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Vidal-Manrique M, Nieuwenstein T, Hooijmaijers L, de Jonge P, Djojoatmo M, Jansen J, van der Waart A, Brock R, Dolstra H. IL-15 transpresentation by ovarian cancer cells improves CD34 + progenitor-derived NK cell's anti-tumor functionality. Oncoimmunology 2025; 14:2465010. [PMID: 39960378 PMCID: PMC11834524 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2025.2465010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2025] [Accepted: 02/05/2025] [Indexed: 02/20/2025] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy. As high numbers of Natural Killer (NK) cells in ascites associate with improved survival, the adoptive transfer of allogeneic NK cells is an attractive therapeutic strategy. An approach to further improve NK cell expansion and anti-tumor functionality post-infusion includes IL-15 transpresentation (transIL-15), which involves surface expression of the IL-15 cytokine bound to IL-15Rα. However, others have substantiated that systemic administration of ALT/N-803, a soluble molecule mimicking transIL-15, leads to T cell-mediated rejection of the infused allogeneic NK cell product. In addition, whether transIL-15 induce superior expansion and functionality of our hematopoietic progenitor cell-derived NK cells (HPC-NK) remains understudied. Here, we propose to transfect OC cells with IL-15 and IL-15Rα mRNA and evaluate HPC-NK cell stimulation in vitro. Co-transfection of both mRNAs resulted in surface co-expression of both components, thus mimicking the transIL-15. Importantly, co-culture of HPC-NK cells with transIL-15 OC cells resulted in superior proliferation, IFNγ production, cytotoxicity and granzyme B secretion. Furthermore, we observed uptake of IL-15Rα by HPC-NK cells when co-cultured with transIL-15 OC cells, which associates with NK cell long-term proliferation and survival. Superior killing and granzyme B secretion were also observed in transIL-15 OC spheroids. Our results demonstrate that local delivery of IL-15 and IL-15Rα mRNA to OC tumors may be a safer strategy to boost HPC-NK cell therapy of OC through IL-15 transpresentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Vidal-Manrique
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - T. Nieuwenstein
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - L. Hooijmaijers
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - P.K.J.D. de Jonge
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - M. Djojoatmo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J. Jansen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A.B. van der Waart
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - R. Brock
- Department of Medical BioSciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | - H. Dolstra
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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2
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Yu J, Li Q, Zhang C, Wang Q, Luo S, Wang X, Hu R, Cheng Q. Targeted LNPs deliver IL-15 superagonists mRNA for precision cancer therapy. Biomaterials 2025; 317:123047. [PMID: 39742840 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.123047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2024] [Revised: 12/10/2024] [Accepted: 12/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/04/2025]
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) emerges as a promising immunotherapeutic candidate, but the therapeutic utility remains concern due to the unexpected systematic stress. Here, we propose that the mRNA lipid nanoparticle (mRNA-LNP) system can balance the issue through targeted delivery to increase IL-15 concentration in the tumor area and reduce leakage into the circulation. In the established Structure-driven TARgeting (STAR) platform, the LNPLocal and LNPLung can effectively and selectively deliver optimized IL-15 superagonists mRNAs to local and lungs, respectively, in relevant tumor models. As a result, such superagonists exhibited well-balanced efficacy and side-effects, demonstrating the better anti-tumor activity, less systematic exposure, and less cytokine related risks. We finally verified the selective delivery and well tolerability of LNPLung in non-human primates (NHPs), confirming the potential for clinical application. This finding provides new potentials for cancers treatment on lung cancers or lung metastasis cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juntao Yu
- Starna Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Chaoting Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, 100142, China
| | - Qiu Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Shenggen Luo
- Starna Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Xiaona Wang
- Starna Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Rongkuan Hu
- Starna Therapeutics Co., Ltd., Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Qiang Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Future Technology, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China; Beijing Advanced Center of RNA Biology (BEACON), Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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3
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Zhang M, Liu C, Tu J, Tang M, Ashrafizadeh M, Nabavi N, Sethi G, Zhao P, Liu S. Advances in cancer immunotherapy: historical perspectives, current developments, and future directions. Mol Cancer 2025; 24:136. [PMID: 40336045 PMCID: PMC12057291 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-025-02305-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2025] [Accepted: 03/15/2025] [Indexed: 05/09/2025] Open
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, encompassing both experimental and standard-of-care therapies, has emerged as a promising approach to harnessing the immune system for tumor suppression. Experimental strategies, including novel immunotherapies and preclinical models, are actively being explored, while established treatments, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), are widely implemented in clinical settings. This comprehensive review examines the historical evolution, underlying mechanisms, and diverse strategies of cancer immunotherapy, highlighting both its clinical applications and ongoing preclinical advancements. The review delves into the essential components of anticancer immunity, including dendritic cell activation, T cell priming, and immune surveillance, while addressing the challenges posed by immune evasion mechanisms. Key immunotherapeutic strategies, such as cancer vaccines, oncolytic viruses, adoptive cell transfer, and ICIs, are discussed in detail. Additionally, the role of nanotechnology, cytokines, chemokines, and adjuvants in enhancing the precision and efficacy of immunotherapies were explored. Combination therapies, particularly those integrating immunotherapy with radiotherapy or chemotherapy, exhibit synergistic potential but necessitate careful management to reduce side effects. Emerging factors influencing immunotherapy outcomes, including tumor heterogeneity, gut microbiota composition, and genomic and epigenetic modifications, are also examined. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms underlying immune evasion and therapeutic resistance are analyzed, with a focus on the contributions of noncoding RNAs and epigenetic alterations, along with innovative intervention strategies. This review emphasizes recent preclinical and clinical advancements, with particular attention to biomarker-driven approaches aimed at optimizing patient prognosis. Challenges such as immunotherapy-related toxicity, limited efficacy in solid tumors, and production constraints are highlighted as critical areas for future research. Advancements in personalized therapies and novel delivery systems are proposed as avenues to enhance treatment effectiveness and accessibility. By incorporating insights from multiple disciplines, this review aims to deepen the understanding and application of cancer immunotherapy, ultimately fostering more effective and widely accessible therapeutic solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiyin Zhang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Chaojun Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital; People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University; People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450003, China
| | - Jing Tu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Tang
- Department of Oncology, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401147, China
| | - Milad Ashrafizadeh
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Independent Researcher, Victoria, British Columbia, V8 V 1P7, Canada
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology and NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR) Yong Loo Lin, School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
| | - Peiqing Zhao
- Translational Medicine Center, Zibo Central Hospital Affiliated to Binzhou Medical University, No. 54 Communist Youth League Road, Zibo, China.
| | - Shijian Liu
- Department of General Medicine, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, No. 246 Xuefu Road, Harbin, 150081, China.
