TGFβ biology in cancer progression and immunotherapy

High-density lipoprotein-based nanoplatform reprograms tumor microenvironment and enhances chemotherapy against pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is highly aggressive, with limited success in traditional therapies due to the fibrotic, immunosuppressive, pro-metastatic tumor microenvironment (TME), which collectively impede the drug accumulation and accelerate the tumor progression. In this work, we developed a PDAC-customized nutrient-mimicking reconstituted high-density lipoprotein (rHDL) capable of efficiently co-encapsulate versatile TME regulating cannabidiol and cytotoxic gemcitabine to simultaneously reprogram TME while suppressing PDAC progression. Specifically, a small-sized, nutrient-like rHDL was constructed to realize deep PDAC parenchyma penetration and efficient intra-tumoral uptake. Next, natural herbal compound cannabidiol was screened and incorporated into rHDL to regulate TME via attenuating fibrosis, reliving immunosuppression and mitigating metastatic tendency. At last, gemcitabine, the PDAC gold standard first-line therapy was co-delivered by the PDAC-customized rHDL to overcome drug resistance and amplify its PDAC suppression. Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of an integrated multi-stage TME regulation strategy for improved PDAC therapy, and might represent a modality in promoting chemotherapy against PDAC.

FBLN2 inhibits gastric cancer proliferation and metastasis via the TGFβ/TGIF2 pathway

Gastric cancer (GC) ranks among the most common gastrointestinal tumours and is a significant contributor to cancer mortality globally. The proliferation, metastasis, occurrence and development of GC have obvious malignant tendencies. This study is based on our previous studies. Previously, we reported that Fibulin-2 (FBLN2) can inhibit the distant metastasis of GC by promoting lost-nest apoptosis. Despite its clinical importance, the biological function of FBLN2 in GC remains inadequately understood. This study investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms of FBLN2 in the pathogenesis and progression of GC, as well as its impact on the biological behaviour of GC cells. In vivo and in vitro experiments, we demonstrated that FBLN2 overexpression resulted in a reduction in GC cell proliferation and metastasis, whereas its knockdown led to enhancement of GC proliferation and metastasis. Moreover, we used RNA-seq technology to conduct KEGG enrichment analysis of differential genes in wild-type GC cells and FBLN2 knockout GC cells and successfully confirmed that FBLN2 plays a corresponding biological role through the TGFβ/TGIF2 axis. In addition, in terms of the clinical data, we revealed a correlation between FBLN2 and TGIF2 and patient prognosis. In summary, our study revealed that FBLN2 suppressed GC proliferation, migration and invasion by downregulating the TGFβ/TGIF2 axis, suggesting that FBLN2 is a promising target for GC treatment.

Deciphering immune predictors of immunotherapy response: A multiomics approach at the pan-cancer level

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy has transformed cancer treatment, yet many patients fail to respond. Employing single-cell multiomics, we unveil T cell dynamics influencing ICB response across 480 pan-cancer and 27 normal tissue samples. We identify four immunotherapy response-associated T cells (IRATs) linked to responsiveness or resistance and analyze their pseudotemporal patterns, regulatory mechanisms, and T cell receptor clonal expansion profiles specific to each response. Notably, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1)+ CD4+ and Temra CD8+ T cells negatively correlate with therapy response, in stark contrast to the positive response associated with CXCL13+ CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Validation with a cohort of 23 colorectal cancer (CRC) samples confirms the significant impact of TGF-β1+ CD4+ and CXCL13+ CD4+ and CD8+ T cells on ICB efficacy. Our study highlights the effectiveness of single-cell multiomics in pinpointing immune markers predictive of immunotherapy outcomes, providing an important resource for crafting targeted immunotherapies for successful ICB treatment across cancers.

Static magnetic field inhibits epithelial mesenchymal transition and metastasis of glioma

Gliomas exhibit suboptimal responses to conventional treatments, with tumor cell migration remaining a significant challenge in therapy. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial for glioma cell invasion, and transforming growth factor β1(TGF-β1) is a key factor promoting proliferation, migration, and EMT in glioblastoma (GBM). Although magnetic fields are widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases, their effects on EMT in glioma cells remain unclear. In this study, we investigated whether a static magnetic field (SMF) could inhibit EMT and metastasis in glioma cells. Cellular functional assays using the U251 and U87 glioma cell lines were performed to investigate their functional and phenotypic changes. Results showed that TGF-β1 treatment increased the invasion and migration capabilities of glioma cells, while simultaneously reducing apoptosis. However, when SMF was combined with TGF-β1 treatment, a significant reduction in cell migration and invasion was observed, along with an increase in apoptosis. Additionally, this combination treatment significantly decreased the protein expression of mesenchymal markers N-cadherin and β-catenin, as well as reduced the levels of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2. Collectively, these findings suggest that SMFs may attenuate glioma cell metastasis by inhibiting EMT. Therefore, SMFs could represent a promising therapeutic strategy for diminishing glioma metastasis.

A lipid starvation strategy-synergized neutrophil activation for postoperative melanoma immunotherapy

Abnormal metabolism of melanoma cells on lipids reveals that breaking their lipid addiction provides a starvation strategy to enhance immunotherapy effects and reduce resistance. Herein, we propose an extracellular matrix-inspired scaffold fabricated by multiple cross-linking of collagen and elastin encapsulated with fatty acid transporter proteins (FATP) inhibitor lipofermata (Lipo) to close the "valve" of lipid transported into both melanoma cells and pro-tumor neutrophils. Meanwhile, model TGF-β inhibitor loaded in scaffold synergized with Lipo to polarize postoperative locally enriched neutrophils towards cytotoxic N1 phenotypes after blocking their energy supply and modulate postsurgical immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. These N1 neutrophils induced tumor pyroptosis through a reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent pathway under melanoma cells suffered starvation, and the intracellular contents released from dead melanoma cells stimulated macrophages into producing proinflammatory cytokines, which recruited a secondary wave of neutrophils to the tumor site. Benefiting from the N1 neutrophil induced tumor pyroptosis feedback loop in situ, adaptive and memory antitumor immunity is activated for suppressing aggressive melanoma recurrence and metastasis. Altogether, this lipid starvation strategy synergized with neutrophil activation for amplification of tumor-specific immunotherapy provides a new paradigm for pyroptosis-mediated postsurgical melanoma therapy.

Discovery of HM-279, a Potent Inhibitor of ALK5 for Improving Therapeutic Efficacy of Cancer Immunotherapy

Activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5) is a type I receptor serine/threonine kinase and responsible for the TGF-β signaling pathway. ALK5 is thought to be a key player in the tumor microenvironment to promote tumor progression by affecting the anticancer immunity. Therefore, ALK5 is an attractive drug target for modulating TGF-β signaling pathways to improve the therapeutic efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. We report the optimization of a series of thiazole analogues starting from lead compound 6, focusing on improving off-target selectivity. Compound 19f (HM-279) was identified as a potent ALK5 inhibitor with an acceptable off-target selectivity and favorable ADME/PK properties. Oral administration of HM-279 demonstrated antitumor activity in a CT26.WT colon carcinoma syngeneic mouse model as a single agent and in combination with the anti-PD-1 antibody through CD8+ T cell immunity.

Orchestration of immunoregulatory signaling ligand and receptor dynamics by mRNA modifications: Implications for therapeutic potential

RNA modifications are pivotal regulators of gene expression, significantly influencing immune responses by modulating the stability and translation of mRNAs encoding key immunoregulatory ligands and receptors. Among these modifications, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant and well-characterized, orchestrating immune evasion, T-cell exhaustion, and cytokine production by dynamically regulating transcripts such as PD-L1, IFN-γ, and TGF-β. These modifications critically impact the function and availability of proteins essential for maintaining immune homeostasis and shaping adaptive immune responses. This review comprehensively examines established and emerging roles of mRNA modifications in regulating immunoregulatory signaling, including co-inhibitory and co-stimulatory molecules, chemokines, cytokines, and transforming growth factor-β. We highlight how m6A writers, erasers, and readers finely regulate immune checkpoints and inflammatory pathways across cancer, infection, and autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, the review provides a critical analysis of current discrepancies in the field, emphasizing factors contributing to inconsistencies and offering insights into the complex nature of epigenetic regulation. Challenges and limitations in this rapidly evolving area are also discussed. Advancing detection technologies and developing specific inhibitors targeting RNA-modifying proteins will be crucial for precisely modulating immune responses, paving the way for innovations in precision medicine and immunotherapy.

