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Yuan D, Chen W, Jin S, Li W, Liu W, Liu L, Wu Y, Zhang Y, He X, Jiang J, Sun H, Liu X, Liu J. Co-expression of immune checkpoints in glioblastoma revealed by single-nucleus RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1534-1546. [PMID: 38633388 PMCID: PMC11021796 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most malignant tumors of the central nervous system. The pattern of immune checkpoint expression in GBM remains largely unknown. We performed snRNA-Seq and spatial transcriptomic (ST) analyses on untreated GBM samples. 8 major cell types were found in both tumor and adjacent normal tissues, with variations in infiltration grade. Neoplastic cells_6 was identified in malignant cells with high expression of invasion and proliferator-related genes, and analyzed its interactions with microglia, MDM cells and T cells. Significant alterations in ligand-receptor interactions were observed, particularly between Neoplastic cells_6 and microglia, and found prominent expression of VISTA/VSIG3, suggesting a potential mechanism for evading immune system attacks. High expression of TIM-3, VISTA, PSGL-1 and VSIG-3 with similar expression patterns in GBM, may have potential as therapeutic targets. The prognostic value of VISTA expression was cross-validated in 180 glioma patients, and it was observed that patients with high VISTA expression had a poorer prognosis. In addition, multimodal cross analysis integrated SnRNA-seq and ST, revealing complex intracellular communication and mapping the GBM tumor microenvironment. This study reveals novel molecular characteristics of GBM, co-expression of immune checkpoints, and potential therapeutic targets, contributing to improving the understanding and treatment of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingyi Yuan
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenting Chen
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shasha Jin
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wanmei Liu
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liu Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yinhao Wu
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyu He
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingwei Jiang
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongbin Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Liu
- New Drug Screening and Pharmacodynamics Evaluation Center, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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2
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Toadere TM, Ţichindeleanu A, Bondor DA, Topor I, Trella ŞE, Nenu I. Bridging the divide: unveiling mutual immunological pathways of cancer and pregnancy. Inflamm Res 2024; 73:793-807. [PMID: 38492049 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-024-01866-9] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The juxtaposition of two seemingly disparate physiological phenomena within the human body-namely, cancer and pregnancy-may offer profound insights into the intricate interplay between malignancies and the immune system. Recent investigations have unveiled striking similarities between the pivotal processes underpinning fetal implantation and successful gestation and those governing tumor initiation and progression. Notably, a confluence of features has emerged, underscoring parallels between the microenvironment of tumors and the maternal-fetal interface. These shared attributes encompass establishing vascular networks, cellular mobilization, recruitment of auxiliary tissue components to facilitate continued growth, and, most significantly, the orchestration of immune-suppressive mechanisms.Our particular focus herein centers on the phenomenon of immune suppression and its protective utility in both of these contexts. In the context of pregnancy, immune suppression assumes a paramount role in shielding the semi-allogeneic fetus from the potentially hostile immune responses of the maternal host. In stark contrast, in the milieu of cancer, this very same immunological suppression fosters the transformation of the tumor microenvironment into a sanctuary personalized for the neoplastic cells.Thus, the striking parallels between the immunosuppressive strategies deployed during pregnancy and those co-opted by malignancies offer a tantalizing reservoir of insights. These insights promise to inform novel avenues in the realm of cancer immunotherapy. By harnessing our understanding of the immunological events that detrimentally impact fetal development, a knowledge grounded in the context of conditions such as preeclampsia or miscarriage, we may uncover innovative immunotherapeutic strategies to combat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodora Maria Toadere
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Andra Ţichindeleanu
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Daniela Andreea Bondor
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioan Topor
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Şerban Ellias Trella
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Iuliana Nenu
- Department of Physiology, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400006, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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3
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Tinca AC, Szoke AR, Lazar BA, Szász EA, Tomuț AN, Sabău AH, Cocuz IG, Cotoi TC, Niculescu R, Chiorean DM, Ungureanu IA, Turdean SG, Cotoi OS. H-VISTA Immunohistochemistry Score Is Associated with Advanced Stages in Cutaneous and Ocular Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4335. [PMID: 38673920 PMCID: PMC11049914 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Melanoma represents a public health issue. One of the biggest goals of current research is to develop new therapeutic options for patients affected by this aggressive tumor. We conducted a retrospective study including 105 patients diagnosed with cutaneous and ocular melanoma, with stages varying from pT1a to pT4b and pT4e, respectively, and we performed immunohistochemistry reactions with the new potential prognostic marker, VISTA (V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation). We quantified the expression by applying the H-score adapted for VISTA and divided the patients, based on the median value, into groups that presented high, low, and negative expression. Therefore, we obtained 65 cases with positive expression for cutaneous melanoma and 8 cases with positive expression for ocular melanoma. Forty-one cases presented high expression in cutaneous melanoma and three cases presented high expression in ocular melanoma. In cutaneous melanoma, analytic statistics showed that VISTA expression was associated with a high Breslow index, high mitotic count, high Ki67 expression, and advanced clinicopathological stage. The majority of ocular melanoma cases demonstrating a positive reaction were classified as stage pT3, whereas earlier stages showed a negative reaction. Our findings underscore a significant correlation between VISTA expression and key prognostic factors in melanoma. Looking ahead, the prospect of future randomized studies holds promise in corroborating the clinical relevance of our findings. By further elucidating the intricate relationship between VISTA expression and melanoma progression, new treatment strategies could be found, improving patient outcomes in this challenging neoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Cătălina Tinca
- Doctoral School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (A.C.T.); (A.H.S.); (R.N.); (D.M.C.)
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania; (B.A.L.); (E.A.S.); (I.-G.C.); (S.G.T.); (O.S.C.)
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Andreea Raluca Szoke
- Doctoral School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (A.C.T.); (A.H.S.); (R.N.); (D.M.C.)
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania; (B.A.L.); (E.A.S.); (I.-G.C.); (S.G.T.); (O.S.C.)
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Bianca Andreea Lazar
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania; (B.A.L.); (E.A.S.); (I.-G.C.); (S.G.T.); (O.S.C.)
| | - Emőke Andrea Szász
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania; (B.A.L.); (E.A.S.); (I.-G.C.); (S.G.T.); (O.S.C.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (A.N.T.); (I.A.U.)
| | - Alexandru Nicușor Tomuț
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (A.N.T.); (I.A.U.)
| | - Adrian Horațiu Sabău
- Doctoral School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (A.C.T.); (A.H.S.); (R.N.); (D.M.C.)
