1
|
Chen H, Zhu Y, Zhang C, Hu L, Yang K. Engineered bacteria in tumor immunotherapy. Cancer Lett 2024; 589:216817. [PMID: 38492769 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216817] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
As the limitations of cancer immunotherapy become increasingly apparent, there is considerable anticipation regarding the utilization of biological tools to enhance treatment efficacy, particularly bacteria and their derivatives. Leveraging advances in genetic and synthetic biology technologies, engineered bacteria now play important roles far beyond those of conventional immunoregulatory agents, and they could function as tumor-targeting vehicles and in situ pharmaceutical factories. In recent years, these engineered bacteria play a role in almost every aspect of immunotherapy. It is nothing short of impressive to keep seeing different strain of bacteria modified in diverse ways for unique immunological enhancement. In this review, we have scrutinized the intricate interplay between the immune system and these engineered bacteria. These interactions generate strategies that can directly or indirectly optimize immunotherapy and even modulate the effects of combination therapies. Collectively, these engineered bacteria present a promising novel therapeutic strategy that promises to change the current landscape of immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yinrui Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Chonghai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Lin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Kai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sharma S, Sharma H, Gogoi H. Bacterial immunotherapy: is it a weapon in our arsenal in the fight against cancer? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1277677. [PMID: 38090593 PMCID: PMC10711065 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1277677] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in understanding the genetic basis of cancer have driven alternative treatment approaches. Recent findings have demonstrated the potential of bacteria and it's components to serve as robust theranostic agents for cancer eradication. Compared to traditional cancer therapies like surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, bacteria mediated tumor therapy has exhibited superior cancer suppressing property which is attributed a lot to it's tumor proliferating and accumulating characteristics. Genetically modified bacteria has reduced inherent toxicity and enhanced specificity towards tumor microenvironment. This anti- tumor activity of bacteria is attributed to its toxins and other active components from the cell membrane, cell wall and spores. Furthermore, bacterial genes can be regulated to express and deliver cytokines, antibodies and cancer therapeutics. Although there is less clinical data available, the pre- clinical research clearly indicates the feasibility and potential of bacteria- mediated cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shubhra Sharma
- Amity Institute of Microbial Technology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
| | - Himani Sharma
- Amity Institute of Microbial Technology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
| | - Himanshu Gogoi
- Amity Institute of Microbial Technology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, National Capital Region (NCR) Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Raman V, Deshpande CP, Khanduja S, Howell LM, Van Dessel N, Forbes NS. Build-a-bug workshop: Using microbial-host interactions and synthetic biology tools to create cancer therapies. Cell Host Microbe 2023; 31:1574-1592. [PMID: 37827116 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2023.09.006] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Many systemically administered cancer therapies exhibit dose-limiting toxicities that reduce their effectiveness. To increase efficacy, bacterial delivery platforms have been developed that improve safety and prolong treatment. Bacteria are a unique class of therapy that selectively colonizes most solid tumors. As delivery vehicles, bacteria have been genetically modified to express a range of therapies that match multiple cancer indications. In this review, we describe a modular "build-a-bug" method that focuses on five design characteristics: bacterial strain (chassis), therapeutic compound, delivery method, immune-modulating features, and genetic control circuits. We emphasize how fundamental research into gut microbe pathogenesis has created safe bacterial therapies, some of which have entered clinical trials. The genomes of gut microbes are fertile grounds for discovery of components to improve delivery and modulate host immune responses. Future work coupling these delivery vehicles with insights from gut microbes could lead to the next generation of microbial cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vishnu Raman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA; Ernest Pharmaceuticals, LLC, Hadley, MA, USA
| | - Chinmay P Deshpande
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Shradha Khanduja
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Lars M Howell
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | | | - Neil S Forbes
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA; Molecular and Cell Biology Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA; Institute for Applied Life Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Anderson TS, McCormick AL, Daugherity EA, Oladejo M, Okpalanwaka IF, Smith SL, Appiah D, Wood LM, Lowe DB. Listeria-based vaccination against the pericyte antigen RGS5 elicits anti-vascular effects and colon cancer protection. Oncoimmunology 2023; 12:2260620. [PMID: 37781234 PMCID: PMC10540654 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2023.2260620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality despite efforts to improve standard interventions. As CRC patients can benefit from immunotherapeutic strategies that incite effector T cell action, cancer vaccines represent a safe and promising therapeutic approach to elicit protective and durable immune responses against components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we investigate the pre-clinical potential of a Listeria monocytogenes (Lm)-based vaccine targeting the CRC-associated vasculature. CRC survival and progression are reliant on functioning blood vessels to effectively mediate various metabolic processes and oxygenate underlying tissues. We, therefore, advance the strategy of initiating immunity in syngeneic mouse models against the endogenous pericyte antigen RGS5, which is a critical mediator of pathological vascularization. Overall, Lm-based vaccination safely induced potent anti-tumor effects that consisted of recruiting functional Type-1-associated T cells into the TME and reducing tumor blood vessel content. This study underscores the promising clinical potential of targeting RGS5 against vascularized tumors like CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trevor S. Anderson