Targeting SCD triggers lipotoxicity of cancer cells and enhances anti-tumor immunity in breast cancer brain metastasis mouse models

Breast cancer brain metastases (BCBM) are incurable, and new therapies are urgently needed. BCBM upregulates stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD), an enzyme that catalyzes the synthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids, suggesting a potential metabolic vulnerability. Here, we test the effect of a brain-penetrant, clinical-stage SCD inhibitor (SCDi) on breast cancer cells and mouse models of BCBM. We show that SCDi markedly reshapes the lipidome of breast cancer cells, resulting in endoplasmic reticulum stress, DNA damage, impaired DNA damage repair, and cytotoxicity. Importantly, SCDi alone or combined with a PARP inhibitor prolongs the survival of BCBM-bearing mice. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of SCD enhances antigen presentation by dendritic cells, increases interferon signaling, promotes the infiltration of cytotoxic T cells, and decreases the proportion of exhausted T cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) in a syngeneic mouse model of BCBM. Additionally, SCDi reduces the engagement of immunosuppressive pathways, including the PD-1:PD-L1/PD-L2 and PVR/TIGIT axes in the TME. These findings suggest that SCD inhibition could be an effective strategy to both intrinsically reduce tumor growth and reprogram anti-tumor immunity in the brain microenvironment to treat BCBM.

Systemic inflammation in response to radiation drives the genesis of an immunosuppressed tumor microenvironment

The composition of the tumor immune microenvironment has become a major determinant of response to therapy, particularly immunotherapy. Clinically, a tumor microenvironment lacking lymphocytes, so-called "cold" tumors, are considered poor candidates for immune checkpoint inhibition. In this review, we describe the diversity of the tumor immune microenvironment in breast cancer and how radiation exposure alters carcinogenesis. We review the development and use of a radiation-genetic mammary chimera model to clarify the mechanism by which radiation acts. Using the chimera model, we demonstrate that systemic inflammation elicited by a low dose of radiation is key to the construction of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, resulting in aggressive, rapidly growing tumors lacking lymphocytes. Our experimental studies inform the non-mutagenic mechanisms by which radiation affects cancer and provide insight into the genesis of cold tumors.

Benign non-immune cells in tumor microenvironment

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a highly complex and continuous evolving ecosystem, consisting of a diverse array of cellular and non-cellular components. Among these, benign non-immune cells, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), adipocytes, endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes (PCs), Schwann cells (SCs) and others, are crucial factors for tumor development. Benign non-immune cells within the TME interact with both tumor cells and immune cells. These interactions contribute to tumor progression through both direct contact and indirect communication. Numerous studies have highlighted the role that benign non-immune cells exert on tumor progression and potential tumor-promoting mechanisms via multiple signaling pathways and factors. However, these benign non-immune cells may play different roles across cancer types. Therefore, it is important to understand the potential roles of benign non-immune cells within the TME based on tumor heterogeneity. A deep understanding allows us to develop novel cancer therapies by targeting these cells. In this review, we will introduce several types of benign non-immune cells that exert on different cancer types according to tumor heterogeneity and their roles in the TME.

Enhancing immunotherapy with tumour-responsive nanomaterials

The targeted delivery of immunotherapies to tumours using tumour-responsive nanomaterials is a promising area of cancer research with the potential to address the limitations of systemic administration such as on-target off-tumour toxicities and a lack of activity owing to the immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment (TME). Attempts to address these challenges include the design and functionalization of nanomaterials capable of releasing their cargoes in response to specific TME characteristics, thus facilitating the targeted delivery of immune-checkpoint inhibitors, cytokines, mRNAs, vaccines and, potentially, chimaeric antigen receptors as well as of agents that modulate the extracellular matrix and induce immunogenic cell death. In this Review, we describe these various research efforts in the context of the dynamic properties of the TME, such as pH, reductive conditions, reactive oxygen species, hypoxia, specific enzymes, high levels of ATP and locoregional aspects, which can be leveraged to enhance the specificity and efficacy of nanomaterial-based immunotherapies. Highlighting preclinical successes and ongoing clinical trials, we evaluate the current landscape and potential of these innovative approaches. We also consider future research directions as well as the most important barriers to successful clinical translation, emphasizing the transformative potential of tumour-responsive nanomaterials in overcoming the barriers that limit the activity of traditional immunotherapies, thus improving patient outcomes.

Enhancing human NK cell antitumor function by knocking out SMAD4 to counteract TGFβ and activin A suppression

Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) and activin A suppress natural killer (NK) cell function and proliferation, limiting the efficacy of adoptive NK cell therapies. Inspired by the partial resistance to TGFβ of NK cells with SMAD4 haploinsufficiency, we used CRISPR-Cas9 for knockout of SMAD4 in human NK cells. Here we show that SMAD4KO NK cells were resistant to TGFβ and activin A inhibition, retaining their cytotoxicity, cytokine secretion and interleukin-2/interleukin-15-driven proliferation. They showed enhanced tumor penetration and tumor growth control, both as monotherapy and in combination with tumor-targeted therapeutic antibodies. Notably, SMAD4KO NK cells outperformed control NK cells treated with a TGFβ inhibitor, underscoring the benefit of maintaining SMAD4-independent TGFβ signaling. SMAD4KO conferred TGFβ resistance across diverse NK cell platforms, including CD19-CAR NK cells, stem cell-derived NK cells and ADAPT-NK cells. These findings position SMAD4 knockout as a versatile and compelling strategy to enhance NK cell antitumor activity, providing a new avenue for improving NK cell-based cancer immunotherapies.

The Role of WDR77 in Cancer: More than a PRMT5 Interactor

WD repeat domain 77 protein (WDR77), a WD-40 domain-containing protein, is a crucial regulator of cellular pathways in cancer progression. Although much of the past research on WDR77 has focused on its interaction with protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) in histone methylation, WDR77's regulatory functions extend beyond this pathway, influencing diverse mechanisms such as mRNA translation, chromatin assembly, cell-cycle regulation, and apoptosis. WDR77 is a key regulator of cell-cycle progression, regulating the transition from the G1 phase. WDR77 regulates many signaling pathways such as TGFβ in which its role in these cellular pathways underscores its broad oncogenic potential. WDR77 also assists and promotes certain transcription factors such as E2F. Furthermore, in certain cancers, WDR77 enhances steroid hormone receptor activity, uniquely linking it to hormone-driven malignancies. WDR77 often translocates between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, with its location dictating its role in the cell. WDR77 has the ability to adapt its function depending on its location that emphasizes its dynamic role in both promoting and inhibiting tumor growth, depending on cellular context. This dual function makes WDR77 an attractive therapeutic target, as disrupting its interactions with critical signaling pathways or modulating its translocation could yield novel strategies for cancer treatment. Given WDR77's role in oncogenic pathways independent of PRMT5, further exploration of WDR77 and its non-PRMT5-related activities may reveal additional therapeutic opportunities in an array of cancers.

