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Lameris R, Ruben JM, Iglesias-Guimarais V, de Jong M, Veth M, van de Bovenkamp FS, de Weerdt I, Kater AP, Zweegman S, Horbach S, Riedl T, Winograd B, Roovers RC, Adang AEP, de Gruijl TD, Parren PWHI, van der Vliet HJ. A bispecific T cell engager recruits both type 1 NKT and Vγ9Vδ2-T cells for the treatment of CD1d-expressing hematological malignancies. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:100961. [PMID: 36868236 PMCID: PMC10040383 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.100961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Bispecific T cell engagers (bsTCEs) hold great promise for cancer treatment but face challenges due to the induction of cytokine release syndrome (CRS), on-target off-tumor toxicity, and the engagement of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells that limit efficacy. The development of Vγ9Vδ2-T cell engagers may overcome these challenges by combining high therapeutic efficacy with limited toxicity. By linking a CD1d-specific single-domain antibody (VHH) to a Vδ2-TCR-specific VHH, we create a bsTCE with trispecific properties, which engages not only Vγ9Vδ2-T cells but also type 1 NKT cells to CD1d+ tumors and triggers robust proinflammatory cytokine production, effector cell expansion, and target cell lysis in vitro. We show that CD1d is expressed by the majority of patient MM, (myelo)monocytic AML, and CLL cells and that the bsTCE triggers type 1 NKT and Vγ9Vδ2-T cell-mediated antitumor activity against these patient tumor cells and improves survival in in vivo AML, MM, and T-ALL mouse models. Evaluation of a surrogate CD1d-γδ bsTCE in NHPs shows Vγ9Vδ2-T cell engagement and excellent tolerability. Based on these results, CD1d-Vδ2 bsTCE (LAVA-051) is now evaluated in a phase 1/2a study in patients with therapy refractory CLL, MM, or AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roeland Lameris
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije University Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Milon de Jong
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije University Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Myrthe Veth
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije University Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Iris de Weerdt
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Arnon P Kater
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sonja Zweegman
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije University Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Benjamin Winograd
- LAVA Therapeutics, Utrecht, the Netherlands; LAVA Therapeutics, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Tanja D de Gruijl
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije University Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul W H I Parren
- LAVA Therapeutics, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Immunology, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Hans J van der Vliet
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije University Amsterdam, Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; LAVA Therapeutics, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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2
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Choi J, Rudak PT, Lesage S, Haeryfar SMM. Glycolipid Stimulation of Invariant NKT Cells Expands a Unique Tissue-Resident Population of Precursors to Mature NK Cells Endowed with Oncolytic and Antimetastatic Properties. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 203:1808-1819. [PMID: 31462506 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1900487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Invariant NKT (iNKT) cells are innate-like T lymphocytes that recognize and respond to glycolipid Ags such as α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer). This unique property has been exploited in clinical trials for multiple malignancies. While investigating mouse iNKT cell responses to α-GalCer in vivo, we found a dramatically enlarged tissue-resident population surprisingly coexpressing select dendritic cell, NK cell, and B cell markers. Further phenotypic and functional analyses revealed the identity of this B220+CD11c+MHC class II+NK1.1+ population as precursors to mature NK (pre-mNK) cells, which also expressed high levels of proliferation and tissue retention markers but diminished sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1, a receptor that facilitates tissue trafficking. Accordingly, FTY720, a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 antagonist, failed to prevent pre-mNK cells' intrahepatic accumulation. We found iNKT cell-driven expansion of pre-mNK cells to be dependent on IL-12 and IL-18. Although α-GalCer-transactivated pre-mNK cells lost their capacity to process a model tumor Ag, they selectively expressed granzyme A and directly lysed YAC-1 thymoma cells through granule exocytosis. They also contributed to β2 microglobulin-deficient target cell destruction in vivo. Therefore, α-GalCer treatment skewed pre-mNK cell responses away from an APC-like phenotype and toward killer cell-like functions. Finally, the ability of α-GalCer to reduce the pulmonary metastatic burden of B16-F10 mouse melanoma was partially reversed by in vivo depletion of pre-mNK cells. To our knowledge, our findings shed new light on iNKT cells' mechanism of action and glycolipid-based immunotherapies. Therefore, we introduce pre-mNK cells as a novel downstream effector cell type whose anticancer properties may have been overlooked in previous investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Choi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Patrick T Rudak