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, USA
| | - Amanda L. McCormick
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Daugherity
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, USA
| | - Mariam Oladejo
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, USA
| | - Izuchukwu F. Okpalanwaka
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, USA
| | - Savanna L. Smith
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, USA
| | - Duke Appiah
- Department of Public Health, School of Population and Public Health, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Laurence M. Wood
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, USA
| | - Devin B. Lowe
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H. Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ji H, Jiang Z, Wei C, Ma Y, Zhao J, Wang F, Zhao B, Wang D, Tang D. Intratumoural microbiota: from theory to clinical application. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:164. [PMID: 37381018 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01134-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a major cause of high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Several environmental, genetic and lifestyle factors are associated with the development of cancer in humans and result in suboptimal treatment. The human microbiota has been implicated in the pathophysiological process of cancer and has been used as a diagnostic, prognostic and risk assessment tool in cancer management. Notably, both extratumoural and intratumoural microbiota are important components of the tumor microenvironment, subtly influencing tumorigenesis, progression, treatment and prognosis. The potential oncogenic mechanisms of action of the intratumoural microbiota include induction of DNA damage, influence on cell signaling pathways and impairment of immune responses. Some naturally occurring or genetically engineered microorganisms can specifically accumulate and replicate in tumors and then initiate various anti-tumor programs, ultimately promoting the therapeutic effect of tumor microbiota and reducing the toxic and side effects of conventional tumor treatments, which may be conducive to the pursuit of accurate cancer treatment. In this review, we summarise evidence revealing the impact of the intratumoural microbiota on cancer occurrence and progress and potential therapeutic and diagnostic applications, which may be a promising novel strategy to inhibit tumor development and enhance therapeutic efficacy. Video Abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Ji
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhengting Jiang
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chen Wei
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yichao Ma
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jiahao Zhao
- Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Clinical Medical College, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Clinical Medical College, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Daorong Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of General Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou, 225000, China
| | - Dong Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of General Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou, 225000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Molecular Characterization of CF33 Canine Cell Line and Evaluation of Its Ability to Respond against Infective Stressors in Sight of Anticancer Approaches. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9100543. [PMID: 36288156 PMCID: PMC9610178 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9100543] [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: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Canine mammary cancer is very common and has many similarities with human breast cancer. Risk factors, physiological and pathological behaviors, and the clinical course in dogs are very similar to humans. Several molecular similarities have also been reported, such as overexpression of EGF, proliferation markers, metalloproteinase and cyclooxygenase, TP53 mutations, and CXCR4/SDF1 axis activation. These common characteristics make these breast tumors resistant to conventional therapies. It is therefore necessary to study therapeutic alternatives. Cell lines could be helpful to test in vitro immunomodulant anti-cancer therapies, allowing a reduction of laboratory animals’ involvement in the preliminary tests and achieving results in a shorter time. Although the canine mammary carcinoma cell line CF33 has been widely used in many studies on dog mammary cancer, characterization of its gene expression profile and of the influence of infective stressors of this cell line is poor. Our study shows the interaction of CF33 and Salmonella Typhimurium (ST) as an infective stressor, indicating that these cells may represent an in vitro model for assessing novel therapeutic approaches using bacteria. Abstract Spontaneous mammary tumors are the most frequent neoplasms in bitches and show similarities with human breast cancer in risk factors, clinical course, and histopathology. The poor prognosis of some cancer subtypes, both in human and dog, demands more effective therapeutic approaches. A possible strategy is the new anticancer therapy based on immune response modulation through bacteria or their derivatives on canine mammary carcinoma cell lines. The aim of the present study was to analyze the CF33 cell line in terms of basal expression of immune innate genes, CXCR4 expression, and interaction with infectious stressors. Our results highlight that CF33 maintains gene expression parameters typical of mammary cancer, and provides the basal gene expression of CF33, which is characterized by overexpression of CXCR4, CD44, RAD51, LY96, and a non-continuous expression of TP53 and PTEN. No mutations appeared in the CXCR4 gene until the 58th passage; this may represent important information for studying the CXCR4 pathway as a therapeutic target. Moreover, the CF33 cell line was shown to be able to interact with Salmonella Typhimurium (ST) (an infective stressor), indicating that these cells could be used as an in vitro model for developing innovative therapeutic approaches involving bacteria.
