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Farhangnia P, Khorramdelazad H, Nickho H, Delbandi AA. Current and future immunotherapeutic approaches in pancreatic cancer treatment. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:40. [PMID: 38835055 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01561-6] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a major cause of cancer-related death, but despondently, the outlook and prognosis for this resistant type of tumor have remained grim for a long time. Currently, it is extremely challenging to prevent or detect it early enough for effective treatment because patients rarely exhibit symptoms and there are no reliable indicators for detection. Most patients have advanced or spreading cancer that is difficult to treat, and treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy can only slightly prolong their life by a few months. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of pancreatic cancer, yet its effectiveness is limited by the tumor's immunosuppressive and hard-to-reach microenvironment. First, this article explains the immunosuppressive microenvironment of pancreatic cancer and highlights a wide range of immunotherapy options, including therapies involving oncolytic viruses, modified T cells (T-cell receptor [TCR]-engineered and chimeric antigen receptor [CAR] T-cell therapy), CAR natural killer cell therapy, cytokine-induced killer cells, immune checkpoint inhibitors, immunomodulators, cancer vaccines, and strategies targeting myeloid cells in the context of contemporary knowledge and future trends. Lastly, it discusses the main challenges ahead of pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooya Farhangnia
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Board for Transplantation and Cell-Based Therapeutics (ImmunoTACT), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Hamid Nickho
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Delbandi
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Lin Z, Xiao S, Qi Y, Guo J, Lu L. Tumor infiltrating B lymphocytes (TIBs) associate with poor clinical outcomes, unfavorable therapeutic benefit and immunosuppressive context in metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (mccRCC) patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus Axitinib. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:262. [PMID: 38762825 PMCID: PMC11102881 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05803-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) plus tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has become first-line therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients. This study aims to investigate the effect of tumor infiltrating B lymphocytes (TIBs) on the combination therapy. METHODS The retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical records of 115 metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (mccRCC) patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus Axitinib between March 2020 and June 2023. Observation target: objective response rate (ORR), and overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and immune profile. RESULTS Patients with high TIBs portended lower ORR of the combination therapy (p = 0.033). TIBs was an independent predictor for poorer OS (p = 0.013) and PFS (p = 0.021) in mccRCC patients with combination treatment. TIBs infiltration was associated with more CD4+T (p < 0.001), CD8+T (p < 0.001), M2 macrophages (p = 0.020) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) (p = 0.004). In TIBs high patients, the percentages of PD-1, CTLA-4 and TIM-3 positive rate were significantly increased in CD4+T (p = 0.038, 0.029 and 0.002 respectively) and CD8+T cells (p = 0.006, 0.026 and < 0.001 respectively). CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed TIBs infiltration predicted adverse outcomes in mccRCC patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus Axitinib. As a corollary, TIBs positively associated with M2 macrophages and Tregs, leading to subsequent multiple immune checkpoints related exhaustion of T cells. Thus, only PD-1 blockade are inadequate to reverse T cells exhaustion effectively in high TIBs mccRCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Lin
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuxiu Xiao
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Qi
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianming Guo
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lili Lu
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Musiu C, Lupo F, Agostini A, Lionetto G, Bevere M, Paiella S, Carbone C, Corbo V, Ugel S, De Sanctis F. Cellular collusion: cracking the code of immunosuppression and chemo resistance in PDAC. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1341079. [PMID: 38817612 PMCID: PMC11137177 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1341079] [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: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the efforts, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is still highly lethal. Therapeutic challenges reside in late diagnosis and establishment of peculiar tumor microenvironment (TME) supporting tumor outgrowth. This stromal landscape is highly heterogeneous between patients and even in the same patient. The organization of functional sub-TME with different cellular compositions provides evolutive advantages and sustains therapeutic resistance. Tumor progressively establishes a TME that can suit its own needs, including proliferation, stemness and invasion. Cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells, the main non-neoplastic cellular TME components, follow soluble factors-mediated neoplastic instructions and synergize to promote chemoresistance and immune surveillance destruction. Unveiling heterotypic stromal-neoplastic interactions is thus pivotal to breaking this synergism and promoting the reprogramming of the TME toward an anti-tumor milieu, improving thus the efficacy of conventional and immune-based therapies. We underscore recent advances in the characterization of immune and fibroblast stromal components supporting or dampening pancreatic cancer progression, as well as novel multi-omic technologies improving the current knowledge of PDAC biology. Finally, we put into context how the clinic will translate the acquired knowledge to design new-generation clinical trials with the final aim of improving the outcome of PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Musiu
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Lupo
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Agostini
- Medical Oncology, Department of Translational Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Lionetto
- General and Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Institute, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Bevere
- ARC-Net Research Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Salvatore Paiella
- General and Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Institute, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Carmine Carbone
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Corbo
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Ugel
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Silva LGDO, Lemos FFB, Luz MS, Rocha Pinheiro SL, Calmon MDS, Correa Santos GL, Rocha GR, de Melo FF. New avenues for the treatment of immunotherapy-resistant pancreatic cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:1134-1153. [PMID: 38660642 PMCID: PMC11037047 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i4.1134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is characterized by its extremely aggressive nature and ranks 14th in the number of new cancer cases worldwide. However, due to its complexity, it ranks 7th in the list of the most lethal cancers worldwide. The pathogenesis of PC involves several complex processes, including familial genetic factors associated with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, chronic pancreatitis, and smoking. Mutations in genes such as KRAS, TP53, and SMAD4 are linked to the appearance of malignant cells that generate pancreatic lesions and, consequently, cancer. In this context, some therapies are used for PC, one of which is immunotherapy, which is extremely promising in various other types of cancer but has shown little response in the treatment of PC due to various resistance mechanisms that contribute to a drop in immunotherapy efficiency. It is therefore clear that the tumor microenvironment (TME) has a huge impact on the resistance process, since cellular and non-cellular elements create an immunosuppressive environment, characterized by a dense desmoplastic stroma with cancer-associated fibroblasts, pancreatic stellate cells, extracellular matrix, and immunosuppressive cells. Linked to this are genetic mutations in TP53 and immunosuppressive factors that act on T cells, resulting in a shortage of CD8+ T cells and limited expression of activation markers such as interferon-gamma. In this way, finding new strategies that make it possible to manipulate resistance mechanisms is necessary. Thus, techniques such as the use of TME modulators that block receptors and stromal molecules that generate resistance, the use of genetic manipulation in specific regions, such as microRNAs, the modulation of extrinsic and intrinsic factors associated with T cells, and, above all, therapeutic models that combine these modulation techniques constitute the promising future of PC therapy. Thus, this study aims to elucidate the main mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy in PC and new ways of manipulating this process, resulting in a more efficient therapy for cancer patients and, consequently, a reduction in the lethality of this aggressive cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabian Fellipe Bueno Lemos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Marcel Silva Luz
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Samuel Luca Rocha Pinheiro
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Mariana dos Santos Calmon
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Lima Correa Santos
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Reis Rocha
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Freire de Melo
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
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Zhu H, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Liu J, Liang C, Hua J, Meng Q, Yu X, Shi S. Intratumoral CD38 +CD19 +B cells associate with poor clinical outcomes and immunosuppression in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. EBioMedicine 2024; 103:105098. [PMID: 38608514 PMCID: PMC11017281 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105098] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The widespread involvement of tumor-infiltrating B cells highlights their potential role in tumor behavior. However, B cell heterogeneity in PDAC remains unexplored. Studying TIL-Bs in PDAC aims to identify new treatment strategies. METHODS We performed single-cell RNA sequencing to study the heterogeneity of B cells in PDAC. The prognostic and immunologic value of the identified CD38+ B cells was explored in FUSCC (n = 147) and TCGA (n = 176) cohorts. Flow cytometry was conducted to characterize the relationship between CD38+ B cells and other immune cells, as well as their phenotypic features. In vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to assess the putative effect of CD38+ B cells on antitumor immunity. FINDINGS The presence of CD38+ B cells in PDAC was associated with unfavorable clinicopathological features and poorer overall survival (p < 0.001). Increased infiltration of CD38+ B cells was accompanied by reduced natural killer (NK) cells (p = 0.021) and increased regulatory T cells (p = 0.016). Molecular profiling revealed high expression of IL-10, IL-35, TGF-β, GZMB, TIM-1, CD5 and CD21, confirming their putative regulatory B cell-like features. Co-culture experiments demonstrated suppression of NK cell cytotoxicity by CD38+ B cell-derived IL-10 (p < 0.001). Finally, in vivo experiments suggested adoptive transfer of CD38+ B cells reduced antitumor immunity and administration of a CD38 inhibitor hampered tumor growth (p < 0.001). INTERPRETATION We discovered regulatory B cell-like CD38+ B cell infiltration as an independent prognostic factor in PDAC. The use of CD38 inhibitor may provide new possibilities for PDAC immunotherapy. FUNDING This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (U21A20374), Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project (21JC1401500), Scientific Innovation Project of Shanghai Education Committee (2019-01-07-00-07-E00057), Special Project for Clinical Research in the Health Industry of the Shanghai Health Commission (No. 20204Y0265) and Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai (23ZR1479300).