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Sylvie Lesage
- Department of Immunology-Oncology, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec H1T 2M4, Canada
| | - S M Mansour Haeryfar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada; .,Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5A5, Canada.,Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5A5, Canada; and.,Centre for Human Immunology, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 5C1, Canada
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3
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Simon B, Wiesinger M, März J, Wistuba-Hamprecht K, Weide B, Schuler-Thurner B, Schuler G, Dörrie J, Uslu U. The Generation of CAR-Transfected Natural Killer T Cells for the Immunotherapy of Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19082365. [PMID: 30103488 PMCID: PMC6121949 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19082365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 08/05/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells represent a cell subpopulation that combines characteristics of natural killer (NK) cells and T cells. Through their endogenous T-cell receptors (TCRs), they reveal a pronounced intrinsic anti-tumor activity. Thus, a NKT cell transfected with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR), which recognizes a tumor-specific surface antigen, could attack tumor cells antigen-specifically via the CAR and additionally through its endogenous TCR. NKT cells were isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), expanded, and electroporated with mRNA encoding a chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4 (CSPG4)-specific CAR. The CAR expression on NKT cells and their in vitro functionality were analyzed. A transfection efficiency of more than 80% was achieved. Upon stimulation with melanoma cells, CAR-NKT cells produced cytokines antigen-specifically. Compared with conventional CAR-T cells, cytokine secretion of CAR-NKT cells was generally lower. Specific cytotoxicity, however, was similar with CAR-NKT cells showing a trend towards improved cytotoxicity. Additionally, CAR-NKT cells could kill target cells through their endogenous TCRs. In summary, it is feasible to generate CAR-NKT cells by using mRNA electroporation. Their CAR-mediated cytotoxicity is at least equal to that of conventional CAR-T cells, while their intrinsic cytotoxic activity is maintained. Thus, CAR-NKT cells may represent a valuable alternative to conventional CAR-T cells for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Simon
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Division of Genetics, Department of Biology, 91058 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Manuel Wiesinger
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Johannes März
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Kilian Wistuba-Hamprecht
- Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen, University Medical Center, Department of Dermatology, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Benjamin Weide
- Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen, University Medical Center, Department of Dermatology, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Beatrice Schuler-Thurner
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Gerold Schuler
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Jan Dörrie
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Ugur Uslu
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, 91054 Erlangen, Germany.
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4
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Krijgsman D, Hokland M, Kuppen PJK. The Role of Natural Killer T Cells in Cancer-A Phenotypical and Functional Approach. Front Immunol 2018. [PMID: 29535734 PMCID: PMC5835336 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a subset of CD1d-restricted T cells at the interface between the innate and adaptive immune system. NKT cells can be subdivided into functional subsets that respond rapidly to a wide variety of glycolipids and stress-related proteins using T- or natural killer (NK) cell-like effector mechanisms. Because of their major modulating effects on immune responses via secretion of cytokines, NKT cells are also considered important players in tumor immunosurveillance. During early tumor development, T helper (TH)1-like NKT cell subsets have the potential to rapidly stimulate tumor-specific T cells and effector NK cells that can eliminate tumor cells. In case of tumor progression, NKT cells may become overstimulated and anergic leading to deletion of a part of the NKT cell population in patients via activation-induced cell death. In addition, the remaining NKT cells become hyporesponsive, or switch to immunosuppressive TH2-/T regulatory-like NKT cell subsets, thereby facilitating tumor progression and immune escape. In this review, we discuss this important role of NKT cells in tumor development and we conclude that there should be three important focuses of future research in cancer patients in relation with NKT cells: (1) expansion of the NKT cell population, (2) prevention and breaking of NKT cell anergy, and (3) skewing of NKT cells toward TH1-like subsets with antitumor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniëlle Krijgsman