Collapse
|
7
|
Bacteria and bacterial derivatives as delivery carriers for immunotherapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 181:114085. [PMID: 34933064 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
There is growing interest in the role of microorganisms in human health and disease, with evidence showing that new types of biotherapy using engineered bacterial therapeutics, including bacterial derivatives, can address specific mechanisms of disease. The complex interactions between microorganisms and metabolic/immunologic pathways underlie many diseases with unmet medical needs, suggesting that targeting these interactions may improve patient treatment. Using tools from synthetic biology and chemical engineering, non-pathogenic bacteria or bacterial products can be programmed and designed to sense and respond to environmental signals to deliver therapeutic effectors. This review describes current progress in biotherapy using live bacteria and their derivatives to achieve therapeutic benefits against various diseases.
Collapse
|
8
|
Current status of intratumour microbiome in cancer and engineered exogenous microbiota as a promising therapeutic strategy. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 145:112443. [PMID: 34847476 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on the relationship between microbiome and cancer has made significant progress in the past few decades. It is now known that the gut microbiome has multiple effects on tumour biology. However, the relationship between intratumoral bacteria and cancers remains unclear. Growing evidence suggests that intratumoral bacteria are important components of the microenvironment in several types of cancers. Furthermore, several studies have demonstrated that intratumoral bacteria may directly influence tumorigenesis, progression and responses to treatment. Limited studies have been conducted on intratumoral bacteria, and using intratumoral bacteria to treat tumours remains a challenge. Bacteria have been studied as anticancer therapeutics since the 19th century when William B. Coley successfully treated patients with inoperable sarcomas using Streptococcus pyogenes. With the development of synthetic biological approaches, several bacterial species have been genetically engineered to increase their applicability for cancer treatment. Genetically engineered bacteria for cancer therapy have unique properties compared to other treatment methods. They can specifically accumulate within tumours and inhibit cancer growth. In addition, genetically engineered bacteria may be used as a vector to deliver antitumour agents or combined with radiation and chemotherapy to synergise the effectiveness of cancer treatment. However, various problems in treating tumours with genetically engineered bacteria need to be addressed. In this review, we focus on the role of intratumoral bacteria on tumour initiation, progression and responses to chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Moreover, we summarised the recent progress in the treatment of tumours with genetically engineered bacteria.
Collapse
|
9
|
Influence of gut and intratumoral microbiota on the immune microenvironment and anti-cancer therapy. Pharmacol Res 2021; 174:105966. [PMID: 34728366 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Microbiota has been implicated in the regulation of tumor progression and therapeutic efficacy. However, the effect of microbiota on disease progression is context dependent, differing according to tumor types, therapeutic regimens, and composition of the microbiota, calling for a deeper understanding of host-microbiome interactions. Previous studies have demonstrated that gut microbiota influences disease progression by regulating local and systemic immunity. Notably, with the advent of next-generation sequencing technology, intratumoral microbiota has also been found and constitutes an important component of the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we summarize recent knowledge about the identification of intra-tumor microbiota and discuss the role of gut and intratumoral microbiota in solid tumors in the angle of immune microenvironment interaction. Furthermore, we discuss how these findings may benefit current anti-cancer approaches. Key problems to be solved in ongoing and future research are highlighted.
