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Ferris RL, Mehanna H, Schoenfeld JD, Tahara M, Yom SS, Haddad R, König A, Witzler P, Bajars M, Tourneau CL. Xevinapant plus radiotherapy in resected, high-risk, cisplatin-ineligible LA SCCHN: the phase III XRay Vision study design. Future Oncol 2024; 20:739-748. [PMID: 38197296 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2023-0774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a significant unmet need and lack of treatment options for patients with resected, high-risk, cisplatin-ineligible locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (LA SCCHN). Xevinapant, a first-in-class, potent, oral, small-molecule IAP inhibitor, is thought to restore cancer cell sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy in clinical and preclinical studies. We describe the design of XRay Vision (NCT05386550), an international, randomized, double-blind, phase III study. Approximately 700 patients with resected, high-risk, cisplatin-ineligible LA SCCHN will be randomized 1:1 to receive 6 cycles of xevinapant or placebo, in combination with radiotherapy for the first 3 cycles. The primary end point is disease-free survival, and secondary end points include overall survival, health-related quality of life, and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Ferris
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
| | | | | | - Makoto Tahara
- National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Sue S Yom
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Christophe Le Tourneau
- Department of Drug Development and Innovation (D3i), Institut Curie, Paris-Saclay University, Paris, France
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2
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Kim J, Shim MK, Moon Y, Kim J, Cho H, Yun WS, Shim N, Seong JK, Lee Y, Lim DK, Kim K. Cancer cell-specific and pro-apoptotic SMAC peptide-doxorubicin conjugated prodrug encapsulated aposomes for synergistic cancer immunotherapy. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:109. [PMID: 38481326 PMCID: PMC10938764 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02314-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a crucial approach to turn immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (ITM) into immune-responsive milieu and improve the response rate of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. However, cancer cells show resistance to ICD-inducing chemotherapeutic drugs, and non-specific toxicity of those drugs against immune cells reduce the immunotherapy efficiency. METHODS Herein, we propose cancer cell-specific and pro-apoptotic liposomes (Aposomes) encapsulating second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases mimetic peptide (SMAC-P)-doxorubicin (DOX) conjugated prodrug to potentiate combinational ICB therapy with ICD. The SMAC-P (AVPIAQ) with cathepsin B-cleavable peptide (FRRG) was directly conjugated to DOX, and the resulting SMAC-P-FRRG-DOX prodrug was encapsulated into PEGylated liposomes. RESULTS The SMAC-P-FRRG-DOX encapsulated PEGylated liposomes (Aposomes) form a stable nanostructure with an average diameter of 109.1 ± 5.14 nm and promote the apoptotic cell death mainly in cathepsin B-overexpressed cancer cells. Therefore, Aposomes induce a potent ICD in targeted cancer cells in synergy of SMAC-P with DOX in cultured cells. In colon tumor models, Aposomes efficiently accumulate in targeted tumor tissues via enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect and release the encapsulated prodrug of SMAC-P-FRRG-DOX, which is subsequently cleaved to SMAC-P and DOX in cancer cells. Importantly, the synergistic activity of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs)-inhibitory SMAC-P sensitizing the effects of DOX induces a potent ICD in the cancer cells to promote dendritic cell (DC) maturation and stimulate T cell proliferation and activation, turning ITM into immune-responsive milieu. CONCLUSIONS Eventually, the combination of Aposomes with anti-PD-L1 antibody results in a high rate of complete tumor regression (CR: 80%) and also prevent the tumor recurrence by immunological memory established during treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinseong Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Man Kyu Shim
- Medicinal Materials Research Center, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Yujeong Moon
- Medicinal Materials Research Center, Biomedical Research Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Bioengineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongrae Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Hanhee Cho
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan Su Yun
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Nayeon Shim
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon-Kyung Seong
- Department of Bioengineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Yonghyun Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Kwon Lim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwangmeyung Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Murray S. Response to "Letter to the Editor: SMAC mimetics inhibit human T cell proliferation and fail to augment type 1 cytokine responses". Cell Immunol 2024; 395-396:104785. [PMID: 38016882 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2023.104785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Murray
- Department of Biology, University of Portland, Portland, OR, United States; Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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4
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Kureshi R, Bello E, Kureshi CT, Walsh MJ, Lippert V, Hoffman MT, Dougan M, Longmire T, Wichroski M, Dougan SK. DGKα/ζ inhibition lowers the TCR affinity threshold and potentiates antitumor immunity. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadk1853. [PMID: 38000024 PMCID: PMC10672170 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk1853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Diacylglycerol kinases (DGKs) attenuate diacylglycerol (DAG) signaling by converting DAG to phosphatidic acid, thereby suppressing pathways downstream of T cell receptor signaling. Using a dual DGKα/ζ inhibitor (DGKi), tumor-specific CD8 T cells with different affinities (TRP1high and TRP1low), and altered peptide ligands, we demonstrate that inhibition of DGKα/ζ can lower the signaling threshold for T cell priming. TRP1high and TRP1low CD8 T cells produced more effector cytokines in the presence of cognate antigen and DGKi. Effector TRP1high- and TRP1low-mediated cytolysis of tumor cells with low antigen load required antigen recognition, was mediated by interferon-γ, and augmented by DGKi. Adoptive T cell transfer into mice bearing pancreatic or melanoma tumors synergized with single-agent DGKi or DGKi and antiprogrammed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), with increased expansion of low-affinity T cells and increased cytokine production observed in tumors of treated mice. Collectively, our findings highlight DGKα/ζ as therapeutic targets for augmenting tumor-specific CD8 T cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakeeb Kureshi
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elisa Bello
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Courtney T.S. Kureshi
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael J. Walsh
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Victoria Lippert
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Megan T. Hoffman
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael Dougan
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Stephanie K. Dougan
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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5
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Glasheen MQ, Caksa S, Young AG, Wilski NA, Ott CA, Chervoneva I, Flaherty KT, Herlyn M, Xu X, Aplin AE, Capparelli C. Targeting Upregulated cIAP2 in SOX10-Deficient Drug Tolerant Melanoma. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:1087-1099. [PMID: 37343247 PMCID: PMC10527992 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Drug tolerance and minimal residual disease (MRD) are likely to prelude acquired resistance to targeted therapy. Mechanisms that allow persister cells to survive in the presence of targeted therapy are being characterized but selective vulnerabilities for these subpopulations remain uncertain. We identified cellular inhibitor of apoptosis protein 2 (cIAP2) as being highly expressed in SOX10-deficient drug tolerant persister (DTP) melanoma cells. Here, we show that cIAP2 is sufficient to induce tolerance to MEK inhibitors, likely by decreasing the levels of cell death. Mechanistically, cIAP2 is upregulated at the transcript level in SOX10-deficient cells and the AP-1 complex protein, JUND, is required for its expression. Using a patient-derived xenograft model, we demonstrate that treatment with the cIAP1/2 inhibitor, birinapant, during the MRD phase delays the onset of resistance to BRAF inhibitor and MEK inhibitor combination therapy. Together, our data suggest that cIAP2 upregulation in SOX10-deficient subpopulations of melanoma cells induces drug tolerance to MAPK targeting agents and provides a rationale to test a novel therapeutical approach to target MRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- McKenna Q Glasheen
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Signe Caksa
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Amelia G Young
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Nicole A Wilski
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Connor A Ott
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Inna Chervoneva
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Keith T Flaherty
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Meenhard Herlyn
- Molecular and Cellular Oncogenesis Program, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Xiaowei Xu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrew E Aplin
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Cancer Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Claudia Capparelli
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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6
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Walsh MJ, Ali LR, Lenehan P, Kureshi CT, Kureshi R, Dougan M, Knipe DM, Dougan SK. Blockade of innate inflammatory cytokines TNF α, IL-1 β, or IL-6 overcomes virotherapy-induced cancer equilibrium to promote tumor regression. IMMUNOTHERAPY ADVANCES 2023; 3:ltad011. [PMID: 37461742 PMCID: PMC10349916 DOI: 10.1093/immadv/ltad011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer therapeutics can lead to immune equilibrium in which the immune response controls tumor cell expansion without fully eliminating the cancer. The factors involved in this equilibrium remain incompletely understood, especially those that would antagonize the anti-tumor immune response and lead to tumor outgrowth. We previously demonstrated that continuous treatment with a non-replicating herpes simplex virus 1 expressing interleukin (IL)-12 induces a state of cancer immune equilibrium highly dependent on interferon-γ. We profiled the IL-12 virotherapy-induced immune equilibrium in murine melanoma, identifying blockade of innate inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), IL-1β, or IL-6 as possible synergistic interventions. Antibody depletions of each of these cytokines enhanced survival in mice treated with IL-12 virotherapy and helped to overcome equilibrium in some tumors. Single-cell RNA-sequencing demonstrated that blockade of inflammatory cytokines resulted in downregulation of overlapping inflammatory pathways in macrophages, shifting immune equilibrium towards tumor clearance, and raising the possibility that TNFα blockade could synergize with existing cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Walsh