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Peter J K Kuppen
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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5
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Cole SL, Benam KH, McMichael AJ, Ho LP. Involvement of the 4-1BB/4-1BBL pathway in control of monocyte numbers by invariant NKT cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2014; 192:3898-907. [PMID: 24639347 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1302385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
4-1BB is expressed on invariant (i)NKT cells, but its role is unclear. We showed previously that iNKT cells are involved in control of monocyte numbers during influenza A virus (IAV) infection and now question the role of the 4-1BB costimulatory pathway in the cross-talk between these cells. We found that iNKT cells and monocytes interact to promote expression of 4-1BB and 4-1BBL, respectively. Blockade of 4-1BB/L pathway under resting coculture conditions increased apoptosis of iNKT cells and monocytes. However, activation of iNKT cells overrides this survival signal, causing marked apoptosis of monocytes independent of 4-1BB/L. Blocking 4-1BBL in alpha-galactosylceramide-activated iNKT-monocyte cocultures reduced iNKT proliferation and abrogated monocytic IL-12 production. In vivo, expression of 4-1BB and 4-1BBL is increased on iNKT cells and Ly6C(hi) monocytes, respectively, during IAV infection, and there were lower frequencies of apoptosing Ly6C(hi) monocytes in the blood of iNKT knockout mice and higher numbers of monocytes in lungs compared with infected wild-type mice. Adoptive transfer of iNKT cells into the lungs of these mice reduced lung Ly6C(hi) monocytes levels, even when iNKT cells were preincubated with 4-1BB blocking Abs. These findings suggest that under resting conditions, 4-1BB/L engagement during iNKT-monocyte interaction promotes survival of these cells. When iNKT cells are activated, whether by alpha-galactosylceramide or during IAV infection, iNKT cells induced apoptosis of monocytes via a 4-1BB/L-independent mechanism, reducing monocyte numbers. 4-1BB/L costimulation amplified monocyte-mediated proliferation of iNKT cells, indirectly providing a method for monocytes to control their own numbers during infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne L Cole
- Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DS, United Kingdom
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6
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de Lalla C, Rinaldi A, Montagna D, Azzimonti L, Bernardo ME, Sangalli LM, Paganoni AM, Maccario R, Di Cesare-Merlone A, Zecca M, Locatelli F, Dellabona P, Casorati G. Invariant NKT Cell Reconstitution in Pediatric Leukemia Patients Given HLA-Haploidentical Stem Cell Transplantation Defines Distinct CD4+and CD4−Subset Dynamics and Correlates with Remission State. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2011; 186:4490-9. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1003748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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7
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NKT cell costimulation: experimental progress and therapeutic promise. Trends Mol Med 2010; 17:65-77. [PMID: 21087900 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2010.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2010] [Revised: 10/15/2010] [Accepted: 10/19/2010] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are innate lymphocytes with unique specificity for glycolipid antigens and remarkable immunomodulatory properties. The role of costimulatory interactions in iNKT cell responses has recently come under scrutiny. Although iNKT cells and their prototype glycolipid agonist α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer) have shown promise in several clinical trials conducted in patients with cancer or viral diseases, current iNKT cell-based therapies are far from effective. The concomitant targeting of T cell receptors (TCRs) and costimulatory molecules on iNKT cells represents an exciting new opportunity to optimize such therapeutic approaches. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of iNKT cell costimulation and discuss potential treatment modalities based on the responsiveness of iNKT cells to disease-tailored glycolipids and select costimulatory ligands.