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania; (B.A.L.); (E.A.S.); (I.-G.C.); (S.G.T.); (O.S.C.)
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Iuliu-Gabriel Cocuz
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania; (B.A.L.); (E.A.S.); (I.-G.C.); (S.G.T.); (O.S.C.)
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Titiana-Cornelia Cotoi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania;
| | - Raluca Niculescu
- Doctoral School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (A.C.T.); (A.H.S.); (R.N.); (D.M.C.)
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania; (B.A.L.); (E.A.S.); (I.-G.C.); (S.G.T.); (O.S.C.)
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Diana Maria Chiorean
- Doctoral School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (A.C.T.); (A.H.S.); (R.N.); (D.M.C.)
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania; (B.A.L.); (E.A.S.); (I.-G.C.); (S.G.T.); (O.S.C.)
| | - Ioana Ancuța Ungureanu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (A.N.T.); (I.A.U.)
| | - Sabin Gligore Turdean
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania; (B.A.L.); (E.A.S.); (I.-G.C.); (S.G.T.); (O.S.C.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania; (A.N.T.); (I.A.U.)
| | - Ovidiu Simion Cotoi
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania; (B.A.L.); (E.A.S.); (I.-G.C.); (S.G.T.); (O.S.C.)
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
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4
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Chen X, Cui Y, Zou L. Treatment advances in high-grade gliomas. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1287725. [PMID: 38660136 PMCID: PMC11039916 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1287725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
High-grade gliomas (HGG) pose significant challenges in modern tumour therapy due to the distinct biological properties and limitations of the blood-brain barrier. This review discusses recent advancements in HGG treatment, particularly in the context of immunotherapy and cellular therapy. Initially, treatment strategies focus on targeting tumour cells guided by the molecular characteristics of various gliomas, encompassing chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy for enhanced precision. Additionally, technological enhancements are augmenting traditional treatment modalities. Furthermore, immunotherapy, emphasising comprehensive tumour management, has gained widespread attention. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, vaccines and CAR-T cells exhibit promising efficacy against recurrent HGG. Moreover, emerging therapies such as tumour treating fields (TTFields) offer additional treatment avenues for patients with HGG. The combination of diverse treatments holds promise for improving the prognosis of HGG, particularly in cases of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- Department of Radiotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liqun Zou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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5
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Regmi M, Wang Y, Liu W, Dai Y, Liu S, Ma K, Lin G, Yang J, Liu H, Wu J, Yang C. From glioma gloom to immune bloom: unveiling novel immunotherapeutic paradigms-a review. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:47. [PMID: 38342925 PMCID: PMC10860318 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-02973-5] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
In tumor therapeutics, the transition from conventional cytotoxic drugs to targeted molecular therapies, such as those targeting receptor tyrosine kinases, has been pivotal. Despite this progress, the clinical outcomes have remained modest, with glioblastoma patients' median survival stagnating at less than 15 months. This underscores the urgent need for more specialized treatment strategies. Our review delves into the progression toward immunomodulation in glioma treatment. We dissect critical discoveries in immunotherapy, such as spotlighting the instrumental role of tumor-associated macrophages, which account for approximately half of the immune cells in the glioma microenvironment, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. The complex interplay between tumor cells and the immune microenvironment has been explored, revealing novel therapeutic targets. The uniqueness of our review is its exhaustive approach, synthesizing current research to elucidate the intricate roles of various molecules and receptors within the glioma microenvironment. This comprehensive synthesis not only maps the current landscape but also provides a blueprint for refining immunotherapy for glioma, signifying a paradigm shift toward leveraging immune mechanisms for improved patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moksada Regmi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Center for Precision Neurosurgery and Oncology of Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
- Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science (AIMS), Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Yingjie Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Center for Precision Neurosurgery and Oncology of Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Weihai Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Center for Precision Neurosurgery and Oncology of Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yuwei Dai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Center for Precision Neurosurgery and Oncology of Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Shikun Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Center for Precision Neurosurgery and Oncology of Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ke Ma
- Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Guozhong Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Center for Precision Neurosurgery and Oncology of Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Center for Precision Neurosurgery and Oncology of Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hongyi Liu
- Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science (AIMS), Zhengzhou, 450003, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Ophthalmology, Beijing, 100730, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmic Equipment and Materials, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100730, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science (AIMS), Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
- National Engineering Research Center for Ophthalmology, Beijing, 100730, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Ophthalmic Equipment and Materials, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100730, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Chenlong Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Center for Precision Neurosurgery and Oncology of Peking University Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Henan Academy of Innovations in Medical Science (AIMS), Zhengzhou, 450003, China.