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Li Z, Xu J, Lin H, Yu S, Sun J, Zhang C, Zhang S, Li T, Yang A, Lu W. Interleukin-15Rα-Sushi-Fc Fusion Protein Co-Hitchhikes Interleukin-15 and Pheophorbide A for Cancer Photoimmunotherapy. Pharmaceutics 2025; 17:615. [PMID: 40430906 PMCID: PMC12114846 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics17050615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2025] [Revised: 04/20/2025] [Accepted: 04/26/2025] [Indexed: 05/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Background: Interleukin-15 (IL-15) stimulates the proliferation of natural killer cells or T cells, which, in combination with photodynamic therapy (PDT), has emerged as an effective strategy for cancer photoimmunotherapy. Instead of direct cytokine receptor activation, IL-15 necessitates first binding to the IL-15 receptor α chain subunit (IL-15Rα), followed by trans-presentation to the IL-15 receptor β/γ chain subunit on the effector cells for pharmacologic activation. Therefore, the delivery of IL-15 remains a major challenge owing to its short half-life, its lack of targeting activity, and the limited availability of IL-15Rα. Methods: A co-hitchhiking delivery approach using recombinant IL-15 (rIL-15) and a photosensitizer, pheophorbide A (PhA), is developed for enhanced combinatorial cancer immunotherapy with PDT. A recombinant IL-15Rα-sushi-Fc fusion protein (rILR-Fc) is designed to load rIL-15 through the IL-15Rα sushi domain, which mimics its trans-presentation. Moreover, the Fc moiety of rILR-Fc can load PhA based on its high binding affinity. Results: Through self-assembly, rILR-Fc/PhA/rIL-15 nanoparticles (NPs) are formulated to co-hitchhike PhA and rIL-15, which improves the tumor accumulation of PhA and rIL-15 through receptor-mediated transcytosis. Moreover, the nanoparticles prolong the blood half-life of rIL-15 but do not alter the elimination rate of PhA from the blood. The rILR-Fc/PhA/rIL-15 NPs effectively elicit potent systemic antitumor immunity and long-lasting immune memory against tumor rechallenge in model mice bearing orthotopic colon tumors. Conclusions: The enhanced antitumor therapeutic effect demonstrates that the co-hitchhiking delivery strategy, optimizing the pharmacokinetics of both the photosensitizer and IL-15, provides a promising strategy for combinatorial photodynamic and IL-15 immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Li
- School of Pharmacy & Minhang Hospital, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery Ministry of Education & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jiaojiao Xu
- School of Pharmacy & Minhang Hospital, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery Ministry of Education & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hongzheng Lin
- School of Pharmacy & Minhang Hospital, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery Ministry of Education & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Sheng Yu
- School of Pharmacy & Minhang Hospital, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery Ministry of Education & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jingwen Sun
- School of Pharmacy & Minhang Hospital, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery Ministry of Education & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Chen Zhang
- School of Pharmacy & Minhang Hospital, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery Ministry of Education & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Sihang Zhang
- School of Pharmacy & Minhang Hospital, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery Ministry of Education & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Tingting Li
- School of Pharmacy & Minhang Hospital, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery Ministry of Education & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Afeng Yang
- School of Pharmacy & Minhang Hospital, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery Ministry of Education & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Wei Lu
- School of Pharmacy & Minhang Hospital, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery Ministry of Education & State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, 826 Zhangheng Road, Shanghai 201203, China
- Quzhou Fudan Institute, 108 Minjiang Avenue, Quzhou 324002, China
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Chen P, Li S, Nagaoka K, Kakimi K, Kataoka K, Cabral H. Nanoenabled IL-15 Superagonist via Conditionally Stabilized Protein-Protein Interactions Eradicates Solid Tumors by Precise Immunomodulation. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:32431-32444. [PMID: 39356776 PMCID: PMC11613988 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c08327] [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: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 09/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/25/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Protein complexes are crucial structures that control many biological processes. Harnessing these structures could be valuable for therapeutic therapy. However, their instability and short lifespans need to be addressed for effective use. Here, we propose an innovative approach based on a functional polymeric cloak that coordinately anchors different domains of protein complexes and assembles them into a stabilized nanoformulation. As the polymer-protein association in the cloak is pH sensitive, the nanoformulation also allows targeting the release of the protein complexes to the acidic microenvironment of tumors for aiding their therapeutic performance. Building on this strategy, we developed an IL-15 nanosuperagonist (Nano-SA) by encapsulating the interleukin-15 (IL-15)/IL-15 Receptor α (IL-15Rα) complex (IL-15cx) for fostering synergistic transpresentation in tumors. Upon intravenous administration, Nano-SA stably circulated in the bloodstream, safeguarding the integrity of IL-15cx until reaching the tumor site, where it selectively released the active complex. Thus, Nano-SA significantly amplified the antitumor immune signals while diminishing systemic off-target effects. In murine colon cancer models, Nano-SA achieved potent immunotherapeutic effects, eradicating tumors without adverse side effects. These findings highlight the transformative potential of nanotechnology for advancing protein complex-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengwen Chen
- Department
of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Shangwei Li
- Department
of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
| | - Koji Nagaoka
- Department
of Immunotherapeutics, The University of
Tokyo Hospital, 7-3-1
Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Kakimi
- Department
of Immunotherapeutics, The University of
Tokyo Hospital, 7-3-1
Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan
| | - Kazunori Kataoka
- Innovation
Center of NanoMedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki
Institute of Industrial Promotion, 3-25-14 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki 210-0821, Japan
| | - Horacio Cabral
- Department
of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan
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Hangasky JA, Fernández RDV, Stellas D, Hails G, Karaliota S, Ashley GW, Felber BK, Pavlakis GN, Santi DV. Leveraging long-acting IL-15 agonists for intratumoral delivery and enhanced antimetastatic activity. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1458145. [PMID: 39559362 PMCID: PMC11570272 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1458145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 10/14/2024] [Indexed: 11/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction IL-15 agonists hold promise as immunotherapeutics due to their ability to induce the proliferation and expansion of cytotoxic immune cells including natural killer (NK) and CD8+ T cells. However, they generally have short half-lives that necessitate frequent administration to achieve efficacy. To address this limitation, we have developed a half-life extension technology using hydrogel microspheres (MS). Here, the therapeutic is tethered to MSs by a releasable linker with pre-programed cleavage rates. We previously showed the MS conjugate of single-chain IL-15, MS~IL-15, effectively increased the half-life of IL-15 to approximately 1 week and enhanced the pharmacodynamics. We sought to determine whether the same would be true with a MS conjugate of the IL-15 agonist, receptor-linker IL-15 (RLI). Methods We prepared a long acting MS conjugate of RLI, MS~RLI. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of MS~RLI were measured in C57BL/6J mice and compared to MS~IL-15. The antitumor efficacy of MS~RLI was measured when delivered subcutaneously or intratumorally in the CT26 tumor model and intratumorally in the orthotopic EO771 tumor model. Results MS~RLI exhibited a half-life of 30 h, longer than most IL-15 agonists but shorter than MS~IL-15. The shorter than expected half-life of MS~RLI was shown to be due to target-mediated-disposition caused by an IL-15 induced cytokine sink. MS~RLI resulted in very potent stimulation of NK and CD44hiCD8+ T cells, but also caused significant injection-site toxicity that may preclude subcutaneous administration. We thus pivoted our efforts toward studying the MS~RLI for long-acting intra-tumoral therapy, where some degree of necrosis might be beneficial. When delivered intra- tumorally, both MS~IL-15 and MS~RLI had modest anti-tumor efficacy, but high anti- metastatic activity. Conclusion Intra-tumoral MS~RLI and MS~RLI combined with systemic treatment with other agents could provide beneficial antitumor and anti-metastatic effects without the toxic effects of systemic IL-15 agonists. Our findings demonstrate that intra-tumorally administered long-acting IL-15 agonists counter two criticisms of loco-regional therapy: the necessity for frequent injections and the challenge of managing metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dimitris Stellas
- Human Retrovirus Pathogenesis Section, Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, United States
| | | | - Sevasti Karaliota
- Human Retrovirus Pathogenesis Section, Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, United States
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick, MD, United States
| | | | - Barbara K. Felber
- Human Retrovirus Pathogenesis Section, Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - George N. Pavlakis
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, United States
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Yi M, Li T, Niu M, Zhang H, Wu Y, Wu K, Dai Z. Targeting cytokine and chemokine signaling pathways for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:176. [PMID: 39034318 PMCID: PMC11275440 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01868-3] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Cytokines are critical in regulating immune responses and cellular behavior, playing dual roles in both normal physiology and the pathology of diseases such as cancer. These molecules, including interleukins, interferons, tumor necrosis factors, chemokines, and growth factors like TGF-β, VEGF, and EGF, can promote or inhibit tumor growth, influence the tumor microenvironment, and impact the efficacy of cancer treatments. Recent advances in targeting these pathways have shown promising therapeutic potential, offering new strategies to modulate the immune system, inhibit tumor progression, and overcome resistance to conventional therapies. In this review, we summarized the current understanding and therapeutic implications of targeting cytokine and chemokine signaling pathways in cancer. By exploring the roles of these molecules in tumor biology and the immune response, we highlighted the development of novel therapeutic agents aimed at modulating these pathways to combat cancer. The review elaborated on the dual nature of cytokines as both promoters and suppressors of tumorigenesis, depending on the context, and discussed the challenges and opportunities this presents for therapeutic intervention. We also examined the latest advancements in targeted therapies, including monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, receptor inhibitors, fusion proteins, engineered cytokine variants, and their impact on tumor growth, metastasis, and the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, we evaluated the potential of combining these targeted therapies with other treatment modalities to overcome resistance and improve patient outcomes. Besides, we also focused on the ongoing research and clinical trials that are pivotal in advancing our understanding and application of cytokine- and chemokine-targeted therapies for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yi
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianye Li
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengke Niu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoxiang Zhang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuze Wu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Kongming Wu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhijun Dai
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China.