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8
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Takahashi T, Kurokawa M. Human invariant natural killer T cells: implications for immunotherapy. Int J Hematol 2009; 90:137-142. [PMID: 19639273 DOI: 10.1007/s12185-009-0379-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2009] [Revised: 06/17/2009] [Accepted: 06/25/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Human invariant natural killer T cells are a unique lymphocyte population that have an invariant T-cell receptor and recognize glycolipids instead of peptides in the restriction of CD1d molecules. These natural killer T cells play important roles in anti-tumor immunity, transplantation immunity, allergy, autoimmunity and microbial immunity. Since human natural killer T cells show high-level biological activity such as cytokine production, an anti-tumor effect and regulatory T-cell control, they may be a useful tool in immune-cell therapy. In this review, we summarize the immune responses mediated by human natural killer T cells, especially in tumor and transplantation immunity, and discuss their potential in clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Takahashi
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Mineo Kurokawa
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
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9
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Bagnara D, Ibatici A, Corselli M, Sessarego N, Tenca C, De Santanna A, Mazzarello A, Daga A, Corvò R, De Rossi G, Frassoni F, Ciccone E, Fais F. Adoptive immunotherapy mediated by ex vivo expanded natural killer T cells against CD1d-expressing lymphoid neoplasms. Haematologica 2009; 94:967-74. [PMID: 19454494 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2008.001339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CD1d is a monomorphic antigen presentation molecule expressed in several hematologic malignancies. Alpha-galactosylceramide (alpha-GalCer) is a glycolipid that can be presented to cytotoxic CD1d-restricted T cells. These reagents represent a potentially powerful tool for cell mediated immunotherapy. DESIGN AND METHODS We set up an experimental model to evaluate the use of adoptively transferred cytotoxic CD1d-restricted T cells and alpha-GalCer in the treatment of mice engrafted with CD1d(+) lymphoid neoplastic cells. To this end the C1R cell line was transfected with CD1c or CD1d molecules. In addition, upon retroviral infection firefly luciferase was expressed on C1R transfected cell lines allowing the evaluation of tumor growth in xenografted immunodeficient NOD/SCID mice. RESULTS The C1R-CD1d cell line was highly susceptible to specific CD1d-restricted T cell cytotoxicity in the presence alpha-GalCer in vitro. After adoptive transfer of CD1d-restricted T cells and alpha-GalCer to mice engrafted with both C1R-CD1c and C1R-CD1d, a reduction in tumor growth was observed only in CD1d(+) masses. In addition, CD1d-restricted T-cell treatment plus alpha-GalCer eradicated small C1R-CD1d(+) nodules. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that infiltrating NKT cells were mainly observed in CD1d nodules. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that ex vivo expanded cytotoxic CD1d-restricted T cells and alpha-GalCer may represent a new immunotherapeutic tool for treatment of CD1d(+) hematologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Bagnara
- Human Anatomy Section, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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10
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Dhodapkar MV. Harnessing human CD1d restricted T cells for tumor immunity: progress and challenges. FRONT BIOSCI-LANDMRK 2009; 14:796-807. [PMID: 19273100 PMCID: PMC2762346 DOI: 10.2741/3278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Glycolipid reactive CD1d restricted natural killer T (NKT) cells represent a distinct population of T cells implicated in the regulation of immune responses in a broad range of diseases including cancer. Several studies have demonstrated the capacity of NKT cells bearing an invariant T cell receptor (iNKT cells) to recruit both innate and adaptive anti-tumor immunity and mediate tumor rejection in mice. Early phase clinical studies in humans have demonstrated the capacity of dendritic cells (DCs) to mediate expansion of NKT cells in vivo. However several challenges need to be overcome in order to effectively harness the properties of these cells in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhav V Dhodapkar
- Hematology Section, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
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11
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Song W, van der Vliet HJJ, Tai YT, Prabhala R, Wang R, Podar K, Catley L, Shammas M, Anderson KC, Balk SP, Exley MA, Munshi NC. Generation of antitumor invariant natural killer T cell lines in multiple myeloma and promotion of their functions via lenalidomide: a strategy for immunotherapy. Clin Cancer Res 2008; 14:6955-62. [PMID: 18980990 PMCID: PMC2967459 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-07-5290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE CD1d-restricted invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are important immunoregulatory cells in antitumor immune responses. However, the quantitative and qualitative defects of iNKT cells in advanced multiple myeloma hamper their antitumor effects. Therefore, the development of functional iNKT cells may provide a novel strategy for the immunotherapy in multiple myeloma. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We activated and expanded iNKT cells from multiple myeloma patients with alpha-galactosylceramide (alpha-GalCer)-pulsed dendritic cells, characterized their antitumor effects by the cytokine production profile and cytotoxicity against multiple myeloma cells, and explored the effects of immunomodulatory drug lenalidomide on these iNKT cells. We also investigated the expression of CD1d by primary multiple myeloma cells and its function to activate iNKT cells. RESULTS We established highly purified functional iNKT cell lines from newly diagnosed and advanced multiple myeloma patients. These CD1d-restricted iNKT cell lines produced high level of antitumor Th1 cytokine in response to alpha-GalCer-pulsed primary multiple myeloma cells, CD1d-transfected MM1S cell line, and dendritic cells. Moreover, iNKT cell lines displayed strong cytotoxicity against alpha-GalCer-pulsed primary multiple myeloma cells. Importantly, lenalidomide further augmented the Th1 polarization by iNKT cell lines via increased Th1 cytokine production and reduced Th2 cytokine production. We also showed that CD1d was expressed in primary multiple myeloma cells at mRNA and protein levels from the majority of multiple myeloma patients, but not in normal plasma cells and multiple myeloma cell lines, and CD1d(+) primary multiple myeloma cells presented antigens to activate iNKT cell lines. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our results provide the preclinical evidence for the iNKT cell-mediated immunotherapy and a rationale for their use in combination with lenalidomide in multiple myeloma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihua Song
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Hans J. J. van der Vliet
- Cancer Biology Program, Hematology/Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel-Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Yu-Tzu Tai
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Rao Prabhala
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Veterans Administration (VA) Boston Health Care System, Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA
| | - Ruojie Wang
- Cancer Biology Program, Hematology/Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel-Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Klaus Podar
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Laurence Catley
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Masood Shammas
- Veterans Administration (VA) Boston Health Care System, Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA
| | - Kenneth C. Anderson
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Steven P. Balk
- Cancer Biology Program, Hematology/Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel-Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Mark A. Exley
- Cancer Biology Program, Hematology/Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel-Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Nikhil C. Munshi
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Veterans Administration (VA) Boston Health Care System, Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA
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12
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Abstract
CD1d-restricted T cells (NKT cells) are potent regulators of a broad range of immune responses. In particular, an abundance of research has focussed on the role of NKT cells in tumor immunity. This field of research has been greatly facilitated by the finding of agonist ligands capable of potently stimulating NKT cells and also animal models where NKT cells have been shown to play a natural role in the surveillance of tumors. Herein, we review the capability of NKT cells to promote the rejection of tumors and the mechanisms by which this occurs. We also highlight a growing field of research that has found that NKT cells are capable of suppressing anti-tumor immunity and discuss the progress to date for the immunotherapeutic use of NKT cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Swann
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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13
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Dougan SK, Kaser A, Blumberg RS. CD1 expression on antigen-presenting cells. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2007; 314:113-41. [PMID: 17593659 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-69511-0_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
CD1 proteins present self and microbial glycolipids to CD 1-restricted T cells, or in the case of CD1d, to NKT cells. The CD1 family in humans consists of group I proteins CDla, CDlb, CDlc, and CDle and the group II protein CDld. Rodents express only CDld, but as CD1d is broadly expressed and traffics to all endosomal compartments, this single CD1 family member is thereby able to acquire antigens in many subcellular compartments. A complete understanding of the CD 1 family requires an appreciation of which cells express CD1 and how CD1 contributes to the unique function of each cell type. While group I CD 1 expression is limited to thymocytes and professional APCs, CD1d has a wider tissue distribution and can be found on many nonhematopoietic cells. The expression and regulation of CD1 are presented here with particular emphasis on the function of CD1 in thymocytes, B cells, monocytes and macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), and intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). Altered expression of CD 1 in cancer, autoimmunity, and infectious disease is well documented, and the implication of CD 1 expression in these diseases is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Dougan
- Gastroenterology Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital,75 Francis St, Thorn 1415, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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14
