolymer-stabilized elastin-like polypeptide (ELP) fusion construct (ELP-P10) to enhance the bioavailability of P10. Antiviral efficacy and cytotoxic effects of ELP-P10 were studied in cell culture, and pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and antiviral efficacy were studied in a mouse model of CMV infection. ELP-P10 maintained significant antiviral activity in cell culture, and this conjugation significantly enhanced P10 bioavailability in mouse tissues. The fluorescently labeled ELP-P10 accumulated to higher levels in mouse liver and kidneys as compared to the unconjugated P10. Moreover, viral titers from vital organs of MCMV-infected mice indicated a significant reduction of virus load upon ELP-P10 treatment. Therefore, ELP-P10 has the potential to be developed into an effective antiviral against CMV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Beeton
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Immunology and Microbial Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Dipanwita Mitra
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Immunology and Microbial Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Adesanya A Akinleye
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - John A Howell
- Department of Neurology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Christian S Yu
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Immunology and Microbial Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Gene L Bidwell
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Immunology and Microbial Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA
| | - Ritesh Tandon
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Center for Immunology and Microbial Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS, 39216, USA.
- Office of Research Infrastructure Programs, National Institute of Health, 6701 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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3
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Aguilar OA, Fong LK, Lanier LL. ITAM-based receptors in natural killer cells. Immunol Rev 2024; 323:40-53. [PMID: 38411263 PMCID: PMC11102329 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13313] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The ability of cells of the immune system to acquire features such as increased longevity and enhanced secondary responses was long thought to be restricted to cells of the adaptive immune system. Natural killer (NK) cells have challenged this notion by demonstrating that they can also gain adaptive features. This has been observed in both humans and mice during infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV). The generation of adaptive NK cells requires antigen-specific recognition of virally infected cells through stimulatory NK receptors. These receptors lack the ability to signal on their own and rather rely on adaptor molecules that contain ITAMs for driving signals. Here, we highlight our understanding of how these receptors influence the production of adaptive NK cells and propose areas in the field that merit further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar A. Aguilar
- Dept. of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lam-Kiu Fong
- Dept. of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California – San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Lewis L. Lanier
- Dept. of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of California - San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Kim N, Yi E, Lee E, Park HJ, Kim HS. Interleukin-2 is required for NKp30-dependent NK cell cytotoxicity by preferentially regulating NKp30 expression. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1388018. [PMID: 38698855 PMCID: PMC11063289 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1388018] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are key effectors in cancer immunosurveillance, eliminating a broad spectrum of cancer cells without major histocompatibility complex (MHC) specificity and graft-versus-host diseases (GvHD) risk. The use of allogeneic NK cell therapies from healthy donors has demonstrated favorable clinical efficacies in treating diverse cancers, particularly hematologic malignancies, but it requires cytokines such as IL-2 to primarily support NK cell persistence and expansion. However, the role of IL-2 in the regulation of activating receptors and the function of NK cells expanded for clinical trials is poorly understood and needs clarification for the full engagement of NK cells in cancer immunotherapy. Here, we demonstrated that IL-2 deprivation significantly impaired the cytotoxicity of primary expanded NK cells by preferentially downregulating NKp30 but not NKp46 despite their common adaptor requirement for expression and function. Using NK92 and IL-2-producing NK92MI cells, we observed that NKp30-mediated cytotoxicity against myeloid leukemia cells such as K562 and THP-1 cells expressing B7-H6, a ligand for NKp30, was severely impaired by IL-2 deprivation. Furthermore, IL-2 deficiency-mediated NK cell dysfunction was overcome by the ectopic overexpression of an immunostimulatory NKp30 isoform such as NKp30a or NKp30b. In particular, NKp30a overexpression in NK92 cells improved the clearance of THP-1 cells in vivo without IL-2 supplementation. Collectively, our results highlight the distinct role of IL-2 in the regulation of NKp30 compared to that of NKp46 and suggest NKp30 upregulation, as shown here by ectopic overexpression, as a viable modality to harness NK cells in cancer immunotherapy, possibly in combination with IL-2 immunocytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayoung Kim
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunbi Yi
- Department of Microbiology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunbi Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Jin Park
- Department of Microbiology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hun Sik Kim
- Department of Microbiology, Brain Korea 21 Project, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Stem Cell Immunomodulation Research Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Asadzadeh R, Nafar M, Ahmadpoor P, Samavat S, Nikoueinejad H, Hosseinzadeh M, Mamizadeh N, Hatami S, Amirzargar A. Investigating the relationship between the number and activity of natural killer cells with increased cytomegalovirus and CMV disease after kidney transplantation. Transpl Immunol 2023; 80:101887. [PMID: 37451646 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2023.101887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections caused by the cytomegalovirus are one of the most common problems in patients after kidney transplant. We examined the association of the relationship between the number and activity of natural killer cells with increased cytomegalovirus and its related disease after kidney transplantation. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this analytical study, 58 new transplant patients in the Labbafinejad Hospital, who did not have any evidence of CMV infection, were evaluated based on the number and percentage of CD56+/16+, CD56+/16-, and CD69+ Natural Killer (NK) cells. RESULTS The results of this study showed that CD16+ and CD56+ cells in the group of CMV Ag-positive patients are less than negative patients (p = 0.003) and the difference between the two groups are significant (p = 0.01). However, CD69+ cells did not differ significantly between the two groups (p = 0.1). Moreover, the absolute number of CD16+ and CD56+ cells declined significantly after infection with CMV unlike the CMV Ag - group(p = 0.003). DISCUSSION These results indicate that kidney transplant patients suffering from CMV infection after transplantation have a significantly reduced total number of NK cells. On the other hand, a slight decrease in the number of NK subgroups was observed with an increase in the peak serum levels of cyclosporine. As a consequence of these findings, it can be assumed that more dosage and a higher level of the drug will result in more severe immunosuppression and, consequently, increased susceptibility to CMV infections. Thus, taking the right dose of the drug would prevent viral infections and immune system from over-activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Asadzadeh
- Chronic Kidney Disease Research Center, Shahid Labbafinejad Medical Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohsen Nafar
- Chronic Kidney Disease Research Center, Shahid Labbafinejad Medical Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Pedram Ahmadpoor
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Labbafinejad Medical Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Shiva Samavat
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Labbafinejad Medical Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hassan Nikoueinejad
- Nephrology and Urology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Iran.
| | - Morteza Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.
| | - Nahid Mamizadeh
- Chronic Kidney Disease Research Center, Shahid Labbafinejad Medical Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saeideh Hatami
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Aliakbar Amirzargar
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Razizadeh MH, Zafarani A, Taghavi-Farahabadi M, Khorramdelazad H, Minaeian S, Mahmoudi M. Natural killer cells and their exosomes in viral infections and related therapeutic approaches: where are we? Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:261. [PMID: 37749597 PMCID: PMC10519079 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01266-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Innate immunity is the first line of the host immune system to fight against infections. Natural killer cells are the innate immunity lymphocytes responsible for fighting against virus-infected and cancerous cells. They have various mechanisms to suppress viral infections. On the other hand, viruses have evolved to utilize different ways to evade NK cell-mediated responses. Viruses can balance the response by regulating the cytokine release pattern and changing the proportion of activating and inhibitory receptors on the surface of NK cells. Exosomes are a subtype of extracellular vesicles that are involved in intercellular communication. Most cell populations can release these nano-sized vesicles, and it was shown that these vesicles produce identical outcomes to the originating cell from which they are released. In recent years, the role of NK cell-derived exosomes in various diseases including viral infections has been highlighted, drawing attention to utilizing the therapeutic potential of these nanoparticles. In this article, the role of NK cells in various viral infections and the mechanisms used by viruses to evade these important immune system cells are initially examined. Subsequently, the role of NK cell exosomes in controlling various viral infections is discussed. Finally, the current position of these cells in the treatment of viral infections and the therapeutic potential of their exosomes are reviewed. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Razizadeh
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Zafarani
- Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Taghavi-Farahabadi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Sara Minaeian
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Mahmoudi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Zeng J, Cao D, Yang S, Jaijyan DK, Liu X, Wu S, Cruz-Cosme R, Tang Q, Zhu H. Insights into the Transcriptome of Human Cytomegalovirus: A Comprehensive Review. Viruses 2023; 15:1703. [PMID: 37632045 PMCID: PMC10458407 DOI: 10.3390/v15081703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a widespread pathogen that poses significant risks to immunocompromised individuals. Its genome spans over 230 kbp and potentially encodes over 200 open-reading frames. The HCMV transcriptome consists of various types of RNAs, including messenger RNAs (mRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs), with emerging insights into their biological functions. HCMV mRNAs are involved in crucial viral processes, such as viral replication, transcription, and translation regulation, as well as immune modulation and other effects on host cells. Additionally, four lncRNAs (RNA1.2, RNA2.7, RNA4.9, and RNA5.0) have been identified in HCMV, which play important roles in lytic replication like bypassing acute antiviral responses, promoting cell movement and viral spread, and maintaining HCMV latency. CircRNAs have gained attention for their important and diverse biological functions, including association with different diseases, acting as microRNA sponges, regulating parental gene expression, and serving as translation templates. Remarkably, HCMV encodes miRNAs which play critical roles in silencing human genes and other functions. This review gives an overview of human cytomegalovirus and current research on the HCMV transcriptome during lytic and latent infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Zeng
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
| | - Di Cao
- Department of Pain Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Shaomin Yang
- Department of Pain Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Dabbu Kumar Jaijyan
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
| | - Xiaolian Liu
- Institute of Pathogenic Organisms, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Songbin Wu
- Department of Pain Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Ruth Cruz-Cosme
- Department of Microbiology, Howard University College of Medicine, 520 W Street NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Qiyi Tang
- Department of Microbiology, Howard University College of Medicine, 520 W Street NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 225 Warren Street, Newark, NJ 070101, USA
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D’Silva SZ, Singh M, Pinto AS. NK cell defects: implication in acute myeloid leukemia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1112059. [PMID: 37228595 PMCID: PMC10203541 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1112059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a complex disease with rapid progression and poor/unsatisfactory outcomes. In the past few years, the focus has been on developing newer therapies for AML; however, relapse remains a significant problem. Natural Killer cells have strong anti-tumor potential against AML. This NK-mediated cytotoxicity is often restricted by cellular defects caused by disease-associated mechanisms, which can lead to disease progression. A stark feature of AML is the low/no expression of the cognate HLA ligands for the activating KIR receptors, due to which these tumor cells evade NK-mediated lysis. Recently, different Natural Killer cell therapies have been implicated in treating AML, such as the adoptive NK cell transfer, Chimeric antigen receptor-modified NK (CAR-NK) cell therapy, antibodies, cytokine, and drug treatment. However, the data available is scarce, and the outcomes vary between different transplant settings and different types of leukemia. Moreover, remission achieved by some of these therapies is only for a short time. In this mini-review, we will discuss the role of NK cell defects in AML progression, particularly the expression of different cell surface markers, the available NK cell therapies, and the results from various preclinical and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma Z. D’Silva
- Transplant Immunology and Immunogenetics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Education and Research in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Meenakshi Singh
- Transplant Immunology and Immunogenetics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Education and Research in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Andrea S. Pinto
- Transplant Immunology and Immunogenetics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Education and Research in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
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9
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Mace EM. Human natural killer cells: Form, function, and development. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023; 151:371-385. [PMID: 36195172 PMCID: PMC9905317 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2022.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Human natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells that mediate important effector functions in the control of viral infection and malignancy. Their ability to distinguish "self" from "nonself" and lyse virally infected and tumorigenic cells through germline-encoded receptors makes them important players in maintaining human health and a powerful tool for immunotherapeutic applications and fighting disease. This review introduces our current understanding of NK cell biology, including key facets of NK cell differentiation and the acquisition and execution of NK cell effector function. Further, it addresses the clinical relevance of NK cells in both primary immunodeficiency and immunotherapy. It is intended to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of this important and interesting innate immune effector cell subset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M Mace
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York.