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8
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Chu Y, Nayyar G, Tian M, Lee DA, Ozkaynak MF, Ayala-Cuesta J, Klose K, Foley K, Mendelowitz AS, Luo W, Liao Y, Ayello J, Behbehani GK, Riddell S, Cripe T, Cairo MS. Efficiently targeting neuroblastoma with the combination of anti-ROR1 CAR NK cells and N-803 in vitro and in vivo in NB xenografts. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200820. [PMID: 38933492 PMCID: PMC11201149 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The prognosis for children with recurrent and/or refractory neuroblastoma (NB) is dismal. The receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1), which is highly expressed on the surface of NB cells, provides a potential target for novel immunotherapeutics. Anti-ROR1 chimeric antigen receptor engineered ex vivo expanded peripheral blood natural killer (anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK) cells represent this approach. N-803 is an IL-15 superagonist with enhanced biological activity. In this study, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor effects of anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK cells with or without N-803 against ROR1+ NB models. Compared to mock exPBNK cells, anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK cells had significantly enhanced cytotoxicity against ROR1+ NB cells, and N-803 further increased cytotoxicity. High-dimensional analysis revealed that N-803 enhanced Stat5 phosphorylation and Ki67 levels in both exPBNK and anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK cells with or without NB cells. In vivo, anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK plus N-803 significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced survival in human ROR1+ NB xenografted NSG mice compared to anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK alone. Our results provide the rationale for further development of anti-ROR1 CAR exPBNK cells plus N-803 as a novel combination immunotherapeutic for patients with recurrent and/or refractory ROR1+ NB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaya Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Gaurav Nayyar
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Meijuan Tian
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Dean A. Lee
- Department of Pediatric Hem/Onc/BMT, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Mehmet F. Ozkaynak
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | | | - Kayleigh Klose
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Keira Foley
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | | | - Wen Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Yanling Liao
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Janet Ayello
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Gregory K. Behbehani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, the Ohio State University; Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Stanley Riddell
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Tim Cripe
- Department of Pediatric Hem/Onc/BMT, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
| | - Mitchell S. Cairo
- Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
- Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
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9
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Vahidi S, Zabeti Touchaei A, Samadani AA. IL-15 as a key regulator in NK cell-mediated immunotherapy for cancer: From bench to bedside. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 133:112156. [PMID: 38669950 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Interleukin 15 (IL-15) has emerged as a crucial factor in the relationship between natural killer (NK) cells and immunotherapy for cancer. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of IL-15 in NK cell-mediated immunotherapy. First, the key role of IL-15 signaling in NK cell immunity is discussed, highlighting its regulation of NK cell functions and antitumor properties. Furthermore, the use of IL-15 or its analogs in clinical trials as a therapeutic strategy for various cancers, including the genetic modification of NK cells to produce IL-15, has been explored. The potential of IL-15-based therapies, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T and NK cell infusion along with IL-15 in combination with checkpoint inhibitors and other treatments, has been examined. This review also addresses the challenges and advantages of incorporating IL-15 in cell-based immunotherapy. Additionally, unresolved questions regarding the detection and biological significance of the soluble IL-15/IL-15Rα complex, as well as the potential role of IL-15/IL-15Rα in human cancer and the immunological consequences of prolonged exposure to soluble IL-15 for NK cells, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sogand Vahidi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | | | - Ali Akbar Samadani
- Guilan Road Trauma Research Center, Trauma Institute, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
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10
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Fowler D, Barisa M, Southern A, Nattress C, Hawkins E, Vassalou E, Kanouta A, Counsell J, Rota E, Vlckova P, Draper B, De Mooij T, Farkas A, Brezovjakova H, Baker AT, Scotlandi K, Manara MC, Tape C, Chester K, Anderson J, Fisher J. Payload-delivering engineered γδ T cells display enhanced cytotoxicity, persistence, and efficacy in preclinical models of osteosarcoma. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadg9814. [PMID: 38809963 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adg9814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
T cell-based cancer immunotherapy has typically relied on membrane-bound cytotoxicity enhancers such as chimeric antigen receptors expressed in autologous αβ T cells. These approaches are limited by tonic signaling of synthetic constructs and costs associated with manufacturing. γδ T cells are an emerging alternative for cellular therapy, having innate antitumor activity, potent antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, and minimal alloreactivity. We present an immunotherapeutic platform technology built around the innate properties of the Vγ9Vδ2 T cell, harnessing specific characteristics of this cell type and offering an allocompatible cellular therapy that recruits bystander immunity. We engineered γδ T cells to secrete synthetic tumor-targeting opsonins in the form of an scFv-Fc fusion protein and a mitogenic IL-15Rα-IL-15 fusion protein (stIL15). Using GD2 as a model antigen, we show that GD2-specific opsonin-secreting Vγ9Vδ2 T cells (stIL15-OPS-γδ T cells) have enhanced cytotoxicity and promote bystander activity of other lymphoid and myeloid cells. Secretion of stIL-15 abrogated the need for exogenous cytokine supplementation and further mediated activation of bystander natural killer cells. Compared with unmodified γδ T cells, stIL15-OPS-γδ T cells exhibited superior in vivo control of subcutaneous tumors and persistence in the blood. Moreover, stIL15-OPS-γδ T cells were efficacious against patient-derived osteosarcomas in animal models and in vitro, where efficacy could be boosted with the addition of zoledronic acid. Together, the data identify stIL15-OPS-γδ T cells as a candidate allogeneic cell therapy platform combining direct cytolysis with bystander activation to promote tumor control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Fowler
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Marta Barisa
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Alba Southern
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Callum Nattress
- UCL Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, WC1E 6DD London, UK
| | - Elizabeth Hawkins
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Eleni Vassalou
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Angeliki Kanouta
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | | | - Enrique Rota
- UCL Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, WC1E 6DD London, UK
| | - Petra Vlckova
- UCL Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, WC1E 6DD London, UK
| | - Benjamin Draper
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Tessa De Mooij
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Andrea Farkas
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Helena Brezovjakova
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Alfie T Baker
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Katia Scotlandi
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Experimental Oncology Laboratory, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna Italy
| | - Maria C Manara
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Experimental Oncology Laboratory, Via di Barbiano 1/10, 40136 Bologna Italy
| | - Chris Tape
- UCL Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, WC1E 6DD London, UK
| | - Kerry Chester
- UCL Cancer Institute, Paul O'Gorman Building, 72 Huntley Street, WC1E 6DD London, UK
| | - John Anderson
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
| | - Jonathan Fisher
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, Zayed Centre for Research, 20 Guilford Street, WC1N 1DZ London, UK
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11
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Ren Z, Zhang X, Fu YX. Facts and Hopes on Chimeric Cytokine Agents for Cancer Immunotherapy. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:2025-2038. [PMID: 38190116 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-1160] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Cytokines are key mediators of immune responses that can modulate the antitumor activity of immune cells. Cytokines have been explored as a promising cancer immunotherapy. However, there are several challenges to cytokine therapy, especially a lack of tumor targeting, resulting in high toxicity and limited efficacy. To overcome these limitations, novel approaches have been developed to engineer cytokines with improved properties, such as chimeric cytokines. Chimeric cytokines are fusion proteins that combine different cytokine domains or link cytokines to antibodies (immunocytokines) or other molecules that can target specific receptors or cells. Chimeric cytokines can enhance the selectivity and stability of cytokines, leading to reduced toxicity and improved efficacy. In this review, we focus on two promising cytokines, IL2 and IL15, and summarize the current advances and challenges of chimeric cytokine design and application for cancer immunotherapy. Most of the current approaches focus on increasing the potency of cytokines, but another important goal is to reduce toxicity. Cytokine engineering is promising for cancer immunotherapy as it can enhance tumor targeting while minimizing adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xuhao Zhang