- Department of Microbiology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Program in Virology, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lestat R Ali
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Patrick Lenehan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Courtney T Kureshi
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rakeeb Kureshi
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael Dougan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David M Knipe
- Department of Microbiology, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stephanie K Dougan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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7
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Ito Y, Pan D, Zhang W, Zhang X, Juan TY, Pyrdol JW, Kyrysyuk O, Doench JG, Liu XS, Wucherpfennig KW. Addressing Tumor Heterogeneity by Sensitizing Resistant Cancer Cells to T cell-Secreted Cytokines. Cancer Discov 2023; 13:1186-1209. [PMID: 36811466 PMCID: PMC10164097 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-22-1125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Tumor heterogeneity is a major barrier to cancer therapy, including immunotherapy. Activated T cells can efficiently kill tumor cells following recognition of MHC class I (MHC-I)-bound peptides, but this selection pressure favors outgrowth of MHC-I-deficient tumor cells. We performed a genome-scale screen to discover alternative pathways for T cell-mediated killing of MHC-I-deficient tumor cells. Autophagy and TNF signaling emerged as top pathways, and inactivation of Rnf31 (TNF signaling) and Atg5 (autophagy) sensitized MHC-I-deficient tumor cells to apoptosis by T cell-derived cytokines. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that inhibition of autophagy amplified proapoptotic effects of cytokines in tumor cells. Antigens from apoptotic MHC-I-deficient tumor cells were efficiently cross-presented by dendritic cells, resulting in heightened tumor infiltration by IFNγ-and TNFα-producing T cells. Tumors with a substantial population of MHC-I-deficient cancer cells could be controlled by T cells when both pathways were targeted using genetic or pharmacologic approaches. SIGNIFICANCE Tumor heterogeneity is a major barrier to immunotherapy. We show that MHC-I-deficient tumor cells are forced into apoptosis by T cell-derived cytokines when TNF signaling and autophagy pathways are targeted. This approach enables T cell-mediated elimination of tumors with a substantial population of resistant, MHC-I-deficient tumor cells. This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1027.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinaga Ito
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
- Laboratory of Immunopathogenesis, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Deng Pan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Wubing Zhang
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Xixi Zhang
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Tiffany Y. Juan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Jason W. Pyrdol
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Oleksandr Kyrysyuk
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
| | - John G. Doench
- Genetic Perturbation Platform, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142
| | - X. Shirley Liu
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
| | - Kai W. Wucherpfennig
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
- Department of Neurology, Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
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8
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Ventre KS, Roehle K, Bello E, Bhuiyan AM, Biary T, Crowley SJ, Bruck PT, Heckler M, Lenehan PJ, Ali LR, Stump CT, Lippert V, Clancy-Thompson E, Conce Alberto WD, Hoffman MT, Qiang L, Pelletier M, Akin JJ, Dougan M, Dougan SK. cIAP1/2 Antagonism Induces Antigen-Specific T Cell-Dependent Immunity. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:991-1003. [PMID: 36881882 PMCID: PMC10036868 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Checkpoint blockade immunotherapy has failed in pancreatic cancer and other poorly responsive tumor types in part due to inadequate T cell priming. Naive T cells can receive costimulation not only via CD28 but also through TNF superfamily receptors that signal via NF-κB. Antagonists of the ubiquitin ligases cellular inhibitor of apoptosis protein (cIAP)1/2, also called second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases (SMAC) mimetics, induce degradation of cIAP1/2 proteins, allowing for the accumulation of NIK and constitutive, ligand-independent activation of alternate NF-κB signaling that mimics costimulation in T cells. In tumor cells, cIAP1/2 antagonists can increase TNF production and TNF-mediated apoptosis; however, pancreatic cancer cells are resistant to cytokine-mediated apoptosis, even in the presence of cIAP1/2 antagonism. Dendritic cell activation is enhanced by cIAP1/2 antagonism in vitro, and intratumoral dendritic cells show higher expression of MHC class II in tumors from cIAP1/2 antagonism-treated mice. In this study, we use in vivo mouse models of syngeneic pancreatic cancer that generate endogenous T cell responses ranging from moderate to poor. Across multiple models, cIAP1/2 antagonism has pleiotropic beneficial effects on antitumor immunity, including direct effects on tumor-specific T cells leading to overall increased activation, increased control of tumor growth in vivo, synergy with multiple immunotherapy modalities, and immunologic memory. In contrast to checkpoint blockade, cIAP1/2 antagonism does not increase intratumoral T cell frequencies. Furthermore, we confirm our previous findings that even poorly immunogenic tumors with a paucity of T cells can experience T cell-dependent antitumor immunity, and we provide transcriptional clues into how these rare T cells coordinate downstream immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S. Ventre
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Kevin Roehle
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA
| | - Elisa Bello
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Aladdin M. Bhuiyan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Tamara Biary
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Stephanie J. Crowley
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Patrick T. Bruck
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Max Heckler
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Patrick J. Lenehan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Lestat R. Ali
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Courtney T. Stump
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Victoria Lippert
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Eleanor Clancy-Thompson
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Winiffer D. Conce Alberto
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Megan T. Hoffman
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Li Qiang
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Marc Pelletier
- Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA
| | - James J. Akin
- Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA
| | - Michael Dougan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Stephanie K. Dougan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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9
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Ferris RL, Harrington K, Schoenfeld JD, Tahara M, Esdar C, Salmio S, Schroeder A, Bourhis J. Inhibiting the inhibitors: Development of the IAP inhibitor xevinapant for the treatment of locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Cancer Treat Rev 2023; 113:102492. [PMID: 36640618 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2022.102492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Standard of care for patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (LA SCCHN) is surgery followed by chemoradiotherapy (CRT) or definitive CRT. However, approximately 50 % of patients with LA SCCHN develop disease recurrence or metastasis within 2 years of completing treatment, and the outcome for these patients is poor. Despite this, the current treatment landscape for LA SCCHN has remained relatively unchanged for more than 2 decades, and novel treatment options are urgently required. One of the key causes of disease recurrence is treatment resistance, which commonly occurs due to cancer cells' ability to evade apoptosis. Evasion of apoptosis has been in part attributed to the overexpression of inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs). IAPs, including X-linked IAP (XIAP) and cellular IAP 1 and 2 (cIAP1/2), are a class of proteins that regulate apoptosis induced by intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. IAPs have been shown to be overexpressed in SCCHN, are associated with poor clinical outcomes, and are, therefore, a rational therapeutic target. To date, several IAP inhibitors have been investigated; however, only xevinapant, a potent, oral, small-molecule IAP inhibitor, has shown clinical proof of concept when combined with CRT. Specifically, xevinapant demonstrated superior efficacy in combination with CRT vs placebo + CRT in a randomized, double-blind, phase 2 trial in patients with unresected LA SCCHN. Here, we describe the current treatment landscape in LA SCCHN and provide the rationale for targeting IAPs and the clinical data reported for xevinapant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Ferris
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | | | | | - Makoto Tahara
- National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
| | | | | | | | - Jean Bourhis
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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10
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Burton AM, Ligman BR, Kearney CA, Murray SE. SMAC mimetics inhibit human T cell proliferation and fail to augment type 1 cytokine responses. Cell Immunol 2023; 384:104674. [PMID: 36706656 PMCID: PMC10319349 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2023.104674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases (SMAC) mimetics are small molecule drugs that mimic the activity of the endogenous SMAC protein. SMAC and SMAC mimetics antagonize inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), thereby sensitizing cells to apoptosis. As such, SMAC mimetics are being tested in numerous clinical trials for cancer. In addition to their direct anti-cancer effect, it has been suggested that SMAC mimetics may activate T cells, thereby promoting anti-tumor immunity. Here, we tested the effect of three clinically relevant SMAC mimetics on activation of primary human T cells. As previously reported, SMAC mimetics killed tumor cells and activated non-canonical NF-κB in T cells at clinically relevant doses. Surprisingly, none of the SMAC mimetics augmented T cell responses. Rather, SMAC mimetics impaired T cell proliferation and decreased the proportion of IFNγ/TNFα double-producing T cells. These results question the assumption that SMAC mimetics are likely to boost anti-tumor immunity in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M Burton
- Department of Biology, University of Portland, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Brittany R Ligman
- Department of Biology, University of Portland, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Claire A Kearney
- Department of Biology, University of Portland, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Susan E Murray
- Department of Biology, University of Portland, Portland, OR, United States; Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States.