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10
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Gunasekaran M, Difiglia A, Fitzgerald J, Hariri R, van der Touw W, Mahlakõiv T. Human placental hematopoietic stem cell-derived natural killer cells (CYNK) recognize and eliminate influenza A virus-infected cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:900624. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.900624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza A virus (IAV) infections are a significant recurrent threat to public health and a significant burden on global economy, highlighting the need for developing more effective therapies. Natural killer (NK) cells play a pivotal role in the control of pulmonary IAV infection, however, little is known about the therapeutic potential of adoptively transferred NK cells for viral infections. Here, we investigated the antiviral activity of CYNK, human placental hematopoietic stem cell-derived NK cells, against IAV infection in vitro. Virus infection induced the expression of NK cell activating ligands on respiratory epithelial cells, resulting in enhanced recognition by CYNK cells. Upon co-culture with IAV-infected epithelial cells, CYNK exhibited elevated degranulation and increased production of IFN-γ, TNF-α and GM-CSF in a virus dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, CYNK showed virus dose-dependent cytotoxicity against IAV-infected cells. The antiviral activity of CYNK was mediated by NKp46 and NKG2D. Together, these data demonstrate that CYNK possesses potent antiviral function against IAV and warrant clinical investigations for adoptive NK cell therapies against viral infections.
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11
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Zuo W, Yu XX, Liu XF, Chang YJ, Wang Y, Zhang XH, Xu LP, Liu KY, Zhao XS, Huang XJ, Zhao XY. The Interaction of HLA-C1/KIR2DL2/L3 Promoted KIR2DL2/L3 Single-Positive/NKG2C-Positive Natural Killer Cell Reconstitution, Raising the Incidence of aGVHD after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:814334. [PMID: 35572602 PMCID: PMC9101514 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.814334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
NKG2C+ natural killer (NK) cell plays a vital role in CMV infection control after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, the modulation on NKG2C+ NK cell reconstitution is still unclear. NK cell education is affected by the interactions of HLA-I/killer immunoglobulin receptor (KIR). Our aim is to figure out which HLA-I/KIR interaction plays a dominant role in NKG2C+ NK education. Based on allogeneic haploidentical HSCT, we investigated the expansion and function of single KIR positive NKG2C+ NK cells via the interaction of KIR with both donor HLA and recipient HLA at days 30, 90, and 180 after HSCT. KIR2DL2/L3 single-positive/NKG2C+ cells were significantly expanded compared with KIR2DL1 or KIR3DL1 single-positive/NKG2C+ cells when donors and recipients were both HLA-C1/C1 or HLA-C1C1BW4 (p < 0.05), with higher NKp30 expression (p < 0.05). Moreover, the proportion of single KIR positive NK cells increased in both NKG2C+/NKG2A- NK cells and conventional NKG2C-/NKG2A- NK cells over time. We also observed that increased proportion of KIR2DL2/L3 single-positive/NKG2C+ NK cells correlated with higher incidence of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD). Our study allows a better understanding of HLA-I/KIR interaction in the NKG2C+ NK cell education after HSCT.
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12
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Iraqi M, Edri A, Greenshpan Y, Goldstein O, Ofir N, Bolel P, Abu Ahmad M, Zektser M, Campbell KS, Rouvio O, Gazit R, Porgador A. Blocking the PCNA/NKp44 Checkpoint to Stimulate NK Cell Responses to Multiple Myeloma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094717. [PMID: 35563109 PMCID: PMC9105815 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Membrane-associated PCNA is expressed on the surface of human MM cell lines and primary MM cells. Mab 14-25-9 interacts with membrane-associated PCNA and blocks its binding to NK-expressed NKp44, thus activating NK function. We showed that mAb 14-25-9 can serve as an immune checkpoint blocker, enhancing the function of NK cells on target human MM cell lines and primary cells. Abstract Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a devastating malignancy that evades immune destruction using multiple mechanisms. The NKp44 receptor interacts with PCNA (Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen) and may inhibit NK cells’ functions. Here we studied in vitro the expression and function of PCNA on MM cells. First, we show that PCNA is present on the cell membrane of five out of six MM cell lines, using novel anti-PCNA mAb developed to recognize membrane-associated PCNA. Next, we stained primary bone marrow (BM) mononuclear cells from MM patients and showed significant staining of membrane-associated PCNA in the fraction of CD38+CD138+ BM cells that contain the MM cells. Importantly, blocking of the membrane PCNA on MM cells enhanced the activity of NK cells, including IFN-γ-secretion and degranulation. Our results highlight the possible blocking of the NKp44-PCNA immune checkpoint by the mAb 14-25-9 antibody to enhance NK cell responses against MM, providing a novel treatment option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Iraqi
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
| | - Avishay Edri
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
| | - Yariv Greenshpan
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
| | - Oron Goldstein
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Noa Ofir
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Priyanka Bolel
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
| | - Muhammad Abu Ahmad
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
| | - Miri Zektser
- Internal Medicine A and Multiple Myeloma Clinic, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 8489501, Israel; (M.Z.); (O.R.)
| | - Kerry S. Campbell
- Blood Cell Development and Host Defense Program, Research Institute at Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA;
| | - Ory Rouvio
- Internal Medicine A and Multiple Myeloma Clinic, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 8489501, Israel; (M.Z.); (O.R.)
| | - Roi Gazit
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Angel Porgador
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (M.I.); (A.E.); (Y.G.); (O.G.); (N.O.); (P.B.); (M.A.A.); (R.G.)