Collapse
|
10
|
Howell LM, Forbes NS. Bacteria-based immune therapies for cancer treatment. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 86:1163-1178. [PMID: 34547442 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Engineered bacterial therapies that target the tumor immune landscape offer a new class of cancer immunotherapy. Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes are two species of bacteria that have been engineered to specifically target tumors and serve as delivery vessels for immunotherapies. Therapeutic bacteria have been engineered to deliver cytokines, gene silencing shRNA, and tumor associated antigens that increase immune activation. Bacterial therapies stimulate both the innate and adaptive immune system, change the immune dynamics of the tumor microenvironment, and offer unique strategies for targeting tumors. Bacteria have innate adjuvant properties, which enable both the delivered molecules and the bacteria themselves to stimulate immune responses. Bacterial immunotherapies that deliver cytokines and tumor-associated antigens have demonstrated clinical efficacy. Harnessing the diverse set of mechanisms that Salmonella and Listeria use to alter the tumor-immune landscape has the potential to generate many new and effective immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lars M Howell
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, United States
| | - Neil S Forbes
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Emerging applications of bacteria as antitumor agents. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 86:1014-1025. [PMID: 33989734 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Bacteria are associated with the human body and colonize the gut, skin, and mucous membranes. These associations can be either symbiotic or pathogenic. In either case, bacteria derive more benefit from their host. The ability of bacteria to enter and survive within the human body can be exploited for human benefit. They can be used as a vehicle for delivering or producing bioactive molecules, such as toxins and lytic enzymes, and eventually for killing tumor cells. Clostridium and Salmonella have been shown to infect and survive within the human body, including in tumors. There is a need to develop genetic circuits, which enable bacterial cells to carry out the following activities: (i) escape the human immune system, (ii) invade tumors, (iii) multiply within the tumorous cells, (iv) produce toxins via quorum sensing at low cell densities, and (v) express suicide genes to undergo cell death or cell lysis after the tumor has been lysed. Thus, bacteria have the potential to be exploited as anticancer agents.
Collapse
|
12
|
Oladejo M, Paterson Y, Wood LM. Clinical Experience and Recent Advances in the Development of Listeria-Based Tumor Immunotherapies. Front Immunol 2021; 12:642316. [PMID: 33936058 PMCID: PMC8081050 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.642316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The promise of tumor immunotherapy to significantly improve survival in patients who are refractory to long-standing therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation, is now being realized. While immune checkpoint inhibitors that target PD-1 and CTLA-4 are leading the charge in clinical efficacy, there are a number of other promising tumor immunotherapies in advanced development such as Listeria-based vaccines. Due to its unique life cycle and ability to induce robust CTL responses, attenuated strains of Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) have been utilized as vaccine vectors targeting both infectious disease and cancer. In fact, preclinical studies in a multitude of cancer types have found Listeria-based vaccines to be highly effective at activating anti-tumor immunity and eradicating tumors. Several clinical trials have now recently reported their results, demonstrating promising efficacy against some cancers, and unique challenges. Development of the Lm-based immunotherapies continues with discovery of improved methods of attenuation, novel uses, and more effective combinatorial regimens. In this review, we provide a brief background of Listeria monocytogenes as a vaccine vector, discuss recent clinical experience with Listeria-based immunotherapies, and detail the advancements in development of improved Listeria-based vaccine platforms and in their utilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Oladejo
- Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, United States
| | - Yvonne Paterson
- Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Laurence M. Wood
- Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Selvanesan BC, Meena K, Beck A, Meheus L, Lara O, Rooman I, Gravekamp C. Nicotinamide combined with gemcitabine is an immunomodulatory therapy that restrains pancreatic cancer in mice. J Immunother Cancer 2020; 8:e001250. [PMID: 33154149 PMCID: PMC7646363 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatments for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma are poorly effective, at least partly due to the tumor's immune-suppressive stromal compartment. New evidence of positive effects on immune responses in the tumor microenvironment (TME), compelled us to test the combination of gemcitabine (GEM), a standard chemotherapeutic for pancreatic cancer, with nicotinamide (NAM), the amide form of niacin (vitamin B3), in mice with pancreatic cancer. METHODS Various mouse tumor models of pancreatic cancer, that is, orthotopic Panc-02 