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Haraguchi K, Takahashi T, Nakahara F, Matsumoto A, Kurokawa M, Ogawa S, Oda H, Hirai H, Chiba S. CD1d expression level in tumor cells is an important determinant for anti-tumor immunity by natural killer T cells. Leuk Lymphoma 2007; 47:2218-23. [PMID: 17071498 DOI: 10.1080/10428190600682688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are thought to regulate anti-tumor immunity. Human iNKT (i.e. Valpha24+ NKT) cells have been reported to recognize CD1d on target cells and show cytotoxicity directly on the target cells in vitro. However, the anti-tumor effect of mouse iNKT (i.e. Valpha14+ NKT) cells has been repeatedly reported to be dependent on the activity of natural killer (NK) cells via interferon-gamma, with no evidence of direct cytotoxicity. In the present study, we report that in vitro cytolysis of EL-4 mouse lymphoblastic lymphoma cells by Valpha24+ NKT cells and in vivo eradication of these cells are both dependent on the level of CD1d expression on the tumor cell surface. These observations possibly suggest that direct cytotoxicity of tumor cells by iNKT cells is common to both humans and mice, and that the high expression level of CD1d may be a predictor whether the tumor is a good target of iNKT cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoko Haraguchi
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine and Hospital, Hongo, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Abstract
Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a small but powerful subset of regulatory T cells involved in the modulation of a variety of normal and pathological immune responses. In contrast to conventional or other types of regulatory T cells, they are activated by glycolipid and phospholipid ligands that are presented to them by the non-polymorphic, major histocompatibility complex class I-like molecule CD1d. The in-depth understanding of their function has resulted in successful, iNKT cell-centred experimental therapeutic interventions including prevention of graft-versus-host disease and anti-leukaemia effects. Extending these successes into the clinical arena will require better understanding of their contribution to the pathogenesis of human, including haematological, diseases.
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16
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Jerud ES, Bricard G, Porcelli SA. CD1d-Restricted Natural Killer T Cells: Roles in Tumor Immunosurveillance and Tolerance. Transfus Med Hemother 2006. [DOI: 10.1159/000090193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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17
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Mattarollo SR, Kenna T, Nieda M, Nicol AJ. Chemotherapy pretreatment sensitizes solid tumor-derived cell lines to Vα24+ NKT cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Int J Cancer 2006; 119:1630-7. [PMID: 16646079 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.22019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
There is an increasing awareness of the therapeutic potential for combining immune-based therapies with chemotherapy in the treatment of malignant diseases, but few published studies evaluate possible cytotoxic synergies between chemotherapy and cytotoxic immune cells. Human V alpha 24+/V beta 11+ NKT cells are being evaluated for use in cell-based immunotherapy of malignancy because of their immune regulatory functions and potent cytotoxic potential. In this study, we evaluated the cytotoxicity of combinations of chemotherapy and NKT cells to determine whether there is a potential to combine these treatment modalities for human cancer therapy. The cytotoxicity of NKT cells was tested against solid-tumor derived cell lines NCI-H358, DLD-1, HT-29, DU-145, TSU-Pr1 and MDA-MB231, with or without prior treatment of these target cells, with a range of chemotherapy agents. Low concentrations of chemotherapeutic agents led to sensitization of cell lines to NKT-mediated cytotoxicity, with the greatest effect being observed for prostate cancer cells. Synergistic cytotoxicity occurred in an NKT cell in a dose-dependent manner. Chemotherapy agents induced upregulation of cell surface TRAIL-R2 (DR5) and Fas (CD95) expression, increasing the capacity for NKT cells to recognize and kill via TRAIL- and FasL-mediated pathways. We conclude that administration of cytotoxic immune cells after chemotherapy may increase antitumor activities in comparison with the use of either treatment alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen R Mattarollo
- Centre for Immune and Targeted Therapy, University of Queensland, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
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18
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Abstract
Recent studies have shown that the recognition of lipid antigens by the immune system is important for defence against infection and other diseases, and that lipid-specific responses occur at higher frequencies than previously suspected. Thanks to several recent advances in this field, we now have a better appreciation of the molecular and cellular requirements of T-cell stimulation by lipids. These findings have raised new questions about the mechanisms of lipid presentation, the priming and clonal expansion of lipid-specific T cells, and their differentiation into memory cells. A greater understanding of lipid-specific T cells and the molecular mechanisms of lipid immunogenicity should facilitate the development of lipid-based vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro De Libero
- Experimental Immunology, Department of Research, University Hospital, Basel 4031, Switzerland.