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Science, National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +972-8-6477283 or +972-8-6477276 (ext. 282 or 280); Fax: +972-8-647762
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Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune cells that are critical to the body’s antitumor and antimetastatic defense. As such, novel therapies are being developed to utilize NK cells as part of a next generation of immunotherapies to treat patients with metastatic disease. Therefore, it is essential for us to examine how metastatic cancer cells and NK cells interact with each other throughout the metastatic cascade. In this Review, we highlight the recent body of work that has begun to answer these questions. We explore how the unique biology of cancer cells at each stage of metastasis alters fundamental NK cell biology, including how cancer cells can evade immunosurveillance and co-opt NK cells into cells that promote metastasis. We also discuss the translational potential of this knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac S Chan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, and.,Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Andrew J Ewald
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, and.,Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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14
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Jarahian M, Marstaller K, Banna N, Ahani R, Etemadzadeh MH, Boller LK, Azadmanesh K, Cid-Arregui A, Khezri A, Berger MR, Momburg F, Watzl C. Activating Natural Killer Cell Receptors, Selectins, and Inhibitory Siglecs Recognize Ebolavirus Glycoprotein. J Innate Immun 2021; 14:135-147. [PMID: 34425576 DOI: 10.1159/000517628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Expression of the extensively glycosylated Ebolavirus glycoprotein (EBOV-GP) induces physical alterations of surface molecules and plays a crucial role in viral pathogenicity. Here we investigate the interactions of EBOV-GP with host surface molecules using purified EBOV-GP, EBOV-GP-transfected cell lines, and EBOV-GP-pseudotyped lentiviral particles. Subsequently, we wanted to examine which receptors are involved in this recognition by binding studies to cells transfected with the EBOV-GP as well as to recombinant soluble EBOV-GP. As the viral components can also bind to inhibitory receptors of immune cells (e.g., Siglecs, TIM-1), they can even suppress the activity of immune effector cells. Our data show that natural killer (NK) cell receptors NKp44 and NKp46, selectins (CD62E/P/L), the host factors DC-SIGNR/DC-SIGN, and inhibitory Siglecs function as receptors for EBOV-GP. Our results show also moderate to strong avidity of homing receptors (P-, L-, and E-selectin) and DC-SIGNR/DC-SIGN to purified EBOV-GP, to cells transfected with EBOV-GP, as well as to the envelope of a pseudotyped lentiviral vector carrying the EBOV-GP. The concomitant activation and inhibition of the immune system exemplifies the evolutionary antagonism between the immune system and pathogens. Altogether these interactions with activating and inhibitory receptors result in a reduced NK cell-mediated lysis of EBOV-GP-expressing cells. Modulation of these interactions may provide new strategies for treating infections caused by this virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Jarahian
- Toxicology and Chemotherapy Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Katharina Marstaller
- Toxicology and Chemotherapy Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nadine Banna
- Toxicology and Chemotherapy Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Roshanak Ahani
- Department of Virology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Lea K Boller
- Department of Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
| | | | - Angel Cid-Arregui
- Targeted Tumor Vaccines Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Abdolrahman Khezri
- Department of Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Hamar, Norway
| | - Martin R Berger
- Toxicology and Chemotherapy Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Momburg
- Antigen Presentation and T/NK Cell Activation Unit, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carsten Watzl
- Department of Immunology, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, Dortmund, Germany
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15
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Viral Manipulation of the Host Epigenome as a Driver of Virus-Induced Oncogenesis. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9061179. [PMID: 34070716 PMCID: PMC8227491 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9061179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenesis due to viral infection accounts for a high fraction of the total global cancer burden (15–20%) of all human cancers. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms by which viral infection leads to tumor development is extremely important. One of the main mechanisms by which viruses induce host cell proliferation programs is through controlling the host’s epigenetic machinery. In this review, we dissect the epigenetic pathways through which oncogenic viruses can integrate their genome into host cell chromosomes and lead to tumor progression. In addition, we highlight the potential use of drugs based on histone modifiers in reducing the global impact of cancer development due to viral infection.
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16
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Lenart M, Kluczewska A, Szaflarska A, Rutkowska-Zapała M, Wąsik M, Ziemiańska-Pięta A, Kobylarz K, Pituch-Noworolska A, Siedlar M. Selective downregulation of natural killer activating receptors on NK cells and upregulation of PD-1 expression on T cells in children with severe and/or recurrent Herpes simplex virus infections. Immunobiology 2021; 226:152097. [PMID: 34015527 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2021.152097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Severe, recurrent or atypical Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are still posing clinical and diagnostic problem in clinical immunology facilities. However, the molecular background of this disorder is still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of activating receptors on NK cells (CD16, NKp46, NKG2D, NKp80, 2B4, CD48 and NTB-A) and checkpoint molecule PD-1 on T lymphocytes and NK cells, in patients with severe and/or recurrent infections with HSV and age-matched healthy control subjects. As a result, we noticed that patients with severe and/or recurrent infection with HSV had significantly lower percentage of CD16brightCD56dim and higher percentage of CD16dimCD56bright NK cell subsets, when compared to control subjects, which may be associated with abnormal NK cell maturation during chronic HSV infection. Patients had also significantly downregulated expression of CD16 receptor on CD16bright NK cells. The expression of activating receptors was significantly reduced on patients' NK cells - either both the percentage of NK cells expressing the receptor and MFI of its expression (NKp46, NKp80 and 2B4 on CD16brightCD56dim cells and NKp46 on CD16dimCD56bright cells) or only MFI (NKG2D on both NK cell subsets). It should be noted that the reduction of receptor expression was limited to NK cells, since there was no differences in the percentage of receptor-positive cells or MFI on T cells. However, NTB-A receptor was the only one which expression was not only simultaneously changed in patients' NK and T cells, but also significantly upregulated on CD16dimCD56bright NK cell and CD8+ cell subsets. Patients had also upregulated proportion of CD4+ T cells expressing PD-1. Thus, we suggest that an increased percentage of PD-1+ cells may represent an independent indirect mechanism of downregulation of antiviral response, separate from the reduction of NK cell activating receptors expression. Altogether, our studies indicate two possible mechanisms which may promote perpetuation of HSV infection: 1) selective inhibition of activating receptors on NK cells, but not on T cells, and 2) upregulation of checkpoint molecule PD-1 on CD4+ T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzena Lenart
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Kluczewska
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Szaflarska
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, Poland
| | - Magdalena Rutkowska-Zapała
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, Poland
| | - Magdalena Wąsik
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Ziemiańska-Pięta
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Kobylarz
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Pituch-Noworolska
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, Poland
| | - Maciej Siedlar
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Wielicka 265, Krakow, Poland.
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17
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Carnevalli LS, Ghadially H, Barry ST. Therapeutic Approaches Targeting the Natural Killer-Myeloid Cell Axis in the Tumor Microenvironment. Front Immunol 2021; 12:633685. [PMID: 33953710 PMCID: PMC8092119 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.633685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has transformed cancer treatment by promoting durable clinical responses in a proportion of patients; however, treatment still fails in many patients. Innate immune cells play a key role in the response to immunotherapy. Crosstalk between innate and adaptive immune systems drives T-cell activation but also limits immunotherapy response, as myeloid cells are commonly associated with resistance. Hence, innate cells have both negative and positive effects within the tumor microenvironment (TME), and despite investment in early clinical trials targeting innate cells, they have seen limited success. Suppressive myeloid cells facilitate metastasis and immunotherapy resistance through TME remodeling and inhibition of adaptive immune cells. Natural killer (NK) cells, in contrast, secrete inflammatory cytokines and directly kill transformed cells, playing a key immunosurveillance role in early tumor development. Myeloid and NK cells show reciprocal crosstalk, influencing myeloid cell functional status or antigen presentation and NK effector function, respectively. Crosstalk between myeloid cells and the NK immune network in the TME is especially important in the context of therapeutic intervention. Here we discuss how myeloid and NK cell interactions shape anti-tumor responses by influencing an immunosuppressive TME and how this may influence outcomes of treatment strategies involving drugs that target myeloid and NK cells.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/adverse effects
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/therapeutic use
- Cell Communication/drug effects
- Humans
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/adverse effects
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Immunity, Cellular/drug effects
- Immunity, Humoral/drug effects
- Immunotherapy
- Killer Cells, Natural/drug effects
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/metabolism
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/drug effects
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/immunology
- Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/metabolism
- Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells/drug effects
- Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells/immunology
- Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells/metabolism
- Neoplasms/immunology
- Neoplasms/metabolism
- Neoplasms/pathology
- Neoplasms/therapy
- Tumor Escape/drug effects
- Tumor Microenvironment/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Simon T. Barry
- Early Oncology, Research and Development, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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18
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Kinlein A, Janes ME, Kincer J, Almeida T, Matz H, Sui J, Criscitiello MF, Flajnik MF, Ohta Y. Analysis of shark NCR3 family genes reveals primordial features of vertebrate NKp30. Immunogenetics 2021; 73:333-348. [PMID: 33742259 DOI: 10.1007/s00251-021-01209-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells play major roles in innate immunity against viruses and cancer. Natural killer receptors (NKR) expressed by NK cells recognize foreign- or self-ligands on infected and transformed cells as well as healthy cells. NKR genes are the most rapidly evolving loci in vertebrates, and it is generally difficult to detect orthologues in different taxa. The unique exception is NKp30, an activating NKR in mammals that binds to the self-ligand B7H6. The NKp30-encoding gene, NCR3, has been found in most vertebrates including sharks, the oldest vertebrates with human-type adaptive immunity. NCR3 has a special, non-rearranging VJ-type immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) domain that predates the emergence of the rearranging antigen receptors. Herein we show that NCR3 loci are linked to the shark major histocompatibility complex (MHC), proving NCR3's primordial association with the MHC. We identified eight subtypes of differentially expressed highly divergent shark NCR3 family genes. Using in situ hybridization, we detected one subtype, NS344823, to be expressed by predominantly single cells outside of splenic B cell zones. The expression by non-B cells was also confirmed by PCR in peripheral blood lymphocytes. Surprisingly, high expression of NS344823 was detected in the thymic cortex, demonstrating NS344823 expression in developing T cells. Finally, we show for the first time that shark T cells are found as single cells or in small clusters in the splenic red pulp, also unassociated with the large B cell follicles we previously identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Kinlein
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Morgan E Janes
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Jacob Kincer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Tereza Almeida
- Centro de Investigacão Em Biodiversidade E Recursos Genéticos, CIBIO-InBIO, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Universidade Do Porto, Vairão, Porto, Portugal
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Hanover Matz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Jianxin Sui
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Michael F Criscitiello
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Martin F Flajnik
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Yuko Ohta
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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19
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Rosental B, Hadad U, Brusilovsky M, Campbell KS, Porgador A. A novel mechanism for cancer cells to evade immune attack by NK cells: The interaction between NKp44 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen. Oncoimmunology 2021; 1:572-574. [PMID: 22754791 PMCID: PMC3382898 DOI: 10.4161/onci.19366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We recently reported proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) as a ligand for the NK cell activating receptor, NKp44, which unexpectedly triggers inhibition. The recognition of nuclear proteins such as PCNA, by related NK cell receptors has been reported. Widespread upregulation of PCNA in tumor cells may therefore promote immune evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benyamin Rosental
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology and Immunology; Faculty of Health Sciences; Ben-Gurion University of the Negev; Beer Sheva, Israel
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20
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Influenza A Virus Hemagglutinin and Other Pathogen Glycoprotein Interactions with NK Cell Natural Cytotoxicity Receptors NKp46, NKp44, and NKp30. Viruses 2021; 13:v13020156. [PMID: 33494528 PMCID: PMC7911750 DOI: 10.3390/v13020156] [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: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are part of the innate immunity repertoire, and function in the recognition and destruction of tumorigenic and pathogen-infected cells. Engagement of NK cell activating receptors can lead to functional activation of NK cells, resulting in lysis of target cells. NK cell activating receptors specific for non-major histocompatibility complex ligands are NKp46, NKp44, NKp30, NKG2D, and CD16 (also known as FcγRIII). The natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs), NKp46, NKp44, and NKp30, have been implicated in functional activation of NK cells following influenza virus infection via binding with influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA). In this review we describe NK cell and influenza A virus biology, and the interactions of influenza A virus HA and other pathogen lectins with NK cell natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs). We review concepts which intersect viral immunology, traditional virology and glycobiology to provide insights into the interactions between influenza virus HA and the NCRs. Furthermore, we provide expert opinion on future directions that would provide insights into currently unanswered questions.