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11
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Afsahi A, Silvestri CM, Moore AE, Graham CF, Bacchiochi K, St-Jean M, Baker CL, Korneluk RG, Beug ST, LaCasse EC, Bramson JL. LCL161 enhances expansion and survival of engineered anti-tumor T cells but is restricted by death signaling. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1179827. [PMID: 37138866 PMCID: PMC10150108 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1179827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The genesis of SMAC mimetic drugs is founded on the observation that many cancers amplify IAP proteins to facilitate their survival, and therefore removal of these pathways would re-sensitize the cells towards apoptosis. It has become increasingly clear that SMAC mimetics also interface with the immune system in a modulatory manner. Suppression of IAP function by SMAC mimetics activates the non-canonical NF-κB pathway which can augment T cell function, opening the possibility of using SMAC mimetics to enhance immunotherapeutics. Methods We have investigated the SMAC mimetic LCL161, which promotes degradation of cIAP-1 and cIAP-2, as an agent for delivering transient costimulation to engineered BMCA-specific human TAC T cells. In doing so we also sought to understand the cellular and molecular effects of LCL161 on T cell biology. Results LCL161 activated the non-canonical NF-κB pathway and enhanced antigen-driven TAC T cell proliferation and survival. Transcriptional profiling from TAC T cells treated with LCL161 revealed differential expression of costimulatory and apoptosis-related proteins, namely CD30 and FAIM3. We hypothesized that regulation of these genes by LCL161 may influence the drug's effects on T cells. We reversed the differential expression through genetic engineering and observed impaired costimulation by LCL161, particularly when CD30 was deleted. While LCL161 can provide a costimulatory signal to TAC T cells following exposure to isolated antigen, we did not observe a similar pattern when TAC T cells were stimulated with myeloma cells expressing the target antigen. We questioned whether FasL expression by myeloma cells may antagonize the costimulatory effects of LCL161. Fas-KO TAC T cells displayed superior expansion following antigen stimulation in the presence of LCL161, suggesting a role for Fas-related T cell death in limiting the magnitude of the T cell response to antigen in the presence of LCL161. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that LCL161 provides costimulation to TAC T cells exposed to antigen alone, however LCL161 did not enhance TAC T cell anti-tumor function when challenged with myeloma cells and may be limited due to sensitization of T cells towards Fas-mediated apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arya Afsahi
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Center, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher M. Silvestri
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Center, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Allyson E. Moore
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Center, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Carly F. Graham
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Center, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Kaylyn Bacchiochi
- McMaster Immunology Research Center, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Martine St-Jean
- Apoptosis Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher L. Baker
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Center, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Robert G. Korneluk
- Apoptosis Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Shawn T. Beug
- Apoptosis Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Eric C. LaCasse
- Apoptosis Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jonathan L. Bramson
- Centre for Discovery in Cancer Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- McMaster Immunology Research Center, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Jonathan L. Bramson,
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12
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Song EZ, Wang X, Philipson BI, Zhang Q, Thokala R, Zhang L, Assenmacher CA, Binder ZA, Ming GL, O’Rourke DM, Song H, Milone MC. The IAP antagonist birinapant enhances chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy for glioblastoma by overcoming antigen heterogeneity. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 27:288-304. [PMID: 36458202 PMCID: PMC9707011 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2022.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Antigen heterogeneity that results in tumor antigenic escape is one of the major obstacles to successful chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies in solid tumors including glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). To address this issue and improve the efficacy of CAR T cell therapy for GBM, we developed an approach that combines CAR T cells with inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) antagonists, a new class of small molecules that mediate the degradation of IAPs, to treat GBM. Here, we demonstrated that the IAP antagonist birinapant could sensitize GBM cell lines and patient-derived primary GBM organoids to apoptosis induced by CAR T cell-derived cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor. Therefore, birinapant could enhance CAR T cell-mediated bystander death of antigen-negative GBM cells, thus preventing tumor antigenic escape in antigen-heterogeneous tumor models in vitro and in vivo. In addition, birinapant could promote the activation of NF-κB signaling pathways in antigen-stimulated CAR T cells, and with a birinapant-resistant tumor model we showed that birinapant had no deleterious effect on CAR T cell functions in vitro and in vivo. Overall, we demonstrated the potential of combining the IAP antagonist birinapant with CAR T cells as a novel and feasible approach to overcoming tumor antigen heterogeneity and enhancing CAR T cell therapy for GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Z. Song
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Glioblastoma Translational Center of Excellence, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Xin Wang
- Glioblastoma Translational Center of Excellence, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Benjamin I. Philipson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Radhika Thokala
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Glioblastoma Translational Center of Excellence, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Logan Zhang
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Glioblastoma Translational Center of Excellence, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Charles-Antoine Assenmacher
- Comparative Pathology Core, Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Zev A. Binder
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Glioblastoma Translational Center of Excellence, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Guo-li Ming
- Glioblastoma Translational Center of Excellence, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Donald M. O’Rourke
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Glioblastoma Translational Center of Excellence, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Hongjun Song
- Glioblastoma Translational Center of Excellence, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,The Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Michael C. Milone
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Glioblastoma Translational Center of Excellence, Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Corresponding author Michael C. Milone, MD, PhD, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, PCAM SPE 8-101, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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13
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Small Molecule Inhibitors for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Advances and Challenges. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175537. [PMID: 36080304 PMCID: PMC9457820 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
According to data provided by World Health Organization, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cause of deaths due to cancer worldwide. Tremendous progress has been achieved over the last 10 years developing novel agents for HCC treatment, including small-molecule kinase inhibitors. Several small molecule inhibitors currently form the core of HCC treatment due to their versatility since they would be more easily absorbed and have higher oral bioavailability, thus easier to formulate and administer to patients. In addition, they can be altered structurally to have greater volumes of distribution, allowing them to block extravascular molecular targets and to accumulate in a high concentration in the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, they can be designed to have shortened half-lives to control for immune-related adverse events. Most importantly, they would spare patients, healthcare institutions, and society as a whole from the burden of high drug costs. The present review provides an overview of the pharmaceutical compounds that are licensed for HCC treatment and other emerging compounds that are still investigated in preclinical and clinical trials. These molecules are targeting different molecular targets and pathways that are proven to be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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14
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Kishton RJ, Patel SJ, Decker AE, Vodnala SK, Cam M, Yamamoto TN, Patel Y, Sukumar M, Yu Z, Ji M, Henning AN, Gurusamy D, Palmer DC, Stefanescu RA, Girvin AT, Lo W, Pasetto A, Malekzadeh P, Deniger DC, Wood KC, Sanjana NE, Restifo NP. Cancer genes disfavoring T cell immunity identified via integrated systems approach. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111153. [PMID: 35926468 PMCID: PMC9402397 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111153] [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: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Adoptive T cell therapies (ACT) have been curative for a limited number of cancer patients. The sensitization of cancer cells to T cell killing may expand the benefit of these therapies for more patients. To this end, we use a three-step approach to identify cancer genes that disfavor T cell immunity. First, we profile gene transcripts upregulated by cancer under selection pressure from T cell killing. Second, we identify potential tumor gene targets and pathways that disfavor T cell killing using signaling pathway activation libraries and genome-wide loss-of-function CRISPR-Cas9 screens. Finally, we implement pharmacological perturbation screens to validate these targets and identify BIRC2, ITGAV, DNPEP, BCL2, and ERRα as potential ACT-drug combination candidates. Here, we establish that BIRC2 limits antigen presentation and T cell recognition of tumor cells by suppressing IRF1 activity and provide evidence that BIRC2 inhibition in combination with ACT is an effective strategy to increase efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rigel J Kishton
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Shashank J Patel
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Amy E Decker
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Suman K Vodnala
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Maggie Cam
- CCR Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource (CCBR), Office of Science and Technology Resources, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Tori N Yamamoto
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Immunology Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Yogin Patel
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Madhusudhanan Sukumar
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Zhiya Yu
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Michelle Ji
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Amanda N Henning
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Devikala Gurusamy
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Douglas C Palmer
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | | | | | - Winifred Lo
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Anna Pasetto
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Parisa Malekzadeh
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Drew C Deniger
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kris C Wood
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Neville E Sanjana
- New York Genome Center, New York, NY 10013, USA; Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Nicholas P Restifo
- Surgery Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; Center for Cell-Based Therapy, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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15
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Bourhis J, Burtness B, Licitra LF, Nutting C, Schoenfeld JD, Omar M, Bouisset F, Nauwelaerts H, Urfer Y, Zanna C, Cohen EE. Xevinapant or placebo plus chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: TrilynX phase III study design. Future Oncol 2022; 18:1669-1678. [PMID: 35172587 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2021-1634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Xevinapant is a first-in-class antagonist of inhibitor of apoptosis proteins, which enhances cancer cell sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In a phase II randomized study in patients with unresected locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (LA SCCHN), xevinapant plus standard-of-care cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy (CRT) showed superior efficacy versus placebo plus CRT. Here, we describe the design of TrilynX (NCT04459715), a randomized, double-blind, phase III study. In total, 700 patients with unresected LA SCCHN will be randomized 1:1 to receive xevinapant or placebo plus standard-of-care CRT followed by xevinapant monotherapy or placebo. The primary end point is event-free survival by blinded independent review committee. Secondary end points include progression-free survival, locoregional control, overall survival and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Bourhis
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Burtness
- Yale School of Medicine & Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Lisa F Licitra
- Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori & University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Mokhtar Omar
- Debiopharm International SA, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Yulia Urfer
- Debiopharm International SA, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Ezra Ew Cohen
- University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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16
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Gong T, Cai Y, Sun F, Chen J, Su Z, Shuai X, Shan H. A nanodrug incorporating siRNA PD-L1 and Birinapant for enhancing tumor immunotherapy. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:8007-8018. [PMID: 34714906 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm01299a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with a worse prognosis and higher mortality than other breast cancers, and intensive effort has been made to develop therapies targeting TNBC. TNBC shows higher expression levels of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) than other breast cancer types, which leads to a decrease in the killing effects of CD8+ T cells in the tumor microenvironment. Inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) could prevent cell death through suppressing caspase activity. Here, Birinapant, an antagonist of IAPs, was found to promote the tumor infiltration of CD8+ T cells via increasing the secretion of the chemokine CXCL9. In addition, Birinapant could inhibit tumor growth via increasing the secretion of and the sensitivity to TNF-α in a TNBC xenotransplantation mouse model. Consequently, liposomes encapsulating Birinapant and siPD-L1 mediated a form of combination therapy based on two drugs to significantly increase the therapeutic effects toward TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Gong
- Department of Ultrasound, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China.
| | - Yujun Cai
- PCFM Lab of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Fengze Sun
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Jiaxin Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China.
| | - Zhongzhen Su
- Department of Ultrasound, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China.
| | - Xintao Shuai
- PCFM Lab of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Hong Shan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging, the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China. .,Department of Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
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17
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Freeman AJ, Kearney CJ, Silke J, Oliaro J. Unleashing TNF cytotoxicity to enhance cancer immunotherapy. Trends Immunol 2021; 42:1128-1142. [PMID: 34750058 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a proinflammatory cytokine that is produced and secreted by cytotoxic lymphocytes upon tumor target recognition. Depending on the context, TNF can mediate either pro-survival or pro-death signals. The potential cytotoxicity of T cell-produced TNF, particularly in the context of T cell-directed immunotherapies, has been largely overlooked. However, a spate of recent studies investigating tumor immune evasion through the application of CRISPR-based gene-editing screens have highlighted TNF-mediated killing as an important component of the mammalian T cell antitumor repertoire. In the context of the current understanding of the role of TNF in antitumor immunity, we discuss these studies and touch on their therapeutic implications. Collectively, we provide an enticing prospect to augment immunotherapy responses through TNF cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Freeman
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Conor J Kearney
- Translational Haematology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - John Silke
- Inflammation Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Jane Oliaro
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia.