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19
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Molling JW, Kölgen W, van der Vliet HJJ, Boomsma MF, Kruizenga H, Smorenburg CH, Molenkamp BG, Langendijk JA, Leemans CR, von Blomberg BME, Scheper RJ, van den Eertwegh AJM. Peripheral blood IFN-gamma-secreting Valpha24+Vbeta11+ NKT cell numbers are decreased in cancer patients independent of tumor type or tumor load. Int J Cancer 2005; 116:87-93. [PMID: 15756674 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.20998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer T (NKT) cells are CD1d-restricted lymphoid cells and are characterized by an invariant T-cell receptor, which in humans consists of a Valpha24 chain paired with a Vbeta11 chain. These cells are known for their rapid production of large amounts of cytokines (e.g., IFN-gamma and IL-4), thereby modulating other cells of the immune system such as T cells, NK cells and dendritic cells. NKT cells have been reported to play important regulatory roles in many immune responses, including antitumor immune responses. Here, we demonstrate an age-dependent decrease in circulating Valpha24(+)Vbeta11(+) NKT cell numbers in both healthy controls and cancer patients and demonstrate that in both groups females have higher NKT cell levels compared to males. In a large group of 120 cancer patients, we show that circulating Valpha24(+)Vbeta11(+) NKT cell numbers are about 50% lower than in age- and gender-matched healthy controls and that this decrease is independent of tumor type or tumor load. This decrease was not restored upon tumor removal by means of surgery or radiotherapy. Even though the percentage of NKT cells that secrete IFN-gamma, as detected by ELISPOT, is normal in cancer patients, the absolute number of circulating IFN-gamma-secreting NKT cells is reduced. Together, our results suggest that the reduced circulating Valpha24(+)Vbeta11(+) NKT cell numbers in cancer patients are not affected by tumor load, but might actually reflect a risk factor for tumor development, e.g., by hampering efficient tumor immunosurveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan W Molling
- Department of Pathology, Vrije Universiteit Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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20
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Fais F, Tenca C, Cimino G, Coletti V, Zanardi S, Bagnara D, Saverino D, Zarcone D, De Rossi G, Ciccone E, Grossi CE. CD1d expression on B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia subsets with poor prognosis. Leukemia 2005; 19:551-6. [PMID: 15744356 DOI: 10.1038/sj.leu.2403671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most frequent malignancy of childhood. Although therapeutical advances have been achieved, some ALL subgroups still fare poorly. CD1d is a monomorphic molecule that provides a suitable target for immunotherapy in view of the characterization of a glycolipid, alpha-galactosylceramide (alpha-GalCer), capable of being presented to CD1d-restricted T cells with cytotoxic potential. We investigated CD1d expression in 80 pediatric B-cell precursor (BCP) ALL cases defined according to immunophenotype, cytogenetic features and age at onset. CD1d was detected on ALL cells in 15% of the patients. CD1d+ ALLs were significantly associated with infant leukemia, pro-B phenotype and mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL)/AF4 gene rearrangement. Accordingly, overall survival of patients with CD1d+ ALL was significantly shorter. CD1d+ leukemic blasts were able to present alpha-GalCer via CD1d to cytotoxic CD1d-restricted T cells, which induced apoptosis of ALL cells that was inhibited by mAb to CD1d. CD1d+ blasts loaded with alpha-GalCer elicited cytokine secretion by CD1d-restricted T cells. Analysis of bone marrow (BM) cells derived from normal donors revealed that CD19+/CD1d+ cells were mostly mature B lymphocytes. However, a minority of BCPs expressed CD1d. Thus, expression of CD1d in ALL cases heralds an adverse prognosis but may provide a therapeutic tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Fais
- Human Anatomy Section, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Italy.