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Rezagholizadeh F, Tajik F, Talebi M, Taha SR, Shariat Zadeh M, Farhangnia P, Hosseini HS, Nazari A, Mollazadeh Ghomi S, Kamrani Mousavi SM, Haeri Moghaddam N, Khorramdelazad H, Joghataei MT, Safari E. Unraveling the potential of CD8, CD68, and VISTA as diagnostic and prognostic markers in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1283364. [PMID: 38357542 PMCID: PMC10865497 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1283364] [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: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pancreatic cancer is a truculent disease with limited treatment options and a grim prognosis. Immunotherapy has shown promise in treating various types of cancer, but its effectiveness in pancreatic cancer has been lacking. As a result, it is crucial to identify markers associated with immunological pathways in order to improve the treatment outcomes for this deadly cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic significance of three markers, CD8, CD68, and VISTA, in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common subtype of pancreatic cancer. Methods We analyzed gene expression data from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database using bioinformatics tools. We also utilized the STRING online tool and Funrich software to study the protein-protein interactions and transcription factors associated with CD8, CD68, and VISTA. In addition, tissue microarray (TMA) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining were performed on 228 samples of PDAC tissue and 10 samples of normal pancreatic tissue to assess the expression levels of the markers. We then correlated these expression levels with the clinicopathological characteristics of the patients and evaluated their survival rates. Results The analysis of the GEO data revealed slightly elevated levels of VISTA in PDAC samples compared to normal tissues. However, there was a significant increase in CD68 expression and a notable reduction in CD8A expression in pancreatic cancer. Further investigation identified potential protein-protein interactions and transcription factors associated with these markers. The IHC staining of PDAC tissue samples showed an increased expression of VISTA, CD68, and CD8A in pancreatic cancer tissues. Moreover, we found correlations between the expression levels of these markers and certain clinicopathological features of the patients. Additionally, the survival analysis revealed that high expression of CD8 was associated with better disease-specific survival and progression-free survival in PDAC patients. Conclusion These findings highlight the potential of CD8, CD68, and VISTA as diagnostic and prognostic indicators in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Rezagholizadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Tajik
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Talebi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Human and Animal Cell Bank, Iranian Biological Resource Center (IBRC), Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Reza Taha
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Pooya Farhangnia
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Board for Transplantation and Cell-Based Therapeutics (ImmunoTACT), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamideh Sadat Hosseini
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aram Nazari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shabnam Mollazadeh Ghomi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Board for Transplantation and Cell-Based Therapeutics (ImmunoTACT), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyede Mahtab Kamrani Mousavi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloofar Haeri Moghaddam
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran 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
| | - Mohammad Taghi Joghataei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elahe Safari
- 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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7
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Abdel-Rahman SA, Gabr M. Small Molecule Immunomodulators as Next-Generation Therapeutics for Glioblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:435. [PMID: 38275876 PMCID: PMC10814352 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM), the most aggressive astrocytic glioma, remains a therapeutic challenge despite multimodal approaches. Immunotherapy holds promise, but its efficacy is hindered by the highly immunosuppressive GBM microenvironment. This review underscores the urgent need to comprehend the intricate interactions between glioma and immune cells, shaping the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) in GBM. Immunotherapeutic advancements have shown limited success, prompting exploration of immunomodulatory approaches targeting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and microglia, constituting a substantial portion of the GBM TME. Converting protumor M2-like TAMs to antitumor M1-like phenotypes emerges as a potential therapeutic strategy for GBM. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) poses an additional challenge to successful immunotherapy, restricting drug delivery to GBM TME. Research efforts to enhance BBB permeability have mainly focused on small molecules, which can traverse the BBB more effectively than biologics. Despite over 200 clinical trials for GBM, studies on small molecule immunomodulators within the GBM TME are scarce. Developing small molecules with optimal brain penetration and selectivity against immunomodulatory pathways presents a promising avenue for combination therapies in GBM. This comprehensive review discusses various immunomodulatory pathways in GBM progression with a focus on immune checkpoints and TAM-related targets. The exploration of such molecules, with the capacity to selectively target key immunomodulatory pathways and penetrate the BBB, holds the key to unlocking new combination therapy approaches for GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somaya A. Abdel-Rahman
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute (MI3), Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Moustafa Gabr
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute (MI3), Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
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8
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Vesely MD, Kidacki M, Gaule P, Gupta S, Chan NNN, Han X, Yeung JT, Chen L. Immune Inhibitory Molecule PD-1 Homolog (VISTA) Colocalizes with CD11b Myeloid Cells in Melanoma and Is Associated with Poor Outcomes. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:106-115.e4. [PMID: 37562584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Tumors evade immunity through the overexpression of immune inhibitory molecules in the tumor microenvironment such as PD-L1/B7-H1. An immune inhibitory molecule named PD-1 homolog (also known as V-domain Ig-containing suppressor of T cell activation [VISTA]) functions to control both T cells and myeloid cells. Current clinical trials using anti-VISTA-blocking agents for treatment of cancer are ongoing. We sought to determine the extent of VISTA expression in primary cutaneous melanomas (n = 190), identify the critical cell types expressing VISTA, and correlate its expression with PD-L1 expression using multiplexed quantitative immunofluorescence. Within the tumor subcompartments, VISTA is most highly expressed on CD11b myeloid cells, and PD-L1 is most highly expressed on CD68 myeloid cells in our melanoma cohort. There is little correlation between VISTA and PD-L1 expression intensity, suggesting that individual tumors have distinct immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments. High levels of VISTA expression on CD11b myeloid cells but not PD-L1 expression were associated with greater melanoma recurrence and greater all-cause mortality. Our findings suggest that cell-specific VISTA expression may be a negative prognostic biomarker for melanoma and a future potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Vesely
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
| | - Michal Kidacki
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Patricia Gaule
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Swati Gupta
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Nay Nwe Nyein Chan
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Xue Han
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA; Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jacky T Yeung
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Lieping Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Medicine (Medical Oncology), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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9
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Lamas NJ, Lassalle S, Martel A, Nahon-Estève S, Macocco A, Zahaf K, Lalvee S, Fayada J, Lespinet-Fabre V, Bordone O, Pedeutour F, Baillif S, Hofman P. Characterisation of the protein expression of the emerging immunotherapy targets VISTA, LAG-3 and PRAME in primary uveal melanoma: insights from a southern French patient cohort. Pathology 2023; 55:929-944. [PMID: 37863710 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathol.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common intraocular tumour in adults, with dismal prognosis once metastases develop, since therapeutic options for the metastatic disease are ineffective. Over the past decade, novel cancer therapies based on immunotherapy have changed the landscape of treatment of different forms of cancer leading to many hopes of improvement in patient overall survival (OS). VISTA, LAG-3 and PRAME are novel promising targets of immunotherapy that have recently gained attention in different solid tumours, but whose relevance in UM remained to be comprehensively evaluated until now. Here, we studied the protein expression of VISTA, LAG-3 and PRAME using immunohistochemistry in representative whole tissue sections from primary UM cases in a cohort of 30 patients from a single centre (Nice University Hospital, Nice, France). The expression of each of these markers was correlated with different clinical and pathological parameters, including onset of metastases and OS. We demonstrated the protein expression of VISTA and LAG-3 in small lymphocytes infiltrating the tumour, while no expression of the proteins was detected in UM cells. For PRAME, nuclear expression was observed in UM cells, but no expression in tumour infiltrating immune cells was identified. Increased levels of VISTA expression in tumour infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were associated with nuclear BAP1 expression and better prognosis. Higher levels of LAG-3 in TILs were associated with higher levels of CD8-positive TILs. PRAME nuclear positivity in melanoma cells was associated with epithelioid cell dominant (>90%) UM histological subtype, higher mitotic numbers and a higher percentage of chromosome 8q gain. This study proposes VISTA as a novel relevant immune checkpoint molecule in primary UM and contributes to confirm LAG-3 and PRAME as potentially important immunotherapy targets in the treatment of UM patients, helping to expand the number of immunotherapy candidate molecules that are relevant to modulate in this aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno Jorge Lamas
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; Anatomic Pathology Service, Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António (CHUdSA), Porto, Largo Professor Abel Salazar, Porto, Portugal; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, University of Minho, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Sandra Lassalle
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; IRCAN Team 4, Inserm U1081/CNRS 7284, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Arnaud Martel
- Université Côte d'Azur, Department of Ophthalmology, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Sacha Nahon-Estève
- Université Côte d'Azur, Department of Ophthalmology, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Adam Macocco
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Katia Zahaf
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Salome Lalvee
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Julien Fayada
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Virginie Lespinet-Fabre
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; IRCAN Team 4, Inserm U1081/CNRS 7284, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Olivier Bordone
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; IRCAN Team 4, Inserm U1081/CNRS 7284, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Florence Pedeutour
- Laboratory of Solid Tumour Genetics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Stéphanie Baillif
- Université Côte d'Azur, Department of Ophthalmology, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
| | - Paul Hofman
- Université Côte d'Azur, Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, Biobank BB-0033-00025, Pasteur Hospital, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; IRCAN Team 4, Inserm U1081/CNRS 7284, Centre de Lutte contre le Cancer Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France; FHU OncoAge, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France.