and KPC (KrasG12D, p53R172H, Pdx1-Cre) grafts, were treated alternately with NAM and GEM for 2 weeks, and the effects on efficacy, survival, stromal architecture and tumor-infiltrating immune cells was examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC), flow cytometry, Enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT), T cell depletions in vivo, Nanostring analysis and RNAscope. RESULTS A significant reduction in tumor weight and number of metastases was found, as well as a significant improved survival of the NAM+GEM group compared with all control groups. IHC and flow cytometry showed a significant decrease in tumor-associated macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells in the tumors of NAM+GEM-treated mice. This correlated with a significant increase in the number of CD4 and CD8 T cells of NAM+GEM-treated tumors, and CD4 and CD8 T cell responses to tumor-associated antigen survivin, most likely through epitope spreading. In vivo depletions of T cells demonstrated the involvement of CD4 T cells in the eradication of the tumor by NAM+GEM treatment. In addition, remodeling of the tumor stroma was observed with decreased collagen I and lower expression of hyaluronic acid binding protein, reorganization of the immune cells into lymph node like structures and CD31 positive vessels. Expression profiling for a panel of immuno-oncology genes revealed significant changes in genes involved in migration and activation of T cells, attraction of dendritic cells and epitope spreading. CONCLUSION This study highlights the potential of NAM+GEM as immunotherapy for advanced pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kiran Meena
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Amanda Beck
- Michael F. Price Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Lydie Meheus
- AntiCancer Fund, Boechoutlaan, Strombeek-Bever, Belgium
| | - Olaya Lara
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Oncology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ilse Rooman
- AntiCancer Fund, Boechoutlaan, Strombeek-Bever, Belgium
- Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Oncology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Claudia Gravekamp
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Multidirectional Strategies for Targeted Delivery of Oncolytic Viruses by Tumor Infiltrating Immune Cells. Pharmacol Res 2020; 161:105094. [PMID: 32795509 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Oncolytic virus (OV) immunotherapy has demonstrated to be a promising approach in cancer treatment due to tumor-specific oncolysis. However, their clinical use so far has been largely limited due to the lack of suitable delivery strategies with high efficacy. Direct 'intratumoral' injection is the way to cross the hurdles of systemic toxicity, while providing local effects. Progress in this field has enabled the development of alternative way using 'systemic' oncolytic virotherapy for producing better results. One major potential roadblock to systemic OV delivery is the low virus persistence in the face of hostile immune system. The delivery challenge is even greater when attempting to target the oncolytic viruses into the entire tumor mass, where not all tumor cells are equally exposed to exactly the same microenvironment. The microenvironment of many tumors is known to be massively infiltrated with various types of leucocytes in both primary and metastatic sites. Interestingly, this intratumoral immune cell heterogeneity exhibits a degree of organized distribution inside the tumor bed as evidenced, for example, by the hypoxic tumor microenviroment where predominantly recruits tumor-associated macrophages. Although in vivo OV delivery seems complicated and challenging, recent results are encouraging for decreasing the limitations of systemically administered oncolytic viruses and an improved efficiency of oncolytic viral therapy in targeting cancerous tissues in vitro. Here, we review the latest developments of carrier cell-based oncolytic virus delivery using tumor-infiltrating immune cells with a focus on the main features of each cellular vehicle.
Collapse
|
15
|
Rius-Rocabert S, Llinares Pinel F, Pozuelo MJ, García A, Nistal-Villan E. Oncolytic bacteria: past, present and future. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2020; 366:5521890. [PMID: 31226708 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnz136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
More than a century ago, independent groups raised the possibility of using bacteria to selectively infect tumours. Such treatment induces an immune reaction that can cause tumour rejection and protect the patient against further recurrences. One of the first holistic approximations to use bacteria in cancer treatment was performed by William Coley, considered the father of immune-therapy, at the end of XIX century. Since then, many groups have used different bacteria to test their antitumour activity in animal models and patients. The basis for this reactivity implies that innate immune responses activated upon bacteria recognition, also react against the tumour. Different publications have addressed several aspects of oncolytic bacteria. In the present review, we will focus on revisiting the historical aspects using bacteria as oncolytic agents and how they led to the current clinical trials. In addition, we address the molecules present in oncolytic bacteria that induce specific toxic effects against the tumors as well as the activation of host immune responses in order to trigger antitumour immunity. Finally, we discuss future perspectives that could be considered in the different fields implicated in the implementation of this kind of therapy in order to improve the current use of bacteria as oncolytic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Rius-Rocabert