EGCG-enabled Deep Tumor Penetration of Phosphatase and Acidity Dual-responsive Nanotherapeutics for Combinatory Therapy of Breast Cancer

The presence of dense collagen fibers is a typical characteristic of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Although these fibers hinder drug penetration and reduce treatment efficacy, the depletion of the collagen matrix is associated with tumor metastasis. To address this issue, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is first exploited for disrupting the dense collagenous stroma and alleviate fibrosis by specifically blocking the TGF-β/Smad pathway in fibroblasts and tumor cells when intraperitoneally administrated in TNBC tumor-bearing mice. A methotrexate (MTX)-loaded dual phosphate- and pH-responsive nanodrug (pHA@MOF-Au/MTX) is next engineered by integrating Fe-based metal-organic frameworks and gold nanoparticles for improved chemo/chemodynamic therapy of TNBC. Surface modification with pH (low)-insertion peptide substantially enhanced the binding of the nanodrug to 4T1 cells owing to tumor stroma remodeling by EGCG. High-concentration EGCG inhibited glutathione peroxidase by regulating mitochondrial glutamine metabolism, thus facilitating tumor cell ferroptosis. Furthermore, sequential EGCG and pHA@MOF-Au/MTX treatment showed remarkable anti-tumor effects in a mouse model of TNBC, with a tumor growth inhibition rate of 79.9%, and a pulmonary metastasis rate of 96.8%. Altogether, the combination strategy developed in this study can improve the efficacy of chemo/chemodynamic therapy in TNBC and represents an innovative application of EGCG.

Chaperone-mediated autophagy regulates the metastatic state of mesenchymal tumors

Tumors often recapitulate programs to acquire invasive and dissemination abilities, during which pro-metastatic proteins are distinctively stabilized in cancer cells to drive further progression. Whether failed protein degradation affects the metastatic programs of cancer remains unknown. Here, we show that the human cancer cell-specific knockout (KO) of LAMP-2A, a limiting protein for chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), promotes the aggressiveness of mesenchymal tumors. Deficient CMA resulted in widespread tumor cell dissemination, invasion into the vasculature and cancer metastasis. In clinical samples, metastatic lesions showed suppressed LAMP-2A expression compared to primary tumors from the same cancer patients. Mechanistically, while stimulating TGFβ signaling dampens LAMP-2A levels, genetic suppression of CMA aggravated TGFβ signaling in cancer cells and tumors. Conversely, pharmacological inhibition of TGFβ signaling repressed the growth of LAMP-2A KO-driven tumors. Furthermore, we found that multiple EMT-driving proteins, such as TGFβR2, are degraded by CMA. Our study demonstrates that the tumor suppressive function of CMA involves negative regulation of TGFβ-driven EMT and uncovers a mechanistic link between CMA and a major feature of metastatic invasiveness.

Engineered Hollow Nanocomplex Combining Photothermal and Antioxidant Strategies for Targeted Tregs Depletion and Potent Immune Activation in Tumor Immunotherapy

In the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME), regulatory T cells (Tregs) critically suppress anticancer immunity, characterized by high expression of glucocorticoid-induced TNF receptor (GITR) expression and sensitivity to reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study develops a near-infrared (NIR)-responsive hollow nanocomplex (HPDA-OPC/DTA-1) using hollow polydopamine nanoparticles (HPDA), endowed with thermogenic and antioxidative properties, specifically targeting Tregs to activate antitumor immunity. The GITR agonist DTA-1, combined with the antioxidant oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC) to deplete Tregs. However, Tregs depletion alone may not sufficiently trigger robust immune responses. The HPDA nanocarrier enhances thermogenic and antioxidative capacities, supporting photothermal immunotherapy. The HPDA-OPC/DTA-1 demonstrates NIR responsiveness for both photothermal therapy (PTT) and OPC release, while facilitating Tregs depletion via DTA-1 and reducing ROS levels, thereby reviving antitumor immunity. Notably, intratumoral CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Tregs exhibited a 4.08-fold reduction alongside a 49.11-fold increase in CD8+ T cells/Tregs relative to controls. Enhanced dendritic cells (DCs) maturation and immunogenic cell death (ICD) induction further demonstrate that HPDA-OPC/DTA-1 alleviates immunosuppression and activates antitumor immunity. Ultimately, the observed tumor inhibitory effect (tumor volume: 6.75-fold versus the control) and an over 80% survival rate highlight the therapeutic potential of combining Tregs targeting, antioxidant strategy, and photothermal immunotherapy for effective cancer treatment.

Structural insights and clinical advances in small-molecule inhibitors targeting TGF-β receptor I

The dysregulation of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling pathway plays a critical role in the onset and progression of several diseases, including cancer. Notably, TGF-β has emerged as a significant barrier to effective outcomes in cancer immunotherapies, particularly those using immune checkpoint inhibitors. In response to this challenge, small-molecule inhibitors targeting the TGF-β receptor I (TGF-βRI) have garnered attention as promising candidates for modulating the TGF-β signaling pathway. This comprehensive review focuses on the development of small-molecule inhibitors targeting TGF-βRI. We provide a detailed analysis of the structural biology of TGF-βRI, highlighting key binding interactions and structural insights derived from high-resolution X-ray crystal structures. Additionally, we review the current landscape of TGF-βRI inhibitors in clinical trials, including eight promising inhibitors, and discuss their mechanisms of action, selectivity, and therapeutic potential. Our investigation extends to the patent literature, summarizing over 2 decades of innovation from leading pharmaceutical companies, spanning January 2000-May 2024. This consolidated structural and biochemical knowledge aims to facilitate the design of next-generation TGF-βRI inhibitors, addressing unmet clinical needs in oncology and fibrosis treatment. The synergistic potential of combining TGF-βRI and immune checkpoint inhibitors is also explored, offering promising avenues for enhancing cancer immunotherapy efficacy.

Neutrophils in BCR::ABL1 negative MPN: Contributors or bystanders of fibrosis?

BCR::ABL1 negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are a heterogenous group of disorders characterized by clonal proliferation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) within the bone marrow. Although the identification of somatic key driver mutations significantly increased both understanding and diagnostic accuracy of MPNs, many questions about the exact pathophysiology remain unanswered. Increased neutrophil count at diagnosis is a well-recognized predictor of worse disease evolution and survival, nonetheless the exact role of neutrophilic granulocytes within MPN pathophysiology is almost unexplored. As the majority of these cells are residing within the bone marrow, they represent a non-negligible entity within the bone marrow niche and its homeostasis. This review describes how neutrophils might contribute to the development of the inflammatory bone marrow niche, and hereby also fibrosis, associated with MPNs. The versatile functions and effects in different contexts emphasize the necessity for future research oriented to bone marrow in addition to peripheral blood.

Pan-cancer analysis unveils the role and mechanisms of neddylation modifications in tumorigenesis

This study explores the roles of ubiquitin-like modification genes in pan-cancer, focusing on their regulatory mechanisms, prognostic implications, and drug sensitivity. Data on five key neddylation pathway genes (RBX1, NEDD8, NAE1, UBA3, UBE2M) were collected from TCGA and GTEx databases, covering mRNA expression, DNA methylation, SNVs, and CNVs. Gene expression differences between normal and cancer tissues, along with associations with genetic alterations, methylation, and cancer-related pathways, were analyzed. Drug sensitivity correlations were assessed using GDSC and CTRP databases. Neddylation pathway genes exhibit hypomethylation and overexpression across various cancers, correlating with poor prognosis. SNVs are predominantly missense mutations, while CNVs are mostly heterozygous deletions and amplifications. These genes regulate several key cancer-related pathways, such as DNA damage repair, cell cycle modulation, and inhibition of RTK/RAS/MAPK pathways. Ubiquitin-like modification genes are associated with poor prognosis due to their low methylation and high expression in cancers. Their genetic alterations impact cancer pathways, underscoring their potential as therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers.

CD4+ anti-TGF-β CAR T cells and CD8+ conventional CAR T cells exhibit synergistic antitumor effects

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 restricts the expansion, survival, and function of CD4+ T cells. Here, we demonstrate that CD4+ but not CD8+ anti-TGF-β CAR T cells (T28zT2 T cells) can suppress tumor growth partly through secreting Granzyme B and interferon (IFN)-γ. TGF-β1-treated CD4+ T28zT2 T cells persist well in peripheral blood and tumors, maintain their mitochondrial form and function, and do not cause in vivo toxicity. They also improve the expansion and persistence of untransduced CD8+ T cells in vivo. Tumor-infiltrating CD4+ T28zT2 T cells are enriched with TCF-1+IL7R+ memory-like T cells, express NKG2D, and downregulate T cell exhaustion markers, including PD-1 and LAG3. Importantly, a combination of CD4+ T28zT2 T cells and CD8+ anti-glypican-3 (GPC3) or anti-mesothelin (MSLN) CAR T cells exhibits augmented antitumor effects in xenografts. These findings suggest that rewiring TGF-β signaling with T28zT2 in CD4+ T cells is a promising strategy for eradicating solid tumors.