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18
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Antagonism of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins reveals a novel, immune response-based therapeutic approach for T-cell lymphoma. Blood Adv 2021; 5:4003-4016. [PMID: 34474469 PMCID: PMC8945623 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020003955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The IAP antagonist tolinapant acts as an immunomodulatory molecule in TCL in preclinical models and confirmed in patients. Tolinapant acts on both the innate and adaptive immune system and can be exploited to remodel the tumor immune microenvironment.
Tolinapant (ASTX660) is a potent, nonpeptidomimetic antagonist of cellular inhibitor of apoptosis proteins 1 and 2 (cIAP1/2) and X-linked IAP, which is currently being evaluated in a phase 2 study in T-cell lymphoma (TCL) patients. Tolinapant has demonstrated evidence of single-agent clinical activity in relapsed/refractory peripheral TCL and cutaneous TCL. To investigate the mechanism of action underlying the single-agent activity observed in the clinic, we have used a comprehensive translational approach integrating in vitro and in vivo models of TCL confirmed by data from human tumor biopsies. Here, we show that tolinapant acts as an efficacious immunomodulatory molecule capable of inducing complete tumor regression in a syngeneic model of TCL exclusively in the presence of an intact immune system. These findings were confirmed in samples from our ongoing clinical study showing that tolinapant treatment can induce changes in gene expression and cytokine profile consistent with immune modulation. Mechanistically, we show that tolinapant can activate both the adaptive and the innate arms of the immune system through the induction of immunogenic forms of cell death. In summary, we describe a novel role for IAP antagonists as immunomodulatory molecules capable of promoting a robust antitumor immune response in TCL.
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Mehraj U, Ganai RA, Macha MA, Hamid A, Zargar MA, Bhat AA, Nasser MW, Haris M, Batra SK, Alshehri B, Al-Baradie RS, Mir MA, Wani NA. The tumor microenvironment as driver of stemness and therapeutic resistance in breast cancer: New challenges and therapeutic opportunities. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2021; 44:1209-1229. [PMID: 34528143 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-021-00634-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BC), the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths, remains a significant threat to the health and wellness of women worldwide. The tumor microenvironment (TME), comprising cellular components, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), immune cells, endothelial cells and adipocytes, and noncellular components such as extracellular matrix (ECM), has been recognized as a critical contributor to the development and progression of BC. The interplay between TME components and cancer cells promotes phenotypic heterogeneity, cell plasticity and cancer cell stemness that impart tumor dormancy, enhanced invasion and metastasis, and the development of therapeutic resistance. While most previous studies have focused on targeting cancer cells with a dismal prognosis, novel therapies targeting stromal components are currently being evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies, and are already showing improved efficacies. As such, they may offer better means to eliminate the disease effectively. CONCLUSIONS In this review, we focus on the evolving concept of the TME as a key player regulating tumor growth, metastasis, stemness, and the development of therapeutic resistance. Despite significant advances over the last decade, several clinical trials focusing on the TME have failed to demonstrate promising effectiveness in cancer patients. To expedite clinical efficacy of TME-directed therapies, a deeper understanding of the TME is of utmost importance. Secondly, the efficacy of TME-directed therapies when used alone or in combination with chemo- or radiotherapy, and the tumor stage needs to be studied. Likewise, identifying molecular signatures and biomarkers indicating the type of TME will help in determining precise TME-directed therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umar Mehraj
- Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Rais A Ganai
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science & Technology , Awantipora, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Muzafar A Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science & Technology , Awantipora, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Abid Hamid
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, India
| | - Mohammed A Zargar
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, India
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Translational Medicine, Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohd Wasim Nasser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Translational Medicine, Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.,Laboratory of Animal Research, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.,Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA.,Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Bader Alshehri
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Almajmaah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Raid Saleem Al-Baradie
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Almajmaah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Manzoor A Mir
- Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
| | - Nissar Ahmad Wani
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal, J&K, India.
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20
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Final results of a phase 2 clinical trial of LCL161, an oral SMAC mimetic for patients with myelofibrosis. Blood Adv 2021; 5:3163-3173. [PMID: 34424319 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020003829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Outcomes in patients with high-risk and treatment-resistant myelofibrosis (MF) post-JAK inhibitor therapy remain poor, with no approved drug therapies beyond the JAK inhibitor class. In certain clinical situations, such as severe thrombocytopenia, administration of most JAK inhibitors are contraindicated. Thus, there is an unmet medical need for the development of novel agents for patients with MF. SMAC mimetics [or inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) antagonists] induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Because these agents are hypothesized to have increased activity in a tumor necrosis factor-α cytokine-rich microenvironment, as is the case with MF, we conducted a single-center, investigator-initiated phase 2 clinical trial, with a monovalent SMAC mimetic LCL161 (oral, starting dose, 1500 mg per week) in patients with intermediate to high-risk MF. In an older group, 66% with ≥2 prior therapies and a median baseline platelet count of 52 × 103/μL and 28% with ASXL1 mutations, we observed a 30% objective response by Revised International Working Group-Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Research and Treatment (IWG-MRT) 2013 criteria. Notably, 6 responding patients achieved clinical improvement of anemia: 4, hemoglobin response; 2, transfusion independence. Median OS was 34 months (range, 2.2-60.1+). Reductions of cIAPs were observed in all responders. The most common toxicity was nausea/vomiting (N/V) in 64% (mostly grade 1/2); fatigue in 46%; and dizziness/vertigo in 30%. There were 4 grade 3/4 adverse events (2, syncope; 1, N/V; 1, skin eruption/pruritis). There were 2 deaths during the study period, both unrelated to the study drug. SMAC mimetics may represent an option for older patients with thrombocytopenia or for those in whom prior JAK inhibitors has failed. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02098161.
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21
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Roehle K, Qiang L, Ventre KS, Heid D, Ali LR, Lenehan P, Heckler M, Crowley SJ, Stump CT, Ro G, Godicelj A, Bhuiyan AM, Yang A, Quiles Del Rey M, Biary T, Luoma AM, Bruck PT, Tegethoff JF, Nopper SL, Li J, Byrne KT, Pelletier M, Wucherpfennig KW, Stanger BZ, Akin JJ, Mancias JD, Agudo J, Dougan M, Dougan SK. cIAP1/2 antagonism eliminates MHC class I-negative tumors through T cell-dependent reprogramming of mononuclear phagocytes. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:eabf5058. [PMID: 34011631 PMCID: PMC8406785 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abf5058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Loss of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) sensing are major causes of primary and acquired resistance to checkpoint blockade immunotherapy. Thus, additional treatment options are needed for tumors that lose expression of MHC class I. The cellular inhibitor of apoptosis proteins 1 and 2 (cIAP1/2) regulate classical and alternative nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling. Induction of noncanonical NF-κB signaling with cIAP1/2 antagonists mimics costimulatory signaling, augmenting antitumor immunity. We show that induction of noncanonical NF-κB signaling induces T cell-dependent immune responses, even in β2-microglobulin (β2M)-deficient tumors, demonstrating that direct CD8 T cell recognition of tumor cell-expressed MHC class I is not required. Instead, T cell-produced lymphotoxin reprograms both mouse and human macrophages to be tumoricidal. In wild-type mice, but not mice incapable of antigen-specific T cell responses, cIAP1/2 antagonism reduces tumor burden by increasing phagocytosis of live tumor cells. Efficacy is augmented by combination with CD47 blockade. Thus, activation of noncanonical NF-κB stimulates a T cell-macrophage axis that curtails growth of tumors that are resistant to checkpoint blockade because of loss of MHC class I or IFN-γ sensing. These findings provide a potential mechanism for controlling checkpoint blockade refractory tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Roehle
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Li Qiang
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Katherine S Ventre
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Daniel Heid
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Lestat R Ali
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Patrick Lenehan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Max Heckler
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Stephanie J Crowley
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Courtney T Stump
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Gabrielle Ro
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Anže Godicelj
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Aladdin M Bhuiyan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Annan Yang
- Division of Radiation and Genome Stability, Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Maria Quiles Del Rey
- Division of Radiation and Genome Stability, Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Tamara Biary
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Adrienne M Luoma
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Patrick T Bruck
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Jana F Tegethoff
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Svenja L Nopper
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Jinyang Li
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Katelyn T Byrne
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Marc Pelletier
- Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Kai W Wucherpfennig
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ben Z Stanger
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - James J Akin
- Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Joseph D Mancias
- Division of Radiation and Genome Stability, Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Judith Agudo
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael Dougan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Stephanie K Dougan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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22
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Marin-Acevedo JA, Kimbrough EO, Manochakian R, Zhao Y, Lou Y. Immunotherapies targeting stimulatory pathways and beyond. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:78. [PMID: 33980266 PMCID: PMC8117548 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01085-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory molecules play a critical role in T cell function. Tumor cells escape immune surveillance by promoting immunosuppression. Immunotherapy targeting inhibitory molecules like anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1/PD-L1 were developed to overcome these immunosuppressive effects. These agents have demonstrated remarkable, durable responses in a small subset of patients. The other mechanisms for enhancing anti-tumor activities are to target the stimulatory pathways that are expressed on T cells or other immune cells. In this review, we summarize current phase I/II clinical trials evaluating novel immunotherapies targeting stimulatory pathways and outline their advantages, limitations, and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian A Marin-Acevedo
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, 33612, FL, USA
| | - ErinMarie O Kimbrough
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road S., Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Rami Manochakian
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road S., Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Yujie Zhao
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road S., Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Yanyan Lou
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road S., Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA.