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21
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Tanaka J, Asaka M, Imamura M. Potential Role of Natural Killer Cell Receptor-Expressing Cells in Immunotherapy for Leukemia. Int J Hematol 2005; 81:6-12. [PMID: 15717681 DOI: 10.1532/ijh97.04152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer cell receptor (NKR)-expressing cells have cytolytic activity against leukemic cells, and solid tumor cells escape from T-cell recognition because of the low expression levels of class I HLA molecules in both allogeneic and autologous settings. This characteristic feature of NK cell recognition of target cells in contrast with that of T-cells provides a strategy to overcome tolerance in the tumor-bearing host. Furthermore, inhibitory NKR-expressing cells may have cytolytic activity and immunoregulatory functions. Several methods can be used to expand NKR-expressing cells for adoptive immunotherapy for leukemia and other malignant diseases. We review recent developments in the biology and clinical application of NKR-expressing cells, such as NK cells, lymphokine-activated killer cells, cytokine-induced killer cells, NKT cells, and other NKR-expressing cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junji Tanaka
- Hematology and Oncology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan.
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22
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Abstract
This review summarizes the major features of CD1 genes and proteins, the patterns of intracellular trafficking of CD1 molecules, and how they sample different intracellular compartments for self- and foreign lipids. We describe how lipid antigens bind to CD1 molecules with their alkyl chains buried in hydrophobic pockets and expose their polar lipid headgroup whose fine structure is recognized by the TCR of CD1-restricted T cells. CD1-restricted T cells carry out effector, helper, and adjuvant-like functions and interact with other cell types including macrophages, dendritic cells, NK cells, T cells, and B cells, thereby contributing to both innate and adaptive immune responses. Insights gained from mice and humans now delineate the extensive range of diseases in which CD1-restricted T cells play important roles and reveal differences in the role of CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c in contrast to CD1d. Invariant TCR alpha chains, self-lipid reactivity, and rapid effector responses empower a subset of CD1d-restricted T cells (NKT cells) to have unique effector functions without counterpart among MHC-restricted T cells. This review describes the function of CD1-restricted T cells in antimicrobial responses, antitumor immunity, and in regulating the balance between tolerance and autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manfred Brigl
- Division of Rheumatology, Immunology, and Allergy, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
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23
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Rogers PR, Matsumoto A, Naidenko O, Kronenberg M, Mikayama T, Kato S. Expansion of human Valpha24+ NKT cells by repeated stimulation with KRN7000. J Immunol Methods 2004; 285:197-214. [PMID: 14980434 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2003.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2003] [Revised: 10/21/2003] [Accepted: 12/01/2003] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Changes in Valpha24+Vbeta11+ NKT cell number and function are associated with human autoimmune diseases and cancer. Restoration of this corresponding NKT cell population in mice or in vivo activation with alpha-galactosylceramide (KRN7000) can prevent or reduce tumor growth and autoimmunity. Although the therapeutic value of these natural killer T (NKT) cells in man remains to be determined, large numbers of functional antigen-specific NKT cells can be expanded in vitro. We show that Valpha24+Vbeta11+ human NKT cells are expanded by repeated stimulation with KRN7000, unfractionated donor peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), and recombinant human interleukin-2 (rhIL-2). NKT cells were expanded continuously for more than 2 months with a potential yield of >10(12) cells. The expanded NKT cells retained their CD4+ or CD4- phenotype after restimulation and were functional as shown by cytokine secretion, killing of antigen-pulsed target cells, and activation of NK cell cytotoxicity. This expansion method may be useful for proof-of-concept studies involving adoptive transfer of ex vivo-expanded NKT cells as a new therapeutic option for cancer and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul R Rogers
- Research Laboratory, Gemini Science, Inc., 10355 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA.
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