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang-Xin Fu
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing, China
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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12
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Huang G, Wu Y, Gan H, Chu L. Overexpression of CD2/CD27 could inhibit the activation of nitrogen metabolism pathways and suppress M2 polarization of macrophages, thereby preventing brain metastasis of breast cancer. Transl Oncol 2023; 37:101768. [PMID: 37666207 PMCID: PMC10480780 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our study aimed to reveal the possible molecular mechanisms of CD2 and CD27 in influencing the tumor microenvironment of breast cancer (BC) brain metastasis based on the TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) and SRA (Sequence Read Archive) databases. METHODS We calculated the proportions of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and the immune and stromal cell scores in 1222 BC samples from the TCGA-BRCA dataset, followed by identification of candidate DEGs. We further screened for BC brain metastasis-related DEGs in the BC brain metastasis dataset SUB12911144 from the SRA database. Finally, we established a mouse breast cancer brain metastasis model for in vivo validation. RESULTS We further screened two immune-regulatory DEGs (CD2 and CD27). GSEA analysis showed that the downregulation of CD2 and CD27 expression was closely related to the activation of nitrogen metabolism pathways. CIBERSORT algorithm analysis showed a correlation between the expression of 16 types of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and CD2 and 19 types of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and CD27. In addition, CD2 and CD27 expression were negatively associated with the proportion of M2 macrophages. In vivo experimental results demonstrated that overexpression of CD2/CD27 could suppress the M2 polarization of macrophages and inhibit breast cancer brain metastasis. CONCLUSION In the tumor microenvironment, overexpression of CD2/CD27 inhibited the activation of nitrogen metabolism pathways and suppressed M2 polarization of macrophages, thereby preventing brain metastasis of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanyou Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second People's Hospital of Guiyang (Jinyang Hospital), No.547 Jinyang South Road, Guanshanhu District, Guiyang 550081, China.
| | - Yujuan Wu
- Department of Neurology, The Second People's Hospital of Guiyang (Jinyang Hospital), No.547 Jinyang South Road, Guanshanhu District, Guiyang 550081, China
| | - Hongchuan Gan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second People's Hospital of Guiyang (Jinyang Hospital), No.547 Jinyang South Road, Guanshanhu District, Guiyang 550081, China
| | - Liangzhao Chu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550001, China
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13
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Zhang L, Zhang Y, Wang X, Zhou Y, Qi J, Gu L, Zhao Q, Yu R, Zhou X. A Trojan-Horse-Like Biomimetic Nano-NK to Elicit an Immunostimulatory Tumor Microenvironment for Enhanced GBM Chemo-Immunotherapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2301439. [PMID: 37420326 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202301439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Although the chemo- and immuno-therapies have obtained good responses for several solid tumors, including those with brain metastasis, their clinical efficacy in glioblastoma (GBM) is disappointing. The lack of safe and effective delivery systems across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) are two main hurdles for GBM therapy. Herein, a Trojan-horse-like nanoparticle system is designed, which encapsulates biocompatible PLGA-coated temozolomide (TMZ) and IL-15 nanoparticles (NPs) with cRGD-decorated NK cell membrane (R-NKm@NP), to elicit the immunostimulatory TME for GBM chemo-immunotherapy. Taking advantage of the outer NK cell membrane cooperating with cRGD, the R-NKm@NPs effectively traversed across the BBB and targeted GBM. In addition, the R-NKm@NPs exhibited good antitumor ability and prolonged the median survival of GBM-bearing mice. Notably, after R-NKm@NPs treatment, the locally released TMZ and IL-15 synergistically stimulated the proliferation and activation of NK cells, leading to the maturation of dendritic cells and infiltration of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, eliciting an immunostimulatory TME. Lastly, the R-NKm@NPs not only effectively prolonged the metabolic cycling time of the drugs in vivo, but also has no noticeable side effects. This study may offer valuable insights for developing biomimetic nanoparticles to potentiate GBM chemo- and immuno-therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Zhang
- Institute of Nervous System Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 2210002, China
- The Graduate School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Yining Zhang
- Institute of Nervous System Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 2210002, China
- The Graduate School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Institute of Nervous System Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 2210002, China
- The Graduate School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Institute of Nervous System Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 2210002, China
- The Graduate School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Ji Qi
- Institute of Nervous System Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 2210002, China
- The Graduate School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Linbo Gu
- Institute of Nervous System Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 2210002, China
- The Graduate School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, China
| | - Qiu Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China (Anhui Provincial Hospital), Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Rutong Yu
- Institute of Nervous System Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 2210002, China
| | - Xiuping Zhou
- Institute of Nervous System Diseases, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 2210002, China
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14
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Saad E, Saliby RM, Labaki C, Xu W, Viswanathan SR, Braun DA, Bakouny Z. Novel Immune Therapies for Renal Cell Carcinoma: Looking Beyond the Programmed Cell Death Protein 1 and Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-Associated Protein 4 Axes. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2023; 37:1027-1040. [PMID: 37391289 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2023.05.023] [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: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized treatment for patients with advanced and metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Nevertheless, many patients do not benefit or eventually relapse, highlighting the need for novel immune targets to overcome primary and acquired resistance. This review discusses 2 strategies currently being investigated: disabling inhibitory stimuli that maintain immunosuppression ("brakes") and priming the immune system to target tumoral cells ("gas pedals"). We explore each class of novel immunotherapy, including the rationale behind it, supporting preclinical and clinical evidence, and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eddy Saad
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Renée Maria Saliby
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Chris Labaki
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Wenxin Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Srinivas R Viswanathan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - David A Braun
- Center of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, 300 George Street, Suite 6400, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
| | - Ziad Bakouny
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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15
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Singh S, Barik D, Arukha AP, Prasad S, Mohapatra I, Singh A, Singh G. Small Molecule Targeting Immune Cells: A Novel Approach for Cancer Treatment. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2621. [PMID: 37892995 PMCID: PMC10604364 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional and cancer immunotherapies encompass diverse strategies to address various cancer types and stages. However, combining these approaches often encounters limitations such as non-specific targeting, resistance development, and high toxicity, leading to suboptimal outcomes in many cancers. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is orchestrated by intricate interactions between immune and non-immune cells dictating tumor progression. An innovative avenue in cancer therapy involves leveraging small molecules to influence a spectrum of resistant cell populations within the TME. Recent discoveries have unveiled a phenotypically diverse cohort of innate-like T (ILT) cells and tumor hybrid cells (HCs) exhibiting novel characteristics, including augmented proliferation, migration, resistance to exhaustion, evasion of immunosurveillance, reduced apoptosis, drug resistance, and heightened metastasis frequency. Leveraging small-molecule immunomodulators to target these immune players presents an exciting frontier in developing novel tumor immunotherapies. Moreover, combining small molecule modulators with immunotherapy can synergistically enhance the inhibitory impact on tumor progression by empowering the immune system to meticulously fine-tune responses within the TME, bolstering its capacity to recognize and eliminate cancer cells. This review outlines strategies involving small molecules that modify immune cells within the TME, potentially revolutionizing therapeutic interventions and enhancing the anti-tumor response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpi Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Debashis Barik
- Center for Computational Natural Science and Bioinformatics, International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad 500032, Telangana, India
| | | | | | - Iteeshree Mohapatra