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23
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He M, Yang T, Wang Y, Wang M, Chen X, Ding D, Zheng Y, Chen H. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Based Strategies for Synergistic Cancer Therapy. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2002104. [PMID: 33709564 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202002104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade therapy (ICBT) targeting checkpoints, such as, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein-4 (CTLA-4), programmed death-1 (PD-1), or programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), can yield durable immune response in various types of cancers and has gained constantly increasing research interests in recent years. However, the efficacy of ICBT alone is limited by low response rate and immune-related side effects. Emerging preclinical and clinical studies reveal that chemotherapy, radiotherapy, phototherapy, or other immunotherapies can reprogramm immunologically "cold" tumor microenvironment into a "hot" one, thus synergizing with ICBT. In this review, the working principle and current development of various immune checkpoint inhibitors are summarized, while the interactive mechanism and recent progress of ICBT-based synergistic therapies with other immunotherapy, chemotherapy, phototherapy, and radiotherapy in fundamental and clinical studies in the past 5 years are depicted and highlighted. Moreover, the potential issues in current studies of ICBT-based synergistic therapies and future perspectives are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengying He
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases College of Pharmaceutical Sciences Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
| | - Tao Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases College of Pharmaceutical Sciences Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
| | - Yuhan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases College of Pharmaceutical Sciences Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
| | - Mengyuan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases College of Pharmaceutical Sciences Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
| | - Xingye Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases College of Pharmaceutical Sciences Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
| | - Dawei Ding
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases College of Pharmaceutical Sciences Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
| | - Yiran Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases College of Pharmaceutical Sciences Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
| | - Huabing Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases College of Pharmaceutical Sciences Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection Soochow University Suzhou 215123 China
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24
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Pemmaraju N, Chen NC, Verstovsek S. Immunotherapy and Immunomodulation in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2021; 35:409-429. [PMID: 33641877 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Myeloproliferative neoplasms are characterized by chronic inflammation. The discovery of constitutively active JAK-STAT signaling associated with driver mutations has led to clinical and translational breakthroughs. Insights into the other pathways and novel factors of potential importance are being actively investigated. Various classes of agents with immunomodulating or immunosuppressive properties have been used with varying degrees of success in treating myeloproliferative neoplasms. Early clinical trials are investigating the feasibility, effectiveness, and safety of immune checkpoint inhibitors, cell-based immunotherapies, and SMAC mimetics. The dynamic landscape of immunotherapy and immunomodulation in myeloproliferative neoplasms is the topic of the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Pemmaraju
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard #3000, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Natalie C Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas School of Health Sciences at Houston, 6431 Fannin, MSB 1.150, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Srdan Verstovsek
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard #428, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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25
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Zhou X, Sun SC. Targeting ubiquitin signaling for cancer immunotherapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:16. [PMID: 33436547 PMCID: PMC7804490 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00421-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has become an attractive approach of cancer treatment with tremendous success in treating various advanced malignancies. The development and clinical application of immune checkpoint inhibitors represent one of the most extraordinary accomplishments in cancer immunotherapy. In addition, considerable progress is being made in understanding the mechanism of antitumor immunity and characterizing novel targets for developing additional therapeutic approaches. One active area of investigation is protein ubiquitination, a post-translational mechanism of protein modification that regulates the function of diverse immune cells in antitumor immunity. Accumulating studies suggest that E3 ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinases form a family of potential targets to be exploited for enhancing antitumor immunity in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Zhou
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 7455 Fannin Street, Box 902, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Shao-Cong Sun
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 7455 Fannin Street, Box 902, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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26
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An Updated Review of Smac Mimetics, LCL161, Birinapant, and GDC-0152 in Cancer Treatment. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app11010335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) are suggested as therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Smac/DIABLO is a natural IAP antagonist in cells; therefore, Smac mimetics have been developed for cancer treatment in the past decade. In this article, we review the anti-cancer potency and novel molecular targets of LCL161, birinapant, and GDC-0152. Preclinical studies demonstrated that Smac mimetics not only induce apoptosis but also arrest cell cycle, induce necroptosis, and induce immune storm in vitro and in vivo. The safety and tolerance of Smac mimetics are evaluated in phase 1 and phase 2 clinical trials. In addition, the combination of Smac mimetics and chemotherapeutic compounds was reported to improve anti-cancer effects. Interestingly, the novel anti-cancer molecular mechanism of action of Smac mimetics was reported in recent studies, suggesting that many unknown functions of Smac mimetics still need to be revealed. Exploring these currently unknown signaling pathways is important to provide hints for the modification and combination therapy of further compounds.
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27
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Fichtner M, Bozkurt E, Salvucci M, McCann C, McAllister KA, Halang L, Düssmann H, Kinsella S, Crawford N, Sessler T, Longley DB, Prehn JHM. Molecular subtype-specific responses of colon cancer cells to the SMAC mimetic Birinapant. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:1020. [PMID: 33257690 PMCID: PMC7705699 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03232-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is a molecularly heterogeneous disease. Responses to genotoxic chemotherapy in the adjuvant or palliative setting vary greatly between patients, and colorectal cancer cells often resist chemotherapy by evading apoptosis. Antagonists of an inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) can restore defective apoptosis signaling by degrading cIAP1 and cIAP2 proteins and by inhibition of XIAP. Due to the multiple molecular mechanisms-of-action of these targets, responses to IAP antagonist may differ between molecularly distinct colon cancer cells. In this study, responses to the IAP antagonist Birinapant and oxaliplatin/5-fluorouracil (5-FU) were investigated in 14 colon cancer cell lines, representing the consensus molecular subtypes (CMS). Treatment with Birinapant alone did not result in a substantial increase in apoptotic cells in this cell line panel. Annexin-V/PI assays quantified by flow cytometry and high-content screening showed that Birinapant increased responses of CMS1 and partially CMS3 cell lines to oxaliplatin/5-FU, whereas CMS2 cells were not effectively sensitized. FRET-based imaging of caspase-8 and -3 activation validated these differences at the single-cell level, with CMS1 cells displaying sustained activation of caspase-8-like activity during Birinapant and oxaliplatin/5-FU co-treatment, ultimately activating the intrinsic mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. In CMS2 cell lines, Birinapant exhibited synergistic effects in combination with TNFα, suggesting that Birinapant can restore extrinsic apoptosis signaling in the context of inflammatory signals in this subtype. To explore this further, we co-cultured CMS2 and CMS1 colon cancer cells with peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We observed increased cell death during Birinapant single treatment in these co-cultures, which was abrogated by anti-TNFα-neutralizing antibodies. Collectively, our study demonstrates that IAP inhibition is a promising modulator of response to oxaliplatin/5-FU in colorectal cancers of the CMS1 subtype, and may show promise as in the CMS2 subtype, suggesting that molecular subtyping may aid as a patient stratification tool for IAP antagonists in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Fichtner
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emir Bozkurt
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.,Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Izmir University of Economics, Balcova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Manuela Salvucci
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Christopher McCann
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Luise Halang
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Heiko Düssmann
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sinéad Kinsella
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.,Program in Immunology, Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nyree Crawford
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Tamas Sessler
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Daniel B Longley
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Jochen H M Prehn
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.