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21
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Pinheiro PF, Justino GC, Marques MM. NKp30 - A prospective target for new cancer immunotherapy strategies. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:4563-4580. [PMID: 32737988 PMCID: PMC7520444 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are an important arm of the innate immune system. They constitutively express the NKp30 receptor. NKp30-mediated responses are triggered by the binding of specific ligands e.g. tumour cell-derived B7-H6 and involve the secretion of cytotoxic mediators including TNF-α, IFN-γ, perforins and granzymes. The latter two constitute a target cell-directed response that is critical in the process of immunosurveillance. The structure of NKp30 is presented, focusing on the ligand-binding site, on the ligand-induced structural changes and on the experimental data available correlating structure and binding affinity. The translation of NKp30 structural changes to disease progression is also reviewed. NKp30 role in immunotherapy has been explored in chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy. However, antibodies or small ligands targeting NKp30 have not yet been developed. The data reviewed herein unveil the key structural aspects that must be considered for drug design in order to develop novel immunotherapy approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro F. Pinheiro
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Instituto Superior TécnicoUniversidade de LisboaLisbonPortugal
| | - Gonçalo C. Justino
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Instituto Superior TécnicoUniversidade de LisboaLisbonPortugal
| | - M. Matilde Marques
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Instituto Superior TécnicoUniversidade de LisboaLisbonPortugal
- Departamento de Engenharia Química, Instituto Superior TécnicoUniversidade de LisboaLisbonPortugal
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22
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Natural Killer Cell Activation Receptor NKp30 Oligomerization Depends on Its N-Glycosylation. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071998. [PMID: 32708305 PMCID: PMC7409301 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
NKp30 is one of the main human natural killer (NK) cell activating receptors used in directed immunotherapy. The oligomerization of the NKp30 ligand binding domain depends on the length of the C-terminal stalk region, but our structural knowledge of NKp30 oligomerization and its role in signal transduction remains limited. Moreover, ligand binding of NKp30 is affected by the presence and type of N-glycosylation. In this study, we assessed whether NKp30 oligomerization depends on its N-glycosylation. Our results show that NKp30 forms oligomers when expressed in HEK293S GnTI- cell lines with simple N-glycans. However, NKp30 was detected only as monomers after enzymatic deglycosylation. Furthermore, we characterized the interaction between NKp30 and its best-studied cognate ligand, B7-H6, with respect to glycosylation and oligomerization, and we solved the crystal structure of this complex with glycosylated NKp30, revealing a new glycosylation-induced mode of NKp30 dimerization. Overall, this study provides new insights into the structural basis of NKp30 oligomerization and explains how the stalk region and glycosylation of NKp30 affect its ligand affinity. This furthers our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in NK cell activation, which is crucial for the successful design of novel NK cell-based targeted immunotherapeutics.
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23
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Forrest C, Gomes A, Reeves M, Male V. NK Cell Memory to Cytomegalovirus: Implications for Vaccine Development. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8030394. [PMID: 32698362 PMCID: PMC7563466 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells that recognize and eliminate virally-infected and cancerous cells. Members of the innate immune system are not usually considered to mediate immune memory, but over the past decade evidence has emerged that NK cells can do this in several contexts. Of these, the best understood and most widely accepted is the response to cytomegaloviruses, with strong evidence for memory to murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) and several lines of evidence suggesting that the same is likely to be true of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV). The importance of NK cells in the context of HCMV infection is underscored by the armory of NK immune evasion genes encoded by HCMV aimed at subverting the NK cell immune response. As such, ongoing studies that have utilized HCMV to investigate NK cell diversity and function have proven instructive. Here, we discuss our current understanding of NK cell memory to viral infection with a focus on the response to cytomegaloviruses. We will then discuss the implications that this will have for the development of a vaccine against HCMV with particular emphasis on how a strategy that can harness the innate immune system and NK cells could be crucial for the development of a vaccine against this high-priority pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calum Forrest
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, UCL, Royal Free Campus, London NW3 2PF, UK; (C.F.); (A.G.)
| | - Ariane Gomes
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, UCL, Royal Free Campus, London NW3 2PF, UK; (C.F.); (A.G.)
| | - Matthew Reeves
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, UCL, Royal Free Campus, London NW3 2PF, UK; (C.F.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence: (M.R.); (V.M.)
| | - Victoria Male
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, Chelsea and Westminster Campus, London SW10 9NH, UK
- Correspondence: (M.R.); (V.M.)
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24
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Chen J, Liu X, Zeng Z, Li J, Luo Y, Sun W, Gong Y, Zhang J, Wu Q, Xie C. Immunomodulation of NK Cells by Ionizing Radiation. Front Oncol 2020; 10:874. [PMID: 32612950 PMCID: PMC7308459 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells play a critical role in the antitumor immunity. Ionizing radiation (IR) has a pronounced effect on modifying NK cell biology, while the molecular mechanisms remain elusive. In this review, we briefly introduce the anti-tumor activity of NK cells and summarize the impact of IR on NK cells both directly and indirectly. On one hand, low-dose ionizing radiation (LDIR) activates NK functions while high-dose ionizing radiation (HDIR) is likely to partially impair NK functions, which can be reversed by interleukin (IL)-2 pretreatment. On the other hand, NK functions may be adjusted by other immune cells and the alternated malignant cell immunogenicity under the settings of IR. Various immune cells, such as the tumor-associated macrophage (TAM), dendritic cell (DC), regulatory T cell (Treg), myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC), and tumor exhibited ligands, such as the natural killer group 2 member D ligand (NKG2DL), natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCR) ligand, TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand-receptor (TRAIL-R), and FAS, have been involved in this process. Better understanding the molecular basis is a promising way in which to augment NK-cell-based antitumor immunity in combination with IR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarui Chen
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xingyu Liu
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zihang Zeng
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiali Li
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Luo
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjie Sun
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Gong
- Department of Biological Repositories, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Human Genetics Resource Preservation Center of Hubei Province, Human Genetics Resource Preservation Center of Wuhan University, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Junhong Zhang
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiuji Wu
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Conghua Xie
- Department of Radiation and Medical Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Tumor Biological Behaviors, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Cancer Clinical Study Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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25
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Abstract
The continuous interactions between host and pathogens during their coevolution have shaped both the immune system and the countermeasures used by pathogens. Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes that are considered central players in the antiviral response. Not only do they express a variety of inhibitory and activating receptors to discriminate and eliminate target cells but they can also produce immunoregulatory cytokines to alert the immune system. Reciprocally, several unrelated viruses including cytomegalovirus, human immunodeficiency virus, influenza virus, and dengue virus have evolved a multitude of mechanisms to evade NK cell function, such as the targeting of pathways for NK cell receptors and their ligands, apoptosis, and cytokine-mediated signaling. The studies discussed in this article provide further insights into the antiviral function of NK cells and the pathways involved, their constituent proteins, and ways in which they could be manipulated for host benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Mancini
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C7, Canada;,
- McGill University Research Centre on Complex Traits, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Silvia M. Vidal
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C7, Canada;,
- McGill University Research Centre on Complex Traits, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H4A 3J1, Canada
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26
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Njiomegnie GF, Read SA, Fewings N, George J, McKay F, Ahlenstiel G. Immunomodulation of the Natural Killer Cell Phenotype and Response during HCV Infection. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9041030. [PMID: 32268490 PMCID: PMC7230811 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9041030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection develops into chronic hepatitis in over two-thirds of acute infections. While current treatments with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) achieve HCV eradication in >95% of cases, no vaccine is available and re-infection can readily occur. Natural killer (NK) cells represent a key cellular component of the innate immune system, participating in early defence against infectious diseases, viruses, and cancers. When acute infection becomes chronic, however, NK cell function is altered. This has been well studied in the context of HCV, where changes in frequency and distribution of NK cell populations have been reported. While activating receptors are downregulated on NK cells in both acute and chronic infection, NK cell inhibiting receptors are upregulated in chronic HCV infection, leading to altered NK cell responsiveness. Furthermore, chronic activation of NK cells following HCV infection contributes to liver inflammation and disease progression through enhanced cytotoxicity. Consequently, the NK immune response is a double-edged sword that is a significant component of the innate immune antiviral response, but persistent activation can drive tissue damage during chronic infection. This review will summarise the role of NK cells in HCV infection, and the changes that occur during HCV therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaitan Fabrice Njiomegnie
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Scott A. Read
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicole Fewings
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Fiona McKay
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
| | - Golo Ahlenstiel
- Blacktown Clinical School and Research Centre, Western Sydney University, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia (S.A.R.)