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Zhu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jie Hua
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qingcai Meng
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Rodríguez-Zhurbenko N, Hernández AM. The role of B-1 cells in cancer progression and anti-tumor immunity. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1363176. [PMID: 38629061 PMCID: PMC11019000 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1363176] [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: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, in addition to the well-established role of T cells in controlling or promoting tumor growth, a new wave of research has demonstrated the active involvement of B cells in tumor immunity. B-cell subsets with distinct phenotypes and functions play various roles in tumor progression. Plasma cells and activated B cells have been linked to improved clinical outcomes in several types of cancer, whereas regulatory B cells have been associated with disease progression. However, we are only beginning to understand the role of a particular innate subset of B cells, referred to as B-1 cells, in cancer. Here, we summarize the characteristics of B-1 cells and review their ability to infiltrate tumors. We also describe the potential mechanisms through which B-1 cells suppress anti-tumor immune responses and promote tumor progression. Additionally, we highlight recent studies on the protective anti-tumor function of B-1 cells in both mouse models and humans. Understanding the functions of B-1 cells in tumor immunity could pave the way for designing more effective cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nely Rodríguez-Zhurbenko
- Immunobiology Department, Immunology and Immunotherapy Division, Center of Molecular Immunology, Habana, Cuba
| | - Ana M. Hernández
- Applied Genetics Group, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Habana, Habana, Cuba
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Guo S, Wang Z. Unveiling the immunosuppressive landscape of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: implications for innovative immunotherapy strategies. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1349308. [PMID: 38590651 PMCID: PMC10999533 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1349308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, particularly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), stands as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, marked by challenging treatment and dismal prognoses. As immunotherapy emerges as a promising avenue for mitigating PDAC's malignant progression, a comprehensive understanding of the tumor's immunosuppressive characteristics becomes imperative. This paper systematically delves into the intricate immunosuppressive network within PDAC, spotlighting the significant crosstalk between immunosuppressive cells and factors in the hypoxic acidic pancreatic tumor microenvironment. By elucidating these mechanisms, we aim to provide insights into potential immunotherapy strategies and treatment targets, laying the groundwork for future studies on PDAC immunosuppression. Recognizing the profound impact of immunosuppression on PDAC invasion and metastasis, this discussion aims to catalyze the development of more effective and targeted immunotherapies for PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songyu Guo
- First Clinical Medical College, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
- Department of Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Zhenxia Wang
- Department of Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
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Hu J, Jiang J, Xu B, Li Y, Wang B, He S, Ren X, Shi B, Zhang X, Zheng H, Hua B, Liu R. Bioinformatics analyses of infiltrating immune cell participation on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma progression and in vivo experiment of the therapeutic effect of Shuangshen granules. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 322:117590. [PMID: 38113986 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Shuangshen granules (SSG), a nationally patented Chinese medicinal formula, including Panax quinquefolium L., Panax notoginseng (Burkill) F. H. Chen, and Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc., has demonstrated remarkable therapeutic effects on pancreatic cancer in clinical treatment for nearly 10 years. Previous pharmacological researches have found that its main components, including ginsenosides and cordycepin have anticancer or preventive effects on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which may be associated with immune metabolism. However, the underlying pharmacological mechanism of SSG in the truncation effect of PDAC progression is still unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY To comprehensively understand the infiltrating immune cells during the different stages of the PDAC development chain and search for immune-related biomarkers that could potentially serve as drug targets through bioinformatic analysis. Meanwhile, the truncation effect of SSG on PDAC progression was also investigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS The gene expression profiles at different PDAC developmental stages, including normal pancreas, pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN), and PDAC, were retrieved from the GEO database. The GEO2R tool was used to identify differentially expressed genes among the three groups. Functional enrichment analysis was performed with the GSEA software and Metascape platform. The CIBERSORT algorithm evaluated immune cell infiltration in the three groups, and immune-related biomarkers were identified. Correlation analysis was employed to examine the association between immune cells and the biomarkers. One of these biomarkers was selected for immunohistochemistry validation in human samples. Lastly, the effectiveness of SSG against PDAC progression and the influence on the selected biomarker were validated in vivo. The underlying pharmacological mechanisms were also explored. RESULTS One dataset was obtained, where the functional enrichment of DEGs primarily involved immune effector processes and cytokine production of immune cells. The differential immune cells reflected during the progression from PanIN to PDAC were B memory cells, monocytes, M2 macrophages, and activated dendritic cells. The upregulation of ACTA2 was closely associated with M2 macrophage regulation. The immunohistochemistry on human samples validated significant differences in ACTA2 expression levels as the PDAC progressed. Moreover, animal experiments revealed that the national patented drug SSG ameliorated the pathological changes, decreased the expression of ACTA2 and its functional protein α-smooth muscle actin during PDAC progression. The underlying pharmacological mechanism was related to the regulation of macrophage polarization and downregulation of TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS The immunosuppressive environment changes during the PDAC progression. ACTA2 is a potential immuned-target for drug prevention of PDAC, while SSG could be a promising drug candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Hu
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Juling Jiang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bowen Xu
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bei Wang
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shulin He
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China; Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoling Ren
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bolun Shi
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Honggang Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Baojin Hua
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of Oncology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Joseph AM, Al Aiyan A, Al-Ramadi B, Singh SK, Kishore U. Innate and adaptive immune-directed tumour microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1323198. [PMID: 38384463 PMCID: PMC10879611 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1323198] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the most deadly and aggressive cancers in the world, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), typically manifests at an advanced stage. PDAC is becoming more common, and by the year 2030, it is expected to overtake lung cancer as the second greatest cause of cancer-related death. The poor prognosis can be attributed to a number of factors, including difficulties in early identification, a poor probability of curative radical resection, limited response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and its immunotherapy resistance. Furthermore, an extensive desmoplastic stroma that surrounds PDAC forms a mechanical barrier that prevents vascularization and promotes poor immune cell penetration. Phenotypic heterogeneity, drug resistance, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment are the main causes of PDAC aggressiveness. There is a complex and dynamic interaction between tumor cells in PDAC with stromal cells within the tumour immune microenvironment. The immune suppressive microenvironment that promotes PDAC aggressiveness is contributed by a range of cellular and humoral factors, which itself are modulated by the cancer. In this review, we describe the role of innate and adaptive immune cells, complex tumor microenvironment in PDAC, humoral factors, innate immune-mediated therapeutic advances, and recent clinical trials in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Mary Joseph
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmad Al Aiyan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Basel Al-Ramadi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- ASPIRE Precision Medicine Research Institute Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shiv K. Singh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Uday Kishore
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Gao Z, Azar J, Zhu H, Williams-Perez S, Kang SW, Marginean C, Rubinstein MP, Makawita S, Lee HS, Camp ER. Translational and oncologic significance of tertiary lymphoid structures in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1324093. [PMID: 38361928 PMCID: PMC10867206 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1324093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive tumor with poor survival and limited treatment options. PDAC resistance to immunotherapeutic strategies is multifactorial, but partially owed to an immunosuppressive tumor immune microenvironment (TiME). However, the PDAC TiME is heterogeneous and harbors favorable tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) populations. Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) are organized aggregates of immune cells that develop within non-lymphoid tissue under chronic inflammation in multiple contexts, including cancers. Our current understanding of their role within the PDAC TiME remains limited; TLS are complex structures with multiple anatomic features such as location, density, and maturity that may impact clinical outcomes such as survival and therapy response in PDAC. Similarly, our understanding of methods to manipulate TLS is an actively developing field of research. TLS may function as anti-tumoral immune niches that can be leveraged as a therapeutic strategy to potentiate both existing chemotherapeutic regimens and potentiate future immune-based therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes. This review seeks to cover anatomy, relevant features, immune effects, translational significance, and future directions of understanding TLS within the context of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Gao
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Joseph Azar
- The Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Huili Zhu
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sophia Williams-Perez
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sung Wook Kang
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Systems Onco-Immunology Laboratory, David J. Sugarbaker Division of Thoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Celia Marginean
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mark P. Rubinstein
- The Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Shalini Makawita
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Hyun-Sung Lee
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Systems Onco-Immunology Laboratory, David J. Sugarbaker Division of Thoracic Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - E. Ramsay Camp
- Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States
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11
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Yi P, Yu W, Xiong Y, Dong Y, Huang Q, Lin Y, Du Y, Hua F. IL-35: New Target for Immunotherapy Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:148-158. [PMID: 37988561 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0242] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin 35(IL-35) is a newly discovered inhibitory cytokine of the IL12 family. More recently, IL-35 was found to be increased in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and peripheral blood of many patients with cancer, indicating that it plays an important role in the TME. Tumors secrete cytokines that recruit myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and regulatory T cells (Treg) into the TME to promote malignant progression, which is a great challenge for cancer treatment. Radiotherapy causes serious adverse effects, and tumor resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors is still an unsolved challenge. Thus, new cancer therapy approaches are urgently needed. Numerous studies have shown that IL-35 can recruit immunosuppressive cells to enable tumor immune escape by promoting the conversion of immune cells into a tumor growth-promoting phenotype as well as facilitating tumor angiogenesis. IL-35-neutralizing antibodies were found to boost the chemotherapeutic effect of gemcitabine and considerably reduce the microvascular density of pancreatic cancer in mice. Therefore, targeting IL-35 in the TME provides a promising cancer treatment target. In addition, IL-35 may be used as an independent prognostic factor for some tumors in the near future. This review intends to reveal the interplay of IL-35 with immune cells in the TME, which may provide new options for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengcheng Yi
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Wenjun Yu
- Fuzhou First People's Hospital of Jiangxi Province, Fuzhou City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Yanhong Xiong
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Yao Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Yue Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Yunfei Du
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanchang Central Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Fuzhou Hua
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R. China
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12
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Bhattacharyya S, Oon C, Diaz L, Sandborg H, Stempinski ES, Saoi M, Morgan TK, López CS, Cross JR, Sherman MH. Autotaxin-lysolipid signaling suppresses a CCL11-eosinophil axis to promote pancreatic cancer progression. NATURE CANCER 2024; 5:283-298. [PMID: 38195933 PMCID: PMC10899115 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00703-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Lipids and their modifying enzymes regulate diverse features of the tumor microenvironment and cancer progression. The secreted enzyme autotaxin (ATX) hydrolyzes extracellular lysophosphatidylcholine to generate the multifunctional lipid mediator lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and supports the growth of several tumor types, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Here we show that ATX suppresses the accumulation of eosinophils in the PDAC microenvironment. Genetic or pharmacologic ATX inhibition increased the number of intratumor eosinophils, which promote tumor cell apoptosis locally and suppress tumor progression. Mechanistically, ATX suppresses eosinophil accumulation via an autocrine feedback loop, wherein ATX-LPA signaling negatively regulates the activity of the AP-1 transcription factor c-Jun, in turn suppressing the expression of the potent eosinophil chemoattractant CCL11 (eotaxin-1). Eosinophils were identified in human PDAC specimens, and rare individuals with high intratumor eosinophil abundance had the longest overall survival. Together with recent findings, this study reveals the context-dependent, immune-modulatory potential of ATX-LPA signaling in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohinee Bhattacharyya