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Wang B, Ou Z, Zhong W, Huang L, Liao W, Sheng Y, Guo Z, Chen J, Yang W, Chen K, Huang X, Yang T, Lin T, Huang J. Effective Antitumor Immunity Can Be Triggered by Targeting VISTA in Combination with a TLR3-Specific Adjuvant. Cancer Immunol Res 2023; 11:1656-1670. [PMID: 37847894 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Resistance to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 treatment is often associated with accumulation of intratumoral inhibitory macrophages. V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) is a nonredundant immune checkpoint that can induce both T-cell and myeloid-cell immunosuppression. In this study, we found that high levels of VISTA+ immune cells were associated with advanced stage bladder cancer and predicted poor survival in patients. A combination of high infiltration of VISTA+ immune cells and PD-L1+ immune cells or PD-1+ T cells predicted the worst survival. Flow cytometry and multiplex immunofluorescence analyses confirmed that VISTA expression was higher in macrophages than in T cells or neutrophils, and only VISTA+CD163+ macrophage density predicted poor prognosis in patients with bladder cancer. Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists are known to trigger the innate immune response in macrophages. We found that the VISTA-specific mAb 13F3 augmented the ability of a TLR3-specific adjuvant to induce macrophage activation in vitro. In the MB49 syngeneic mouse model of bladder cancer, treatment with 13F3 curbed tumor growth and prolonged survival when combined with a TLR3-specific adjuvant. The combination treatment reduced the intratumoral frequency of CD206+ anti-inflammatory macrophages and levels of the immunosuppressive molecule TGFβ1, but it upregulated expression of immunostimulatory molecules (Ifna, Ifnb, and Trail) and increased the CD8+ T cell/regulatory T-cell ratio. These findings indicate that elevated VISTA expression in immune cells, particularly macrophages, is associated with an unfavorable prognosis in patients with bladder cancer and suggest that targeting VISTA in combination with a TLR3-specific adjuvant has translational potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wang
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Ziwei Ou
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wenlong Zhong
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Lin Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wenjian Liao
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yiyu Sheng
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Zhixing Guo
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Junyu Chen
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wenjuan Yang
- Department of Hematology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Ke Chen
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xiaodong Huang
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Tenghao Yang
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Tianxin Lin
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jian Huang
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen (Zhongshan) University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
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Zohair B, Chraa D, Rezouki I, Benthami H, Razzouki I, Elkarroumi M, Olive D, Karkouri M, Badou A. The immune checkpoint adenosine 2A receptor is associated with aggressive clinical outcomes and reflects an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in human breast cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1201632. [PMID: 37753093 PMCID: PMC10518422 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1201632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The crosstalk between the immune system and cancer cells has aroused considerable interest over the past decades. To escape immune surveillance cancer cells evolve various strategies orchestrating tumor microenvironment. The discovery of the inhibitory immune checkpoints was a major breakthrough due to their crucial contribution to immune evasion. The A2AR receptor represents one of the most essential pathways within the TME. It is involved in several processes such as hypoxia, tumor progression, and chemoresistance. However, its clinical and immunological significance in human breast cancer remains elusive. Methods The mRNA expression and protein analysis were performed by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry. The log-rank (Mantel-Cox) test was used to estimate Kaplan-Meier analysis for overall survival. Using large-scale microarray data (METABRIC), digital cytometry was conducted to estimate cell abundance. Analysis was performed using RStudio software (7.8 + 2023.03.0) with EPIC, CIBERSORT, and ImmuneCellAI algorithms. Tumor purity, stromal and immune scores were calculated using the ESTIMATE computational method. Finally, analysis of gene set enrichment (GSEA) and the TISCH2 scRNA-seq database were carried out. Results Gene and protein analysis showed that A2AR was overexpressed in breast tumors and was significantly associated with high grade, elevated Ki-67, aggressive molecular and histological subtypes, as well as poor survival. On tumor infiltrating immune cells, A2AR was found to correlate positively with PD-1 and negatively with CTLA-4. On the other hand, our findings disclosed more profuse infiltration of protumoral cells such as M0 and M2 macrophages, Tregs, endothelial and exhausted CD8+ T cells within A2ARhigh tumors. According to the Single-Cell database, A2AR is expressed in malignant, stromal and immune cells. Moreover, it is related to tumor purity, stromal and immune scores. Our results also revealed that CD8+T cells from A2ARhigh patients exhibited an exhausted functional profile. Finally, GSEA analysis highlighted the association of A2AR with biological mechanisms involved in tumor escape and progression. Conclusion The present study is the first to elucidate the clinical and immunological relevance of A2AR in breast cancer patients. In light of these findings, A2AR could be deemed a promising therapeutic target to overcome immune evasion prevailing within the TME of breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basma Zohair
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory (LIGEP), Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Dounia Chraa
- Team Immunity and Cancer, The Cancer Research Center of Marseille (CRCM), Inserm, 41068, CNRS, UMR7258, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, UM 105, Marseille, France
| | - Ibtissam Rezouki
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory (LIGEP), Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Hamza Benthami
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory (LIGEP), Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Ibtissam Razzouki
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Ibn Rochd University Hospital Center, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Elkarroumi
- Mohamed VI Oncology Center, Ibn Rochd University Hospital Center, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Daniel Olive
- Team Immunity and Cancer, The Cancer Research Center of Marseille (CRCM), Inserm, 41068, CNRS, UMR7258, Paoli-Calmettes Institute, Aix-Marseille University, UM 105, Marseille, France
| | - Mehdi Karkouri
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, Ibn Rochd University Hospital Center, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdallah Badou
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory (LIGEP), Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
- Mohammed VI Center for Research & Innovation, Rabat, Morocco and Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca, Morocco
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12