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown 2148, NSW, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-9851-6073
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27
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Abstract
: The use of cytomegalovirus (CMV) as a vaccine vector to express antigens against multiple infectious diseases, including simian immunodeficiency virus, Ebola virus, plasmodium, and mycobacterium tuberculosis, in rhesus macaques has generated extraordinary levels of protective immunity against subsequent pathogenic challenge. Moreover, the mechanisms of immune protection have altered paradigms about viral vector-mediated immunity against ectopically expressed vaccine antigens. Further optimization of CMV-vectored vaccines, particularly as this approach moves to human clinical trials will be augmented by a more complete understanding of how CMV engenders mechanisms of immune protection. This review summarizes the particulars of the specific CMV vaccine vector that has been used to date (rhesus CMV strain 68-1) in relation to CMV natural history.
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28
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Zhou H, Dong J, Guo L, Wang X, Wang K, Cai X, Yang S. The prognostic value of B7-H6 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18122. [PMID: 31792298 PMCID: PMC6889130 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54731-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
B7-H6, a member of the B7 family molecules, participates in the clearance of tumor cells by binding to NKp30 on NK cells. B7-H6 expression level in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and the clinical value remain unknown. The goal of this study was to determine the expression of B7-H6 in ESCC and further explore its clinical significance. We retrospectively collected the clinical data of 145 patients diagnosed with ESCC between January 2007 and December 2008. The expression of B7-H6 of the pathological tissue samples was detected by immunohistochemistry. The chi-square (χ2) test was used to analyse the relationships of B7-H6 and clinicopathological characteristics. Survival and hazard functions were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and survival between groups was compared using the two-sided log-rank test. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to adjust for the risk factors related to overall survival (OS). 133/145 (91.72%) of the ESCC tissue samples exhibited B7-H6 expression. The expression level of B7-H6 was correlated with T stage (P = 0.036) and lymphatic metastasis status (P = 0.044). High B7-H6 expression (P = 0.003) was associated with a significantly worse OS than low B7-H6 expression. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis demonstrated that tumour size (P = 0.021), B7-H6 expression (P = 0.025) and lymphatic metastasis status (P = 0.049) were independent prognostic factors of OS for ESCC. Collectively, our findings suggest that B7-H6 is widely expressed in ESCC samples. And B7-H6 may represent a predictor of poor prognosis for ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Zhou
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Dong
- Department of VIP Region, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Liyi Guo
- Department of Radiotherapy, Huiyang Hospital Affiliated Southern Medical University, Huizhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xicheng Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kailin Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiuyu Cai
- Department of VIP Region, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Shu Yang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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29
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Berry R, Watson GM, Jonjic S, Degli-Esposti MA, Rossjohn J. Modulation of innate and adaptive immunity by cytomegaloviruses. Nat Rev Immunol 2019; 20:113-127. [PMID: 31666730 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-019-0225-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The coordinated activities of innate and adaptive immunity are critical for effective protection against viruses. To counter this, some viruses have evolved sophisticated strategies to circumvent immune cell recognition. In particular, cytomegaloviruses encode large arsenals of molecules that seek to subvert T cell and natural killer cell function via a remarkable array of mechanisms. Consequently, these 'immunoevasins' play a fundamental role in shaping the nature of the immune system by driving the evolution of new immune receptors and recognition mechanisms. Here, we review the diverse strategies adopted by cytomegaloviruses to target immune pathways and outline the host's response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Berry
- Infection and Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia. .,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Gabrielle M Watson
- Infection and Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stipan Jonjic
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Mariapia A Degli-Esposti
- Infection and Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Experimental Immunology, Lions Eye Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jamie Rossjohn
- Infection and Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
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30
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Della Chiesa M, De Maria A, Muccio L, Bozzano F, Sivori S, Moretta L. Human NK Cells and Herpesviruses: Mechanisms of Recognition, Response and Adaptation. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2297. [PMID: 31636622 PMCID: PMC6788305 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
NK cells contribute to early defenses against viruses through their inborn abilities that include sensing of PAMPs and inflammatory signals such as cytokines or chemokines, recognition, and killing of infected cells through activating surface receptors engagement. Moreover, they support adaptive responses via Ab-dependent mechanisms, triggered by CD16, and DC editing. Their fundamental role in anti-viral responses has been unveiled in patients with NK cell deficiencies suffering from severe Herpesvirus infections. Notably, these infections, often occurring as primary infections early in life, can be efficiently cleared by NK, T, and B cells in healthy hosts. Herpesviruses however, generate a complicated balance with the host immune system through their latency cycle moving between immune control and viral reactivation. This lifelong challenge has contributed to the development of numerous evasion mechanisms by Herpesviruses, many of which devoted to elude NK cell surveillance from viral reactivations rather than primary infections. This delicate equilibrium can be altered in proportions of healthy individuals promoting virus reactivation and, more often, in immunocompromised subjects. However, the constant stimulus provided by virus-host interplay has also favored NK-cell adaptation to Herpesviruses. During anti-HCMV responses, NK cells can reshape their receptor repertoire and function, through epigenetic remodeling, and acquire adaptive traits such as longevity and clonal expansion abilities. The major mechanisms of recognition and effector responses employed by NK cells against Herpesviruses, related to their genomic organization will be addressed, including those allowing NK cells to generate memory-like responses. In addition, the mechanisms underlying virus reactivation or control will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariella Della Chiesa
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea De Maria
- Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Clinica Malattie Infettive, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - Letizia Muccio
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Federica Bozzano
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Sivori
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES), School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
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31
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Burrows K, Ngai L, Wong F, Won D, Mortha A. ILC2 Activation by Protozoan Commensal Microbes. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194865. [PMID: 31574995 PMCID: PMC6801642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) are a member of the ILC family and are involved in protective and pathogenic type 2 responses. Recent research has highlighted their involvement in modulating tissue and immune homeostasis during health and disease and has uncovered critical signaling circuits. While interactions of ILC2s with the bacterial microbiome are rather sparse, other microbial members of our microbiome, including helminths and protozoans, reveal new and exciting mechanisms of tissue regulation by ILC2s. Here we summarize the current field on ILC2 activation by the tissue and immune environment and highlight particularly new intriguing pathways of ILC2 regulation by protozoan commensals in the intestinal tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Burrows
- University of Toronto, Department of Immunology, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - Louis Ngai
- University of Toronto, Department of Immunology, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - Flora Wong
- University of Toronto, Department of Immunology, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
- Ranomics, Inc. Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada.