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28
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Nakajima K, Ino Y, Yamazaki-Itoh R, Naito C, Shimasaki M, Takahashi M, Esaki M, Nara S, Kishi Y, Shimada K, Hiraoka N. IAP inhibitor, Embelin increases VCAM-1 levels on the endothelium, producing lymphocytic infiltration and antitumor immunity. Oncoimmunology 2020; 9:1838812. [PMID: 33178497 PMCID: PMC7595596 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2020.1838812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing unmet need for successful immunotherapeutic interventions. Lymphocyte extravasation via tumor tissue endothelial cells (TECs) is required for lymphocyte infiltration into tumor sites. This study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of dysfunctional TECs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and identify chemical compounds that boost tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) numbers. We performed immunohistochemical detection and clinicopathological analysis of VCAM-1 on TECs, which is essential for lymphocyte trafficking. We characterized the gene expression profiles of TECs from fresh PDAC tissues. We isolated compounds that upregulated VCAM-1 and E-selectin expression in TECs and examined their biological activities. Compared to endothelial cells from chronic pancreatitis tissue, TECs showed significantly lower VCAM-1 and E-selectin expression and significant weaknesses in lymphocyte adhesion and transmigration, resulting in decreased T cell infiltration around vessels. Patients with a relatively high percentage of VCAM-1+ vessels among all vessels in PDAC tissue had an improved prognosis. A bioinformatics survey demonstrated that TNFR1 signaling was involved in abnormal VCAM-1 and E-selectin expression in TECs. We screened compounds affecting TNFR1 signaling, and the IAP inhibitor, Embelin, induced these molecules on TECs and enhanced T cell adhesion to TECs and transmigration. Furthermore, in vivo, Embelin enhanced tumor-infiltrating T cell numbers, leading to an antitumor immune response. Embelin accelerates TIL infiltration and the antitumor immune response by recovering VCAM-1 expression in TECs. Our strategy may be a therapeutic approach for accelerating the immunotherapeutic response in immune-quiescent tumors, leading to clinical trials’ success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosei Nakajima
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Ino
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Analytical Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rie Yamazaki-Itoh
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chie Naito
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mari Shimasaki
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mami Takahashi
- Central Animal Division, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minoru Esaki
- Hepato-Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery Division, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nara
- Hepato-Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery Division, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoji Kishi
- Hepato-Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery Division, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Shimada
- Hepato-Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery Division, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuyoshi Hiraoka
- Division of Molecular Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Analytical Pathology, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan.,Division of Pathology and Clinical Laboratories, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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29
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Sinha D, Smith C, Khanna R. Joining Forces: Improving Clinical Response to Cellular Immunotherapies with Small-Molecule Inhibitors. Trends Mol Med 2020; 27:75-90. [PMID: 33011081 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive T cell therapy (ACT) has emerged as a powerful therapeutic tool against both hematological and virus-associated cancers. However, extension of this success to solid cancers has been challenging owing to intratumoral mechanisms that induce a hostile immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Delineating the impact of tumor-intrinsic adaptive resistance mechanisms on immune-based therapies is essential to improve long-term efficacy. We discuss the different tumor-intrinsic factors that lead to resistance to ACT. We highlight the potential of repurposing molecular targeted therapies to modulate immune responses and override intratumor resistance to ACT. Finally, we discuss the potential of combining targeted therapy and ACT as a new paradigm to improve the clinical efficacy of cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debottam Sinha
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development and Department of Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Corey Smith
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development and Department of Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Rajiv Khanna
- QIMR Centre for Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development and Department of Immunology, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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30
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Integrated drug profiling and CRISPR screening identify essential pathways for CAR T-cell cytotoxicity. Blood 2020; 135:597-609. [PMID: 31830245 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019002121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has proven effective in relapsed and refractory B-cell malignancies, but resistance and relapses still occur. Better understanding of mechanisms influencing CAR T-cell cytotoxicity and the potential for modulation using small-molecule drugs could improve current immunotherapies. Here, we systematically investigated druggable mechanisms of CAR T-cell cytotoxicity using >500 small-molecule drugs and genome-scale CRISPR-Cas9 loss-of-function screens. We identified several tyrosine kinase inhibitors that inhibit CAR T-cell cytotoxicity by impairing T-cell signaling transcriptional activity. In contrast, the apoptotic modulator drugs SMAC mimetics sensitized B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma cells to anti-CD19 CAR T cells. CRISPR screens identified death receptor signaling through FADD and TNFRSF10B (TRAIL-R2) as a key mediator of CAR T-cell cytotoxicity and elucidated the RIPK1-dependent mechanism of sensitization by SMAC mimetics. Death receptor expression varied across genetic subtypes of B-cell malignancies, suggesting a link between mechanisms of CAR T-cell cytotoxicity and cancer genetics. These results implicate death receptor signaling as an important mediator of cancer cell sensitivity to CAR T-cell cytotoxicity, with potential for pharmacological targeting to enhance cancer immunotherapy. The screening data provide a resource of immunomodulatory properties of cancer drugs and genetic mechanisms influencing CAR T-cell cytotoxicity.
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31
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Kumar S, Fairmichael C, Longley DB, Turkington RC. The Multiple Roles of the IAP Super-family in cancer. Pharmacol Ther 2020; 214:107610. [PMID: 32585232 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The Inhibitor of Apoptosis proteins (IAPs) are a family of proteins that are mainly known for their anti-apoptotic activity and ability to directly bind and inhibit caspases. Recent research has however revealed that they have extensive roles in governing numerous other cellular processes. IAPs are known to modulate ubiquitin (Ub)-dependent signaling pathways through their E3 ligase activity and influence activation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). In this review, we discuss the involvement of IAPs in individual hallmarks of cancer and the current status of therapies targeting these critical proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Kumar
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Ciaran Fairmichael
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel B Longley
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Richard C Turkington
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom.
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32
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Wu L, Wei Q, Brzostek J, Gascoigne NRJ. Signaling from T cell receptors (TCRs) and chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) on T cells. Cell Mol Immunol 2020; 17:600-612. [PMID: 32451454 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-020-0470-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells react to foreign or self-antigens through T cell receptor (TCR) signaling. Several decades of research have delineated the mechanism of TCR signal transduction and its impact on T cell performance. This knowledge provides the foundation for chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T cell) technology, by which T cells are redirected in a major histocompatibility complex-unrestricted manner. TCR and CAR signaling plays a critical role in determining the T cell state, including exhaustion and memory. Given its artificial nature, CARs might affect or rewire signaling differently than TCRs. A better understanding of CAR signal transduction would greatly facilitate improvements to CAR-T cell technology and advance its usefulness in clinical practice. Herein, we systematically review the knowns and unknowns of TCR and CAR signaling, from the contact of receptors and antigens, proximal signaling, immunological synapse formation, and late signaling outcomes. Signaling through different T cell subtypes and how signaling is translated into practice are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117545, Singapore
| | - Qianru Wei
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117545, Singapore
| | - Joanna Brzostek
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117545, Singapore
| | - Nicholas R J Gascoigne
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117545, Singapore. .,Immunology Programme, Life Sciences Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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Lei W, Duan R, Li J, Liu X, Huston A, Boyce BF, Yao Z. The IAP Antagonist SM-164 Eliminates Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Metastasis to Bone and Lung in Mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:7004. [PMID: 32332865 PMCID: PMC7181667 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64018-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The most challenging issue for breast cancer (BC) patients is metastasis to other organs because current therapies do not prevent or eliminate metastatic BC. Here, we show that SM-164, a small molecule inhibitor, which degrades inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), eliminated early-stage metastases and reduced progression of advanced BC metastasis from MDA-MB-231 BC cells in bones and lungs of nude mice. Mechanistically, SM-164-induced BC cell death is TNFα-dependent, with TNFα produced by IL-4-polarized macrophages triggering MDA-MB-231 cell apoptosis in combination with SM-164. SM-164 also inhibited expression of RANKL, which mediates interactions between metastatic BC and host microenvironment cells and induces osteoclast-mediated osteolysis. SM-164 did not kill adriamycin-resistant BC cells, while adriamycin inhibited SM-164-resistant BC cell growth, similar to parental cells. We conclude that SM-164 is a promising therapeutic agent for early stage bone and lung metastasis from triple-negative breast cancer that should be given prior to conventional chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Lei
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.,Department of Medical Imaging, Henan University First Affiliated Hospital, 357 Ximen Street, Kaifeng, Henan, 475001, P.R. China
| | - Rong Duan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Jinbo Li
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Alissa Huston
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Brendan F Boyce
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Zhenqiang Yao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Center for Musculoskeletal Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
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34
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Philipson BI, O'Connor RS, May MJ, June CH, Albelda SM, Milone MC. 4-1BB costimulation promotes CAR T cell survival through noncanonical NF-κB signaling. Sci Signal 2020; 13:13/625/eaay8248. [PMID: 32234960 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aay8248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Clinical response to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy is correlated with CAR T cell persistence, especially for CAR T cells that target CD19+ hematologic malignancies. 4-1BB-costimulated CAR (BBζ) T cells exhibit longer persistence after adoptive transfer than do CD28-costimulated CAR (28ζ) T cells. 4-1BB signaling improves T cell persistence even in the context of 28ζ CAR activation, which indicates distinct prosurvival signals mediated by the 4-1BB cytoplasmic domain. To specifically study signal transduction by CARs, we developed a cell-free, ligand-based activation and ex vivo culture system for CD19-specific CAR T cells. We observed greater ex vivo survival and subsequent expansion of BBζ CAR T cells when compared to 28ζ CAR T cells. We showed that only BBζ CARs activated noncanonical nuclear factor κB (ncNF-κB) signaling in T cells basally and that the anti-CD19 BBζ CAR further enhanced ncNF-κB signaling after ligand engagement. Reducing ncNF-κB signaling reduced the expansion and survival of anti-CD19 BBζ T cells and was associated with a substantial increase in the abundance of the most pro-apoptotic isoforms of Bim. Although our findings do not exclude the importance of other signaling differences between BBζ and 28ζ CARs, they demonstrate the necessary and nonredundant role of ncNF-κB signaling in promoting the survival of BBζ CAR T cells, which likely underlies the engraftment persistence observed with this CAR design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin I Philipson
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.,Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Roddy S O'Connor
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Michael J May
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Carl H June
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Steven M Albelda
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Michael C Milone
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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35
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Abstract
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has proven effective in relapsed and refractory B-cell malignancies, but resistance and relapses still occur. Better understanding of mechanisms influencing CAR T-cell cytotoxicity and the potential for modulation using small-molecule drugs could improve current immunotherapies. Here, we systematically investigated druggable mechanisms of CAR T-cell cytotoxicity using >500 small-molecule drugs and genome-scale CRISPR-Cas9 loss-of-function screens. We identified several tyrosine kinase inhibitors that inhibit CAR T-cell cytotoxicity by impairing T-cell signaling transcriptional activity. In contrast, the apoptotic modulator drugs SMAC mimetics sensitized B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma cells to anti-CD19 CAR T cells. CRISPR screens identified death receptor signaling through FADD and TNFRSF10B (TRAIL-R2) as a key mediator of CAR T-cell cytotoxicity and elucidated the RIPK1-dependent mechanism of sensitization by SMAC mimetics. Death receptor expression varied across genetic subtypes of B-cell malignancies, suggesting a link between mechanisms of CAR T-cell cytotoxicity and cancer genetics. These results implicate death receptor signaling as an important mediator of cancer cell sensitivity to CAR T-cell cytotoxicity, with potential for pharmacological targeting to enhance cancer immunotherapy. The screening data provide a resource of immunomodulatory properties of cancer drugs and genetic mechanisms influencing CAR T-cell cytotoxicity.