- Microbiology Section, Pharmaceutical and Health Science Department. Faculty of Pharmacy. Instituto de Medicina Molecular Aplicada (IMMA). San Pablo-CEU University. CEU Universities, Campus Montepríncipe. Boadilla del Monte, E-28668 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Llinares Pinel
- Microbiology Section, Pharmaceutical and Health Science Department. Faculty of Pharmacy. Instituto de Medicina Molecular Aplicada (IMMA). San Pablo-CEU University. CEU Universities, Campus Montepríncipe. Boadilla del Monte, E-28668 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Jose Pozuelo
- Microbiology Section, Pharmaceutical and Health Science Department. Faculty of Pharmacy. Instituto de Medicina Molecular Aplicada (IMMA). San Pablo-CEU University. CEU Universities, Campus Montepríncipe. Boadilla del Monte, E-28668 Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonia García
- Centre for Metabolomics and Bioanalysis (CEMBIO), Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, San Pablo-CEU University, Boadilla del Monte, E-28668 Madrid, Spain
| | - Estanislao Nistal-Villan
- Microbiology Section, Pharmaceutical and Health Science Department. Faculty of Pharmacy. Instituto de Medicina Molecular Aplicada (IMMA). San Pablo-CEU University. CEU Universities, Campus Montepríncipe. Boadilla del Monte, E-28668 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Engineering commensal bacteria to rewire host–microbiome interactions. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2020; 62:116-122. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2019.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
17
|
Vitiello M, Evangelista M, Di Lascio N, Kusmic C, Massa A, Orso F, Sarti S, Marranci A, Rodzik K, Germelli L, Chandra D, Salvetti A, Pucci A, Taverna D, Faita F, Gravekamp C, Poliseno L. Antitumoral effects of attenuated Listeria monocytogenes in a genetically engineered mouse model of melanoma. Oncogene 2019; 38:3756-3762. [PMID: 30664692 PMCID: PMC6756113 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-019-0681-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Attenuated Listeria monocytogenes (Lmat-LLO) represents a valuable anticancer vaccine and drug delivery platform. Here we show that in vitro Lmat-LLO causes ROS production and, in turn, apoptotic killing of a wide variety of melanoma cells, irrespectively of their stage, mutational status, sensitivity to BRAF inhibitors or degree of stemness. We also show that, when administered in the therapeutic setting to Braf/Pten genetically engineered mice, Lmat-LLO causes a strong decrease in the size and volume of primary melanoma tumors, as well as a reduction of the metastatic burden. At the molecular level, we confirm that the anti-melanoma activity exerted in vivo by Lmat-LLO depends also on its ability to potentiate the immune response of the organism against the infected tumor. Our data pave the way to the preclinical testing of listeria-based immunotherapeutic strategies against metastatic melanoma, using a genetically engineered mouse rather than xenograft models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Vitiello
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy. .,Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory, ISPRO, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | | | | | - Annamaria Massa
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Francesca Orso
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Center for Complex Systems in Molecular Biology and Medicine, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Samanta Sarti
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy.,Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory, ISPRO, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Marranci
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy.,Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory, ISPRO, Pisa, Italy
| | - Katarzyna Rodzik
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lorenzo Germelli
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy.,Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory, ISPRO, Pisa, Italy
| | - Dinesh Chandra
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Alessandra Salvetti
- Unit of Experimental Biology and Genetics, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Angela Pucci
- Histopathology Department, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Daniela Taverna
- Molecular Biotechnology Center (MBC), University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.,Center for Complex Systems in Molecular Biology and Medicine, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Claudia Gravekamp
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Laura Poliseno