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Issam Salah NEI, Marnissi F, Lakhdar A, Karkouri M, ElBelhadji M, Badou A. The immune checkpoint VISTA is associated with prognosis in patients with malignant uveal melanoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1225140. [PMID: 37662962 PMCID: PMC10471992 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1225140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Uveal melanoma (UM) is a rare yet deadly tumor. It is known for its high metastatic potential, which makes it one of the most aggressive and lethal cancers. Recently, immune checkpoints such as Programmed cell Death protein-1 (PD1) and Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-Associated significantly increasing patient survival in multiple human cancers, especially cutaneous melanoma. However, patients with UMs were excluded from these studies because of their molecular characteristics, which tend to be widely different from those of cutaneous melanoma. This study aimed to analyze the expression of V domain Ig Suppressor T-cell Activation (VISTA), a novel immune checkpoint, to evaluate its prognosis significance and its correlation with PD1 and CTLA-4. Methods Evaluation of VISTA, CTLA-4, and PD1 expression was performed through TCGA database analysis and immunohistochemistry using two independent cohorts with primary malignant UM. Results and discussion Our results showed that VISTA expression was associated with tumor aggressiveness, T cell exhaustion, and the shortest median overall survival among patients. Surprisingly, PD1 protein expression was negative in all patients, whereas CTLA-4 expression was high in patients with advanced stages. Our findings suggest that VISTA may be a prognostic marker and an attractive treatment strategy for immunotherapy in patients with UM. Exploring its expression profile may predict response to immunotherapy and may lead to the improvement of precision therapy in malignant uveal melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour el Imane Issam Salah
- Laboratory of Research on Neurologic, Neurosensorial Diseases and Handicap, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Farida Marnissi
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, University Hospital Center (CHU) Ibn Rochd and Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdelhakim Lakhdar
- Laboratory of Research on Neurologic, Neurosensorial Diseases and Handicap, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mehdi Karkouri
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, University Hospital Center (CHU) Ibn Rochd and Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mohamed ElBelhadji
- Department of Adults Ophthalmology, 20 August Hospital 1953, CHU Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdallah Badou
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
- Mohammed VI Center for Research & Innovation, Rabat, Morocco, Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca, Morocco
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13
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Miftah H, Naji O, Ssi SA, Ghouzlani A, Lakhdar A, Badou A. NR2F6, a new immune checkpoint that acts as a potential biomarker of immunosuppression and contributes to poor clinical outcome in human glioma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1139268. [PMID: 37575237 PMCID: PMC10419227 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1139268] [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: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Intoroduction Nuclear receptor subfamily 2 group F member 6 (NR2F6) is a promising checkpoint target for cancer immunotherapy. However, there has been no investigation of NR2F6 in glioma. Our study systematically explored the clinical characteristics and biological functions of NR2F6 in gliomas. Methods We extracted RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data of 663 glioma samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) as the training cohort and 325 samples from the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) as the validation cohort. We also confirmed the NR2F6 gene expression feature in our own cohort of 60 glioma patients. R language and GraphPad Prism softwares were mainly used for statistical analysis and graphical work. Results We found that NR2F6 was significantly related to high tumor aggressiveness and poor outcomes for glioma patients. Functional enrichment analysis demonstrated that NR2F6 was associated with many biological processes that are related to glioma progression, such as angiogenesis, and with multiple immune-related functions. Moreover, NR2F6 was found to be significantly correlated with stromal and immune infiltration in gliomas. Subsequent analysis based on Gliomas single-cell sequencing datasets showed that NR2F6 was expressed in immune cells, tumor cells, and stromal cells. Mechanistically, results suggested that NR2F6 might act as a potential immunosuppression-mediated molecule in the glioma microenvironment through multiple ways, such as the recruitment of immunosuppressive cells, secretion of immunosuppressive cytokines, M2 polarization of macrophages, in addition to combining with other immune checkpoint inhibitors. Conclusion Our findings indicated that intracellular targeting of NR2F6 in both immune cells and tumor cells, as well as stromal cells, may represent a promising immunotherapeutic strategy for glioma. Stromal cells, may represent a promising immunotherapeutic strategy for glioma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayat Miftah
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Oumayma Naji
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Saadia Ait Ssi
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Amina Ghouzlani
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdelhakim Lakhdar
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Center (UHC) Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco
- Laboratory of Research on Neurologic, Neurosensorial Diseases and Handicap, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdallah Badou
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
- Mohammed VI Center for Research and Innovation, Rabat, Morocco
- Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca, Morocco
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14
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Loussouarn D, Oliver L, Salaud C, Samarut E, Bourgade R, Béroud C, Morenton E, Heymann D, Vallette FM. Spatial Distribution of Immune Cells in Primary and Recurrent Glioblastoma: A Small Case Study. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3256. [PMID: 37370866 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Only a minority of patients with glioblastoma (GBM) respond to immunotherapy, and always only partially. There is a lack of knowledge on immune distribution in GBM and in its tumor microenvironment (TME). To address the question, we used paired primary and recurrent tumors from GBM patients to study the composition and the evolution of the immune landscape upon treatment. We studied the expression of a handful of immune markers (CD3, CD8, CD68, PD-L1 and PD-1) in GBM tissues in 15 paired primary and recurrent GBM. In five selected patients, we used Nanostring Digital Spatial Profiling (DSP) to obtain simultaneous assessments of multiple biomarkers both within the tumor and the microenvironment in paired primary and recurrent GBM. Our results suggest that the evolution of the immune landscape between paired primary and recurrent GBM tumors is highly heterogeneous. However, our study identifies B3-H7 and HLA-DR as potential targets in primary and recurrent GBM. Spatial profiling of immune markers from matched primary and recurrent GBM shows a nonlinear complex evolution during the progression of cancer. Nonetheless, our study demonstrated a global increase in macrophages, and revealed differential localization of some markers, such as B7-H3 and HLA-DR, between GBM and its TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Loussouarn
- INSERM UMR1307, CNRS UMR6075, Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, 44007 Nantes, France
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Lisa Oliver
- INSERM UMR1307, CNRS UMR6075, Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, 44007 Nantes, France
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Celine Salaud
- INSERM UMR1307, CNRS UMR6075, Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, 44007 Nantes, France
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Edouard Samarut
- INSERM UMR1307, CNRS UMR6075, Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, 44007 Nantes, France
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Raphaël Bourgade
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, 44000 Nantes, France
| | | | - Emilie Morenton
- CNRS, US2B, UMR 6286, Biological Sciences and Biotechnologies Unit, Nantes Université, 44000 Nantes, France
- Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest, 44800 Saint-Herblain, France
| | - Dominique Heymann
- CNRS, US2B, UMR 6286, Biological Sciences and Biotechnologies Unit, Nantes Université, 44000 Nantes, France
- Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest, 44800 Saint-Herblain, France
| | - Francois M Vallette
- INSERM UMR1307, CNRS UMR6075, Nantes Université, CRCI2NA, 44007 Nantes, France
- Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest, 44800 Saint-Herblain, France
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15