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36
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Bobardt M, Kuo J, Chatterji U, Wiedemann N, Vuagniaux G, Gallay P. The inhibitor of apoptosis proteins antagonist Debio 1143 promotes the PD-1 blockade-mediated HIV load reduction in blood and tissues of humanized mice. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0227715. [PMID: 31978106 PMCID: PMC6980394 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune checkpoint programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) plays a major role in T cell exhaustion in cancer and chronic HIV infection. The inhibitor of apoptosis protein antagonist Debio 1143 (D1143) enhances tumor cell death and synergizes with anti-PD-1 agents to promote tumor immunity and displayed HIV latency reversal activity in vitro. We asked in this study whether D1143 would stimulate the potency of an anti-human PD-1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) to reduce HIV loads in humanized mice. Anti-PD-1 mAb treatment decreased PD-1+ CD8+ cell population by 32.3% after interruption of four weeks treatment, and D1143 co-treatment further reduced it from 32.3 to 73%. Anti-PD-1 mAb administration reduced HIV load in blood by 94%, and addition of D1143 further enhanced this reduction from 94 to 97%. D1143 also more profoundly promoted with the anti-PD-1-mediated reduction of HIV loads in all tissues analyzed including spleen (71 to 96.4%), lymph nodes (64.3 to 80%), liver (64.2 to 94.4), lung (64.3 to 80.1%) and thymic organoid (78.2 to 98.2%), achieving a >5 log reduction of HIV loads in CD4+ cells isolated from tissues 2 weeks after drug treatment interruption. Ex vivo anti-CD3/CD28 stimulation increased the ability to activate exhausted CD8+ T cells in infected mice having received in vivo anti-PD-1 treatment by 7.9-fold (5 to 39.6%), and an additional increase by 1.7-fold upon D1143 co-treatment (39.6 to 67.3%). These findings demonstrate for the first time that an inhibitor of apoptosis protein antagonist enhances in a statistically manner the effects of an immune check point inhibitor on antiviral immunity and on HIV load reduction in tissues of humanized mice, suggesting that the combination of two distinct classes of immunomodulatory agents constitutes a promising anti-HIV immunotherapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bobardt
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Joseph Kuo
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Udayan Chatterji
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | | | | | - Philippe Gallay
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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37
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The Immuno-Modulatory Effects of Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein Antagonists in Cancer Immunotherapy. Cells 2020; 9:cells9010207. [PMID: 31947615 PMCID: PMC7017284 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the hallmarks of cancer cells is their ability to evade cell death via apoptosis. The inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) are a family of proteins that act to promote cell survival. For this reason, upregulation of IAPs is associated with a number of cancer types as a mechanism of resistance to cell death and chemotherapy. As such, IAPs are considered a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment, based on the role of IAPs in resistance to apoptosis, tumour progression and poor patient prognosis. The mitochondrial protein smac (second mitochondrial activator of caspases), is an endogenous inhibitor of IAPs, and several small molecule mimetics of smac (smac-mimetics) have been developed in order to antagonise IAPs in cancer cells and restore sensitivity to apoptotic stimuli. However, recent studies have revealed that smac-mimetics have broader effects than was first attributed. It is now understood that they are key regulators of innate immune signalling and have wide reaching immuno-modulatory properties. As such, they are ideal candidates for immunotherapy combinations. Pre-clinically, successful combination therapies incorporating smac-mimetics and oncolytic viruses, as with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, have been reported, and clinical trials incorporating smac-mimetics and immune checkpoint blockade are ongoing. Here, the potential of IAP antagonism to enhance immunotherapy strategies for the treatment of cancer will be discussed.
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38
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Ye W, Gunti S, Allen CT, Hong Y, Clavijo PE, Van Waes C, Schmitt NC. ASTX660, an antagonist of cIAP1/2 and XIAP, increases antigen processing machinery and can enhance radiation-induced immunogenic cell death in preclinical models of head and neck cancer. Oncoimmunology 2020; 9:1710398. [PMID: 32002309 PMCID: PMC6959437 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2019.1710398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) antagonists have shown activity in preclinical models of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and work across several cancer types has demonstrated diverse immune stimulatory effects including enhancement of T cell, NK cell, and dendritic cell function. However, tumor-cell-intrinsic mechanisms for this immune upregulation have been largely unexplored. In this study, we show that ASTX660, an antagonist of cIAP1/2 and XIAP, induces expression of immunogenic cell death (ICD) markers in sensitive HNSCC cell lines in vitro. Experiments in syngeneic mouse models of HNSCC showed that ASTX660 can also enhance radiation-induced ICD in vivo. On a functional level, ASTX660 also enhanced killing of multiple murine cell lines by cytotoxic tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and when combined with XRT, stimulated clonal expansion of antigen-specific T lymphocytes and expression of MHC class I on the surface of tumor cells. Flow cytometry experiments in several human HNSCC cell lines showed that MHC class I (HLA-A,B,C) was reliably upregulated in response to ASTX660 + TNFα, while increases in other antigen processing machinery (APM) components were variable among different cell lines. These findings suggest that ASTX660 may enhance anti-tumor immunity both by promoting ICD and by enhancing antigen processing and presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenda Ye
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Medical Research Scholars Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sreenivasulu Gunti
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Clint T Allen
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Youji Hong
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Paul E Clavijo
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Carter Van Waes
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nicole C Schmitt
- Head and Neck Surgery Branch, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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39
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Koch PD, Rodell CB, Kohler RH, Pittet MJ, Weissleder R. Myeloid Cell-Targeted Nanocarriers Efficiently Inhibit Cellular Inhibitor of Apoptosis for Cancer Immunotherapy. Cell Chem Biol 2020; 27:94-104.e5. [PMID: 31902676 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2019.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Immune-checkpoint blockers can promote sustained clinical responses in a subset of cancer patients. Recent research has shown that a subpopulation of tumor-infiltrating dendritic cells functions as gatekeepers, sensitizing tumors to anti-PD-1 treatment via production of interleukin-12 (IL-12). Hypothesizing that myeloid cell-targeted nanomaterials could be used to deliver small-molecule IL-12 inducers, we performed high-content image-based screening to identify the most efficacious small-molecule compounds. Using one lead candidate, LCL161, we created a myeloid-targeted nanoformulation that induced IL-12 production in intratumoral myeloid cells in vivo, slowed tumor growth as a monotherapy, and had no significant systemic toxicity. These results pave the way for developing combination immunotherapeutics by harnessing IL-12 production for immunostimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter D Koch
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN 5206, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Christopher B Rodell
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN 5206, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Rainer H Kohler
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN 5206, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Mikael J Pittet
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN 5206, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Ralph Weissleder
- Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN 5206, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, 200 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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40
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Huber AD, Chen T. Discovering Anti-cancer Immune Enhancers in a Miniaturized Immune-Tumor Microenvironment. Cell Chem Biol 2019; 26:314-316. [PMID: 30901558 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In this issue of Cell Chemical Biology, Mo et al. (2019) report the development and validation of a co-culture system with cancer and immune cells that is suitable for high-throughput screening. The method is an important step forward in technologies for identifying cancer-cell-specific immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Huber
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Taosheng Chen
- Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
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41
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Dougan M, Dranoff G, Dougan SK. GM-CSF, IL-3, and IL-5 Family of Cytokines: Regulators of Inflammation. Immunity 2019; 50:796-811. [PMID: 30995500 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2019.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The β common chain cytokines GM-CSF, IL-3, and IL-5 regulate varied inflammatory responses that promote the rapid clearance of pathogens but also contribute to pathology in chronic inflammation. Therapeutic interventions manipulating these cytokines are approved for use in some cancers as well as allergic and autoimmune disease, and others show promising early clinical activity. These approaches are based on our understanding of the inflammatory roles of these cytokines; however, GM-CSF also participates in the resolution of inflammation, and IL-3 and IL-5 may also have such properties. Here, we review the functions of the β common cytokines in health and disease. We discuss preclinical and clinical data, highlighting the potential inherent in targeting these cytokine pathways, the limitations, and the important gaps in understanding of the basic biology of this cytokine family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Dougan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Glenn Dranoff
- Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Stephanie K Dougan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Rizk J, Kaplinsky J, Agerholm R, Kadekar D, Ivars F, Agace WW, Wong WWL, Szucs MJ, Myers SA, Carr SA, Waisman A, Bekiaris V. SMAC mimetics promote NIK-dependent inhibition of CD4 + T H17 cell differentiation. Sci Signal 2019; 12:eaaw3469. [PMID: 31455723 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aaw3469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Second mitochondria-derived activator of caspase (SMAC) mimetics (SMs) are selective antagonists of the inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), which activate noncanonical NF-κB signaling and promote tumor cell death. Through gene expression analysis, we found that treatment of CD4+ T cells with SMs during T helper 17 (TH17) cell differentiation disrupted the balance between two antagonistic transcription factor modules. Moreover, proteomics analysis revealed that SMs altered the abundance of proteins associated with cell cycle, mitochondrial activity, and the balance between canonical and noncanonical NF-κB signaling. Whereas SMs inhibited interleukin-17 (IL-17) production and ameliorated TH17 cell-driven inflammation, they stimulated IL-22 secretion. Mechanistically, SM-mediated activation of NF-κB-inducing kinase (NIK) and the transcription factors RelB and p52 directly suppressed Il17a expression and IL-17A protein production, as well as the expression of a number of other immune genes. Induction of IL-22 production correlated with the NIK-dependent reduction in cMAF protein abundance and the enhanced activity of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor. Last, SMs also increased IL-9 and IL-13 production and, under competing conditions, favored the differentiation of naïve CD4+ T cells into TH2 cells rather than TH17 cells. These results demonstrate that SMs shape the gene expression and protein profiles of TH17 cells and inhibit TH17 cell-driven autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Rizk
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, Building 202, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Joseph Kaplinsky
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, Building 202, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Rasmus Agerholm
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, Building 202, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Darshana Kadekar
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, Building 202, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Fredrik Ivars
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - William W Agace
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, Building 202, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, 22184 Lund, Sweden
| | - W Wei-Lynn Wong
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthew J Szucs
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Samuel A Myers
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Steven A Carr
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Ari Waisman
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher Str. 67, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Vasileios Bekiaris
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, Building 202, 2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark.