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota—Twin Cities, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Amar Singh
- Schulze Diabetes Institute, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Gatikrushna Singh
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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16
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Zhang J, Jiang S, Li S, Jiang J, Mei J, Chen Y, Ma Y, Liu Y, Liu Y. Nanotechnology: A New Strategy for Lung Cancer Treatment Targeting Pro-Tumor Neutrophils. ENGINEERING 2023; 27:106-126. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eng.2022.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2025]
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17
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Cai M, Huang X, Huang X, Ju D, Zhu YZ, Ye L. Research progress of interleukin-15 in cancer immunotherapy. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1184703. [PMID: 37251333 PMCID: PMC10213988 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1184703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a cytokine that belongs to the interleukin-2 (IL-2) family and is essential for the development, proliferation, and activation of immune cells, including natural killer (NK) cells, T cells and B cells. Recent studies have revealed that interleukin-15 also plays a critical role in cancer immunotherapy. Interleukin-15 agonist molecules have shown that interleukin-15 agonists are effective in inhibiting tumor growth and preventing metastasis, and some are undergoing clinical trials. In this review, we will summarize the recent progress in interleukin-15 research over the past 5 years, highlighting its potential applications in cancer immunotherapy and the progress of interleukin-15 agonist development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghan Cai
- School of Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Xuan Huang
- Minhang Hospital and Department of Biological Medicines at School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Immunotherapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiting Huang
- Minhang Hospital and Department of Biological Medicines at School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Immunotherapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dianwen Ju
- Minhang Hospital and Department of Biological Medicines at School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Immunotherapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Zhun Zhu
- School of Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Li Ye
- School of Pharmacy and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, Macau SAR, China
- Minhang Hospital and Department of Biological Medicines at School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Immunotherapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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18
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Kumar A, Taghi Khani A, Duault C, Aramburo S, Sanchez Ortiz A, Lee SJ, Chan A, McDonald T, Huang M, Lacayo NJ, Sakamoto KM, Yu J, Hurtz C, Carroll M, Tasian SK, Ghoda L, Marcucci G, Gu Z, Rosen ST, Armenian S, Izraeli S, Chen CW, Caligiuri MA, Forman SJ, Maecker HT, Swaminathan S. Intrinsic suppression of type I interferon production underlies the therapeutic efficacy of IL-15-producing natural killer cells in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:jitc-2022-006649. [PMID: 37217248 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-006649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type I interferons (IFN-Is), secreted by hematopoietic cells, drive immune surveillance of solid tumors. However, the mechanisms of suppression of IFN-I-driven immune responses in hematopoietic malignancies including B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) are unknown. METHODS Using high-dimensional cytometry, we delineate the defects in IFN-I production and IFN-I-driven immune responses in high-grade primary human and mouse B-ALLs. We develop natural killer (NK) cells as therapies to counter the intrinsic suppression of IFN-I production in B-ALL. RESULTS We find that high expression of IFN-I signaling genes predicts favorable clinical outcome in patients with B-ALL, underscoring the importance of the IFN-I pathway in this malignancy. We show that human and mouse B-ALL microenvironments harbor an intrinsic defect in paracrine (plasmacytoid dendritic cell) and/or autocrine (B-cell) IFN-I production and IFN-I-driven immune responses. Reduced IFN-I production is sufficient for suppressing the immune system and promoting leukemia development in mice prone to MYC-driven B-ALL. Among anti-leukemia immune subsets, suppression of IFN-I production most markedly lowers the transcription of IL-15 and reduces NK-cell number and effector maturation in B-ALL microenvironments. Adoptive transfer of healthy NK cells significantly prolongs survival of overt ALL-bearing transgenic mice. Administration of IFN-Is to B-ALL-prone mice reduces leukemia progression and increases the frequencies of total NK and NK-cell effectors in circulation. Ex vivo treatment of malignant and non-malignant immune cells in primary mouse B-ALL microenvironments with IFN-Is fully restores proximal IFN-I signaling and partially restores IL-15 production. In B-ALL patients, the suppression of IL-15 is the most severe in difficult-to-treat subtypes with MYC overexpression. MYC overexpression promotes sensitivity of B-ALL to NK cell-mediated killing. To counter the suppressed IFN-I-induced IL-15 production in MYChigh human B-ALL, we CRISPRa-engineered a novel human NK-cell line that secretes IL-15. CRISPRa IL-15-secreting human NK cells kill high-grade human B-ALL in vitro and block leukemia progression in vivo more effectively than NK cells that do not produce IL-15. CONCLUSION We find that restoration of the intrinsically suppressed IFN-I production in B-ALL underlies the therapeutic efficacy of IL-15-producing NK cells and that such NK cells represent an attractive therapeutic solution for the problem of drugging MYC in high-grade B-ALL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil Kumar
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Monrovia, California, USA
| | - Adeleh Taghi Khani
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Monrovia, California, USA
| | - Caroline Duault
- The Human Immune Monitoring Center (HIMC), Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Soraya Aramburo
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Monrovia, California, USA
| | - Ashly Sanchez Ortiz
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Monrovia, California, USA
| | - Sung June Lee
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Monrovia, California, USA
| | - Anthony Chan
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Monrovia, California, USA
| | - Tinisha McDonald
- The Hematopoietic Tissue Biorepository/Research Pathology Shared Resources, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Min Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Norman J Lacayo
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Kathleen M Sakamoto
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Christian Hurtz
- Department of Cancer and Cellular Biology, Fels Cancer Institute for Personalized Medicine Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Martin Carroll
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah K Tasian
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Oncology, The Children's Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lucy Ghoda
- Hematological Malignancies Translational Science, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Guido Marcucci
- The Hematopoietic Tissue Biorepository/Research Pathology Shared Resources, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
- Hematological Malignancies Translational Science, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Zhaohui Gu
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Monrovia, California, USA
| | - Steven T Rosen
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Saro Armenian
- Department of Pediatrics, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Shai Izraeli
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Monrovia, California, USA
- Hematology-Oncology Department, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Chun-Wei Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Monrovia, California, USA
| | - Michael A Caligiuri
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Stephen J Forman
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Holden T Maecker
- The Human Immune Monitoring Center (HIMC), Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Srividya Swaminathan
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope Beckman Research Institute, Monrovia, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
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19
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Cavalcante-Silva J, Koh TJ. Role of NK Cells in Skin Wound Healing of Mice. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:981-990. [PMID: 36883869 PMCID: PMC10181875 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
NK cells are best known for their killing of virus-infected cells and tumor cells via release of cytotoxic factors. However, NK cells can also produce growth factors and cytokines, and thus have the potential to influence physiological processes such as wound healing. In this study, we test the hypothesis that NK cells play a physiological role in skin wound healing of C57BL/6J mice. Immunohistochemical and flow cytometry assays showed that NK cells accumulate in excisional skin wounds, peaking on day 5 postinjury. We also found that NK cells proliferate locally in wounds, and blocking IL-15 activity locally reduces NK cell proliferation and accumulation in wounds. Wound NK cells exhibit primarily a mature CD11b+CD27- and NKG2A+NKG2D- phenotype and express LY49I and proinflammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ, Tnf-a, and Il-1β. Systemic depletion of NK cells resulted in enhanced re-epithelization and collagen deposition, suggesting a negative role for these cells in skin wound healing. Depletion of NK cells did not influence accumulation of neutrophils or monocytes/macrophages in wounds but did reduce expression of IFN-γ, Tnf-a, and Il-1β, indicating that NK cells contribute to proinflammatory cytokine expression in wounds. In short, NK cells may impede physiological wound healing via production of proinflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Cavalcante-Silva
- Center for Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL; and Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Timothy J Koh