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chet Oon
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Luis Diaz
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Holly Sandborg
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Erin S Stempinski
- Multiscale Microscopy Core Facility, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Michelle Saoi
- Donald B. and Catherine C. Marron Cancer Metabolism Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Terry K Morgan
- Department of Pathology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Claudia S López
- Multiscale Microscopy Core Facility, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Justin R Cross
- Donald B. and Catherine C. Marron Cancer Metabolism Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mara H Sherman
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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13
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Chandra V, Li L, Le Roux O, Zhang Y, Howell RM, Rupani DN, Baydogan S, Miller HD, Riquelme E, Petrosino J, Kim MP, Bhat KPL, White JR, Kolls JK, Pylayeva-Gupta Y, McAllister F. Gut epithelial Interleukin-17 receptor A signaling can modulate distant tumors growth through microbial regulation. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:85-100.e6. [PMID: 38157865 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Microbes influence cancer initiation, progression and therapy responsiveness. IL-17 signaling contributes to gut barrier immunity by regulating microbes but also drives tumor growth. A knowledge gap remains regarding the influence of enteric IL-17-IL-17RA signaling and their microbial regulation on the behavior of distant tumors. We demonstrate that gut dysbiosis induced by systemic or gut epithelial deletion of IL-17RA induces growth of pancreatic and brain tumors due to excessive development of Th17, primary source of IL-17 in human and mouse pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, as well as B cells that circulate to distant tumors. Microbial dependent IL-17 signaling increases DUOX2 signaling in tumor cells. Inefficacy of pharmacological inhibition of IL-17RA is overcome with targeted microbial ablation that blocks the compensatory loop. These findings demonstrate the complexities of IL-17-IL-17RA signaling in different compartments and the relevance for accounting for its homeostatic host defense function during cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidhi Chandra
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Le Li
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Olivereen Le Roux
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rian M Howell
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Dhwani N Rupani
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Seyda Baydogan
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Haiyan D Miller
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Erick Riquelme
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Respiratory Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Joseph Petrosino
- Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael P Kim
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Krishna P L Bhat
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Jay K Kolls
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Yuliya Pylayeva-Gupta
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Florencia McAllister
- Department of Clinical Cancer Prevention, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Immunology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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14
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Blanc-Durand F, Clemence Wei Xian L, Tan DSP. Targeting the immune microenvironment for ovarian cancer therapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1328651. [PMID: 38164130 PMCID: PMC10757966 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1328651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) is an aggressive malignancy characterized by a complex immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Immune checkpoint inhibitors have emerged as a breakthrough in cancer therapy by reactivating the antitumor immune response suppressed by tumor cells. However, in the case of OC, these inhibitors have failed to demonstrate significant improvements in patient outcomes, and existing biomarkers have not yet identified promising subgroups. Consequently, there remains a pressing need to understand the interplay between OC tumor cells and their surrounding microenvironment to develop effective immunotherapeutic approaches. This review aims to provide an overview of the OC TME and explore its potential as a therapeutic strategy. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are major actors in OC TME. Evidence has been accumulating regarding the spontaneous TILS response against OC antigens. Activated T-helpers secrete a wide range of inflammatory cytokines with a supportive action on cytotoxic T-cells. Simultaneously, mature B-cells are recruited and play a significant antitumor role through opsonization of target antigens and T-cell recruitment. Macrophages also form an important subset of innate immunity (M1-macrophages) while participating in the immune-stimulation context. Finally, OC has shown to engage a significant natural-killer-cells immune response, exerting direct cytotoxicity without prior sensitization. Despite this initial cytotoxicity, OC cells develop various strategies to induce an immune-tolerant state. To this end, multiple immunosuppressive molecules are secreted to impair cytotoxic cells, recruit regulatory cells, alter antigen presentation, and effectively evade immune response. Consequently, OC TME is predominantly infiltrated by immunosuppressive cells such as FOXP3+ regulatory T-cells, M2-polarized macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Despite this strong immunosuppressive state, PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors have failed to improve outcomes. Beyond PD-1/PD-L1, OC expresses multiple other immune checkpoints that contribute to immune evasion, and each representing potential immune targets. Novel immunotherapies are attempting to overcome the immunosuppressive state and induce specific immune responses using antibodies adoptive cell therapy or vaccines. Overall, the OC TME presents both opportunities and obstacles. Immunotherapeutic approaches continue to show promise, and next-generation inhibitors offer exciting opportunities. However, tailoring therapies to individual immune characteristics will be critical for the success of these treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Blanc-Durand
- Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS), National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Cancer Science Institute (CSI), National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lai Clemence Wei Xian
- Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS), National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Cancer Science Institute (CSI), National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore, Singapore
| | - David S. P. Tan
- Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS), National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR) and Cancer Science Institute (CSI), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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15
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Chen Z, Guan D, Wang Z, Li X, Dong S, Huang J, Zhou W. Microbiota in cancer: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic interventions. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e417. [PMID: 37937304 PMCID: PMC10626288 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The diverse bacterial populations within the symbiotic microbiota play a pivotal role in both health and disease. Microbiota modulates critical aspects of tumor biology including cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. This regulation occurs through mechanisms like enhancing genomic damage, hindering gene repair, activating aberrant cell signaling pathways, influencing tumor cell metabolism, promoting revascularization, and remodeling the tumor immune microenvironment. These microbiota-mediated effects significantly impact overall survival and the recurrence of tumors after surgery by affecting the efficacy of chemoradiotherapy. Moreover, leveraging the microbiota for the development of biovectors, probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics, in addition to utilizing antibiotics, dietary adjustments, defensins, oncolytic virotherapy, and fecal microbiota transplantation, offers promising alternatives for cancer treatment. Nonetheless, due to the extensive and diverse nature of the microbiota, along with tumor heterogeneity, the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of microbiota in cancer remain a subject of intense debate. In this context, we refocus on various cancers, delving into the molecular signaling pathways associated with the microbiota and its derivatives, the reshaping of the tumor microenvironmental matrix, and the impact on tolerance to tumor treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This exploration aims to shed light on novel perspectives and potential applications in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Chen
- The First Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Defeng Guan
- The First Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Zhengfeng Wang
- The First Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Xin Li
- The Second Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The Department of General SurgeryLanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Shi Dong
- The Second Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The Department of General SurgeryLanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Junjun Huang
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Wence Zhou
- The First Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The Department of General SurgeryLanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouGansuChina
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16
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Zwart ES, van Ee T, Doppenberg D, Farina A, Wilmink JW, Versteijne E, Busch OR, Besselink MG, Meijer LL, van Kooyk Y, Mebius RE, Kazemier G. The immune microenvironment after neoadjuvant therapy compared to upfront surgery in patients with pancreatic cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:14731-14743. [PMID: 37587309 PMCID: PMC10603010 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05219-7] [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: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with resectable and borderline resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma increasingly receive neoadjuvant therapy prior to surgery. However, the effect of neoadjuvant therapy on the immune microenvironment remains largely unknown. We analyzed the immune microenvironment in pancreatic cancer tumor tissue samples from patients treated with neoadjuvant therapy compared to patients after upfront surgery to gain knowledge about the immunological environment after therapy. METHODS Multispectral imaging was performed on tissue from resected specimens from patients with PDAC who underwent upfront surgery (n = 10), neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX (n = 10) or gemcitabine + radiotherapy (gem-RT) (n = 9) followed by surgery. The samples were selected by a dedicated pancreas pathologist from both the central part and the invasive front of the tumor (by the resected vein or venous surface) and subsequently analyzed using the Vectra Polaris. RESULTS Patients receiving neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX display a more pro-inflammatory immune profile, with less regulatory T cells and more CD8 T cells in the tumor tissue compared to patients receiving neoadjuvant gem-RTgem-RT or undergoing upfront surgery. Furthermore, CD163+ macrophages were decreased, and a higher CD163- macrophages versus CD163+ macrophages ratio was found in patients with neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX. In all treatment groups, percentage of FoxP3+ B cells was significantly higher in tumor tissue compared to adjacent tissue. Furthermore, an increase in regulatory T cells in the tumor tissue was found in patients undergoing upfront surgery or receiving neoadjuvant gem-RT. In the gem-RT group, less CD8 T cells and a higher CD163+ macrophages to CD8 ratio were noted in the tumor tissue, suggesting a more immune suppressive profile in the tumor tissue. CONCLUSION Patients receiving neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX display a more pro-inflammatory immune profile compared to patients receiving neoadjuvant gem-RT or undergoing upfront surgery. Furthermore, in all treatment groups, a more immune suppressive microenvironment was found in the tumor tissue compared to the adjacent non-tumorous tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline S Zwart
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas van Ee
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Oncology Graduate School, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Deesje Doppenberg
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arantza Farina
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna W Wilmink
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Versteijne
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olivier R Busch
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc G Besselink
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Laura L Meijer
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yvette van Kooyk
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Reina E Mebius
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Geert Kazemier
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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17
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Zhao K, Huang J, Zhao Y, Wang S, Xu J, Yin K. Targeting STING in cancer: Challenges and emerging opportunities. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188983. [PMID: 37717857 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway is a key pathway through which the host regulates immune responses by recognizing cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA of abnormal origin, and it plays an important role in tumor growth as well as metastasis, with relevant molecular details constantly being explored and updated. The significant immunomodulatory effects make STING an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy, and STING agonists have been receiving great attention for their development and clinical translation. Despite exciting results in preclinical work, the application of STING agonists to cancer therapy remains challenging due to their poor pharmacokinetic and physicochemical properties, as well as toxic side effects they produce. Here, we summarize the dichotomous role of cGAS-STING in cancer and discuss the limitations of cancer immunotherapy based on STING activation as well as feasible strategies to overcome them to achieve tumor regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China; Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jiaojiao Huang
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Shengjun Wang
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China.