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Boulhen C, AIT SSI S, Benthami H, Razzouki I, Lakhdar A, Karkouri M, Badou A. TMIGD2 as a potential therapeutic target in glioma patients. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1173518. [PMID: 37261362 PMCID: PMC10227580 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1173518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Among all types of central nervous system cancers, glioma remains the most frequent primary brain tumor in adults. Despite significant advances in immunomodulatory therapies, notably immune checkpoint inhibitors, their effectiveness remains constrained due to glioma resistance. The discovery of TMIGD2 (Transmembrane and Immunoglobulin Domain Containing 2) as an immuno-stimulatory receptor, constitutively expressed on naive T cells and most natural killer (NK) cells, has emerged as an attractive immunotherapy target in a variety of cancers. The expression profile of TMIGD2 and its significance in the overall survival of glioma patients remains unknown. Methods In the present study, we first assessed TMIGD2 mRNA expression using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) glioma transcriptome dataset (667 patients), followed by validation with the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) cohort (693 patients). Secondly, we examined TMIGD2 protein staining in a series of 25 paraffin-embedded blocks from Moroccan glioma patients. The statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 8 software. Results TMIGD2 expression was found to be significantly higher in astrocytoma, IDH-1 mutations, low-grade, and young glioma patients. TMIGD2 was expressed on immune cells and, surprisingly, on tumor cells of glioma patients. Interestingly, our study demonstrated that TMIGD2 expression was negatively correlated with angiogenesis, hypoxia, G2/M checkpoint, and epithelial to mesenchymal transition signaling pathways. We also demonstrated that dendritic cells, monocytes, NK cells, gd T cells, and naive CD8 T cell infiltration correlates positively with TMIGD2 expression. On the other hand, Mantel-Cox analysis demonstrated that increased expression of TMIGD2 in human gliomas is associated with good overall survival. Cox multivariable analysis revealed that TMIGD2 is an independent predictor of a good prognosis in glioma patients. Discussion Taken together, our results highlight the tight implication of TMIGD2 in glioma progression and show its promising therapeutic potential as a stimulatory target for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaimae Boulhen
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Saadia AIT SSI
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Hamza Benthami
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Ibtissam Razzouki
- Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, University Hospital Center (CHU) Ibn Rochd, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdelhakim Lakhdar
- Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Hassan II, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mehdi Karkouri
- Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, University Hospital Center (CHU) Ibn Rochd, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdallah Badou
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
- Mohammed VI Center for Research and Innovation, Rabat, Morocco and Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca, Morocco
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16
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Rafii S, Ghouzlani A, Naji O, Ait Ssi S, Kandoussi S, Lakhdar A, Badou A. A2AR as a Prognostic Marker and a Potential Immunotherapy Target in Human Glioma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076688. [PMID: 37047660 PMCID: PMC10095519 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are considered one of the most malignant tumors in the body. The immune system has the ability to control the initiation and development of tumors, including gliomas. Thus, immune cells find themselves controlled by various molecular pathways, inhibiting their activation, such as the immunosuppressive adenosine 2A receptor (A2AR). Our objective was to establish the expression profile and role of A2AR at the transcriptomic level, using real-time RT-PCR in Moroccan glioma patients, in addition to TCGA and CGGA cohorts. The real-time RT-PCR results in Moroccan patients showed that high expression of this gene was associated with poor survival in males. Our study on the CGGA cohort corroborated these results. In addition, there was a positive association of A2AR with T-cell exhaustion genes. A2AR also correlated strongly with genes that are primarily enriched in focal adhesion and extracellular matrix interactions, inducing epithelial mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, and glioma growth. However, in the TCGA cohort, the A2AR showed results that were different from the two previously examined cohorts. In fact, this gene was instead linked to a good prognosis in patients with the astrocytoma histological type. The correlation and enrichment results reinforced the prognostic role of A2AR in this TCGA cohort, in which its high expression was shown to be related to lymphocyte differentiation and a successful cytolytic response, suggesting a more efficient anti-tumor immune response. Correlations and differential analyses based on A2AR gene expression, to understand the cause of the association of this gene with two different prognoses (CGGA males and TCGA Astrocytoma), showed that the overexpression of A2AR in Chinese male patients could be associated with the overexpression of extracellular adenosine, which binds to A2AR to induce immunosuppression and consequently a poor prognosis. However, in the second group (TCGA astrocytomas), the overexpression of the gene could be associated with an adenosine deficiency, and therefore this receptor does not undergo activation. The absence of A2AR activation in these patients may have protected them from immunosuppression, which could reflect the good prognosis. A2AR can be considered a promising therapeutic target in male CGGA and Moroccan patients with gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumaya Rafii
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathologies Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
| | - Amina Ghouzlani
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathologies Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
| | - Oumayma Naji
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathologies Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
| | - Saadia Ait Ssi
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathologies Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
| | - Sarah Kandoussi
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathologies Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
| | | | - Abdallah Badou
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathologies Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca 20000, Morocco
- Mohammed VI Center for Research and Innovation, Rabat, Morocco and Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca 82403, Morocco
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17
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VISTA H-Score Is Significantly Associated with a 5-Year DFS Rate in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12041619. [PMID: 36836154 PMCID: PMC9967884 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12041619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common type of oral cancer in the world. Despite its prevalence, it is often recognized in advanced stages (III or IV) when it has already spread to local lymph nodes. In this study, we investigate the V-domain Ig suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) as a potential prognostic factor in OSCC. Tissue samples were collected from 71 oral squamous cell carcinoma patients to determine protein expression levels (using immunochemistry and the semi-quantitative H-score method). Moreover, RT-qPCR was additionally performed in 35 patients. Clinical factors in our cohort study had no impact on VISTA expression. However, VISTA expression is largely correlated with Il-33 levels in tumor cells and lymphocytes and with PD-L1 in tumor cells. The impact of VISTA expression on overall survival (OS) is rather limited, but in the case of a 5-year survival rate, a significant association has been proven. VISTA seems to be a rather weak clinicopathological marker but needs further evaluation in the context of survival. In addition, the potential of VISTA combination with Il-33 or PD-L1 should be further investigated in OSCC.