Single-cell profiling reveals the intratumor heterogeneity and immunosuppressive microenvironment in cervical adenocarcinoma

Background

Cervical adenocarcinoma (ADC) is more aggressive compared to other types of cervical cancer (CC), such as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and tumor heterogeneity are recognized as pivotal factors in cancer progression and therapy. However, the disparities in TIME and heterogeneity between ADC and SCC are poorly understood.

Methods

We performed single-cell RNA sequencing on 11 samples of ADC tumor tissues, with other 4 SCC samples served as controls. The immunochemistry and multiplexed immunofluorescence were conducted to validate our findings.

Results

Compared to SCC, ADC exhibited unique enrichments in several sub-clusters of epithelial cells with elevated stemness and hyper-malignant features, including the Epi_10_CYSTM1 cluster. ADC displayed a highly immunosuppressive environment characterized by the enrichment of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and tumor-promoting neutrophils. The Epi_10_CYSTM1 cluster recruits Tregs via ALCAM-CD6 signaling, while Tregs reciprocally induce stemness in the Epi_10_CYSTM1 cluster through TGFβ signaling. Importantly, our study revealed that the Epi_10_CYSTM1 cluster could serve as a valuable predictor of lymph node metastasis for CC patients.

Conclusions

This study highlights the significance of ADC-specific cell clusters in establishing a highly immunosuppressive microenvironment, ultimately contributing to the heightened aggressiveness and poorer prognosis of ADC compared to SCC.

Funding

Funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (82002753; 82072882; 81500475) and the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province (2021JJ40324; 2022JJ70103).

Interplay Between TGFβ1 Signaling and Cancer-Testis Antigen MAGEB2: A New Thorn in Cancer's Side?

The Melanoma Antigen Gene (MAGE) family of proteins is the largest family of cancer-testis antigens (CTAs) and shares a MAGE homology domain (MHD). MAGE proteins are divided into Type I and Type II MAGEs depending on their chromosomal location and expression patterns. Type I MAGEs are true CTAs. MAGEB2 is a Type I MAGE, belonging to the MAGEB subfamily, and unlike some MAGE proteins, has not been found to bind to and enhance E3 ligase activity. MAGEB2 has been discovered to be an RNA-binding protein that serves to protect spermatogonial cells in the testis from extraneous stressors. We have discovered that MAGEB2 is necessary and sufficient for the proliferation of cells and is expressed by the differential DNA methylation of its gene promoter. Furthermore, we identified JunD as the transcription factor that regulates MAGEB2 expression. When expressed, MAGEB2 suppresses transforming grown factor-β1 (TGFβ1) signaling by decreasing mRNA levels of Thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1). TSP-1 is an anti-angiogenic protein that activates TGFβ1. Restoring levels of TSP-1 or TGFβ1 results in the inability of MAGEB2 to drive proliferation, suggesting that MAGEB2-expressing tumors might be more susceptible to therapies that induce or activate TSP-1 or TGFβ1 signaling.

An intraepithelial ILC1-like natural killer cell subset produces IL-13

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune effectors with considerable heterogeneity and potent antitumor capabilities. Intraepithelial ILC1 (ieILC1)-like NK cells, a population of cytotoxic tissue-resident innate lymphoid cells, have recently been documented in the microenvironment of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and other solid tumors. These cells have antitumor cytolytic potential and are potent producers of type 1 cytokines, including IFNγ. Here, we identify a subpopulation of ex vivo differentiated ieILC1-like NK cells that produce IL-13 upon stimulation. Functional characterization revealed that these cells co-expressed IFNγ and IL-13 while maintaining an ILC1 transcriptional signature. IL-13 was induced either upon co-culture with tumor cell lines, or in response to TGF-β and IL-15. IL-13-expressing ieILC1-like NK cells were identified among tumor infiltrating lymphocytes expanded from patient HNSCC tumors, in support of their in vivoexistence in primary tumors. These data demonstrate additional heterogeneity within the ieILC1-like NK cell population than previously appreciated and highlight a unique form of ILC plasticity in which cells with clear ILC1 transcriptional profiles express a type 2 cytokine. With the known roles of IL-13 in cancer cell growth dynamics and immunoregulation, the identification of this subset within tumor microenvironments presents a potential target for therapeutic manipulation.

Identification of a conserved subset of cold tumors responsive to immune checkpoint blockade

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) depends on restoring immune recognition of cancer cells that have evaded immune surveillance. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) is associated with immune-poor, so-called cold tumors whereas loss of its signaling promotes DNA misrepair that could stimulate immune response.

METHODS

We analyzed transcriptomic data from IMvigor210, The Cancer Genome Atlas, and Tumor Immune Syngeneic MOuse data sets to evaluate the predictive value of high βAlt, a score representing low expression of a signature consisting of TGFβ targets and high expression of genes involved in error-prone DNA repair. The immune context of βAlt was assessed by evaluating tumor-educated immune signatures. An ICB-resistant, high βAlt preclinical tumor model was treated with a TGFβ inhibitor, radiation, and/or ICB and assessed for immune composition and tumor control.

RESULTS

We found that a high βAlt score predicts ICB response yet is paradoxically associated with an immune-poor tumor microenvironmentcancer in both human and mouse tumors. We postulated that high βAlt cancers consist of cancer cells in which loss of TGFβ signaling generates a TGFβ rich, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Accordingly, preclinical modeling showed that TGFβ inhibition followed by radiotherapy could convert an immune-poor, high βAlt tumor to an immune-rich, ICB-responsive tumor. Mechanistically, TGFβ inhibition increased activated natural killer (NK) cells, which were required to recruit lymphocytes to respond to ICB in irradiated tumors. NK cell activation signatures were also increased in high βAlt, cold mouse and human tumors that responded to ICB.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies indicate that loss of TGFβ signaling competency and gain of error-prone DNA repair identifies a subset of cold tumors that are responsive to ICB. Our mechanistic studies show that inhibiting TGFβ activity can convert a high βAlt, cold tumor into ICB-responsive tumors via NK cells. A biomarker consisting of combined TGFβ, DNA repair, and immune context signatures is a means to prospectively identify patients whose cancers may be converted from cold to hot with appropriate therapy.

Computer-Aided Design of Self-Assembled Nanoparticles to Enhance Cancer Chemoimmunotherapy via Dual-Modulation Strategy

The rational design of self-assembled compounds is crucial for the highly efficient development of carrier-free nanomedicines. Herein, based on computer-aided strategies, important physicochemical properties are identified to guide the rational design of self-assembled compounds. Then, the pharmacophore hybridization strategy is used to design self-assemble nanoparticles by preparing new chemical structures by combining pharmacophore groups of different bioactive compounds. Hydroxychloroquine is grafted with the lipophilic vitamin E succinate and then co-assembled with bortezomib to fabricate the nanoparticle. The nanoparticle can reduce M2-type tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) through lysosomal alkalization and induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) inhibition in tumor cells. In mouse models, the nanoparticles induce decreased levels of M2-type TAMs, regulatory T cells, and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and increase the proportion of cytotoxicity T lymphocytes. Additionally, the nanoparticles reduce the secretion of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) by inhibiting NF-κB and enhance the programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) checkpoint blockade therapy. The pharmacophore hybridization-derived nanoparticle provides a dual-modulation strategy to reprogram the tumor microenvironment, which will efficiently enhance the chemoimmunotherapy against triple-negative breast cancer.