| | - Kai Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
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18
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Bao J, Betzler AC, Hess J, Brunner C. Exploring the dual role of B cells in solid tumors: implications for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1233085. [PMID: 37868967 PMCID: PMC10586314 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1233085] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In the tumor milieu of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), distinct B cell subpopulations are present, which exert either pro- or anti-tumor activities. Multiple factors, including hypoxia, cytokines, interactions with tumor cells, and other immune infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), alter the equilibrium between the dual roles of B cells leading to cancerogenesis. Certain B cell subsets in the tumor microenvironment (TME) exhibit immunosuppressive function. These cells are known as regulatory B (Breg) cells. Breg cells suppress immune responses by secreting a series of immunosuppressive cytokines, including IL-10, IL-35, TGF-β, granzyme B, and adenosine or dampen effector TILs by intercellular contacts. Multiple Breg phenotypes have been discovered in human and mouse cancer models. However, when compartmentalized within a tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS), B cells predominantly play anti-tumor effects. A mature TLS contains a CD20+ B cell zone with several important types of B cells, including germinal-center like B cells, antibody-secreting plasma cells, and memory B cells. They kill tumor cells via antibody-dependent cytotoxicity and phagocytosis, and local complement activation effects. TLSs are also privileged sites for local T and B cell coordination and activation. Nonetheless, in some cases, TLSs may serve as a niche for hidden tumor cells and indicate a bad prognosis. Thus, TIL-B cells exhibit bidirectional immune-modulatory activity and are responsive to a variety of immunotherapies. In this review, we discuss the functional distinctions between immunosuppressive Breg cells and immunogenic effector B cells that mature within TLSs with the focus on tumors of HNSCC patients. Additionally, we review contemporary immunotherapies that aim to target TIL-B cells. For the development of innovative therapeutic approaches to complement T-cell-based immunotherapy, a full understanding of either effector B cells or Breg cells is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiantong Bao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, University Medical Center Ulm, Head & Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Annika C. Betzler
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, University Medical Center Ulm, Head & Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jochen Hess
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Molecular Mechanisms of Head and Neck Tumors, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cornelia Brunner
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, University Medical Center Ulm, Head & Neck Cancer Center of the Comprehensive Cancer Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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19
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Yousuf S, Qiu M, Voith von Voithenberg L, Hulkkonen J, Macinkovic I, Schulz AR, Hartmann D, Mueller F, Mijatovic M, Ibberson D, AlHalabi KT, Hetzer J, Anders S, Brüne B, Mei HE, Imbusch CD, Brors B, Heikenwälder M, Gaida MM, Büchler MW, Weigert A, Hackert T, Roth S. Spatially Resolved Multi-Omics Single-Cell Analyses Inform Mechanisms of Immune Dysfunction in Pancreatic Cancer. Gastroenterology 2023; 165:891-908.e14. [PMID: 37263303 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2023.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS As pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) continues to be recalcitrant to therapeutic interventions, including poor response to immunotherapy, albeit effective in other solid malignancies, a more nuanced understanding of the immune microenvironment in PDAC is urgently needed. We aimed to unveil a detailed view of the immune micromilieu in PDAC using a spatially resolved multimodal single-cell approach. METHODS We applied single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, multiplex immunohistochemistry, and mass cytometry to profile the immune compartment in treatment-naïve PDAC tumors and matched adjacent normal pancreatic tissue, as well as in the systemic circulation. We determined prognostic associations of immune signatures and performed a meta-analysis of the immune microenvironment in PDAC and lung adenocarcinoma on single-cell level. RESULTS We provided a spatially resolved fine map of the immune landscape in PDAC. We substantiated the exhausted phenotype of CD8 T cells and immunosuppressive features of myeloid cells, and highlighted immune subsets with potentially underappreciated roles in PDAC that diverged from immune populations within adjacent normal areas, particularly CD4 T cell subsets and natural killer T cells that are terminally exhausted and acquire a regulatory phenotype. Differential analysis of immune phenotypes in PDAC and lung adenocarcinoma revealed the presence of extraordinarily immunosuppressive subtypes in PDAC, along with a distinctive immune checkpoint composition. CONCLUSIONS Our study sheds light on the multilayered immune dysfunction in PDAC and presents a holistic view of the immune landscape in PDAC and lung adenocarcinoma, providing a comprehensive resource for functional studies and the exploration of therapeutically actionable targets in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhail Yousuf
- Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mengjie Qiu
- Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Johannes Hulkkonen
- Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Igor Macinkovic
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Domenic Hartmann
- Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Florian Mueller
- Division of Chronic Inflammation and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Margarete Mijatovic
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - David Ibberson
- Deep Sequencing Core Facility, BioQuant, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Karam T AlHalabi
- Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jenny Hetzer
- Division of Chronic Inflammation and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Simon Anders
- BioQuant Center, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Brüne
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany; Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Henrik E Mei
- German Rheumatism Research Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Charles D Imbusch
- Division of Applied Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Benedikt Brors
- Division of Applied Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mathias Heikenwälder
- Division of Chronic Inflammation and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias M Gaida
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Mainz, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany; Research Center for Immunotherapy, University Medical Center Mainz, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany; Joint Unit Immunopathology, Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University and Translational Oncology, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Markus W Büchler
- Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Weigert
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany; Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany; German Cancer Consortium, Partner Site Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Thilo Hackert
- Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Roth
- Department of Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
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20
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Guo J, Wang S, Gao Q. An integrated overview of the immunosuppression features in the tumor microenvironment of pancreatic cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1258538. [PMID: 37771596 PMCID: PMC10523014 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1258538] [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: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest malignancies. It is characterized by a complex and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which is primarily composed of tumor cells, stromal cells, immune cells, and acellular components. The cross-interactions and -regulations among various cell types in the TME have been recognized to profoundly shape the immunosuppression features that meaningfully affect PDAC biology and treatment outcomes. In this review, we first summarize five cellular composition modules by integrating the cellular (sub)types, phenotypes, and functions in PDAC TME. Then we discuss an integrated overview of the cross-module regulations as a determinant of the immunosuppressive TME in PDAC. We also briefly highlight TME-targeted strategies that potentially improve PDAC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinglong Guo
- Department of Cardiovascular Disease, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Siyue Wang
- Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Qi Gao
- Department of Cardiovascular Disease, the First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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21
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Nie Y, Xu L, Bai Z, Liu Y, Wang S, Zeng Q, Gao X, Xia X, Chang D. Prognostic utility of TME-associated genes in pancreatic cancer. Front Genet 2023; 14:1218774. [PMID: 37727377 PMCID: PMC10505756 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1218774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a deadly disease. The tumor microenvironment (TME) participates in PC oncogenesis. This study focuses on the assessment of the prognostic and treatment utility of TME-associated genes in PC. Methods: After obtaining the differentially expressed TME-related genes, univariate and multivariate Cox analyses and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were performed to identify genes related to prognosis, and a risk model was established to evaluate risk scores, based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data set, and it was validated by external data sets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC). Multiomics analyses were adopted to explore the potential mechanisms, discover novel treatment targets, and assess the sensitivities of immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Results: Five TME-associated genes, namely, FERMT1, CARD9, IL20RB, MET, and MMP3, were identified and a risk score formula constructed. Next, their mRNA expressions were verified in cancer and normal pancreatic cells. Multiple algorithms confirmed that the risk model displayed a reliable ability of prognosis prediction and was an independent prognostic factor, indicating that high-risk patients had poor outcomes. Immunocyte infiltration, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and single-cell analysis all showed a strong relationship between immune mechanism and low-risk samples. The risk score could predict the sensitivity of immunotherapy and some chemotherapy regimens, which included oxaliplatin and irinotecan. Various latent treatment targets (LAG3, TIGIT, and ARID1A) were addressed by mutation landscape based on the risk model. Conclusion: The risk model based on TME-related genes can reflect the prognosis of PC patients and functions as a novel set of biomarkers for PC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanhua Nie
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Longwen Xu
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zilong Bai
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yaoyao Liu
- Geneplus-Beijing, Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Shilong Wang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qingnuo Zeng
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xuan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- GenePlus- Shenzhen Clinical Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Dongmin Chang
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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22
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Liu R, Zhao E, Yu H, Yuan C, Abbas MN, Cui H. Methylation across the central dogma in health and diseases: new therapeutic strategies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:310. [PMID: 37620312 PMCID: PMC10449936 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01528-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The proper transfer of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein is essential for cell-fate control, development, and health. Methylation of DNA, RNAs, histones, and non-histone proteins is a reversible post-synthesis modification that finetunes gene expression and function in diverse physiological processes. Aberrant methylation caused by genetic mutations or environmental stimuli promotes various diseases and accelerates aging, necessitating the development of therapies to correct the disease-driver methylation imbalance. In this Review, we summarize the operating system of methylation across the central dogma, which includes writers, erasers, readers, and reader-independent outputs. We then discuss how dysregulation of the system contributes to neurological disorders, cancer, and aging. Current small-molecule compounds that target the modifiers show modest success in certain cancers. The methylome-wide action and lack of specificity lead to undesirable biological effects and cytotoxicity, limiting their therapeutic application, especially for diseases with a monogenic cause or different directions of methylation changes. Emerging tools capable of site-specific methylation manipulation hold great promise to solve this dilemma. With the refinement of delivery vehicles, these new tools are well positioned to advance the basic research and clinical translation of the methylation field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruochen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Erhu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Huijuan Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Chaoyu Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Muhammad Nadeem Abbas
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing, 401329, China.
- Chongqing Engineering and Technology Research Center for Silk Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine, Chongqing, 400716, China.