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18
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Rezouki I, Zohair B, Ssi SA, Karkouri M, Razzouki I, Elkarroumi M, Badou A. High VISTA expression is linked to a potent epithelial-mesenchymal transition and is positively correlated with PD1 in breast cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1154631. [PMID: 37152039 PMCID: PMC10157209 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1154631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common type of tumor in women worldwide. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, particularly anti-PDL1, have shown promise as a therapeutic approach for managing this disease. However, this type of immunotherapy still fails to work for some patients, leading researchers to explore alternative immune checkpoint targets. The Ig suppressor of T cell activation domain V (VISTA) has emerged as a novel immune checkpoint that delivers inhibitory signals to T cells and has demonstrated encouraging results in various cancers. Our study investigated the association of VISTA expression with clinicopathological parameters in breast cancer patients, its involvement in the Epithelial-Mesenchymal-Transition (EMT) process, and its correlation with PD1 expression. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that VISTA was associated with lobular and metaplastic histological type, tumor size, lymph node status, ER and PR negative status, and the TNBC molecular subtype. Furthermore, VISTA expression was strongly associated with an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Immunohistochemistry analysis corroborated the transcriptomic results, indicating that VISTA was expressed in most immune cells (94%) and was significantly expressed in breast cancer tumor cells compared to matched adjacent tissues. Our study also showed for the first time that VISTA overexpression in breast cancer cells could be associated with the EMT process. Additionally, we identified a positive correlation between VISTA and PD-1 expression. Together, these results highlight the immunosuppressive effect of VISTA in breast cancer patients and suggest that bi-specific targeting of VISTA and PD-1 in combination therapy could be beneficial for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibtissam Rezouki
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Basma Zohair
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Saadia Ait Ssi
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mehdi Karkouri
- Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, University Hospital Center (CHU) Ibn Rochd, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Ibtissam Razzouki
- Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, University Hospital Center (CHU) Ibn Rochd, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Elkarroumi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Center (CHU) Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdallah Badou
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Human Pathologies, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
- Mohammed VI Center for Research and Innovation, Rabat, Morocco, and Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca, Morocco
- *Correspondence: Abdallah Badou, ; ;
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19
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D’Angelo A, Kilili H, Chapman R, Generali D, Tinhofer I, Luminari S, Donati B, Ciarrocchi A, Giannini R, Moretto R, Cremolini C, Pietrantonio F, Sobhani N, Bonazza D, Prins R, Song SG, Jeon YK, Pisignano G, Cinelli M, Bagby S, Urrutia AO. Immune-related pan-cancer gene expression signatures of patient survival revealed by NanoString-based analyses. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280364. [PMID: 36649303 PMCID: PMC9844904 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system plays a central role in the onset and progression of cancer. A better understanding of transcriptional changes in immune cell-related genes associated with cancer progression, and their significance in disease prognosis, is therefore needed. NanoString-based targeted gene expression profiling has advantages for deployment in a clinical setting over RNA-seq technologies. We analysed NanoString PanCancer Immune Profiling panel gene expression data encompassing 770 genes, and overall survival data, from multiple previous studies covering 10 different cancer types, including solid and blood malignancies, across 515 patients. This analysis revealed an immune gene signature comprising 39 genes that were upregulated in those patients with shorter overall survival; of these 39 genes, three (MAGEC2, SSX1 and ULBP2) were common to both solid and blood malignancies. Most of the genes identified have previously been reported as relevant in one or more cancer types. Using Cibersort, we investigated immune cell levels within individual cancer types and across groups of cancers, as well as in shorter and longer overall survival groups. Patients with shorter survival had a higher proportion of M2 macrophages and γδ T cells. Patients with longer overall survival had a higher proportion of CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T memory cells, NK cells and, unexpectedly, T regulatory cells. Using a transcriptomics platform with certain advantages for deployment in a clinical setting, our multi-cancer meta-analysis of immune gene expression and overall survival data has identified a specific transcriptional profile associated with poor overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto D’Angelo
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Oncology Department, Royal United Hospital, Bath, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Huseyin Kilili
- Milner Centre, Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Chapman
- Department of Medicine, The Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow, United Kingdom
| | - Daniele Generali
- Multidisciplinary Unit of Breast Pathology and Translational Research, Cremona Hospital, Cremona, Italy
| | - Ingeborg Tinhofer
- Department of Radiooncology and Radiotherapy, Charite´ University Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefano Luminari
- Hematology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
- Surgical, Medical and Dental Department of Morphological Sciences Related to Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Donati
- Translational Research Laboratory, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessia Ciarrocchi
- Translational Research Laboratory, Azienda USL-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Riccardo Giannini
- Department of Surgery, Clinical, Molecular and Critical Care Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Roberto Moretto
- Unit of Medical Oncology 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara Cremolini
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Navid Sobhani
- Section of Epidemiology and Population Science, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Debora Bonazza
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Cattinara Hospital, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Robert Prins
- Department of Neurosurgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Seung Geun Song
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Kyung Jeon
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Mattia Cinelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Bagby
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Araxi O. Urrutia
- Milner Centre, Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Instituto de Ecologia, UNAM, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
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20
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Chen WW, Chu TSM, Xu L, Zhao CN, Poon WS, Leung GKK, Kong FM(S. Immune related biomarkers for cancer metastasis to the brain. Exp Hematol Oncol 2022; 11:105. [PMID: 36527157 PMCID: PMC9756766 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-022-00349-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain metastasis accounts for a large number of cancer-related deaths. The host immune system, involved at each step of the metastatic cascade, plays an important role in both the initiation of the brain metastasis and their treatment responses to various modalities, through either local and or systemic effect. However, few reliable immune biomarkers have been identified in predicting the development and the treatment outcome in patients with cancer brain metastasis. Here, we provide a focused perspective of immune related biomarkers for cancer metastasis to the brain and a thorough discussion of the potential utilization of specific biomarkers such as tumor mutation burden (TMB), genetic markers, circulating and tumor-infiltrating immune cells, cytokines, in predicting the brain disease progression and regression after therapeutic intervention. We hope to inspire the field to extend the research and establish practical guidelines for developing and validating immune related biomarkers to provide personalized treatment and improve treatment outcomes in patients with metastatic brain cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wei Chen
- grid.194645.b0000000121742757Department of Clinical Oncology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Timothy Shun Man Chu