| | - David Won
- University of Toronto, Department of Immunology, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
| | - Arthur Mortha
- University of Toronto, Department of Immunology, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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32
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Abdelaziz MO, Ossmann S, Kaufmann AM, Leitner J, Steinberger P, Willimsky G, Raftery MJ, Schönrich G. Development of a Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV)-Based Therapeutic Cancer Vaccine Uncovers a Previously Unsuspected Viral Block of MHC Class I Antigen Presentation. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1776. [PMID: 31417555 PMCID: PMC6682651 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) induces a uniquely high frequency of virus-specific effector/memory CD8+ T-cells, a phenomenon termed “memory inflation”. Thus, HCMV-based vaccines are particularly interesting in order to stimulate a sustained and strong cellular immune response against cancer. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor with high lethality and inevitable relapse. The current standard treatment does not significantly improve the desperate situation underlining the urgent need to develop novel approaches. Although HCMV is highly fastidious with regard to species and cell type, GBM cell lines are susceptible to HCMV. In order to generate HCMV-based therapeutic vaccine candidates, we deleted all HCMV-encoded proteins (immunoevasins) that interfere with MHC class I presentation. The aim being to use the viral vector as an adjuvant for presentation of endogenous tumor antigens, the presentation of high levels of vector-encoded neoantigens and finally the repurposing of bystander HCMV-specific CD8+ T cells to fight the tumor. As neoantigen, we exemplarily used the E6 and E7 proteins of human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV-16) as a non-transforming fusion protein (E6/E7) that covers all relevant antigenic peptides. Surprisingly, GBM cells infected with E6/E7-expressing HCMV-vectors failed to stimulate E6-specific T cells despite high level expression of E6/E7 protein. Further experiments revealed that MHC class I presentation of E6/E7 is impaired by the HCMV-vector although it lacks all known immunoevasins. We also generated HCMV-based vectors that express E6-derived peptide fused to HCMV proteins. GBM cells infected with these vectors efficiently stimulated E6-specific T cells. Thus, fusion of antigenic sequences to HCMV proteins is required for efficient presentation via MHC class I molecules during infection. Taken together, these results provide the preclinical basis for development of HCMV-based vaccines and also reveal a novel HCMV-encoded block of MHC class I presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed O Abdelaziz
- Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sophia Ossmann
- Clinic for Gynecology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas M Kaufmann
- Clinic for Gynecology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Judith Leitner
- Division of Immune Receptors and T Cell Activation, Institute of Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Steinberger
- Division of Immune Receptors and T Cell Activation, Institute of Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerald Willimsky
- Institute of Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin J Raftery
- Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Günther Schönrich
- Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
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33
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Manandhar T, Hò GGT, Pump WC, Blasczyk R, Bade-Doeding C. Battle between Host Immune Cellular Responses and HCMV Immune Evasion. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20153626. [PMID: 31344940 PMCID: PMC6695940 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20153626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is ubiquitously prevalent. HCMV infection is typically asymptomatic and controlled by the immune system in healthy individuals, yet HCMV can be severely pathogenic for the fetus during pregnancy and in immunocompromised persons, such as transplant recipients or HIV infected patients. HCMV has co-evolved with the hosts, developed strategies to hide from immune effector cells and to successfully survive in the human organism. One strategy for evading or delaying the immune response is maintenance of the viral genome to establish the phase of latency. Furthermore, HCMV immune evasion involves the downregulation of human leukocyte antigens (HLA)-Ia molecules to hide infected cells from T-cell recognition. HCMV expresses several proteins that are described for downregulation of the HLA class I pathway via various mechanisms. Here, we review the wide range of immune evasion mechanisms of HCMV. Understanding the mechanisms of HCMV immune evasion will contribute to the development of new customized therapeutic strategies against the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trishna Manandhar
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Gia-Gia T Hò
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Wiebke C Pump
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Rainer Blasczyk
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
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34
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Vitale M, Cantoni C, Della Chiesa M, Ferlazzo G, Carlomagno S, Pende D, Falco M, Pessino A, Muccio L, De Maria A, Marcenaro E, Moretta L, Sivori S. An Historical Overview: The Discovery of How NK Cells Can Kill Enemies, Recruit Defense Troops, and More. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1415. [PMID: 31316503 PMCID: PMC6611392 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells were originally defined as effector lymphocytes of innate immunity characterized by the unique ability of killing tumor and virally infected cells without any prior priming and expansion of specific clones. The "missing-self" theory, proposed by Klas Karre, the seminal discovery of the first prototypic HLA class I-specific inhibitory receptors, and, later, of the Natural Cytotoxicity Receptors (NCRs) by Alessandro Moretta, provided the bases to understand the puzzling behavior of NK cells. Actually, those discoveries proved crucial also for many of the achievements that, along the years, have contributed to the modern view of these cells. Indeed, NK cells, besides killing susceptible targets, are now known to functionally interact with different immune cells, sense pathogens using TLR, adapt their responses to the local environment, and, even, mount a sort of immunological memory. In this review, we will specifically focus on the main activating NK receptors and on their crucial role in the ever-increasing number of functions assigned to NK cells and other innate lymphoid cells (ILCs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Vitale
- U.O.C. Immunologia, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Claudia Cantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Integrated Department of Services and Laboratories, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Mariella Della Chiesa
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Guido Ferlazzo
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Simona Carlomagno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Daniela Pende
- U.O.C. Immunologia, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Michela Falco
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Integrated Department of Services and Laboratories, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Annamaria Pessino
- Medical Oncology Unit 1, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Letizia Muccio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea De Maria
- Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute (DISSAL), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Clinica Malattie Infettive, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Emanuela Marcenaro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Department of Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Bambino Gesù, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Sivori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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35
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Barrow AD, Martin CJ, Colonna M. The Natural Cytotoxicity Receptors in Health and Disease. Front Immunol 2019; 10:909. [PMID: 31134055 PMCID: PMC6514059 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 219] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The Natural Cytotoxicity Receptors (NCRs), NKp46, NKp44, and NKp30, were some of the first human activating Natural Killer (NK) cell receptors involved in the non-MHC-restricted recognition of tumor cells to be cloned over 20 years ago. Since this time many host- and pathogen-encoded ligands have been proposed to bind the NCRs and regulate the cytotoxic and cytokine-secreting functions of tissue NK cells. This diverse set of NCR ligands can manifest on the surface of tumor or virus-infected cells or can be secreted extracellularly, suggesting a remarkable NCR polyfunctionality that regulates the activity of NK cells in different tissue compartments during steady state or inflammation. Moreover, the NCRs can also be expressed by other innate and adaptive immune cell subsets under certain tissue conditions potentially conferring NK recognition programs to these cells. Here we review NCR biology in health and disease with particular reference to how this important class of receptors regulates the functions of tissue NK cells as well as confer NK cell recognition patterns to other innate and adaptive lymphocyte subsets. Finally, we highlight how NCR biology is being harnessed for novel therapeutic interventions particularly for enhanced tumor surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander David Barrow
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Claudia Jane Martin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Marco Colonna
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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36
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Biassoni R, Malnati MS. Human Natural Killer Receptors, Co-Receptors, and Their Ligands. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 121:e47. [PMID: 30040219 DOI: 10.1002/cpim.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In the last 20 years, the study of human natural killer (NK) cells has moved from the first molecular characterizations of very few receptor molecules to the identification of a plethora of receptors displaying surprisingly divergent functions. We have contributed to the description of inhibitory receptors and their signaling pathways, important in fine regulation in many cell types, but unknown until their discovery in the NK cells. Inhibitory function is central to regulating NK-mediated cytolysis, with different molecular structures evolving during speciation to assure its persistence. More recently, it has become possible to characterize the NK triggering receptors mediating natural cytotoxicity, unveiling the existence of a network of cellular interactions between effectors of both natural and adaptive immunity. This unit reviews the contemporary history of molecular studies of receptors and ligands involved in NK cell function, characterizing the ligands of the triggering receptor and the mechanisms for finely regulating their expression in pathogen-infected or tumor cells. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Biassoni
- IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Genova, Italy
| | - Mauro S Malnati
- IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Unit of Human Virology, Division of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases, Milan, Italy
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37
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Mantovani S, Oliviero B, Lombardi A, Varchetta S, Mele D, Sangiovanni A, Rossi G, Donadon M, Torzilli G, Soldani C, Porta C, Pedrazzoli P, Chiellino S, Santambrogio R, Opocher E, Maestri M, Bernuzzi S, Rossello A, Clément S, De Vito C, Rubbia-Brandt L, Negro F, Mondelli MU. Deficient Natural Killer Cell NKp30-Mediated Function and Altered NCR3 Splice Variants in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Hepatology 2019; 69:1165-1179. [PMID: 30153337 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The activating natural cytotoxicity receptor NKp30 is critical for natural killer (NK) cell function and tumor immune surveillance. The natural cytotoxicity receptor-3 (NCR3) gene is transcribed into several splice variants whose physiological relevance is still incompletely understood. In this study, we investigated the role of NKp30 and its major ligand B7 homolog 6 (B7-H6) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Peripheral blood NK cell phenotype was skewed toward a defective/exhausted immune profile with decreased frequencies of cells expressing NKp30 and natural killer group 2, member D and an increased proportion of cells expressing T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3. Moreover, NKp30-positive NK cells had a reduced expression of NCR3 immunostimulatory splice variants and an increased expression of the inhibitory variant in patients with advanced tumor, resulting in deficient NKp30-mediated functionality. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes showed a prevalent inhibitory NKp30 isoform profile, consistent with decreased NKp30-mediated function. Of note, there were significant differences in the cytokine milieu between the neoplastic and the surrounding non-neoplastic tissue, which may have further influenced NKp30 function. Exposure of NK cells to B7-H6-expressing HCC cells significantly down-modulated NKp30, that was prevented by small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown, suggesting a role for this ligand in inhibiting NKp30-mediated responses. Interestingly, B7-H6 expression was reduced in HCC tissue and simultaneously augmented as a soluble form in HCC patients, particularly those with advanced staging or larger nodule size. Conclusion: These findings provide evidence in support of a role of NKp30 and its major ligand in HCC development and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Mantovani
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Barbara Oliviero
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Lombardi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Italy.,Division of Clinical Pathology, University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stefania Varchetta
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Dalila Mele
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Angelo Sangiovanni
- CRC "A. M. and A. Migliavacca" Center for Liver Disease, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
| | - Giorgio Rossi
- Liver Transplant Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Torzilli
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristiana Soldani
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Camillo Porta
- Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Pedrazzoli
- Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Chiellino
- Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberto Santambrogio
- Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery, San Paolo Hospital, University of Milan School of Medicine, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Opocher
- Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery, San Paolo Hospital, University of Milan School of Medicine, Milan, Italy
| | - Marcello Maestri
- Department of General Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano Bernuzzi
- Immunohematological and Transfusional Service and Centre of Transplantation Immunology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Sophie Clément
- Division of Clinical Pathology, University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Claudio De Vito
- Division of Clinical Pathology, University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Francesco Negro
- Division of Clinical Pathology, University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mario U Mondelli
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Italy
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38
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Human NK cells: surface receptors, inhibitory checkpoints, and translational applications. Cell Mol Immunol 2019; 16:430-441. [PMID: 30778167 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-019-0206-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 296] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
NK cells play important roles in innate defenses against viruses and in the control of tumor growth and metastasis. The regulation/induction of NK cell function is mediated by an array of activating or inhibitory surface receptors. In humans, major activating receptors involved in target cell killing are the natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs) and NKG2D. Activating receptors recognize ligands that are overexpressed or expressed de novo upon cell stress, viral infection, or tumor transformation. The HLA-class I-specific inhibitory receptors, including KIRs recognizing HLA-class I allotypic determinants and CD94/NKG2A recognizing the class-Ib HLA-E, constitute a fail-safe mechanism to avoid unwanted NK-mediated damage to healthy cells. Other receptors such as PD-1, primarily expressed by activated T lymphocytes, are important inhibitory checkpoints of immune responses that ensure T-cell tolerance. PD-1 also may be expressed by NK cells in cancer patients. Since PD-1 ligand (PD-L1) may be expressed by different tumors, PD-1/PD-L1 interactions inactivate both T and NK cells. Thus, the reliable evaluation of PD-L1 expression in tumors has become a major issue to select patients who may benefit from therapy with mAbs disrupting PD-1/PD-L1 interactions. Recently, NKG2A was revealed to be an important checkpoint controlling both NK and T-cell activation. Since most tumors express HLA-E, mAbs targeting NKG2A has been used alone or in combination with other therapeutic mAbs targeting PD-1 or tumor antigens (e.g., EGFR), with encouraging results. The translational value of NK cells and their receptors is evidenced by the extraordinary therapeutic success of haploidentical HSCT to cure otherwise fatal high-risk leukemias.