Primary and Acquired Resistance to Immunotherapy with Checkpoint Inhibitors in NSCLC: From Bedside to Bench and Back

Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors has become the cornerstone of systemic treatment for non-oncogene addicted non-small-cell lung cancer. Despite its pivotal role, a significant proportion of patients-approximately 70-85%-either exhibit primary resistance to PD-1 blockade or develop acquired resistance following an initial benefit, even in combination with chemotherapy and/or anti-CTLA-4 agents. The phenomenon of primary and acquired resistance to immunotherapy represents a critical clinical challenge, largely based on our incomplete understanding of the mechanisms of action of immunotherapy, and the resulting lack of accurate predictive biomarkers. Here, we review the definitions and explore the proposed mechanisms of primary and acquired resistance, including those related to the tumor microenvironment, systemic factors, and intrinsic tumor characteristics. We also discuss translational data on adaptive changes within tumor cells and the immune infiltrate following exposure to checkpoint inhibitors. Lastly, we offer a comprehensive overview of current and emerging therapeutic strategies designed to prevent primary resistance and counteract acquired resistance.

Targeting TAK1: Evolution of inhibitors, challenges, and future directions

The increasing incidence of inflammatory and malignant diseases signifies the need to develop first-in-class drugs with novel mechanisms of action. In this respect, the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), an essential part of several signaling pathways, is considered relevant and promising. This manuscript provides a brief overview of the signal transduction orchestrated by TAK1 within these pathways, followed by an in-depth and thorough analysis of the chemical matter demonstrated to inhibit this kinase. Special attention is given to the selectivity profiling of inhibitors, as well as to the outcomes of their biological characterization. Because published TAK1 inhibitors differ significantly in their kinome selectivity, active-site binding, and biological activity, we hope that this review will allow a judicial estimation of their quality and usefulness for TAK1-addressing assays. Our thoughts on the perspectives and possible developments of the field are also provided to assist scientists who are involved in the design and development of TAK1-targeting modulators.

Design of high-affinity binders to immune modulating receptors for cancer immunotherapy

Immune receptors have emerged as critical therapeutic targets for cancer immunotherapy. Designed protein binders can have high affinity, modularity, and stability and hence could be attractive components of protein therapeutics directed against these receptors, but traditional Rosetta based protein binder methods using small globular scaffolds have difficulty achieving high affinity on convex targets. Here we describe the development of helical concave scaffolds tailored to the convex target sites typically involved in immune receptor interactions. We employed these scaffolds to design proteins that bind to TGFβRII, CTLA-4, and PD-L1, achieving low nanomolar to picomolar affinities and potent biological activity following experimental optimization. Co-crystal structures of the TGFβRII and CTLA-4 binders in complex with their respective receptors closely match the design models. These designs should have considerable utility for downstream therapeutic applications.

ERBB4 selectively amplifies TGF-β pro-metastatic responses

Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) is well known to play paradoxical roles in tumorigenesis as it has both growth-inhibitory and pro-metastatic effects. However, the underlying mechanisms of how TGF-β drives the opposing responses remain largely unknown. Here, we report that ERBB4, a member of the ERBB receptor tyrosine kinase family, specifically promotes TGF-β's metastatic response but not its anti-growth response. ERBB4 directly phosphorylates Tyr162 in the linker region of SMAD4, which enables SMAD4 to achieve a higher DNA-binding ability and potentiates TGF-β-induced gene transcription associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell migration, and invasion without affecting the genes involved in growth inhibition. These selective effects facilitate lung cancer metastasis in mouse models. This discovery sheds light on the previously unrecognized role of SMAD4 as a substrate of ERBB4 and highlights the selective involvement of the ERBB4-SMAD4 regulatory axis in tumor metastasis.

TGM6 is a helminth secretory product that mimics TGF-β binding to TGFBR2 to antagonize signaling in fibroblasts

TGM6 is a natural antagonist of mammalian TGF-β signaling produced by the murine helminth parasite Heligmosomoides polygyrus. It differs from the previously described agonist, TGM1 (TGF-β Mimic-1), in that it lacks domains 1/2 that bind TGFBR1. It nonetheless retains TGFBR2 binding through domain 3 and potently inhibits TGF-β signaling in fibroblasts and epithelial cells, but does not inhibit TGF-β signaling in T cells, consistent with divergent domains 4/5 and an altered co-receptor binding preference. The crystal structure of TGM6 bound to TGFBR2 reveals an interface remarkably similar to that of TGF-β with TGFBR2. Thus, TGM6 has adapted its structure to mimic TGF-β, while engaging a distinct co-receptor to direct antagonism to fibroblasts and epithelial cells. The co-expression of TGM6, along with immunosuppressive TGMs that activate the TGF-β pathway, may minimize fibrotic damage to the host as the parasite progresses through its life cycle from the intestinal lumen to submucosa and back again. The co-receptor-dependent targeting of TGFBR2 by the parasite provides a template for the development of therapies for targeting the cancer- and fibrosis-promoting activities of the TGF-βs in humans.

A conserved subset of cold tumors responsive to immune checkpoint blockade

Background

The efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) depends on restoring immune recognition of cancer cells that have evaded immune surveillance. At the time of diagnosis, patients with lymphocyte-infiltrated cancers are the most responsive to ICB, yet a considerable fraction of patients have immune-poor tumors.

Methods

We analyzed transcriptomic data from IMvigor210, TCGA, and TISMO datasets to evaluate the predictive value of βAlt, a score representing the negative correlation of signatures consisting of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) targets and genes involved in error-prone DNA repair. The immune context of βAlt was assessed by evaluating tumor-educated immune signatures. An ICB-resistant, high βAlt preclinical tumor model was treated with a TGFβ inhibitor, radiation, and/or ICB and assessed for immune composition and tumor control.

Results

Here, we show that high βAlt is associated with an immune-poor context yet is predictive of ICB response in both humans and mice. A high βAlt cancer in which TGFβ signaling is compromised generates a TGFβ rich, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Accordingly, preclinical modeling showed that TGFβ inhibition followed by radiotherapy could convert an immune-poor, ICB-resistant tumor to an immune-rich, ICB-responsive tumor. Mechanistically, TGFβ blockade in irradiated tumors activated natural killer cells that were required to recruit lymphocytes to respond to ICB. In support of this, natural killer cell activation signatures were also increased in immune-poor mouse and human tumors that responded to ICB.

Conclusions

These studies suggest that loss of TGFβ competency identifies a subset of cold tumors that are candidates for ICB. Our mechanistic studies show that inhibiting TGFβ activity converts high βAlt, cold tumors into ICB-responsive tumors via NK cells. Thus, a biomarker consisting of combined TGFβ, DNA repair, and immune context signatures provides a means to prospectively identify patients whose cancers may be converted from 'cold' to 'hot,' which could be exploited for therapeutic treatment.

Engineered platelets-based nano-aircraft system for precise tumor chemo-immunotherapy with graded drug delivery and self-recognized tumor targeting

Metastasis and heterogeneity pose major challenges in cancer treatment. Although chemoimmunotherapy shows promising efficacy, its therapeutic impact is limited by off-target effects and differences in the delivery sites of chemotherapeutic drugs and immunosuppressants. In this study, an engineered platelets (Pts)-based nano-aircraft, Pts@DOX/HANGs@Gal, was constructed with an internally loaded chemotherapeutic drug, doxorubicin, and externally grafted reduction-responsive hyaluronidase-cross-linked nanospheroids loaded with the immunosuppressant galunisertib for precise tumor chemo-immunotherapy. The normal physiological features of host Pts, including their excellent targeting capability for both metastatic and orthotopic tumors, are not disturbed by functional nanosystems. The interaction between Pts@DOX/HANGs@Gal and tumors gives rise to Pts activation, achieving the continuous targeted delivery of DOX to tumors, inducing the transition from cold to hot tumors, and promoting the recruitment of immune cells. Simultaneously, the external nanospheres disintegrate from Pts@DOX/HANGs@Gal, releasing galunisertib and hyaluronidase into the extracellular matrix to relieve immune tolerance and open up a high-speed channel for the tumor infiltration of immune cells and deep tumor penetration of the nanosystem. Consequently, Pts@DOX/HANGs@Gal not only effectively reinforced the antitumor immune response through self-recognized tumor-targeting chemo-immunotherapy and graded drug delivery but also reduced tumor metastasis in vivo. This study presents promising Pt-based nanovesicles for precise cancer treatment.