- Center for Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL; and Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
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20
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Stravokefalou V, Stellas D, Karaliota S, Nagy BA, Valentin A, Bergamaschi C, Dimas K, Pavlakis GN. Heterodimeric IL-15 (hetIL-15) reduces circulating tumor cells and metastasis formation improving chemotherapy and surgery in 4T1 mouse model of TNBC. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1014802. [PMID: 36713398 PMCID: PMC9880212 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1014802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has emerged as a viable approach in cancer therapy, with cytokines being of great interest. Interleukin IL-15 (IL-15), a cytokine that supports cytotoxic immune cells, has been successfully tested as an anti-cancer and anti-metastatic agent, but combinations with conventional chemotherapy and surgery protocols have not been extensively studied. We have produced heterodimeric IL-15 (hetIL-15), which has shown anti-tumor efficacy in several murine cancer models and is being evaluated in clinical trials for metastatic cancers. In this study, we examined the therapeutic effects of hetIL-15 in combination with chemotherapy and surgery in the 4T1 mouse model of metastatic triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). hetIL-15 monotherapy exhibited potent anti-metastatic effects by diminishing the number of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and by controlling tumor cells colonization of the lungs. hetIL-15 treatment in combination with doxorubicin resulted in enhanced anti-metastatic activity and extended animal survival. Systemic immune phenotype analysis showed that the chemoimmunotherapeutic regimen shifted the tumor-induced imbalance of polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cells (PMN-MDSCs) in favor of cytotoxic effector cells, by simultaneously decreasing PMN-MDSCs and increasing the frequency and activation of effector (CD8+T and NK) cells. Tumor resection supported by neoadjuvant and adjuvant administration of hetIL-15, either alone or in combination with doxorubicin, resulted in the cure of approximately half of the treated animals and the development of anti-4T1 tumor immunity. Our findings demonstrate a significant anti-metastatic potential of hetIL-15 in combination with chemotherapy and surgery and suggest exploring the use of this regimen for the treatment of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Stravokefalou
- Human Retrovirus Section, Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, United States,Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Dimitris Stellas
- Human Retrovirus Section, Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, United States,Department of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Sevasti Karaliota
- Human Retrovirus Section, Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, United States,Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Bethany A. Nagy
- Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Leidos Biomedical Research, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Antonio Valentin
- Human Retrovirus Section, Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Cristina Bergamaschi
- Human Retrovirus Pathogenesis Section, Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Konstantinos Dimas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece,*Correspondence: Konstantinos Dimas, ; George N. Pavlakis,
| | - George N. Pavlakis
- Human Retrovirus Section, Vaccine Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, United States,*Correspondence: Konstantinos Dimas, ; George N. Pavlakis,
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21
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Antosova Z, Podzimkova N, Tomala J, Augustynkova K, Sajnerova K, Nedvedova E, Sirova M, de Martynoff G, Bechard D, Moebius U, Kovar M, Spisek R, Adkins I. SOT101 induces NK cell cytotoxicity and potentiates antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity and anti-tumor activity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:989895. [PMID: 36300122 PMCID: PMC9590108 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.989895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
SOT101 is a superagonist fusion protein of interleukin (IL)-15 and the IL-15 receptor α (IL-15Rα) sushi+ domain, representing a promising clinical candidate for the treatment of cancer. SOT101 among other immune cells specifically stimulates natural killer (NK) cells and memory CD8+ T cells with no significant expansion or activation of the regulatory T cell compartment. In this study, we showed that SOT101 induced expression of cytotoxic receptors NKp30, DNAM-1 and NKG2D on human NK cells. SOT101 stimulated dose-dependent proliferation and the relative expansion of both major subsets of human NK cells, CD56brightCD16- and CD56dimCD16+, and these displayed an enhanced cytotoxicity in vitro. Using human PBMCs and isolated NK cells, we showed that SOT101 added concomitantly or used for immune cell pre-stimulation potentiated clinically approved monoclonal antibodies Cetuximab, Daratumumab and Obinutuzumab in killing of tumor cells in vitro. The anti-tumor efficacy of SOT101 in combination with Daratumumab was assessed in a solid multiple myeloma xenograft in CB17 SCID mouse model testing several combination schedules of administration in the early and late therapeutic setting of established tumors in vivo. SOT101 and Daratumumab monotherapies decreased with various efficacy tumor growth in vivo in dependence on the advancement of the tumor development. The combination of both drugs showed the strongest anti-tumor efficacy. Specifically, the sequencing of both drugs did not matter in the early therapeutic setting where a complete tumor regression was observed in all animals. In the late therapeutic treatment of established tumors Daratumumab followed by SOT101 administration or a concomitant administration of both drugs showed a significant anti-tumor efficacy over the respective monotherapies. These results suggest that SOT101 might significantly augment the anti-tumor activity of therapeutic antibodies by increasing NK cell-mediated activity in patients. These results support the evaluation of SOT101 in combination with Daratumumab in clinical studies and present a rationale for an optimal clinical dosing schedule selection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nada Podzimkova
- Preclinical Department, SOTIO Biotech a.s, Prague, Czechia
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Motol, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jakub Tomala
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | | | | | - Eva Nedvedova
- Preclinical Department, SOTIO Biotech a.s, Prague, Czechia
| | - Milada Sirova
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | | | | | - Ulrich Moebius
- Preclinical Department, SOTIO Biotech a.s, Prague, Czechia
| | - Marek Kovar
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Radek Spisek
- Preclinical Department, SOTIO Biotech a.s, Prague, Czechia
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Motol, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Irena Adkins
- Preclinical Department, SOTIO Biotech a.s, Prague, Czechia
- Department of Immunology, 2nd Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Motol, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Irena Adkins,
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22
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Chen YW, Rini BI, Beckermann KE. Emerging Targets in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4843. [PMID: 36230766 PMCID: PMC9561986 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The dual immune checkpoint blockade targeting CTLA-4 and PD-1 (ipilimumab/nivolumab) or the IO combinations targeting PD-1 and anti-VEGF TKIs (pembrolizumab/axitinib, nivolumab/cabozantinib, pembrolizumab/lenvatinib) have demonstrated an overall survival benefit in advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Despite this significant improvement in clinical outcomes in the frontline setting from IO/IO or the IO/TKI combinations, there is a subset of patients of advanced ccRCC that do not respond to such combinations or will lose the initial efficacy and have disease progression. Therefore, a remarkable unmet need exists to develop new therapeutics to improve outcomes. With an enhanced understanding of ccRCC biology and its interaction with the tumor microenvironment, several new therapies are under development targeting ccRCC metabolism, cytokine-signaling, alternative immune checkpoint proteins, and novel biological pathways. In addition, microbiome products enhancing IO response, antibody-drug conjugates, and targeted radionuclides are also being investigated. This review summarizes selected emerging agents that are under development in ccRCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Wei Chen
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, 2220 Pierce Ave, 777 Preston Research Building, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Brian I. Rini
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, 2220 Pierce Ave, 777 Preston Research Building, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Kathryn E. Beckermann
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Drive, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, 2220 Pierce Ave, 777 Preston Research Building, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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23
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Ma S, Caligiuri MA, Yu J. Harnessing IL-15 signaling to potentiate NK cell-mediated cancer immunotherapy. Trends Immunol 2022; 43:833-847. [PMID: 36058806 PMCID: PMC9612852 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells, a crucial component of the innate immune system, have long been of clinical interest for their antitumor properties. Almost every aspect of NK cell immunity is regulated by interleukin-15 (IL-15), a cytokine in the common γ-chain family. Several current clinical trials are using IL-15 or its analogs to treat various cancers. Moreover, NK cells are being genetically modified to produce membrane-bound or secretory IL-15. Here, we discuss the key role of IL-15 signaling in NK cell immunity and provide an up-to-date overview of IL-15 in NK cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoubao Ma
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
| | - Michael A Caligiuri
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA.