- Engineering Research Center for Cancer Biomedical and Translational Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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23
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Rohila D, Park IH, Pham TV, Weitz J, Hurtado de Mendoza T, Madheswaran S, Ishfaq M, Beaman C, Tapia E, Sun S, Patel J, Tamayo P, Lowy AM, Joshi S. Syk Inhibition Reprograms Tumor-Associated Macrophages and Overcomes Gemcitabine-Induced Immunosuppression in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancer Res 2023; 83:2675-2689. [PMID: 37306759 PMCID: PMC10416758 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-3645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an insidious disease with a low 5-year survival rate. PDAC is characterized by infiltration of abundant tumor-associated macrophages (TAM), which promote immune tolerance and immunotherapeutic resistance. Here we report that macrophage spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) promotes PDAC growth and metastasis. In orthotopic PDAC mouse models, genetic deletion of myeloid Syk reprogrammed macrophages into immunostimulatory phenotype, increased the infiltration, proliferation, and cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells, and repressed PDAC growth and metastasis. Furthermore, gemcitabine (Gem) treatment induced an immunosuppressive microenvironment in PDAC by promoting protumorigenic polarization of macrophages. In contrast, treatment with the FDA-approved Syk inhibitor R788 (fostamatinib) remodeled the tumor immune microenvironment, "re-educated" protumorigenic macrophages towards an immunostimulatory phenotype and boosted CD8+ T-cell responses in Gem-treated PDAC in orthotopic mouse models and an ex vivo human pancreatic slice culture model. These findings illustrate the potential of Syk inhibition for enhancing the antitumor immune responses in PDAC and support the clinical evaluation of R788 either alone or together with Gem as a potential treatment strategy for PDAC. SIGNIFICANCE Syk blockade induces macrophage polarization to an immunostimulatory phenotype, which enhances CD8+ T-cell responses and improves gemcitabine efficacy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, a clinically challenging malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Rohila
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - In Hwan Park
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Timothy V. Pham
- Office of Cancer Genomics, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Jonathan Weitz
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, California
| | | | - Suresh Madheswaran
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Mehreen Ishfaq
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Cooper Beaman
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Elisabette Tapia
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Siming Sun
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Jay Patel
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Pablo Tamayo
- Office of Cancer Genomics, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Andrew M. Lowy
- Department of Surgery, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Shweta Joshi
- Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, California
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24
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Cortellino S, Longo VD. Metabolites and Immune Response in Tumor Microenvironments. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3898. [PMID: 37568713 PMCID: PMC10417674 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The remodeled cancer cell metabolism affects the tumor microenvironment and promotes an immunosuppressive state by changing the levels of macro- and micronutrients and by releasing hormones and cytokines that recruit immunosuppressive immune cells. Novel dietary interventions such as amino acid restriction and periodic fasting mimicking diets can prevent or dampen the formation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment by acting systemically on the release of hormones and growth factors, inhibiting the release of proinflammatory cytokines, and remodeling the tumor vasculature and extracellular matrix. Here, we discuss the latest research on the effects of these therapeutic interventions on immunometabolism and tumor immune response and future scenarios pertaining to how dietary interventions could contribute to cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Cortellino
- Laboratory of Pre-Clinical and Translational Research, IRCCS-CROB, Referral Cancer Center of Basilicata, 85028 Rionero in Vulture, Italy;
| | - Valter D. Longo
- IFOM, The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, 20139 Milan, Italy
- Longevity Institute, Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
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25
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Gautam SK, Batra SK, Jain M. Molecular and metabolic regulation of immunosuppression in metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:118. [PMID: 37488598 PMCID: PMC10367391 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01813-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunosuppression is a hallmark of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), contributing to early metastasis and poor patient survival. Compared to the localized tumors, current standard-of-care therapies have failed to improve the survival of patients with metastatic PDAC, that necessecitates exploration of novel therapeutic approaches. While immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and therapeutic vaccines have emerged as promising treatment modalities in certain cancers, limited responses have been achieved in PDAC. Therefore, specific mechanisms regulating the poor response to immunotherapy must be explored. The immunosuppressive microenvironment driven by oncogenic mutations, tumor secretome, non-coding RNAs, and tumor microbiome persists throughout PDAC progression, allowing neoplastic cells to grow locally and metastasize distantly. The metastatic cells escaping the host immune surveillance are unique in molecular, immunological, and metabolic characteristics. Following chemokine and exosomal guidance, these cells metastasize to the organ-specific pre-metastatic niches (PMNs) constituted by local resident cells, stromal fibroblasts, and suppressive immune cells, such as the metastasis-associated macrophages, neutrophils, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. The metastatic immune microenvironment differs from primary tumors in stromal and immune cell composition, functionality, and metabolism. Thus far, multiple molecular and metabolic pathways, distinct from primary tumors, have been identified that dampen immune effector functions, confounding the immunotherapy response in metastatic PDAC. This review describes major immunoregulatory pathways that contribute to the metastatic progression and limit immunotherapy outcomes in PDAC. Overall, we highlight the therapeutic vulnerabilities attributable to immunosuppressive factors and discuss whether targeting these molecular and immunological "hot spots" could improve the outcomes of PDAC immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shailendra K Gautam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA.
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Maneesh Jain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA.
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA.
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26
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Zou X, Guan C, Gao J, Shi W, Cui Y, Zhong X. Tertiary lymphoid structures in pancreatic cancer: a new target for immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1222719. [PMID: 37529035 PMCID: PMC10388371 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1222719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is extremely malignant and shows limited response to available immunotherapies due to the hypoxic and immunosuppressive nature of its tumor microenvironment (TME). The aggregation of immune cells (B cells, T cells, dendritic cells, etc.), which is induced in various chronic inflammatory settings such as infection, inflammation, and tumors, is known as the tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS). Several studies have shown that TLSs can be found in both intra- and peritumor tissues of PC. The role of TLSs in peritumor tissues in tumors remains unclear, though intratumoral TLSs are known to play an active role in a variety of tumors, including PC. The formation of intratumoral TLSs in PC is associated with a good prognosis. In addition, TLSs can be used as an indicator to assess the effectiveness of treatment. Targeted induction of TLS formation may become a new avenue of immunotherapy for PC. This review summarizes the formation, characteristics, relevant clinical outcomes, and clinical applications of TLSs in the pancreatic TME. We aim to provide new ideas for future immunotherapy of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlei Zou
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiary Surgery, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Canghai Guan
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiary Surgery, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jianjun Gao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiary Surgery, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Wujiang Shi
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiary Surgery, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yunfu Cui
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiary Surgery, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhong
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiary Surgery, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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27
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Xiong J, Chi H, Yang G, Zhao S, Zhang J, Tran LJ, Xia Z, Yang F, Tian G. Revolutionizing anti-tumor therapy: unleashing the potential of B cell-derived exosomes. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1188760. [PMID: 37342327 PMCID: PMC10277631 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1188760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
B cells occupy a vital role in the functioning of the immune system, working in tandem with T cells to either suppress or promote tumor growth within the tumor microenvironment(TME). In addition to direct cell-to-cell communication, B cells and other cells release exosomes, small membrane vesicles ranging in size from 30-150 nm, that facilitate intercellular signaling. Exosome research is an important development in cancer research, as they have been shown to carry various molecules such as major histocompatibility complex(MHC) molecules and integrins, which regulate the TME. Given the close association between TME and cancer development, targeting substances within the TME has emerged as a promising strategy for cancer therapy. This review aims to present a comprehensive overview of the contributions made by B cells and exosomes to the tumor microenvironment (TME). Additionally, we delve into the potential role of B cell-derived exosomes in the progression of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Xiong
- Department of Sports Rehabilitation, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Hao Chi
- Clinical Medical College, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Guanhu Yang
- Department of Specialty Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH, United States
| | - Songyun Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wuxi People’s Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, The University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Vermillion, SD, United States
| | - Lisa Jia Tran
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Zhijia Xia
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gang Tian
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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Kwok HH, Yang J, Lam DCL. Breaking the Invisible Barriers: Unleashing the Full Potential of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Oncogene-Driven Lung Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2749. [PMID: 37345086 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid development of targeted therapy paved the way toward personalized medicine for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) harboring actionable genetic alternations including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), Kirsten rat sarcoma virus (ALK) and c-ros oncogene 1 (ROS1) treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) incurred lesser treatment toxicity but better therapeutic responses compared with systemic chemotherapy. Angiogenesis inhibitors targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have also shown an increase in overall survival (OS) for NSCLC patients. However, acquired resistance to these targeted therapies remains a major obstacle to long-term maintenance treatment for lung ADC patients. The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) against programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) or programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) has changed the treatment paradigm for NSCLC tumors without actionable genetic alternations. Clinical studies have suggested, however, that there are no survival benefits with the combination of targeted therapy and ICIs. In this review, we will summarize and discuss the current knowledge on the tumor immune microenvironment and the dynamics of immune phenotypes, which could be crucial in extending the applicability of ICIs for this subpopulation of lung ADC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi-Hin Kwok
- Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jiashuang Yang
- Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - David Chi-Leung Lam
- Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Rekowska AK, Obuchowska K, Bartosik M, Kimber-Trojnar Ż, Słodzińska M, Wierzchowska-Opoka M, Leszczyńska-Gorzelak B. Biomolecules Involved in Both Metastasis and Placenta Accreta Spectrum-Does the Common Pathophysiological Pathway Exist? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092618. [PMID: 37174083 PMCID: PMC10177254 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is crucial in the implantation of the blastocyst and subsequent placental development. The trophoblast, consisting of villous and extravillous zones, plays different roles in these processes. Pathological states, such as placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), can arise due to dysfunction of the trophoblast or defective decidualization, leading to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Studies have drawn parallels between placentation and carcinogenesis, with both processes involving EMT and the establishment of a microenvironment that facilitates invasion and infiltration. This article presents a review of molecular biomarkers involved in both the microenvironment of tumors and placental cells, including placental growth factor (PlGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), E-cadherin (CDH1), laminin γ2 (LAMC2), the zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox (ZEB) proteins, αVβ3 integrin, transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), β-catenin, cofilin-1 (CFL-1), and interleukin-35 (IL-35). Understanding the similarities and differences in these processes may provide insights into the development of therapeutic options for both PAS and metastatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Rekowska
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Karolina Obuchowska
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Magdalena Bartosik