Promotion Mechanisms of Stromal Cell-Mediated Lung Cancer Development Within Tumor Microenvironment

Lung cancer, with its high incidence and mortality rates, has garnered significant attention in the medical community. The tumor microenvironment (TME), composed of tumor cells, stromal cells, extracellular matrix, surrounding blood vessels, and other signaling molecules, plays a pivotal role in the development of lung cancer. Stromal cells within the TME hold potential as therapeutic targets for lung cancer treatment. However, the precise and comprehensive mechanisms by which stromal cells contribute to lung cancer progression have not been fully elucidated. This review aims to explore the mechanisms through which stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment promote lung cancer development, with a particular focus on how immune cells, tumor-associated fibroblasts, and endothelial cells contribute to immune suppression, inflammation, and angiogenesis. The goal is to provide new insights and potential strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.

IQGAP3 signalling mediates intratumoral functional heterogeneity to enhance malignant growth

BACKGROUND

The elevation of IQGAP3 expression in diverse cancers indicates a key role for IQGAP3 in carcinogenesis. Although IQGAP3 was established as a proliferating stomach stem cell factor and a regulator of the RAS-ERK pathway, how it drives cancer growth remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

We define the function of IQGAP3 in gastric cancer (GC) development and progression.

DESIGN

We studied the phenotypic changes caused by IQGAP3 knockdown in three molecularly diverse GC cell lines by RNA-sequencing. In vivo tumorigenesis and lung metastasis assays corroborated IQGAP3 as a mediator of oncogenic signalling. Spatial analysis was performed to evaluate the intratumoral transcriptional and functional differences between control tumours and IQGAP3 knockdown tumours.

RESULTS

Transcriptomic profiling showed that IQGAP3 inhibition attenuates signal transduction networks, such as KRAS signalling, via phosphorylation blockade. IQGAP3 knockdown was associated with significant inhibition of MEK/ERK signalling-associated growth factors, including TGFβ1, concomitant with gene signatures predictive of impaired tumour microenvironment formation and reduced metastatic potential. Xenografts involving IQGAP3 knockdown cells showed attenuated tumorigenesis and lung metastasis in immunodeficient mice. Accordingly, immunofluorescence staining revealed significant reductions of TGFβ/SMAD signalling and αSMA-positive stromal cells; digital spatial analysis indicated that IQGAP3 is indispensable for the formation of two phenotypically diverse cell subpopulations, which played crucial but distinct roles in promoting oncogenic functions.

CONCLUSION

IQGAP3 knockdown suppressed the RAS-TGFβ signalling crosstalk, leading to a significant reduction of the tumour microenvironment. In particular, IQGAP3 maintains functional heterogeneity of cancer cells to enhance malignant growth. IQGAP3 is thus a highly relevant therapy target in GC.

Dose-Dependent PFESA-BP2 Exposure Increases Risk of Liver Toxicity and Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are persistent and highly bioaccumulative emerging environmental contaminants of concern that display significant toxic and carcinogenic effects. An emerging PFAS is PFESA-BP2, a polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonic acid found in drinking water and the serum of humans and animals. While PFESA-BP2-induced liver and intestinal toxicity has been demonstrated, the toxicological mechanisms and carcinogenic potential of PFESA-BP2 have remained relatively understudied. Here, we studied how different doses of PFESA-BP2 affect gene activity related to liver toxicity and the risk of liver cancer such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in mice exposed to PFESA-BP2 once daily through oral gavage for seven days. An analysis of key hepatic pathways suggested increased risk of hepatotoxicity as a result of PFESA-BP2 exposure. Increased oxidative stress response was associated with all concentrations of exposure. Liver toxicity pathways, including PXR/RXR activation and hepatic fibrosis, showed dose-dependent alteration with activation primarily at low doses, suggesting an increased risk of hepatic inflammation and injury. Additionally, an analysis of carcinogenic and HCC-specific pathways suggested PFESA-BP2-induced risk of liver cancer, particularly at low doses. Low-dose PFESA-BP2 exposure (0.03 and 0.3 mg/kg-day) was associated with an increased risk of HCC carcinogenesis, as indicated by the activation of tumor-related and HCC-associated pathways. In contrast, these pathways were inhibited at high doses (3.0 and 6.0 mg/kg-day), accompanied by the activation of HCC-suppressive pathways. The increased risk of HCC development at low doses was mechanistically linked to the activation of signaling pathways such as HIF, EGF, NOTCH4, HGF, and VEGF. Biomarkers linked to liver cancer risk, prognoses, and diagnoses were also identified as a result of exposure. Overall, our findings on liver carcinogenic and hepatotoxic pathway activation patterns suggest that PFESA-BP2 increases the risk of liver toxicity and HCC development, particularly at low doses.

Recent advancement in the spatial immuno-oncology

Recent advancements in spatial transcriptomics and spatial proteomics enabled the high-throughput profiling of single or multi-cell types and cell states with spatial information. They transformed our understanding of the higher-order architectures and paired cell-cell interactions within a tumor microenvironment (TME). Within less than a decade, this rapidly emerging field has discovered much crucial fundamental knowledge and significantly improved clinical diagnosis in the field of immuno-oncology. This review summarizes the conceptual frameworks to understand spatial omics data and highlights the updated knowledge of spatial immuno-oncology.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of 4-((3-(tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-yl)-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)oxy)quinoline derivatives as novel potential transforming growth factor-β type 1 receptor inhibitors for hepatocellular carcinoma

The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) type 1 receptor (ALK5) plays a key role in tumor microenvironment. Small-molecule inhibitors of TGFβR1 provides a prospective approach for the treatment of malignant tumors. In this study, a series of 4-((3-(tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-yl)-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)oxy)quinoline derivatives were identified as novel, potential TGFβR1 inhibitors. The most potent compound 16w inhibited SMAD2/3 phosphorylation and H22 cell viability with IC50 values of 12 and 65 nM, respectively. Further, compound 16w exhibited reasonable pharmacokinetic profiles and exhibited significant anti-tumor efficacy in a xenograft model of H22 cells, with TGI of 79.6 %. Additionally, compound 16w also showed a strong synergistic proapoptotic effect in combination with sorafenib, which provided a promising lead for further development of novel anticancer drugs.

Immune cells in thyroid adenoma and carcinoma: uncovering a hidden value of assessing tumor-host interplay and its potential application in thyroid cytopathology

Introduction

Although the role of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in thyroid cancer is well established, little data exists about the differences in immune cell presence in thyroid adenomas and carcinomas. We assume that immune cell density could be an additional diagnostic criterion for differentiating benign and malignant tumors in thyroid aspirates.

Aim

The current study compared the immune contexture of thyroid adenoma (TA) and thyroid carcinoma (TC) in histological and cytological specimens of III-V categories.

Materials and methods

This pilot study included 72 cases (36 of TA and 36 of TC) with verified histological diagnosis and pre-operative cytology corresponding to categories III, IV and V according to the Bethesda system for reporting thyroid cytology. The number of CD8+, CD68+ and CD163+ cells was assessed in histological samples of TA and TC with further comparison to cytological specimens. Besides, the expression of STAT6 and SMAD4 as potential regulators of TIME was evaluated in the study.

Results

TC demonstrated an immune-rich profile representing abundant tumor-associated CD8+ lymphocytes, CD68 and CD163+ macrophages. In contrast, TA represented mostly a low immune cell infiltration. The higher immunogenicity of TC was accompanied by the more profound expression of STAT6 and SMAD4 in tumor cells. The number of immune cells in cytological specimens correlated with CD8+ (r = 0.693; p < 0.001) and CD163+ cells (r = 0.559; p < 0.001) in histological samples, reflecting the differences in the tumor immune microenvironment between benign and malignant thyroid neoplasms.