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Pisa, Italy. .,Oncogenomics Unit, Core Research Laboratory, ISPRO, Pisa, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Recent advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy have once again raised the hope that a cure might be within reach for many cancer types. Yet, most late-stage cancers are either insensitive to the therapies to begin with or develop resistance later. Therapy with live tumour-targeting bacteria provides a unique option to meet these challenges. Compared with most other therapeutics, the effectiveness of tumour-targeting bacteria is not directly affected by the 'genetic makeup' of a tumour. Bacteria initiate their direct antitumour effects from deep within the tumour, followed by innate and adaptive antitumour immune responses. As microscopic 'robotic factories', bacterial vectors can be reprogrammed following simple genetic rules or sophisticated synthetic bioengineering principles to produce and deliver anticancer agents on the basis of clinical needs. Therapeutic approaches using live tumour-targeting bacteria can either be applied as a monotherapy or complement other anticancer therapies to achieve better clinical outcomes. In this Review, we summarize the potential benefits and challenges of this approach. We discuss how live bacteria selectively induce tumour regression and provide examples to illustrate different ways to engineer bacteria for improved safety and efficacy. Finally, we share our experience and insights on oncology clinical trials with tumour-targeting bacteria, including a discussion of the regulatory issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shibin Zhou
- Ludwig Center for Cancer Genetics and Therapeutics, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Claudia Gravekamp
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - David Bermudes
- Department of Biology, California State University, Northridge, CA, USA
| | - Ke Liu
- Oncology Branch, Division of Clinical Evaluation, Pharmacology and Toxicology; Office of Tissues and Advanced Therapies, CBER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Forbes NS, Coffin RS, Deng L, Evgin L, Fiering S, Giacalone M, Gravekamp C, Gulley JL, Gunn H, Hoffman RM, Kaur B, Liu K, Lyerly HK, Marciscano AE, Moradian E, Ruppel S, Saltzman DA, Tattersall PJ, Thorne S, Vile RG, Zhang HH, Zhou S, McFadden G. White paper on microbial anti-cancer therapy and prevention. J Immunother Cancer 2018; 6:78. [PMID: 30081947 PMCID: PMC6091193 DOI: 10.1186/s40425-018-0381-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this White Paper, we discuss the current state of microbial cancer therapy. This paper resulted from a meeting ('Microbial Based Cancer Therapy') at the US National Cancer Institute in the summer of 2017. Here, we define 'Microbial Therapy' to include both oncolytic viral therapy and bacterial anticancer therapy. Both of these fields exploit tumor-specific infectious microbes to treat cancer, have similar mechanisms of action, and are facing similar challenges to commercialization. We designed this paper to nucleate this growing field of microbial therapeutics and increase interactions between researchers in it and related fields. The authors of this paper include many primary researchers in this field. In this paper, we discuss the potential, status and opportunities for microbial therapy as well as strategies attempted to date and important questions that need to be addressed. The main areas that we think will have the greatest impact are immune stimulation, control of efficacy, control of delivery, and safety. There is much excitement about the potential of this field to treat currently intractable cancer. Much of the potential exists because these therapies utilize unique mechanisms of action, difficult to achieve with other biological or small molecule drugs. By better understanding and controlling these mechanisms, we will create new therapies that will become integral components of cancer care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neil S Forbes
- grid.266683.f0000 0001 2184 9220Department of Chemical EngineeringUniversity of Massachusetts 159 Goessmann Hall 01003 Amherst MA USA
| | | | - Liang Deng
- 0000 0001 2171 9952grid.51462.34Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center 10065 New York NY USA
| | - Laura Evgin
- 0000 0004 0459 167Xgrid.66875.3aMayo Clinic Rochester USA
| | - Steve Fiering
- 0000 0001 2179 2404grid.254880.3Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth Hanover USA
| | | | - Claudia Gravekamp
- 0000000121791997grid.251993.5Albert Einstein College of Medicine Bronx USA
| | - James L Gulley
- 0000 0004 1936 8075grid.48336.3aNational Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health Bethesda USA
| | | | - Robert M Hoffman
- 0000 0001 2107 4242grid.266100.3UC, San Diego San Diego USA
- 0000 0004 0461 1271grid.417448.aAntiCancer Inc. San Diego USA
| | - Balveen Kaur
- 0000000121548364grid.55460.32University of Texas Austin USA
| | - Ke Liu
- 0000 0001 2243 3366grid.417587.8Center for Biologics Evaluation and ResearchUS Food and Drug Administration Silver Spring USA
| | | | - Ariel E Marciscano
- 0000 0004 1936 8075grid.48336.3aNational Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health Bethesda USA
| | | | - Sheryl Ruppel
- 0000 0004 4665 8158grid.419407.fLeidos Biomedical Research, Inc. Frederick USA
| | - Daniel A Saltzman
- 0000000419368657grid.17635.36University of Minnesota Minneapolis USA
| | | | - Steve Thorne
- 0000 0004 1936 9000grid.21925.3dUniversity of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh USA
| | - Richard G Vile
- 0000 0004 0459 167Xgrid.66875.3aMayo Clinic Rochester USA
| | | | - Shibin Zhou
- 0000 0001 2171 9311grid.21107.35Johns Hopkins University Baltimore USA
| | - Grant McFadden
- 0000 0001 2151 2636grid.215654.1Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy , Biodesign InstituteArizona State University 727 E Tyler Street, Room A330E 85281 Tempe AZ USA
| |
Collapse
|