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Żaneta Kimber-Trojnar
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Magdalena Słodzińska
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
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Sah VR, Jespersen H, Karlsson J, Nilsson LM, Bergqvist M, Johansson I, Carneiro A, Helgadottir H, Levin M, Ullenhag G, Ståhlberg A, Olofsson Bagge R, Nilsson JA, Ny L. Chemokine Analysis in Patients with Metastatic Uveal Melanoma Suggests a Role for CCL21 Signaling in Combined Epigenetic Therapy and Checkpoint Immunotherapy. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:884-895. [PMID: 37377898 PMCID: PMC10194136 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-22-0490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Patients with metastatic uveal melanoma have limited therapeutic options and high mortality rate so new treatment options are needed. Patients and Methods We previously reported that patients treated with the PD-1 inhibitor pembrolizumab and the histone deacetylase inhibitor entinostat in the PEMDAC trial, experienced clinical benefits if their tumor originated from iris or was wildtype for BAP1 tumor suppressor gene. Here we present the 2-year follow-up of the patients in the PEMDAC trial and identify additional factors that correlate with response or survival. Results Durable responses were observed in 4 patients, with additional 8 patients exhibiting a stable disease. The median overall survival was 13.7 months. Grade 3 adverse events were reported in 62% of the patients, but they were all manageable. No fatal toxicity was observed. Activity of thymidine kinase 1 in plasma was higher in patients with stable disease or who progressed on treatment, compared with those with partial response. Chemokines and cytokines were analyzed in plasma. Three chemokines were significantly different when comparing patients with and without response. One of the factors, CCL21, was higher in the plasma of responding patients before treatment initiation but decreased in the same patients upon treatment. In tumors, CCL21 was expressed in areas resembling tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS). High plasma levels of CCL21 and presence of TLS-like regions in the tumor correlated with longer survival. Conclusions This study provides insight into durable responses in the PEMDAC trial, and describes dynamic changes of chemokines and cytokines in the blood of these patients. Significance The most significant finding from the 2-year follow-up study of the PEMDAC trial was that high CCL21 levels in blood was associated with response and survival. CCL21 was also expressed in TLS-like regions and presence of these regions was associated with longer survival. These analyses of soluble and tumor markers can inform on predictive biomarkers needing validation and become hypothesis generating for experimental research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasu R. Sah
- Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Henrik Jespersen
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Joakim Karlsson
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lisa M. Nilsson
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Iva Johansson
- Department of Oncology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ana Carneiro
- Department of Oncology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Hildur Helgadottir
- Department of Oncology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Max Levin
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Oncology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Gustav Ullenhag
- Department of Radiology, Oncology and Radiation Science, Section of Oncology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Ståhlberg
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Roger Olofsson Bagge
- Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jonas A. Nilsson
- Sahlgrenska Center for Cancer Research, Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lars Ny
- Department of Oncology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Oncology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Xu Y, Mao Y, Lv Y, Tang W, Xu J. B cells in tumor metastasis: friend or foe? Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:2382-2393. [PMID: 37215990 PMCID: PMC10197893 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.79482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is an important cause of cancer-related death. Immunotherapy may be an effective way to prevent and treat tumor metastasis in the future. Currently, many studies have focused on T cells, whereas fewer have focused on B cells and their subsets. B cells play an important role in tumor metastasis. They not only secrete antibodies and various cytokines but also function in antigen presentation to directly or indirectly participate in tumor immunity. Furthermore, B cells are involved in both inhibiting and promoting tumor metastasis, which demonstrates the complexity of B cells in tumor immunity. Moreover, different subgroups of B cells have distinct functions. The functions of B cells are also affected by the tumor microenvironment, and the metabolic homeostasis of B cells is also closely related to their function. In this review, we summarize the role of B cells in tumor metastasis, analyze the mechanisms of B cells, and discuss the current status and prospects of B cells in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Wentao Tang
- ✉ Corresponding authors: Jianmin Xu, Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. E-mail: ; Wentao Tang, Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. E-mail:
| | - Jianmin Xu
- ✉ Corresponding authors: Jianmin Xu, Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. E-mail: ; Wentao Tang, Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. E-mail:
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Műzes G, Sipos F. Autoimmunity and Carcinogenesis: Their Relationship under the Umbrella of Autophagy. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041130. [PMID: 37189748 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system and autophagy share a functional relationship. Both innate and adaptive immune responses involve autophagy and, depending on the disease’s origin and pathophysiology, it may have a detrimental or positive role on autoimmune disorders. As a “double-edged sword” in tumors, autophagy can either facilitate or impede tumor growth. The autophagy regulatory network that influences tumor progression and treatment resistance is dependent on cell and tissue types and tumor stages. The connection between autoimmunity and carcinogenesis has not been sufficiently explored in past studies. As a crucial mechanism between the two phenomena, autophagy may play a substantial role, though the specifics remain unclear. Several autophagy modifiers have demonstrated beneficial effects in models of autoimmune disease, emphasizing their therapeutic potential as treatments for autoimmune disorders. The function of autophagy in the tumor microenvironment and immune cells is the subject of intensive study. The objective of this review is to investigate the role of autophagy in the simultaneous genesis of autoimmunity and malignancy, shedding light on both sides of the issue. We believe our work will assist in the organization of current understanding in the field and promote additional research on this urgent and crucial topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Györgyi Műzes
- Immunology Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Sipos
- Immunology Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hematology, Semmelweis University, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
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33
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Montagne JM, Jaffee EM, Fertig EJ. Multiomics Empowers Predictive Pancreatic Cancer Immunotherapy. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:859-868. [PMID: 36947820 PMCID: PMC10236355 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Advances in cancer immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, have dramatically improved the prognosis for patients with metastatic melanoma and other previously incurable cancers. However, patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) generally do not respond to these therapies. PDAC is exceptionally difficult to treat because of its often late stage at diagnosis, modest mutation burden, and notoriously complex and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Simultaneously interrogating features of cancer, immune, and other cellular components of the PDAC tumor microenvironment is therefore crucial for identifying biomarkers of immunotherapeutic resistance and response. Notably, single-cell and multiomics technologies, along with the analytical tools for interpreting corresponding data, are facilitating discoveries of the systems-level cellular and molecular interactions contributing to the overall resistance of PDAC to immunotherapy. Thus, in this review, we will explore how multiomics and single-cell analyses provide the unprecedented opportunity to identify biomarkers of resistance and response to successfully sensitize PDAC to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janelle M Montagne
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Elizabeth M Jaffee
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Bloomberg Kimmel Immunology Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Elana J Fertig
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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Ruze R, Song J, Yin X, Chen Y, Xu R, Wang C, Zhao Y. Mechanisms of obesity- and diabetes mellitus-related pancreatic carcinogenesis: a comprehensive and systematic review. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:139. [PMID: 36964133 PMCID: PMC10039087 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01376-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on obesity- and diabetes mellitus (DM)-related carcinogenesis has expanded exponentially since these two diseases were recognized as important risk factors for cancers. The growing interest in this area is prominently actuated by the increasing obesity and DM prevalence, which is partially responsible for the slight but constant increase in pancreatic cancer (PC) occurrence. PC is a highly lethal malignancy characterized by its insidious symptoms, delayed diagnosis, and devastating prognosis. The intricate process of obesity and DM promoting pancreatic carcinogenesis involves their local impact on the pancreas and concurrent whole-body systemic changes that are suitable for cancer initiation. The main mechanisms involved in this process include the excessive accumulation of various nutrients and metabolites promoting carcinogenesis directly while also aggravating mutagenic and carcinogenic metabolic disorders by affecting multiple pathways. Detrimental alterations in gastrointestinal and sex hormone levels and microbiome dysfunction further compromise immunometabolic regulation and contribute to the establishment of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) for carcinogenesis, which can be exacerbated by several crucial pathophysiological processes and TME components, such as autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum stress, oxidative stress, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and exosome secretion. This review provides a comprehensive and critical analysis of the immunometabolic mechanisms of obesity- and DM-related pancreatic carcinogenesis and dissects how metabolic disorders impair anticancer immunity and influence pathophysiological processes to favor cancer initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rexiati Ruze
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 9 Dongdan Santiao, Beijing, China
| | - Jianlu Song
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 9 Dongdan Santiao, Beijing, China
| | - Xinpeng Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 9 Dongdan Santiao, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 9 Dongdan Santiao, Beijing, China
| | - Ruiyuan Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, No. 9 Dongdan Santiao, Beijing, China
| | - Chengcheng Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China.
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 100730, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumors, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 100023, Beijing, China.
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Laumont CM, Nelson BH. B cells in the tumor microenvironment: Multi-faceted organizers, regulators, and effectors of anti-tumor immunity. Cancer Cell 2023; 41:466-489. [PMID: 36917951 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2023.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Our understanding of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) is rapidly expanding beyond T cell-centric perspectives to include B cells and plasma cells, collectively referred to as TIL-Bs. In many cancers, TIL-Bs carry strong prognostic significance and are emerging as key predictors of response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. TIL-Bs can perform multiple functions, including antigen presentation and antibody production, which allow them to focus immune responses on cognate antigen to support both T cell responses and innate mechanisms involving complement, macrophages, and natural killer cells. In the stroma of the most immunologically "hot" tumors, TIL-Bs are prominent components of tertiary lymphoid structures, which resemble lymph nodes structurally and functionally. Additionally, TIL-Bs participate in a variety of other lympho-myeloid aggregates and engage in dynamic interactions with the tumor stroma. Here, we summarize our current understanding of TIL-Bs in human cancer, highlighting the compelling therapeutic opportunities offered by their unique tumor recognition and effector mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline M Laumont
- Deeley Research Centre, BC Cancer, Victoria, BC V8R 6V5, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Brad H Nelson
- Deeley Research Centre, BC Cancer, Victoria, BC V8R 6V5, Canada; Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 3E6, Canada.
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Exosomal lncRNA HOTAIR induces PDL1 + B cells to impede anti-tumor immunity in colorectal cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 644:112-121. [PMID: 36640665 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.01.005] [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: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory B cells (Bregs) contribute to tumor immunosuppression. However, how B cells acquire their regulatory features in tumors remain unclear. Exosomes are important messengers that transmit tumor information to remodel tumor immunity. Here we revealed that tumor-derived exosomes drive Bregs to suppress anti-tumor immunity by delivering long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). HOTAIR was screened by lncRNA profiling in both colorectal cancer (CRC)-derived exosomes and infiltrating B cells. Tumor-derived HOTAIR polarized B cells toward a regulatory feature marked by programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PDL1) in CRC, and induced PDL1+ B cells to suppress CD8+ T cell activity. Exosomal HOTAIR bound to and protected pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) against ubiquitination degradation, resulting in STAT3 activation and PDL1 expression. Results from CRC patients showed a positive correlation between exosomal HOTAIR and tumor-infiltrating PDL1+ B cells. These findings reveal how B cells acquire PDL1-dominant regulatory feature in CRC, implying the clinical significance of exosomal therapy targeting HOTAIR.