Conclusion

TC demonstrated high immunogenicity compared to TA, which correlated to the number of immune cells in cytological specimens. The number of immune cells in thyroid cytology samples could be an additional criterion in cytological diagnostics for III-V Bethesda categories. Further investigations are needed to validate the findings of the study.

CD133+PD-L1+ cancer cells confer resistance to adoptively transferred engineered macrophage-based therapy in melanoma

Adoptive transfer of genetically or nanoparticle-engineered macrophages represents a promising cell therapy modality for treatment of solid tumor. However, the therapeutic efficacy is suboptimal without achieving a complete tumor regression, and the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, we discover a subpopulation of cancer cells with upregulated CD133 and programmed death-ligand 1 in mouse melanoma, resistant to the phagocytosis by the transferred macrophages. Compared to the CD133-PD-L1- cancer cells, the CD133+PD-L1+ cancer cells express higher transforming growth factor-β signaling molecules to foster a resistant tumor niche, that restricts the trafficking of the transferred macrophages by stiffened extracellular matrix, and inhibits their cell-killing capability by immunosuppressive factors. The CD133+PD-L1+ cancer cells exhibit tumorigenic potential. The CD133+PD-L1+ cells are further identified in the clinically metastatic melanoma. Hyperthermia reverses the resistance of CD133+PD-L1+ cancer cells through upregulating the 'eat me' signal calreticulin, significantly improving the efficacy of adoptive macrophage therapy. Our findings demonstrate the mechanism of resistance to adoptive macrophage therapy, and provide a de novo strategy to counteract the resistance.

Desmoglein-2 was a novel cancer-associated fibroblasts-related biomarker for oral squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common type of oral cancer with alarmingly high morbidity. The cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a pivotal role in tumor development, while their specific mechanisms in OSCC remains largely unclear. Our object is to explore a CAFs-related biomarker in OSCC.

METHODS

Single-cell RNA sequencing (ScRNA-seq) analysis was used to pinpoint CAF clusters in OSCC samples. Differentially expressed genes and Cox regression analyses were used to identify candidate genes, and their functions were evaluated using Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses. The prognostic performance of the identified biomarker was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic analysis. The qPCR and western blot were used to assess gene expression. The hub gene related immune characteristics were analyzed in independent cohorts, and gene expression differences between different immunotherapy response groups were investigated using Pearson correlation analysis.

RESULTS

Desmoglein-2 (DSG2) was identified as a CAFs-related biomarker in OSCC exhibiting elevated expression compared to controls and being associated with poor prognosis. Enrichment analyses revealed that DSG2 was involved in signal transduction pathways like focal adhesion. The Area Under Curve values of DSG2 in predicting prognosis exceeded 0.6 in both training-set and validation-set. Furthermore, patients with low DSG2 expression were more likely to benefit from immunotherapy than those DSG2 highly expressed patients.

CONCLUSION

Our study identified DSG2 as a reliable CAFs-related prognostic biomarker in OSCC, providing a new reference for the mechanistic understanding and target therapy of this malignancy.

A nanotheranostics with hypoxia-switchable fluorescence and photothermal effect for hypoxia imaging-guided immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment modulation

Modulating the immunosuppressive tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) is considered a promising strategy for cancer treatment. However, effectively modulating the immunosuppressive TIME within hypoxic zones remains a significant challenge. In this work, we developed a hypoxia-responsive amphiphilic drug carrier using boron-dipyrromethene (BODIPY) dye-modified chitosan (CsB), and then fabricated a hypoxia-targeted nanotheranostic system, named CsBPNs, through self-assembly of CsB and pexidartinib (5-((5-Chloro-1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridin-3-yl)methyl)-N-((6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)methyl), PLX3397), an immunotherapeutic drug targeting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), for synergistic photothermal/immunotherapy and hypoxia imaging. CsBPNs demonstrated uniform size, good stability, and hypoxia-switchable fluorescence and photothermal effects, enabling deep penetration and hypoxia imaging capacities in three-dimensional tumor cell spheres and tumor tissues. In vitro and in vivo experiments showed that CsBPNs under laser irradiation promoted TAMs repolarization, reversed the immunosuppressive TIME, and enhanced the therapeutic outcome of PLX3397 in solid tumors by facilitating deep delivery into hypoxic regions and synergistic photothermal therapy. This work provides a new strategy for detecting and modulating the immunosuppressive TIME in hypoxic zones, potentially enabling more precise and effective photo-immunotherapy in the future.

PFDN5 plays a dual role in breast cancer and regulates tumor immune microenvironment: Insights from integrated bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation

BACKGROUND

Although the prognosis for patients with breast cancer has improved, breast cancer remains the leading cause of death for women worldwide. Prefoldin 5 (PFDN5), as a subunit of the prefoldin complex, plays a vital role in aiding the correct folding of newly synthesized proteins. However, the exact impact of PFDN5 on breast cancer development and its prognostic implications remain unclear.

METHODS

We conducted bioinformatics analysis to investigate the correlation between PFDN5 and patient survival, as well as various clinicopathological characteristics in breast cancer. Additionally, various assays were employed to validate the biological functions of PFDN5 in breast cancer. Finally, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was utilized to investigate the molecular mechanisms associated with PFDN5.

RESULTS

Compared to normal tissues, PFDN5 exhibited lower expression levels in breast cancer tissues, and lower expression of PFDN5 is associated with poorer prognosis. PFDN5 led to G2/M phase arrest in the cell cycle and reduced proliferative potential in breast cancer cells. However, PFDN5 also promoted migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. Also, RNA-seq analysis revealed an involvement of PFDN5 in the cell cycle and TGF-β signaling pathway. Furthermore, PFDN5 had a significant impact on tumor immune microenvironment by promoting macrophage polarization towards the M1 phenotype and exhibited a positive correlation with CD8+ T cell infiltration levels.

CONCLUSIONS

PFDN5 plays a dual role in breast cancer and serves as a key factor in tumor immune microenvironment. Therefore, PFDN5 holds promise as a valuable biomarker for predicting both metastatic and prognosis in breast cancer.

OCT4 promotes lung cancer progression through upregulation of VEGF-correlated chemokine-1

Embryonic development and tumor genesis share numerous similarities, with OCT4 standing out as a pivotal transcription factor in embryonic development. Expression of OCT4 is associated with poor prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma. VEGF-correlated chemokine-1 (VCC-1), also known as C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 17 (CXCL17), has been suggested to play a role in promoting tumor angiogenesis and metastasis. In the present study, we show a positive correlation between OCT4 expression levels and tumor metastatic potential, where an increase in OCT4 expression parallels an upregulation of VCC-1 in lung cancer. This relationship was substantiated through DNA microarray analysis and further confirmed by tissue staining of clinical lung cancer samples, demonstrating a positive correlation between OCT4 and VCC-1 expression. In A549 and H1299 human lung cancer cells, modulations in OCT4 expression directly influenced VCC-1 levels, as evidenced by the reporter assay of the VCC-1 promoter, indicating the regulatory role of OCT4 in transactivating VCC-1 expression. Furthermore, enhanced VCC-1 expression in H1299 cells promoted transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) secretion, contributing to lung cancer cell aggressiveness. Additionally, VCC-1 secretion by H1299 cells could attract THP-1 macrophages, further implicating its role in tumor progression. NOD/SCID mice inoculated with VCC-1-knockdown A549 lung cancer cells exhibited significantly smaller tumors than those inoculated with control cells. On the basis of these findings, we highlight the importance of the OCT4-VCC-1 axis in lung cancer progression. Our findings also provide therapeutic targets for lung cancer.