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Dougan SK, Dougan M. SMAC mimetics throw a molecular switch to control T H17 responses. Sci Signal 2019; 12:12/596/eaay3986. [PMID: 31455724 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.aay3986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
IL-17 produced by TH17 cells plays a central role in numerous protective and pathologic immune responses. In this issue of Science Signaling, Rizk et al. define a molecular switch controlled by the cellular inhibitor of apoptosis proteins that regulates TH17 immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie K Dougan
- Department of Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA. .,Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael Dougan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA. .,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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44
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Beug ST, Korneluk RG, LaCasse EC. Sp3-cificity of TNF-α expression promotes the Smac mimetic-mediated killing of cancer cells. Mol Cell Oncol 2019; 6:1607456. [PMID: 31211235 PMCID: PMC6548490 DOI: 10.1080/23723556.2019.1607456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A genome-wide small-interfering RNA-based screen identified the transcription factor Specificity Protein 3 (SP3) as a critical factor for Second mitochondrial-derived activator of caspase (Smac) mimetic-mediated killing of cancer cells. In concert with Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB,) SP3 is required for the expression of the cytokine Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α) under basal and Smac mimetic-stimulated conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn T Beug
- Apoptosis Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Robert G Korneluk
- Apoptosis Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Eric C LaCasse
- Apoptosis Research Centre, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
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45
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Kawalkowska JZ, Ogbechi J, Venables PJ, Williams RO. cIAP1/2 inhibition synergizes with TNF inhibition in autoimmunity by down-regulating IL-17A and inducing T regs. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2019; 5:eaaw5422. [PMID: 31049403 PMCID: PMC6494502 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaw5422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
IL-17 and TNF-α are major effector cytokines in chronic inflammation. TNF-α inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), although not all patients respond, and most relapse after treatment withdrawal. This may be due to a paradoxical exacerbation of TH17 responses by TNF-α inhibition. We examined the therapeutic potential of targeting cellular inhibitors of apoptosis 1 and 2 (cIAP1/2) in inflammation by its influence on human TH subsets and mice with collagen-induced arthritis. Inhibition of cIAP1/2 abrogated CD4+ IL-17A differentiation and IL-17 production. This was a direct effect on T cells, mediated by reducing NFATc1 expression. In mice, cIAP1/2 inhibition, when combined with etanercept, abrogated disease activity, which was associated with an increase in Tregs and was sustained after therapy retraction. We reveal an unexpected role for cIAP1/2 in regulating the balance between TH17 and Tregs and suggest that combined therapeutic inhibition could induce long-term remission in inflammatory diseases.
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46
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Balachandran VP, Beatty GL, Dougan SK. Broadening the Impact of Immunotherapy to Pancreatic Cancer: Challenges and Opportunities. Gastroenterology 2019; 156:2056-2072. [PMID: 30660727 PMCID: PMC6486864 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2018.12.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 270] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is projected to become the second deadliest cancer in the United States by 2025, with 5-year survival at less than 10%. In other recalcitrant cancers, immunotherapy has shown unprecedented response rates, including durable remissions after drug discontinuation. However, responses to immunotherapy in PDAC are rare. Accumulating evidence in mice and humans suggests that this remarkable resistance is linked to the complex, dueling role of the immune system in simultaneously promoting and restraining PDAC. In this review, we highlight the rationale that supports pursuing immunotherapy in PDAC, outline the key barriers that limit immunotherapy efficacy, and summarize the primary preclinical and clinical efforts to sensitize PDAC to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinod P Balachandran
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
| | - Gregory L Beatty
- Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
| | - Stephanie K Dougan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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47
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Dougan M, Dranoff G, Dougan SK. Cancer Immunotherapy: Beyond Checkpoint Blockade. ANNUAL REVIEW OF CANCER BIOLOGY 2019; 3:55-75. [PMID: 37539076 PMCID: PMC10400018 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cancerbio-030518-055552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Blocking antibodies to the immune checkpoint receptors or their ligands have revolutionized the treatment of diverse malignancies. Many tumors are recognized by adaptive immunity, but these adaptive responses can be inhibited by immunosuppressive mechanisms within the tumor, often through pathways outside of the currently targeted checkpoints. For this reason, only a minority of cancer patients achieve durable responses to current immunotherapies. Multiple novel approaches strive to expand immunotherapy's reach. These may include targeting alternative immune checkpoints. However, many investigational strategies look beyond checkpoint blockade. These include cellular therapies to bypass endogenous immunity and efforts to stimulate new adaptive antitumor responses using vaccines, adjuvants, and combinations with cytotoxic therapy, as well as strategies to inhibit innate immune suppression and modulate metabolism within the tumor microenvironment. The challenge for immunotherapy going forward will be to select rational strategies for overcoming barriers to effective antitumor responses from the myriad possible targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Dougan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Glenn Dranoff
- Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA
| | - Stephanie K Dougan
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
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48
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Cong H, Xu L, Wu Y, Qu Z, Bian T, Zhang W, Xing C, Zhuang C. Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein (IAP) Antagonists in Anticancer Agent Discovery: Current Status and Perspectives. J Med Chem 2019; 62:5750-5772. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Cong
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, Yinchuan 750004, China
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Lijuan Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, Yinchuan 750004, China
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yougen Wu
- College of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, 58 Renmin Avenue, Haikou 570228, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, 1345 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Zhuo Qu
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Tengfei Bian
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, 1345 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Wannian Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, Yinchuan 750004, China
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Chengguo Xing
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, 1345 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32610, United States
| | - Chunlin Zhuang
- School of Pharmacy, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shengli Street, Yinchuan 750004, China
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, 325 Guohe Road, Shanghai 200433, China
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49
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Michie J, Beavis PA, Freeman AJ, Vervoort SJ, Ramsbottom KM, Narasimhan V, Lelliott EJ, Lalaoui N, Ramsay RG, Johnstone RW, Silke J, Darcy PK, Voskoboinik I, Kearney CJ, Oliaro J. Antagonism of IAPs Enhances CAR T-cell Efficacy. Cancer Immunol Res 2019; 7:183-192. [DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-18-0428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 10/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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HTiP: High-Throughput Immunomodulator Phenotypic Screening Platform to Reveal IAP Antagonists as Anti-cancer Immune Enhancers. Cell Chem Biol 2019; 26:331-339.e3. [PMID: 30639259 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2018.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Protein- and cell-based immunotherapeutic agents have revolutionized cancer treatment. However, small-molecule immunomodulators with favorable pharmacological properties for reaching intracellular targets remain to be developed. To explore the vast chemical space, a robust method that recapitulates the complex cancer-immune microenvironment in a high-throughput format is essential. To address this critical gap, we developed a high-throughput immunomodulator phenotypic screening platform, HTiP, which integrates the immune and cancer cell co-culture system with imaging- and biochemical-based multiplexed readouts. Using the HTiP platform, we have demonstrated its capability in modeling an oncogenic KRAS mutation-driven immunosuppressive phenotype. From a bioactive chemical library, multiple structurally distinct compounds were identified, all of which target the same class of proteins, inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP). IAP has demonstrated roles in cancer immunity. Identification of IAP antagonists as potent anti-tumor immune enhancers provides strong validating evidence for the use of the HTiP platform to discover small-molecule immunomodulators.
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