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The EPH/Ephrin System in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC): From Pathogenesis to Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24033015. [PMID: 36769332 PMCID: PMC9917762 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24033015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a major concern for health care systems worldwide, since its mortality remains unaltered despite the surge in cutting-edge science. The EPH/ephrin signaling system was first investigated in the 1980s. EPH/ephrins have been shown to exert bidirectional signaling and cell-to-cell communication, influencing cellular morphology, adhesion, migration and invasion. Recent studies have highlighted the critical role of the EPH/ephrin system in various physiologic processes, including cellular proliferation, survival, synaptic plasticity and angiogenesis. Thus, it has become evident that the EPH/ephrin signaling system may have compelling effects on cell homeostasis that contribute to carcinogenesis. In particular, the EPH/ephrins have an impact on pancreatic morphogenesis and development, whereas several EPHs and ephrins are altered in PDAC. Several clinical and preclinical studies have attempted to elucidate the effects of the EPH/ephrin pathway, with multilayered effects on PDAC development. These studies have highlighted its highly promising role in the diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic management of PDAC. The aim of this review is to explore the obscure aspects of the EPH/ephrin system concerning the development, physiology and homeostasis of the pancreas.
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Walcheck MT, Schwartz PB, Carrillo ND, Matkowsky KA, Nukaya M, Bradfield CA, Ronnekleiv-Kelly SM. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor knockout accelerates PanIN formation and fibro-inflammation in a mutant Kras-driven pancreatic cancer model. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.01.526625. [PMID: 36778364 PMCID: PMC9915668 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.01.526625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Objectives The pathogenesis of pancreas cancer (PDAC) remains poorly understood, hindering efforts to develop a more effective therapy for PDAC. Recent discoveries show the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of several cancers, and can be targeted for therapeutic effect. However, its involvement in PDAC remains unclear. Therefore, we evaluated the role of AHR in the development of PDAC in vivo. Methods We created a global AHR-null, mutant Kras-driven PDAC mouse model (A-/-KC) and evaluated the changes in PDAC precursor lesion formation (Pan-IN 1, 2, and 3) and associated fibro-inflammation between KC and A-/-KC at 5 months of age. We then examined the changes in the immune microenvironment followed by single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis to evaluate concomitant transcriptomic changes. Results We found a significant increase in PanIN-1 lesion formation and PanIN-1 associated fibro-inflammatory infiltrate in A-/-KC vs KC mice. This was associated with significant changes in the adaptive immune system, particularly a decrease in the CD4+/CD8+ T-cell ratio, as well as a decrease in the T-regulatory/Th17 T-cell ratio suggesting unregulated inflammation. Conclusion These findings show the loss of AHR results in heightened Kras-induced PanIN formation, through modulation of immune cells within the pancreatic tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan T Walcheck
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, K4/747 CSC, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792
| | - Patrick B Schwartz
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, K4/747 CSC, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792
| | - Noah D Carrillo
- University of Wisconsin, McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, 1400 University Avenue, McArdle Research Building, Madison, WI, 53706
| | - Kristina A Matkowsky
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, L5/183 CSC, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792
- University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI 53705
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI 53705
| | - Manabu Nukaya
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, K4/747 CSC, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792
- University of Wisconsin, McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, 1400 University Avenue, McArdle Research Building, Madison, WI, 53706
| | - Christopher A Bradfield
- University of Wisconsin, McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, 1400 University Avenue, McArdle Research Building, Madison, WI, 53706
| | - Sean M Ronnekleiv-Kelly
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, K4/747 CSC, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53792
- University of Wisconsin, McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, 1400 University Avenue, McArdle Research Building, Madison, WI, 53706
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Velasco RM, García AG, Sánchez PJ, Sellart IM, Sánchez-Arévalo Lobo VJ. Tumour microenvironment and heterotypic interactions in pancreatic cancer. J Physiol Biochem 2023; 79:179-192. [PMID: 35102531 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-022-00875-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is a disease with a survival rate of 9%; this is due to its chemoresistance and the large tumour stroma that occupies most of the tumour mass. It is composed of a large number of cells of the immune system, such as Treg cells, tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid suppressor cells (MDCs) and tumour-associated neutrophiles (TANs) that generate an immunosuppressive environment by the release of inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, cancer-associated fibroblast (CAFs) provide a protective coverage that would difficult the access of chemotherapy to the tumour. According to this, new therapies that could remodel this heterogeneous tumour microenvironment, such as adoptive T cell therapies (ACT), immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), and CD40 agonists, should be developed for targeting PDA. This review organizes the different cell populations found in the tumour stroma involved in tumour progression in addition to the different therapies that are being studied to counteract the tumour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Muñoz Velasco
- Molecular Oncology Group, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Biosanitary Research Institute, Francisco de Vitoria University, 28223, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, UFV, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre, Pathology Department, Av. Córdoba, s/n, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana García García
- Molecular Oncology Group, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Biosanitary Research Institute, Francisco de Vitoria University, 28223, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, UFV, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre, Pathology Department, Av. Córdoba, s/n, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Jiménez Sánchez
- Molecular Oncology Group, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Biosanitary Research Institute, Francisco de Vitoria University, 28223, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, UFV, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre, Pathology Department, Av. Córdoba, s/n, 28041, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Montanuy Sellart
- Molecular Oncology Group, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Biosanitary Research Institute, Francisco de Vitoria University, 28223, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, UFV, Spain
| | - Víctor Javier Sánchez-Arévalo Lobo
- Molecular Oncology Group, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Biosanitary Research Institute, Francisco de Vitoria University, 28223, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, UFV, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital 12 de Octubre, Pathology Department, Av. Córdoba, s/n, 28041, Madrid, Spain.
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40
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Messex JK, Liou GY. Impact of Immune Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment of Prostate Cancer Metastasis. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:333. [PMID: 36836690 PMCID: PMC9967893 DOI: 10.3390/life13020333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in senior American men. Currently, the five-year survival rate after the initial diagnosis of prostate cancer is close to 100%. However, it is also the second leading cause of cancer death in senior men due to the dissemination of prostate cancer cells outside of the prostate causing growth in other organs, known as metastatic prostate cancer. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in the development, progression and metastasis of prostate cancer. One of the major components of the TME contains various types of immune cells, often recruited by cancer cells to the cancer formation areas. The interactions among prostate cancer cells and the infiltrating immune cells affect the outcome of prostate cancer. Here, we summarize the mechanisms various infiltrating immune cells use to regulate prostate cancer metastasis and possibly lead to the development of treatment strategies. Furthermore, the information here may also give rise to preventative strategies that focus on targeting the TME of prostate cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin K. Messex
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA
| | - Geou-Yarh Liou
- Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA 30314, USA
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41
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Sherman MH, Beatty GL. Tumor Microenvironment in Pancreatic Cancer Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Resistance. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 18:123-148. [PMID: 36130070 PMCID: PMC9877114 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathmechdis-031621-024600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) features a prominent stromal microenvironment with remarkable cellular and spatial heterogeneity that meaningfully impacts disease biology and treatment resistance. Recent advances in tissue imaging capabilities, single-cell analytics, and disease modeling have shed light on organizing principles that shape the stromal complexity of PDAC tumors. These insights into the functional and spatial dependencies that coordinate cancer cell biology and the relationships that exist between cells and extracellular matrix components present in tumors are expected to unveil therapeutic vulnerabilities. We review recent advances in the field and discuss current understandings of mechanisms by which the tumor microenvironment shapes PDAC pathogenesis and therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara H Sherman
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Cancer Biology; and Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA;
| | - Gregory L Beatty
- Abramson Cancer Center; and Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA;
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42
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Senturk ZN, Akdag I, Deniz B, Sayi-Yazgan A. Pancreatic cancer: Emerging field of regulatory B-cell-targeted immunotherapies. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1152551. [PMID: 37033931 PMCID: PMC10076755 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1152551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common type of pancreatic cancer, is characterized by a high mortality rate and poor prognosis. Current treatments for PDAC, are ineffective due to a prominent immunosuppressive PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME). Although B lymphocytes are highly infiltrated into PDAC, the importance of B lymphocytes in tumorigenesis is largely neglected. B cells play a dual role in the PDAC tumor microenvironment, acting as either anti-tumorigenic or pro-tumorigenic depending on where they are localized. Tumor-infiltrating B cells, which reside in ectopic lymph nodes, namely tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS), produce anti-tumor antibodies and present tumor antigens to T cells to contribute to cancer immunosurveillance. Alternatively, regulatory B cells (Bregs), dispersed inside the TME, contribute to the dampening of anti-tumor immune responses by secreting anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and IL-35), which promote tumor growth and metastasis. Determining the role of Bregs in the PDAC microenvironment is thus becoming increasingly attractive for developing novel immunotherapeutic approaches. In this minireview, we shed light on the emerging role of B cells in PDAC development and progression, with an emphasis on regulatory B cells (Bregs). Furthermore, we discussed the potential link of Bregs to immunotherapies in PDAC. These current findings will help us in understanding the full potential of B cells in immunotherapy.
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43
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Ma S, Barr T, Yu J. Recent Advances of RNA m 6A Modifications in Cancer Immunoediting and Immunotherapy. Cancer Treat Res 2023; 190:49-94. [PMID: 38112999 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-45654-1_3] [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] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, which modulates immune responses against tumors using immune-checkpoint inhibitors or adoptive cell transfer, has emerged as a novel and promising therapy for tumors. However, only a minority of patients demonstrate durable responses, while the majority of patients are resistant to immunotherapy. The immune system can paradoxically constrain and promote tumor development and progression. This process is referred to as cancer immunoediting. The mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy seem to be that cancer cells undergo immunoediting to evade recognition and elimination by the immune system. RNA modifications, specifically N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation, have emerged as a key regulator of various post-transcriptional gene regulatory processes, such as RNA export, splicing, stability, and degradation, which play unappreciated roles in various physiological and pathological processes, including immune system development and cancer pathogenesis. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms by which RNA modifications impact the cancer immunoediting process can provide insight into the mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapies and the strategies that can be used to overcome such resistance. In this chapter, we briefly introduce the background of cancer immunoediting and immunotherapy. We also review and discuss the roles and mechanisms of RNA m6A modifications in fine-tuning the innate and adaptive immune responses, as well as in regulating tumor escape from immunosurveillance. Finally, we summarize the current strategies targeting m6A regulators for cancer immunotherapy.