New Potent Inhibitor of Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGFβ) Signaling that is Efficacious against Microsatellite Stable Colorectal Cancer Metastasis in Combination with Immune Checkpoint Therapy in Mice

Blockade of the TGFβ signaling pathway has emerged from preclinical studies as a potential treatment to enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibition in advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) and several other types of cancer. However, clinical translation of first-generation inhibitors has shown little success. Here, we report the synthesis and characterization of HYL001, a potent inhibitor of TGFβ receptor 1 (ALK5), that is approximately 9 times more efficacious than the structurally related compound galunisertib, while maintaining a favorable safety profile. HYL001 in combination with immune checkpoint blockade (anti-PD1) eradicates liver metastases generated in mice by microsatellite stable, aggressive colorectal cancer tumors at doses where galunisertib is ineffective.

TGFBR2 High mesenchymal glioma stem cells phenocopy regulatory T cells to suppress CD4+ and CD8+ T cell function

Attempts to activate an anti-tumor immune response in glioblastoma (GBM) have been met with many challenges due to its inherently immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. The degree and mechanisms by which molecularly and phenotypically diverse tumor-propagating glioma stem cells (GSCs) contribute to this state are poorly defined. In this study, our multifaceted approach combining bioinformatics analyses of clinical and experimental datasets, single-cell sequencing, and molecular and pharmacologic manipulation of patient-derived cells identified GSCs expressing immunosuppressive effectors mimicking regulatory T cells (Tregs). We show that this I mmunosuppressive T reg- L ike (ITL) GSC state is specific to the mesenchymal GSC subset and is associated with and driven specifically by TGF-β type II receptor (TGFBR2) in contrast to TGFBR1. Transgenic TGFBR2 expression in patient-derived GBM neurospheres promoted a mesenchymal transition and induced a 6-gene ITL signature consisting of CD274 (PD-L1), NT5E (CD73), ENTPD1 (CD39), LGALS1 (galectin-1), PDCD1LG2 (PD-L2), and TGFB1. This TGFBR2-driven ITL signature was identified in clinical GBM specimens, patient-derived GSCs and systemic mesenchymal malignancies. TGFBR2 High GSCs inhibited CD4+ and CD8+ T cell viability and their capacity to kill GBM cells, effects reversed by pharmacologic and shRNA-based TGFBR2 inhibition. Collectively, our data identify an immunosuppressive GSC state that is TGFBR2-dependent and susceptible to TGFBR2-targeted therapeutics.

NPC1 controls TGFBR1 stability in a cholesterol transport-independent manner and promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression

Niemann-Pick disease type C protein 1 (NPC1), classically associated with cholesterol transport and viral entry, has an emerging role in cancer biology. Here, we demonstrate that knockout of Npc1 in hepatocytes attenuates hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression in both DEN (diethylnitrosamine)-CCl4 induced and MYC-driven HCC mouse models. Mechanistically, NPC1 significantly promotes HCC progression by modulating the TGF-β pathway, independent of its traditional role in cholesterol transport. We identify that the 692-854 amino acid region of NPC1's transmembrane domain is critical for its interaction with TGF-β receptor type-1 (TGFBR1). This interaction prevents the binding of SMAD7 and SMAD ubiquitylation regulatory factors (SMURFs) to TGFBR1, reducing TGFBR1 ubiquitylation and degradation, thus enhancing its stability. Notably, the NPC1 (P691S) mutant, which is defective in cholesterol transport, still binds TGFBR1, underscoring a cholesterol-independent mechanism. These findings highlight a cholesterol transport-independent mechanism by which NPC1 contributes to the stability of TGFBR1 in HCC and suggest potential therapeutic strategies targeting NPC1 for HCC treatment.

Tumor-associated neutrophils attenuate the immunosensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma

Tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) are heterogeneous; thus, their roles in tumor development could vary depending on the cancer type. Here, we showed that TANs affect metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis hepatocellular carcinoma (MASH-related HCC) more than viral-associated HCC. We attributed this difference to the predominance of SiglecFhi TANs in MASH-related HCC tumors. Linoleic acid and GM-CSF, which are commonly elevated in the MASH-related HCC microenvironment, fostered the development of this c-Myc-driven TAN subset. Through TGFβ secretion, SiglecFhi TANs promoted HCC stemness, proliferation, and migration. Importantly, SiglecFhi TANs supported immune evasion by directly suppressing the antigen presentation machinery of tumor cells. SiglecFhi TAN removal increased the immunogenicity of a MASH-related HCC model and sensitized it to immunotherapy. Likewise, a high SiglecFhi TAN signature was associated with poor prognosis and immunotherapy resistance in HCC patients. Overall, our study highlights the importance of understanding TAN heterogeneity in cancer to improve therapeutic development.

Integrative analysis of ATAC-seq and RNA-seq for cells infected by human T-cell leukemia virus type 1

Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) causes adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) and HTLV-1-associated myelopathy (HAM) after a long latent period in a fraction of infected individuals. These HTLV-1-infected cells typically have phenotypes similar to that of CD4+T cells, but the cell status is not well understood. To extract the inherent information of HTLV-1-infected CD4+ cells, we integratively analyzed the ATAC-seq and RNA-seq data of the infected cells. Compared to CD4+T cells from healthy donors, we found anomalous chromatin accessibility in HTLV-1infected CD4+ cells derived from ATL cases in terms of location and sample-to-sample fluctuations in open chromatin regions. Further, by focusing on systematically selected genes near the open chromatin regions, we quantified the difference between the infected CD4+ cells in ATL cases and healthy CD4+T cells in terms of the correlation between the chromatin structures and the gene expressions. Based on a further analysis of chromatin accessibility, we detected TLL1 (Tolloid Like 1) as one of the key genes that exhibit unique gene expressions in ATL cases. A luciferase assay indicated that TLL1 has an isoform-dependent regulatory effect on TGF-β. Overall, this study provides results about the status of HTLV-1-infected cells, which are qualitatively consistent across the different scales of chromatin accessibility, transcription, and immunophenotype.

Convergent inducers and effectors of T cell paralysis in the tumour microenvironment

Tumorigenesis embodies the formation of a heterotypic tumour microenvironment (TME) that, among its many functions, enables the evasion of T cell-mediated immune responses. Remarkably, most TME cell types, including cancer cells, fibroblasts, myeloid cells, vascular endothelial cells and pericytes, can be stimulated to deploy immunoregulatory programmes. These programmes involve regulatory inducers (signals-in) and functional effectors (signals-out) that impair CD8+ and CD4+ T cell activity through cytokines, growth factors, immune checkpoints and metabolites. Some signals target specific cell types, whereas others, such as transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), exert broad, pleiotropic effects; as signals-in, they trigger immunosuppressive programmes in most TME cell types, and as signals-out, they directly inhibit T cells and also modulate other cells to reinforce immunosuppression. This functional diversity and redundancy pose a challenge for therapeutic targeting of the immune-evasive TME. Fundamentally, the commonality of regulatory programmes aimed at abrogating T cell activity, along with paracrine signalling between cells of the TME, suggests that many normal cell types are hard-wired with latent functions that can be triggered to prevent inappropriate immune attack. This intrinsic capability is evidently co-opted throughout the TME, enabling tumours to evade immune destruction.

Unraveling the Role of the Tumor Extracellular Matrix to Inform Nanoparticle Design for Nanomedicine

The extracellular matrix (ECM)-and its mechanobiology-regulates key cellular functions that drive tumor growth and development. Accordingly, mechanotherapy is emerging as an effective approach to treat fibrotic diseases such as cancer. Through restoring the ECM to healthy-like conditions, this treatment aims to improve tissue perfusion, facilitating the delivery of chemotherapies. In particular, the manipulation of ECM is gaining interest as a valuable strategy for developing innovative treatments based on nanoparticles (NPs). However, further progress is required; for instance, it is known that the presence of a dense ECM, which hampers the penetration of NPs, primarily impacts the efficacy of nanomedicines. Furthermore, most 2D in vitro studies fail to recapitulate the physiological deposition of matrix components. To address these issues, a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between the ECM and NPs is needed. This review focuses on the main features of the ECM and its complex interplay with NPs. Recent advances in mechanotherapy are discussed and insights are offered into how its combination with nanomedicine can help improve nanomaterials design and advance their clinical translation.