- grid.419334.80000 0004 0641 3236Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Victoria Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 4LP UK ,grid.1006.70000 0001 0462 7212Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 7RU UK
| | - LiangLiang Xu
- grid.440671.00000 0004 5373 5131Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cai-Ning Zhao
- grid.194645.b0000000121742757Department of Clinical Oncology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Wai-Sang Poon
- grid.440671.00000 0004 5373 5131Neuro-Medical Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China ,grid.194645.b0000000121742757Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine,LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Gilberto Ka-Kit Leung
- grid.194645.b0000000121742757Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Medicine,LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Feng-Ming (Spring) Kong
- grid.194645.b0000000121742757Department of Clinical Oncology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, SAR China ,grid.440671.00000 0004 5373 5131Department of Clinical Oncology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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21
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Ghazi B, El Ghanmi A, Kandoussi S, Ghouzlani A, Badou A. CAR T-cells for colorectal cancer immunotherapy: Ready to go? Front Immunol 2022; 13:978195. [PMID: 36458008 PMCID: PMC9705989 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.978195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells represent a new genetically engineered cell-based immunotherapy tool against cancer. The use of CAR T-cells has revolutionized the therapeutic approach for hematological malignancies. Unfortunately, there is a long way to go before this treatment can be developed for solid tumors, including colorectal cancer. CAR T-cell therapy for colorectal cancer is still in its early stages, and clinical data are scarce. Major limitations of this therapy include high toxicity, relapses, and an impermeable tumor microenvironment for CAR T-cell therapy in colorectal cancer. In this review, we summarize current knowledge, highlight challenges, and discuss perspectives regarding CAR T-cell therapy in colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bouchra Ghazi
- Faculty of Medicine, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Adil El Ghanmi
- Mohammed VI International University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Sarah Kandoussi
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Amina Ghouzlani
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abdallah Badou
- Immuno-Genetics and Human Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
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22
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Huang S, Zhao Y, Liao P, Wang J, Li Z, Tan J, Zha X, Chen S, Li Y, Zhong L. Different expression patterns of VISTA concurrent with PD-1, Tim-3, and TIGIT on T cell subsets in peripheral blood and bone marrow from patients with multiple myeloma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1014904. [PMID: 36439426 PMCID: PMC9684650 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1014904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
V-type immunoglobulin domain-containing suppressor of T cell activation (VISTA) is considered as an immunosuppressive factor and potential therapeutic target for anticancer therapy. However, little is known about VISTA expression and its role in immunosuppression in multiple myeloma (MM). In this study, VISTA expression and co-expression with programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1), T cell immunoglobulin mucin-domain-containing-3 (Tim-3), and T cell immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT) in CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and regulatory T (Treg) cells were analyzed in patients with MM by multi-color fluorescent flow cytometry of peripheral blood (PB) and bone marrow (BM) samples from 36 patients with MM and compared to 36 PB samples and 10 BM samples from healthy individuals (HIs), which served as controls. The results demonstrated a significant increased percentage of VISTA co-expression with PD-1, Tim-3, and TIGIT in CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and Treg cells in PB from MM patients compared with HIs. A similar trend for VISTA+CD8+ T cells was found in BM. Moreover, a trend of a high percentage on VISTA expression and co-expression in PB rather than BM was found. Furthermore, significant positive correlations existed for VISTA expression concurrent with PD-1, Tim-3, and TIGIT in T cell subsets and clinical indicators, including Revised International Staging System (R-ISS) staging of multiple myeloma, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score, and beta-2-microglobulin (β2-MG). In conclusion, higher VISTA expression concurrent with PD-1, Tim-3, and TIGIT on T cells, particularly in the PB of patients with MM, may result in T cell exhaustion and dysfunction and be closely associated with disease progression and clinical indicators. Thus, VISTA may be considered a potential target for reversing T cell exhaustion and improving T cell function in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuxin Huang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yujie Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pengjun Liao
- Department of Hematology, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinghua Wang
- Department of Hematology, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyan Li
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxiong Tan
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianfeng Zha
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaohua Chen
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yangqiu Li
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liye Zhong
- Department of Hematology, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, China
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23
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Wang LC, Wang YL, He B, Zheng YJ, Yu HC, Liu ZY, Fan RR, Zan X, Liang RC, Wu ZP, Tang X, Wang GQ, Xu JG, Zhou LX. Expression and clinical significance of VISTA, B7-H3, and PD-L1 in glioma. Clin Immunol 2022; 245:109178. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2022.109178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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24
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Tang XY, Xiong YL, Shi XG, Zhao YB, Shi AP, Zheng KF, Liu YJ, Jiang T, Ma N, Zhao JB. IGSF11 and VISTA: a pair of promising immune checkpoints in tumor immunotherapy. Biomark Res 2022; 10:49. [PMID: 35831836 PMCID: PMC9277907 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00394-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has become the major treatment for tumors in clinical practice, but some intractable problems such as the low response rate and high rates of immune-related adverse events still hinder the progress of tumor immunotherapy. Hence, it is essential to explore additional immunotherapy treatment targets. In this review, we focus on the structure, expression and expression-related mechanisms, interactions, biological functions and the progress in preclinical/clinical research of IGSF11 and VISTA in tumors. We cover the progress in recent research with this pair of immune checkpoints in tumor immune regulation, proliferation, immune resistance and predictive prognosis. Both IGSF11 and VISTA are highly expressed in tumors and are modulated by various factors. They co-participate in the functional regulation of immune cells and the inhibition of cytokine production. Besides, in the downregulation of IGSF11 and VISTA, both inhibit the growth of some tumors. Preclinical and clinical trials all emphasize the predictive role of IGSF11 and VISTA in the prognosis of tumors, and that the predictive role of the same gene varies from tumor to tumor. At present, further research is proving the enormous potential of IGSF11 and VISTA in tumors, and especially the role of VISTA in tumor immune resistance. This may prove to be a breakthrough to solve the current clinical immune resistance, and most importantly, since research has focused on VISTA but less on IGSF11, IGSF11 may be the next candidate for tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Yang Tang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yan-Lu Xiong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xian-Gui Shi
- College of Basic Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ya-Bo Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - An-Ping Shi
- Department of Radiology & Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Lab of Shaanxi Province, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University (Air Force Medical University), 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Kai-Fu Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yu-Jian Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Nan Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, 710038, Xi'an, China.
| | - Jin-Bo Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, 569 Xinsi Road, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi, China.
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