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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
| | - Tasha Barr
- 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
| | - 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.
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA.
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44
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Galán-Ortíz JR, Andino del Valle KA, Pérez-Rosario AA, Castañón Pereira DL, Díaz-Rivera J, Merheb-Finianos PA, Dorta-Estremera SM. B cells as modulators of HPV+ oropharyngeal cancer in a preclinical model. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1145724. [PMID: 37035195 PMCID: PMC10076859 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1145724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the different immune cells present within tumors, B cells also infiltrate human papillomavirus-positive (HPV+) oropharyngeal tumors. However, the role of B cells during programmed death-1 (PD-1) blockade in HPV+ oropharyngeal cancer needs to be better defined. By using the preclinical mouse model for HPV+ oropharyngeal cancer (named mEER), we characterized B cells within tumors and determined their functional role in vivo during PD-1 blockade. We determined that treatment naïve tongue-implanted tumors, which we have previously demonstrated to be sensitive to PD-1 blockade, contained high infiltration of CD8+ T cells and low infiltration of B cells whereas flank-implanted tumors, which are resistant to PD-1 blockade, contain a higher frequency of B cells compared to T cells. Moreover, B cell-deficient mice (µMt) and B cell-depleted mice showed a slower tumor growth rate compared to wild-type (WT) mice, and B cell deficiency increased CD8+ T cell infiltration in tumors. When we compared tongue tumor-bearing mice treated with anti-PD-1, we observed that tumors that responded to the therapy contained more T cells and B cells than the ones that did not respond. However, µMt mice treated with PD-1 blockade showed similar tumor growth rates to WT mice. Our data suggest that in untreated mice, B cells have a more pro-tumorigenic phenotype potentially affecting T cell infiltration in the tumors. In contrast, B cells are dispensable for PD-1 blockade efficacy. Mechanistic studies are needed to identify novel targets to promote the anti-tumorigenic function and/or suppress the immunosuppressive function of B cells in HPV+ oropharyngeal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge R. Galán-Ortíz
- Cancer Biology Division, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Kamila A. Andino del Valle
- Microbiology and Medical Zoology Department, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | | | | | - Jennifer Díaz-Rivera
- Microbiology and Medical Zoology Department, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | | | - Stephanie M. Dorta-Estremera
- Cancer Biology Division, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Microbiology and Medical Zoology Department, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- *Correspondence: Stephanie M. Dorta-Estremera,
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45
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Wu F, Sun Y. Re: Effect of glioma-derived immunoglobulin on biological function of glioma cells: The emerging roles of immunoglobulins in the tumor immune microenvironment. Eur J Cancer 2023; 178:34-36. [PMID: 36395707 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2022.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China; Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250014, PR China.
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Dermatology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, PR China
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46
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Hashimoto A, Handa H, Hata S, Hashimoto S. Orchestration of mesenchymal plasticity and immune evasiveness via rewiring of the metabolic program in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1005566. [PMID: 36408139 PMCID: PMC9669439 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1005566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most fatal cancer in humans, due to its difficulty of early detection and its high metastatic ability. The occurrence of epithelial to mesenchymal transition in preinvasive pancreatic lesions has been implicated in the early dissemination, drug resistance, and cancer stemness of PDAC. PDAC cells also have a reprogrammed metabolism, regulated by driver mutation-mediated pathways, a desmoplastic tumor microenvironment (TME), and interactions with stromal cells, including pancreatic stellate cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells. Such metabolic reprogramming and its functional metabolites lead to enhanced mesenchymal plasticity, and creates an acidic and immunosuppressive TME, resulting in the augmentation of protumor immunity via cancer-associated inflammation. In this review, we summarize our recent understanding of how PDAC cells acquire and augment mesenchymal features via metabolic and immunological changes during tumor progression, and how mesenchymal malignancies induce metabolic network rewiring and facilitate an immune evasive TME. In addition, we also present our recent findings on the interesting relevance of the small G protein ADP-ribosylation factor 6-based signaling pathway driven by KRAS/TP53 mutations, inflammatory amplification signals mediated by the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin 6 and RNA-binding protein ARID5A on PDAC metabolic reprogramming and immune evasion, and finally discuss potential therapeutic strategies for the quasi-mesenchymal subtype of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Hashimoto
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Ari Hashimoto, ; Shigeru Hashimoto,
| | - Haruka Handa
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Soichiro Hata
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shigeru Hashimoto
- Division of Molecular Psychoimmunology, Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University Faculty of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Ari Hashimoto, ; Shigeru Hashimoto,
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47
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The microbiota and aging microenvironment in pancreatic cancer: Cell origin and fate. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188826. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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48
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Barriga FM, Tsanov KM, Ho YJ, Sohail N, Zhang A, Baslan T, Wuest AN, Del Priore I, Meškauskaitė B, Livshits G, Alonso-Curbelo D, Simon J, Chaves-Perez A, Bar-Sagi D, Iacobuzio-Donahue CA, Notta F, Chaligne R, Sharma R, Pe'er D, Lowe SW. MACHETE identifies interferon-encompassing chromosome 9p21.3 deletions as mediators of immune evasion and metastasis. NATURE CANCER 2022; 3:1367-1385. [PMID: 36344707 PMCID: PMC9701143 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-022-00443-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The most prominent homozygous deletions in cancer affect chromosome 9p21.3 and eliminate CDKN2A/B tumor suppressors, disabling a cell-intrinsic barrier to tumorigenesis. Half of 9p21.3 deletions, however, also encompass a type I interferon (IFN) gene cluster; the consequences of this co-deletion remain unexplored. To functionally dissect 9p21.3 and other large genomic deletions, we developed a flexible deletion engineering strategy, MACHETE (molecular alteration of chromosomes with engineered tandem elements). Applying MACHETE to a syngeneic mouse model of pancreatic cancer, we found that co-deletion of the IFN cluster promoted immune evasion, metastasis and immunotherapy resistance. Mechanistically, IFN co-deletion disrupted type I IFN signaling in the tumor microenvironment, leading to marked changes in infiltrating immune cells and escape from CD8+ T-cell surveillance, effects largely driven by the poorly understood interferon epsilon. These results reveal a chromosomal deletion that disables both cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic tumor suppression and provide a framework for interrogating large deletions in cancer and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco M Barriga
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kaloyan M Tsanov
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yu-Jui Ho
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Noor Sohail
- Program for Computational and Systems Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Amy Zhang
- PanCuRx Translational Research Initiative, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Timour Baslan
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexandra N Wuest
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Isabella Del Priore
- Louis V. Gerstner Jr. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brigita Meškauskaitė
- Program for Computational and Systems Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Geulah Livshits
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Direna Alonso-Curbelo
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Janelle Simon
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Almudena Chaves-Perez
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dafna Bar-Sagi
- Department of Biochemistry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christine A Iacobuzio-Donahue
- David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Faiyaz Notta
- PanCuRx Translational Research Initiative, Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Research, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ronan Chaligne
- Program for Computational and Systems Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Roshan Sharma
- Program for Computational and Systems Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dana Pe'er
- Program for Computational and Systems Biology, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott W Lowe
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
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49
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Bhatia R, Bhyravbhatla N, Kisling A, Li X, Batra SK, Kumar S. Cytokines chattering in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma tumor microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:499-510. [PMID: 35346801 PMCID: PMC9510605 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of multiple cell types interspersed by dense fibrous stroma. These cells communicate through low molecular weight signaling molecules called cytokines. The cytokines, through their receptors, facilitate PDAC initiation, progression, metastasis, and distant colonization of malignant cells. These signaling mediators secreted from tumor-associated macrophages, and cancer-associated fibroblasts in conjunction with oncogenic Kras mutation initiate acinar to ductal metaplasia (ADM), resulting in the appearance of early preneoplastic lesions. Further, M1- and M2-polarized macrophages provide proinflammatory conditions and promote deposition of extracellular matrix, whereas myofibroblasts and T-lymphocytes, such as Th17 and T-regulatory cells, create a fibroinflammatory and immunosuppressive environment with a significantly reduced cytotoxic T-cell population. During PDAC progression, cytokines regulate the expression of various oncogenic regulators such as NFκB, c-myc, growth factor receptors, and mucins resulting in the formation of high-grade PanIN lesions, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, invasion, and extravasation of malignant cells, and metastasis. During metastasis, PDAC cells colonize at the premetastatic niche created in the liver, and lung, an organotropic function primarily executed by cytokines in circulation or loaded in the exosomes from the primary tumor cells. The indispensable contribution of these cytokines at every stage of PDAC tumorigenesis makes them exciting candidates in combination with immune-, chemo- and targeted radiation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Bhatia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Namita Bhyravbhatla
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Andrew Kisling
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Xiaoqi Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
| | - Sushil Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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50
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Metabolic guidance and stress in tumors modulate antigen-presenting cells. Oncogenesis 2022; 11:62. [PMID: 36244976 PMCID: PMC9573874 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-022-00438-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful antitumor immunity largely relies on efficient T cell priming by antigen-presenting cells (APCs); however, the capacity of APCs is found to be defective in many cancers. Metabolically reprogrammed cancer cells support the energetic and biosynthetic demands of their high proliferation rates by exploiting nutrients available in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which in turn limits proper metabolic reprogramming of APCs during recruitment, differentiation, activation and antigen presentation. Furthermore, some metabolites generated by the TME are unfavorable to antitumor immunity. This review summarizes recent studies on the metabolic features of APCs and their functionality in the TME. Particularly, we will describe how APCs respond to altered TME and how metabolic byproducts from cancer and immunomodulatory cells affect APCs. Finally, we introduce the current status of APC-oriented research and clinical trials targeting metabolic features to boost efficient immunotherapy.
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