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39
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Bjørnsen EG, Thiruchelvam-Kyle L, Hoelsbrekken SE, Henden C, Saether PC, Boysen P, Daws MR, Dissen E. B7H6 is a functional ligand for NKp30 in rat and cattle and determines NKp30 reactivity toward human cancer cell lines. Eur J Immunol 2018; 49:54-65. [PMID: 30512185 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201847746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
NK cells kill cancer cells and infected cells upon activation by cell surface receptors. Human NKp30 is an activating receptor expressed by all mature NK cells. The B7 family member B7H6 has been identified as one ligand for NKp30. Several alternative ligands have also been reported, and the field remains unsettled. To this end, we have identified full-length functional B7H6 orthologs in rat and cattle, demonstrated by phylogenetic analysis and transfection experiments. In cell-cell contact-dependent assays, chimeric NKp30 reporter cells responded strongly to B7H6 in rat and cattle. Likewise, rat NKp30 expressing target cells induced strong activation of B7H6 reporter cells. Together, these observations demonstrate that B7H6 is conserved as a functional ligand for NKp30 in mammalian species separated by more than 100 million years of evolution. B7H6 and NKp30 are pseudogenes in laboratory mice. The rat thus represents an attractive experimental animal model to study the NKp30-B7H6 interaction in vivo. B7H6 was widely expressed among human cancer cell lines, and the expression level correlated strongly with the activation of human NKp30 reporter cells. Furthermore, siRNA knockdown of B7H6 abolished NKp30 reporter responses, suggesting that B7H6 is the major functionally relevant expressed ligand for NKp30 on these cancer cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth G Bjørnsen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lavanya Thiruchelvam-Kyle
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sigurd E Hoelsbrekken
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Camilla Henden
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Per C Saether
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Preben Boysen
- Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Michael R Daws
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Erik Dissen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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40
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Shemesh A, Brusilovsky M, Kundu K, Ottolenghi A, Campbell KS, Porgador A. Splice variants of human natural cytotoxicity receptors: novel innate immune checkpoints. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2018; 67:1871-1883. [PMID: 29264698 PMCID: PMC11028282 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-017-2104-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs; NKp30, NKp44, and NKp46) were first defined as activating receptors on human NK cells that are important in recognition of and response to tumors. A flurry of recent research, however, has revealed that differential splicing can occur during transcription of each of the NCR genes, resulting in some transcripts that encode receptor isoforms with inhibitory functions. These alternative transcripts can arise in certain tissue microenvironments and appear to be induced by cytokines. Evidence indicates that some of the inhibitory NCRs are triggered by specific ligands, such as the interaction of the inhibitory isoform of NKp44 with PCNA on the surface of tumor cells. Here, we review the different NCR splice variants, cytokines that modulate their expression, their functional impacts on innate immune cells, and their differential expression in the contexts of cancer, pregnancy, and infections. The recent discovery of these inhibitory NCR isoforms has revealed novel innate immune checkpoints, many of which still lack defined ligands and clear mechanisms driving their expression. These NCR checkpoint pathways offer exciting potential therapeutic targets to manipulate innate immune functions under defined pathological conditions, such as cancer, pregnancy disorders, and pathogen exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avishai Shemesh
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Goldman Building, Room 143, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Michael Brusilovsky
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kiran Kundu
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Goldman Building, Room 143, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Aner Ottolenghi
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Goldman Building, Room 143, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Kerry S Campbell
- Blood Cell Development and Function Program, Institute for Cancer Research, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Angel Porgador
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Goldman Building, Room 143, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel.
- National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel.
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41
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Patel M, Vlahava VM, Forbes SK, Fielding CA, Stanton RJ, Wang ECY. HCMV-Encoded NK Modulators: Lessons From in vitro and in vivo Genetic Variation. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2214. [PMID: 30327650 PMCID: PMC6174198 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is under constant selective pressure from the immune system in vivo. Study of HCMV genes that have been lost in the absence of, or genetically altered by, such selection can focus research toward findings of in vivo significance. We have been particularly interested in the most pronounced change in the highly passaged laboratory strains AD169 and Towne—the deletion of 13–15 kb of sequence (designated the UL/b′ region) that encodes up to 22 canonical genes, UL133-UL150. At least 5 genes have been identified in UL/b′ that inhibit NK cell function. UL135 suppresses formation of the immunological synapse (IS) by remodeling the actin cytoskeleton, thereby illustrating target cell cooperation in IS formation. UL141 inhibits expression of two activating ligands (CD155, CD112) for the activating receptor CD226 (DNAM-1), and two receptors (TRAIL-R1, R2) for the apoptosis-inducing TRAIL. UL142, ectopically expressed in isolation, and UL148A, target specific MICA allotypes that are ligands for NKG2D. UL148 impairs expression of CD58 (LFA-3), the co-stimulatory cell adhesion molecule for CD2 found on T and NK cells. Outside UL/b′, studies on natural variants have shown UL18 mutants change affinity for their inhibitory ligand LIR-1, while mutations in UL40's HLA-E binding peptide differentially drive NKG2C+ NK expansions. Research into HCMV genomic stability and its effect on NK function has provided important insights into virus:host interactions, but future studies will require consideration of genetic variability and the effect of genes expressed in the context of infection to fully understand their in vivo impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihil Patel
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Virginia-Maria Vlahava
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Simone K Forbes
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Ceri A Fielding
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J Stanton
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Eddie C Y Wang
- Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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42
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Rådestad AF, Estekizadeh A, Cui HL, Kostopoulou ON, Davoudi B, Hirschberg AL, Carlson J, Rahbar A, Söderberg-Naucler C. Impact of Human Cytomegalovirus Infection and its Immune Response on Survival of Patients with Ovarian Cancer. Transl Oncol 2018; 11:1292-1300. [PMID: 30172882 PMCID: PMC6121833 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2018.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) has been detected in various types of tumors. We studied the prevalence of HCMV in ovarian cancer and its relation to clinical outcome. Paraffin-embedded tissues obtained prospectively from 45 patients with ovarian cancer and 30 patients with benign ovarian cystadenoma were analyzed for expression of HCMV immediate-early protein (IE) and HCMV tegument protein (pp65) by immunohistochemistry. Plasma was analyzed for HCMV serology. HCMV-IgG levels were higher in patients with ovarian cancer or benign cystadenoma than in age-matched controls (P = .002, P < .0001, respectively). HCMV IgM was detected in 12% of ovarian cancer patients and 3% of patients with benign tumors but was absent in controls. In patients with ovarian cancer, higher IgG levels were associated with better outcomes (P = .04). Extensive HCMV-IE protein expression was detected in 75% of ovarian cancers and 26% of benign tumors; pp65 was detected in 67% of ovarian cancers and 14% of benign tumors. A higher grade of HCMV infection was associated with higher stage of disease. Extensive HCMV-pp65 expression was associated with shorter median overall survival than focal expression (39 versus 42.5 months, P = .03). At study closure, 58% of ovarian cancer patients with focal pp65 expression were alive versus 27% of patients with extensive pp65 expression (P = .03). Thus, HCMV proteins are detected at different levels in ovarian tumors and benign cystadenomas. Ovarian cancer patients with focal HCMV-pp65 expression in their tumors and high IgG levels against HCMV lived longer, highlighting a need for in-depth studies of the oncomodulatory role of HCMV in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelique Flöter Rådestad
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Atosa Estekizadeh
- Department of Medicine Solna, Microbial Pathogens Unit and Department of Neurology, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Huanhuan L Cui
- Department of Medicine Solna, Microbial Pathogens Unit and Department of Neurology, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ourania N Kostopoulou
- Department of Medicine Solna, Microbial Pathogens Unit and Department of Neurology, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Belghis Davoudi
- Department of Medicine Solna, Microbial Pathogens Unit and Department of Neurology, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Angelica Lindén Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joseph Carlson
- Department of Pathology and Cytology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Afsar Rahbar
- Department of Medicine Solna, Microbial Pathogens Unit and Department of Neurology, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Cecilia Söderberg-Naucler
- Department of Medicine Solna, Microbial Pathogens Unit and Department of Neurology, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
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43
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Who's Driving? Human Cytomegalovirus, Interferon, and NFκB Signaling. Viruses 2018; 10:v10090447. [PMID: 30134546 PMCID: PMC6163874 DOI: 10.3390/v10090447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
As essential components of the host's innate immune response, NFκB and interferon signaling are critical determinants of the outcome of infection. Over the past 25 years, numerous Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) genes have been identified that antagonize or modulate the signaling of these pathways. Here we review the biology of the HCMV factors that alter NFκB and interferon signaling, including what is currently known about how these viral genes contribute to infection and persistence, as well as the major outstanding questions that remain.