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA.
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24
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Interleukin 15 in Cell-Based Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137311. [PMID: 35806311 PMCID: PMC9266896 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-based cancer immunotherapy, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineered T and natural killer (NK) cell therapies, has become a revolutionary new pillar in cancer treatment. Interleukin 15 (IL-15), a potent immunostimulatory cytokine that potentiates T and NK cell immune responses, has demonstrated the reliability and potency to potentially improve the therapeutic efficacy of current cell therapy. Structurally similar to interleukin 2 (IL-2), IL-15 supports the persistence of CD8+ memory T cells while inhibiting IL-2-induced T cell death that better maintains long-term anti-tumor immunity. In this review, we describe the biology of IL-15, studies on administrating IL-15 and/or its derivatives as immunotherapeutic agents, and IL-15-armored immune cells in adoptive cell therapy. We also discuss the advantages and challenges of incorporating IL-15 in cell-based immunotherapy and provide directions for future investigation.
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25
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Peng Y, Fu S, Zhao Q. 2022 update on the scientific premise and clinical trials for IL-15 agonists as cancer immunotherapy. J Leukoc Biol 2022; 112:823-834. [PMID: 35616357 DOI: 10.1002/jlb.5mr0422-506r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Diverse cytokines and their receptors on immune cells constitute a highly complex network in the immune system. Some therapeutic cytokines and their derivatives have been approved for cancer treatment. IL-15 is an immune-regulating cytokine with multiple functions, among which the function of activating the immunity of cancer patients has great potential in cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we introduce the functions of IL-15 and discuss its role in regulating the immune system in different immune cells. Meanwhile, we will address the applications of IL-15 agonists in cancer immunotherapy and provide prospects for the next generation of therapeutic designs. Although many challenges remain, IL-15 agonists offer a new therapeutic option in the future direction of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjun Peng
- Cancer Centre, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Shengyu Fu
- Cancer Centre, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Cancer Centre, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China.,MoE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau SAR, China
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26
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Fiore PF, Di Matteo S, Tumino N, Mariotti FR, Pietra G, Ottonello S, Negrini S, Bottazzi B, Moretta L, Mortier E, Azzarone B. Interleukin-15 and cancer: some solved and many unsolved questions. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 8:jitc-2020-001428. [PMID: 33203664 PMCID: PMC7674108 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-001428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Soluble interleukin (IL)-15 exists under two forms: as monomer (sIL-15) or as heterodimeric complex in association with sIL-15Rα (sIL-15/IL-15Rα). Both forms have been successfully tested in experimental tumor murine models and are currently undergoing investigation in phase I/II clinical trials. Despite more than 20 years research on IL-15, some controversial issues remain to be addressed. A first point concerns the detection of the sIL-15/IL-15Rα in plasma of healthy donors or patients with cancer and its biological significance. The second and third unsolved question regards the protumorigenic role of the IL-15/IL-15Rα complex in human cancer and the detrimental immunological consequences associated to prolonged exposure of natural killer (NK) cells to both forms of soluble IL-15, respectively. Data suggest that in vivo prolonged or repeated exposure to monomeric sIL-15 or the soluble complex may lead to NK hypo-responsiveness through the expansion of the CD8+/CD44+ T cell subset that would suppress NK cell functions. In vitro experiments indicate that soluble complex and monomeric IL-15 may cause NK hyporesponsiveness through a direct effect caused by their prolonged stimulation, suggesting that this mechanism could also be effective in vivo. Therefore, a better knowledge of IL-15 and a more appropriate use of both its soluble forms, in terms of concentrations and time of exposure, are essential in order to improve their therapeutic use. In cancer, the overproduction of sIL-15/IL-15Rα could represent a novel mechanism of immune escape. The soluble complex may act as a decoy cytokine unable to efficiently foster NK cells, or could induce NK hyporesponsiveness through an excessive and prolonged stimulation depending on the type of IL-15Rα isoforms associated. All these unsolved questions are not merely limited to the knowledge of IL-15 pathophysiology, but are crucial also for the therapeutic use of this cytokine. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss key unanswered issues on the heterogeneity and biological significance of IL-15 isoforms, analyzing both their cancer-related biological functions and their therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sabina Di Matteo
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Tumino
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Pietra
- Immuology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine (DiMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Selene Ottonello
- Department of Experimental Medicine (DiMES), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Center of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Simone Negrini
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Barbara Bottazzi
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Humanitas Clinical and Research Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Moretta
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Erwan Mortier
- University of Nantes, CNRS, Inserm, CRCINA, University of Nantes, Nantes, France .,Immunotherapy, Graft, Oncology, LabEx IGO, Nantes, France
| | - Bruno Azzarone
- Immunology Area, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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27
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Chimeric antigen receptor- and natural killer cell receptor-engineered innate killer cells in cancer immunotherapy. Cell Mol Immunol 2021; 18:2083-2100. [PMID: 34267335 PMCID: PMC8429625 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00732-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T-cell (CAR-T) therapy has demonstrated impressive therapeutic efficacy against hematological malignancies, but multiple challenges have hindered its application, particularly for the eradication of solid tumors. Innate killer cells (IKCs), particularly NK cells, NKT cells, and γδ T cells, employ specific antigen-independent innate tumor recognition and cytotoxic mechanisms that simultaneously display high antitumor efficacy and prevent tumor escape caused by antigen loss or modulation. IKCs are associated with a low risk of developing GVHD, thus offering new opportunities for allogeneic "off-the-shelf" cellular therapeutic products. The unique innate features, wide tumor recognition range, and potent antitumor functions of IKCs make them potentially excellent candidates for cancer immunotherapy, particularly serving as platforms for CAR development. In this review, we first provide a brief summary of the challenges hampering CAR-T-cell therapy applications and then discuss the latest CAR-NK-cell research, covering the advantages, applications, and clinical translation of CAR- and NK-cell receptor (NKR)-engineered IKCs. Advances in synthetic biology and the development of novel genetic engineering techniques, such as gene-editing and cellular reprogramming, will enable the further optimization of IKC-based anticancer therapies.
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28
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Natural Killer Cells and Type 1 Innate Lymphoid Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22169044. [PMID: 34445750 PMCID: PMC8396475 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22169044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells and type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1) are specific innate lymphoid cell subsets that are key for the detection and elimination of pathogens and cancer cells. In liver, while they share a number of characteristics, they differ in many features. These include their developmental pathways, tissue distribution, phenotype and functions. NK cells and ILC1 contribute to organ homeostasis through the production of key cytokines and chemokines and the elimination of potential harmful bacteria and viruses. In addition, they are equipped with a wide range of receptors, allowing them to detect “stressed cells’ such as cancer cells. Our understanding of the role of innate lymphoid cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is growing owing to the development of mouse models, the progress in immunotherapeutic treatment and the recent use of scRNA sequencing analyses. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of NK cells and ILC1 in hepatocellular carcinoma and discuss future strategies to take advantage of these innate immune cells in anti-tumor immunity. Immunotherapies hold great promise in HCC, and a better understanding of the role and function of NK cells and ILC1 in liver cancer could pave the way for new NK cell and/or ILC1-targeted treatment.
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29
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Ozaniak A, Vachtenheim J, Lischke R, Bartunkova J, Strizova Z. Novel Insights into the Immunotherapy of Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Do We Need a Change of Perspective? Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9080935. [PMID: 34440139 PMCID: PMC8393686 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9080935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) are rare mesenchymal tumors. With more than 80 histological subtypes of STSs, data regarding novel biomarkers of strong prognostic and therapeutic value are very limited. To date, the most important prognostic factor is the tumor grade, and approximately 50% of patients that are diagnosed with high-grade STSs die of metastatic disease within five years. Systemic chemotherapy represents the mainstay of metastatic STSs treatment for decades but induces response in only 15–35% of the patients, irrespective of the histological subtype. In the era of immunotherapy, deciphering the immune cell signatures within the STSs tumors may discriminate immunotherapy responders from non-responders and different immunotherapeutic approaches could be combined based on the predominant cell subpopulations infiltrating the STS tumors. Furthermore, understanding the immune diversity of the STS tumor microenvironment (TME) in different histological subtypes may provide a rationale for stratifying patients according to the TME immune parameters. In this review, we introduce the most important immune cell types infiltrating the STSs tumors and discuss different immunotherapies, as well as promising clinical trials, that would target these immune cells to enhance the antitumor immune responses and improve the prognosis of metastatic STSs patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrej Ozaniak
- Third Department of Surgery, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.O.); (J.V.J.); (R.L.)
| | - Jiri Vachtenheim
- Third Department of Surgery, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.O.); (J.V.J.); (R.L.)
| | - Robert Lischke
- Third Department of Surgery, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic; (A.O.); (J.V.J.); (R.L.)
| | - Jirina Bartunkova
- Department of Immunology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Zuzana Strizova
- Department of Immunology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-604712471
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30
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Isvoranu G, Surcel M, Munteanu AN, Bratu OG, Ionita-Radu F, Neagu MT, Chiritoiu-Butnaru M. Therapeutic potential of interleukin-15 in cancer (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:675. [PMID: 33986840 PMCID: PMC8112152 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system is dysfunctional in cancer, and therapeutic approaches designated to restore immunity and increase long-term overall survival are desirable. The role of immunotherapy is to trigger the immune system to recognize and destroy tumor cells. Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a member of the common gamma-chain (γc) cytokines that promote the differentiation and expansion of T cells, B cells and natural killer (NK) cells, leading to enhanced antitumor responses. This suggests that IL-15 is a promising candidate for anticancer therapy. Renewed interest in cancer immunotherapy has led to an increased number of preclinical studies and clinical trials that have investigated the reliability and potency of IL-15-based agents, not only as single therapy, but also in combination with others. This review provides a description of these studies which show the advantages and disadvantages of IL-15 as an immunotherapeutic agent. We present here the role of IL-15 and pharmacologically improved IL-15 superagonists as a single treatment or in combination with other therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gheorghita Isvoranu
- Department of Animal Husbandry, 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Surcel
- Department of Immunology, 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adriana Narcisa Munteanu
- Department of Immunology, 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Doctoral School of Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ovidiu Gabriel Bratu
- Department of Clinical Department III, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Clinic of Urology, 'Dr. Carol Davila' University Emergency Central Military Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania.,Academy of Romanian Scientists, 050094 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florentina Ionita-Radu
- Department of Gastroenterology, 'Dr. Carol Davila' University Emergency Central Military Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Monica Teodora Neagu
- Department of Immunology, 'Victor Babes' National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Doctoral School of Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marioara Chiritoiu-Butnaru
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy (IBAR), 060031 Bucharest, Romania
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Wang X, Zhao XY. Transcription Factors Associated With IL-15 Cytokine Signaling During NK Cell Development. Front Immunol 2021; 12:610789. [PMID: 33815365 PMCID: PMC8013977 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.610789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes primarily involved in innate immunity and possess important functional properties in anti-viral and anti-tumor responses; thus, these cells have broad potential for clinical utilization. NK cells originate from hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) through the following two independent and continuous processes: early commitment from HSCs to IL-15-responsive NK cell progenitors (NKPs) and subsequent differentiation into mature NK cells in response to IL-15. IL-15 is the most important cytokine for NK cell development, is produced by both hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic cells, and functions through a distinct delivery process termed transpresentation. Upon being transpresented to NK cells, IL-15 contributes to NK cell development via the activation of several downstream signaling pathways, including the Ras-MEK-MAPK, JAK-STAT5, and PI3K-ATK-mTOR pathways. Nonetheless, the exact role of IL-15 in NK cell development has not been discussed in a consecutive and comprehensive manner. Here, we review current knowledge about the indispensable role of IL-15 in NK cell development and address which cells produce IL-15 to support NK cell development and when IL-15 exerts its function during multiple developmental stages. Specifically, we highlight how IL-15 supports NK cell development by elucidating the distinct transpresentation of IL-15 to NK cells and revealing the downstream target of IL-15 signaling during NK cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Wang
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang-Yu Zhao
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Institute of Hematology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China.,Beijing Engineering Laboratory for Cellular Therapy, Beijing, China
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Heterodimeric IL-15 in Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040837. [PMID: 33671252 PMCID: PMC7922495 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040837] [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: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The rapidly expanding field of cancer immunotherapy uses diverse technologies, including cytokines, T cells, and antibody administration, with the aim to induce effective immune responses leading to tumor control. Interleukin-15 (IL-15), a cytokine discovered in 1994, supports the homeostasis of cytotoxic immune cells and shows promise as an anti-tumor agent. Many studies have elucidated IL-15 synthesis, regulation and biological function and explored its therapeutic efficacy in preclinical cancer models. Escherichia coli-derived single-chain IL-15 was tested in the first in-human trial in cancer patients. Its effects were limited by the biology of IL-15, which in vivo comprises a complex of the IL-15 chain with the IL-15 receptor alpha (IL-15Rα) chain, together forming the IL-15 heterodimer (hetIL-15). Currently, single-chain IL-15 and several heterodimeric IL-15:IL-15Rα variants (hetIL-15, N-803 and RLI) are being tested in clinical trials. This review presents a summary of contemporary preclinical and clinical research on IL-15. Abstract Immunotherapy has emerged as a valuable strategy for the treatment of many cancer types. Interleukin-15 (IL-15) promotes the growth and function of cytotoxic CD8+ T and natural killer (NK) cells. It also enhances leukocyte trafficking and stimulates tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes expansion and activity. Bioactive IL-15 is produced in the body as a heterodimeric cytokine, comprising the IL-15 and the so-called IL-15 receptor alpha chain that are together termed “heterodimeric IL-15” (hetIL-15). hetIL-15, closely resembling the natural form of the cytokine produced in vivo, and IL-15:IL-15Rα complex variants, such as hetIL-15Fc, N-803 and RLI, are the currently available IL-15 agents. These molecules have showed favorable pharmacokinetics and biological function in vivo in comparison to single-chain recombinant IL-15. Preclinical animal studies have supported their anti-tumor activity, suggesting IL-15 as a general method to convert “cold” tumors into “hot”, by promoting tumor lymphocyte infiltration. In clinical trials, IL-15-based therapies are overall well-tolerated and result in the expansion and activation of NK and memory CD8+ T cells. Combinations with other immunotherapies are being investigated to improve the anti-tumor efficacy of IL-15 agents in the clinic.
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Generation of an Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Viral Vector Completely Retargeted to the GDNF Receptor GFRα1 for Specific Infection of Breast Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228815. [PMID: 33233403 PMCID: PMC7700293 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Oncolytic herpes simplex viruses (oHSV) are under development for the treatment of a variety of human cancers, including breast cancer, a leading cause of cancer mortality among women worldwide. Here we report the design of a fully retargeted oHSV for preferential infection of breast cancer cells through virus recognition of GFRα1, the cellular receptor for glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). GFRα1 displays a limited expression profile in normal adult tissue, but is upregulated in a subset of breast cancers. We generated a recombinant HSV expressing a completely retargeted glycoprotein D (gD), the viral attachment/entry protein, that incorporates pre-pro-GDNF in place of the signal peptide and HVEM binding domain of gD and contains a deletion of amino acid 38 to eliminate nectin-1 binding. We show that GFRα1 is necessary and sufficient for infection by the purified recombinant virus. Moreover, this virus enters and spreads in GFRα1-positive breast cancer cells in vitro and caused tumor regression upon intratumoral injection in vivo. Given the heterogeneity observed between and within individual breast cancers at the molecular level, these results expand our ability to deliver oHSV to specific tumors and suggest opportunities to enhance drug or viral treatments aimed at other receptors.
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