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44
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The Human Cytomegalovirus, from Oncomodulation to Oncogenesis. Viruses 2018; 10:v10080408. [PMID: 30081496 PMCID: PMC6115842 DOI: 10.3390/v10080408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Besides its well-described impact in immunosuppressed patients, the role of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in the pathogenesis of cancer has been more recently investigated. In cancer, HCMV could favor the progression and the spread of the tumor, a paradigm named oncomodulation. Although oncomodulation could account for part of the protumoral effect of HCMV, it might not explain the whole impact of HCMV infection on the tumor and the tumoral microenvironment. On the contrary cases have been reported where HCMV infection slows down the progression and the spread of the tumor. In addition, HCMV proteins have oncogenic properties per se, HCMV activates pro-oncogenic pathways in infected cells, and recently the direct transformation of cells following HCMV infection has been described, which gave rise to tumors when injected in mice. Thus, beyond the oncomodulation model, this review will assess the direct transforming role of HMCV-infected cells and the potential classification of HCMV as an oncovirus.
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45
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Abouelghar A, Hasnah R, Taouk G, Saad M, Karam M. Prognostic values of the mRNA expression of natural killer receptor ligands and their association with clinicopathological features in breast cancer patients. Oncotarget 2018; 9:27171-27196. [PMID: 29930758 PMCID: PMC6007477 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes of the innate immune system that have potent cytotoxic activity against tumor cells. NK cell recognition and activity towards cancer cells are regulated by an integrated interplay between numerous inhibitory and activating receptors acting in concert to eliminate tumor cells expressing cognate ligands. Despite strong evidence supporting the role of NK cells in breast cancer (BC) control, BC still develops and progresses to form large tumors and metastases. A major mechanism of BC escape from NK immunity is the alteration of the expression of NK receptor ligands. The aim of this study was to determine whether NK receptor ligands' mRNA expression might influence prognosis in BC patients and whether these effects differ by molecular subtypes and clinicopathological features. METHODS We used the KM plotter platform to analyze the correlation between mRNA expression of 32 NK receptor ligands and relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in 3951 and 1402 BC patients, respectively. The association with tumor subtypes and clinicopathological features was determined. BC samples were split into high and low expression groups according to the best cutoff value and the two patient cohorts were compared by Kaplan-Meier survival plots. The hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals and log rank P values were calculated and FDR-adjusted for multiple testing correction. The data was considered to be statistically significant when FDR-adjusted P value < 0.05. RESULTS High mRNA expression of around 80% of ligands for NK activating and inhibitory receptors associated with better RFS, which correlated with longer OS for only about half of the NK-activating ligands but for most NK-inhibitory ligands. Also, five NK-activating ligands correlated with worse prognosis. These prognostic values were differentially associated with the BC clinical criteria. In addition, the favorable prognostic influence of NK-activating ligands' upregulation, as a whole, was mainly significantly associated with HER2-positive and basal-like subtypes, lymph node positive phenotype, and high-grade tumors. CONCLUSIONS NK receptor ligands appear to play an important role in defining BC patient prognosis. Identification of a group of patients with worse prognosis expressing high levels of NK-activating ligands and low levels of NK-inhibitory ligands makes them ideal potential candidates for NK-based immunotherapy to eliminate residual tumor cells, prevent relapse and improve patient survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Abouelghar
- Cancer Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Reem Hasnah
- Department of Biological Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ghina Taouk
- Cancer Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamad Saad
- Qatar Computing Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Manale Karam
- Cancer Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
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Guia S, Fenis A, Vivier E, Narni-Mancinelli E. Activating and inhibitory receptors expressed on innate lymphoid cells. Semin Immunopathol 2018; 40:331-341. [DOI: 10.1007/s00281-018-0685-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in the host response against viral infections and cancer development. They are able to kill virus-infected and tumor cells, and they produce different important cytokines that stimulate the antiviral and antitumor adaptive immune response, particularly interferon gamma. NK cells are of particular importance in herpesvirus infections, which is illustrated by systemic and life-threatening herpesvirus disease symptoms in patients with deficiencies in NK cell activity and by the myriad of reports describing herpesvirus NK cell evasion strategies. The latter is particularly obvious for cytomegaloviruses, but increasing evidence indicates that most, if not all, members of the herpesvirus family suppress NK cell activity to some extent. This review discusses the different NK cell evasion strategies described for herpesviruses and how this knowledge may translate to clinical applications.
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Silva-Santos B, Strid J. Working in "NK Mode": Natural Killer Group 2 Member D and Natural Cytotoxicity Receptors in Stress-Surveillance by γδ T Cells. Front Immunol 2018; 9:851. [PMID: 29740448 PMCID: PMC5928212 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cell receptors (NKRs) are germline-encoded transmembrane proteins that regulate the activation and homeostasis of NK cells as well as other lymphocytes. For γδ T cells, NKRs play critical roles in discriminating stressed (transformed or infected) cells from their healthy counterparts, as proposed in the “lymphoid stress-surveillance” theory. Whereas the main physiologic role is seemingly fulfilled by natural killer group 2 member D, constitutively expressed by γδ T cells, enhancement of their therapeutic potential may rely on natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs), like NKp30 or NKp44, that can be induced selectively on human Vδ1+ T cells. Here, we review the contributions of NCRs, NKG2D, and their multiple ligands, to γδ T cell biology in mouse and human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Silva-Santos
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular - João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Jessica Strid
- Division of Immunology and Inflammation, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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49
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Grebenciucova E, Berger JR. Immunosenescence: the Role of Aging in the Predisposition to Neuro-Infectious Complications Arising from the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2018; 17:61. [PMID: 28669032 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-017-0771-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review highlights some of the important changes in the immune system that occur in the process of normal aging. Immunosenescence as a concept is directly relevant to the world of neuro-inflammation, as it may be a contributing factor to the risks associated with some of the current immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory therapies used in treating multiple sclerosis (MS) and other inflammatory disorders. RECENT FINDINGS Profound qualitative and quantitative changes occur in the adaptive and innate immunity compartments during aging. These changes may explain why patients of older age are at an increased risk of infections and infection-associated mortality. Immunosenescence-associated changes may be additive or synergistic with the effects produced by immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive medications. Clinicians should exercise a high level of vigilance in monitoring the risk of infections in older patients on these treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Grebenciucova
- Multiple Sclerosis Division, The Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Convention Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Joseph R Berger
- Multiple Sclerosis Division, The Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Convention Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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50
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Holder KA, Comeau EM, Grant MD. Origins of natural killer cell memory: special creation or adaptive evolution. Immunology 2018; 154:38-49. [PMID: 29355919 DOI: 10.1111/imm.12898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The few initial formative studies describing non-specific and apparently spontaneous activity of natural killer (NK) cells have since multiplied into thousands of scientific reports defining their unique capacities and means of regulation. Characterization of the array of receptors that govern NK cell education and activation revealed an unexpected relationship with the major histocompatibility molecules that NK cells originally became well known for ignoring. Proceeding true to form, NK cells continue to up-end archetypal understanding of their ever-expanding capabilities. Discovery that the NK cell repertoire is extremely diverse and can be reshaped by particular viruses into unique subsets of adaptive NK cells challenges, or at least broadens, the definition of immunological memory. This review provides an overview of studies identifying adaptive NK cells, addressing the origins of NK cell memory and introducing the heretical concept of NK cells with extensive antigenic specificity. Whether these newly apparent properties reflect adaptive utilization of known NK cell attributes and receptors or a specially creative allocation from an undefined receptor array remains to be fully determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla A Holder
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases Programme, Division of BioMedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, NL, Canada
| | - Emilie M Comeau
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases Programme, Division of BioMedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, NL, Canada
| | - Michael D Grant
- Immunology and Infectious Diseases Programme, Division of BioMedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, NL, Canada
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