1
|
Cunha A, Perazzio S. Effects of immune exhaustion and senescence of innate immunity in autoimmune disorders. Braz J Med Biol Res 2024; 57:e13225. [PMID: 38896644 PMCID: PMC11186593 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x2024e13225] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Innate immune system activation is crucial in the inflammatory response, but uncontrolled activation can lead to autoimmune diseases. Cellular exhaustion and senescence are two processes that contribute to innate immune tolerance breakdown. Exhausted immune cells are unable to respond adequately to specific antigens or stimuli, while senescent cells have impaired DNA replication and metabolic changes. These processes can impair immune system function and disrupt homeostasis, leading to the emergence of autoimmunity. However, the influence of innate immune exhaustion and senescence on autoimmune disorders is not well understood. This review aims to describe the current findings on the role of innate immune exhaustion and senescence in autoimmunity, focusing on the cellular and molecular changes involved in each process. Specifically, the article explores the markers and pathways associated with immune exhaustion, such as PD-1 and TIM-3, and senescence, including Β-galactosidase (β-GAL), lamin B1, and p16ink4a, and their impact on autoimmune diseases, namely type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and immune-mediated myopathies. Understanding the mechanisms underlying innate immune exhaustion and senescence in autoimmunity may provide insights for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A.L.S. Cunha
- Divisão de Reumatologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - S.F. Perazzio
- Divisão de Reumatologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
- Divisão de Imunologia, Laboratório Fleury, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
- Laboratório Central, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen Y, Chen CY, Huang H, Luo Z, Mu Y, Li S, Huang Y, Li S. Knocking down of Xkr8 enhances chemotherapy efficacy through modulating tumor immune microenvironment. J Control Release 2024; 370:479-489. [PMID: 38685385 PMCID: PMC11186464 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.04.041] [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: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Scramblase Xk-related protein 8 (Xkr8) regulates the externalization of phosphatidylserine (PS) during apoptosis and holds a pivotal role in fostering tumor immunosuppression. Targeting Xkr8 in conjunction with chemotherapy demonstrated a novel avenue for amplifying antitumor immune response and overcoming chemo-immune resistance. Here we further evaluated this strategy by using a clinically relevant orthotopic model and elucidated the mechanism through in-depth single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). We found that Xkr8 knockdown exhibited the potential to lead to immunogenic cell death (ICD) by impeding the normal clearance of apoptotic cells. Co-delivery of Xkr8 small interference RNA (siRNA) and a prodrug conjugate of 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) and oxoplatin (FuOXP) showed remarkable therapeutic efficacy in an orthotopic pancreatic tumor model with increased infiltration of proliferative NK cells and activated macrophages in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Single-cell trajectory analysis further unveiled that tumor infiltrating CD8+ T cells are differentiated favorably to cytotoxic over exhausted phenotype after combination treatment. Our study sheds new light on the impact of Xkr8 knockdown on TME and solidifies the rationale of combining Xkr8 knockdown with chemotherapy to treat various types of cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuang Chen
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Chien-Yu Chen
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Haozhe Huang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Zhangyi Luo
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yiqing Mu
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Shichen Li
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yixian Huang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Song Li
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Knight AD, Luke JJ. Beyond Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Emerging Targets in Melanoma Therapy. Curr Oncol Rep 2024:10.1007/s11912-024-01551-4. [PMID: 38789670 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-024-01551-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review provides a comprehensive update on recent advancements in melanoma treatment by highlighting promising therapeutics with an aim to increase awareness of novel interventions currently in development. RECENT FINDINGS Over the last decade there has been considerable expansion of the previously available treatment options for patients with melanoma. In particular, novel immunotherapeutics have been developed to expand on the clinical advancements brought by BRAF targeting and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Despite the success of checkpoint inhibitors there remains an unmet need for patients that do not respond to treatment. This review delves into the latest advancements in novel checkpoint inhibitors, cytokines, oncolytic viruses, vaccines, bispecific antibodies, and adoptive cell therapy. Preclinical experiments and early-stage clinical trials studies have demonstrated promising results for these therapies, many of which have moved into pivotal, phase 3 studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Knight
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 3459 Fifth Ave. Room W-927, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Jason J Luke
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the University of Pittsburgh, 5150 Centre Ave. Room 1.27C, Pittsburgh, PA, 15232, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mitra A, Kumar A, Amdare NP, Pathak R. Current Landscape of Cancer Immunotherapy: Harnessing the Immune Arsenal to Overcome Immune Evasion. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:307. [PMID: 38785789 PMCID: PMC11118874 DOI: 10.3390/biology13050307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Cancer immune evasion represents a leading hallmark of cancer, posing a significant obstacle to the development of successful anticancer therapies. However, the landscape of cancer treatment has significantly evolved, transitioning into the era of immunotherapy from conventional methods such as surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. Immunotherapy has emerged as a pivotal component in cancer treatment, harnessing the body's immune system to combat cancer and offering improved prognostic outcomes for numerous patients. The remarkable success of immunotherapy has spurred significant efforts to enhance the clinical efficacy of existing agents and strategies. Several immunotherapeutic approaches have received approval for targeted cancer treatments, while others are currently in preclinical and clinical trials. This review explores recent progress in unraveling the mechanisms of cancer immune evasion and evaluates the clinical effectiveness of diverse immunotherapy strategies, including cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, and antibody-based treatments. It encompasses both established treatments and those currently under investigation, providing a comprehensive overview of efforts to combat cancer through immunological approaches. Additionally, the article emphasizes the current developments, limitations, and challenges in cancer immunotherapy. Furthermore, by integrating analyses of cancer immunotherapy resistance mechanisms and exploring combination strategies and personalized approaches, it offers valuable insights crucial for the development of novel anticancer immunotherapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Mitra
- Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Anoop Kumar
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, National Institute of Biologicals, Noida 201309, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nitin P. Amdare
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Rajiv Pathak
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY 10461, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Núñez SY, Trotta A, Regge MV, Amarilla MS, Secchiari F, Sierra JM, Santilli MC, Gantov M, Rovegno A, Richards N, Ameri C, Ríos Pita H, Rico L, Mieggi M, Vitagliano G, Blas L, Friedrich AD, Domaica CI, Fuertes MB, Zwirner NW. Tumor-associated macrophages impair NK cell IFN-γ production and contribute to tumor progression in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Eur J Immunol 2024:e2350878. [PMID: 38581345 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202350878] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are abundant in several tumor types and usually correlate with poor prognosis. Previously, we demonstrated that anti-inflammatory macrophages (M2) inhibit NK cell effector functions. Here, we explored the impact of TAM on NK cells in the context of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that an exhausted NK cell signature strongly correlated with an M2 signature. Analysis of TAM from human ccRCC samples confirmed that they exhibited an M2-skewed phenotype and inhibited IFN-γ production by NK cells. Moreover, human M0 macrophages cultured with conditioned media from ccRCC cell lines generated macrophages with an M2-skewed phenotype (TAM-like), which alike TAM, displayed suppressive activity on NK cells. Moreover, TAM depletion in the mouse Renca ccRCC model resulted in delayed tumor growth and reduced volume, accompanied by an increased frequency of IFN-γ-producing tumor-infiltrating NK cells that displayed heightened expression of T-bet and NKG2D and reduced expression of the exhaustion-associated co-inhibitory molecules PD-1 and TIM-3. Therefore, in ccRCC, the tumor microenvironment polarizes TAM toward an immunosuppressive profile that promotes tumor-infiltrating NK cell dysfunction, contributing to tumor progression. In addition, immunotherapy strategies targeting TAM may result in NK cell reinvigoration, thereby counteracting tumor progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sol Yanel Núñez
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Aldana Trotta
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Regge
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Sofía Amarilla
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Florencia Secchiari
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jessica Mariel Sierra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Cecilia Santilli
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariana Gantov
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agustín Rovegno
- Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas "Norberto Quirno" (CEMIC), Servicio de Urología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nicolás Richards
- Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas "Norberto Quirno" (CEMIC), Servicio de Urología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carlos Ameri
- Hospital Alemán, Servicio de Urología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Luis Rico
- Hospital Alemán, Servicio de Urología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mauro Mieggi
- Hospital Alemán, Servicio de Urología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Leandro Blas
- Hospital Alemán, Servicio de Urología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Adrián David Friedrich
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Inés Domaica
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mercedes Beatriz Fuertes
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Norberto Walter Zwirner
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Fundación IBYME, Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Química Biológica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Dixon KO, Lahore GF, Kuchroo VK. Beyond T cell exhaustion: TIM-3 regulation of myeloid cells. Sci Immunol 2024; 9:eadf2223. [PMID: 38457514 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.adf2223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (TIM-3) is an important immune checkpoint molecule initially identified as a marker of IFN-γ-producing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Since then, our understanding of its role in immune responses has significantly expanded. Here, we review emerging evidence demonstrating unexpected roles for TIM-3 as a key regulator of myeloid cell function, in addition to recent work establishing TIM-3 as a delineator of terminal T cell exhaustion, thereby positioning TIM-3 at the interface between fatigued immune responses and reinvigoration. We share our perspective on the antagonism between TIM-3 and T cell stemness, discussing both cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic mechanisms underlying this relationship. Looking forward, we discuss approaches to decipher the underlying mechanisms by which TIM-3 regulates stemness, which has remarkable potential for the treatment of cancer, autoimmunity, and autoinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen O Dixon
- Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Gonzalo Fernandez Lahore
- Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Vijay K Kuchroo
- Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Parodi M, Centonze G, Murianni F, Orecchia P, Andriani F, Roato I, Gardelli C, Balsamo M, Moro M, Taiè G, Pastorino U, Petretto A, Lavarello C, Milione M, Sozzi G, Roz L, Vitale M, Bertolini G. Hybrid epithelial-mesenchymal status of lung cancer dictates metastatic success through differential interaction with NK cells. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e007895. [PMID: 38458638 PMCID: PMC10921513 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007895] [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] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) endows cancer cells with pro-metastatic properties, which appear most effective when cells enter an intermediate hybrid (H) state, characterized by integrated mesenchymal (M) and epithelial (E) traits. The reasons for this advantage are poorly known and, especially, it is totally unexplored whether the interplay between H-cells and NK cells could have a role. Here we characterize the pro-metastatic mechanics of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) H-cells and their subset of cancer-initiating cells (CICs), dissecting crucial interactions with NK cells. METHODS Human lung cancer cell lines and sublines representative of E, M, or H states, assessed by proteomics, were analyzed in vivo for their tumor-forming and disseminating capabilities. Interactions with NK cells were investigated in vitro using migration assays, cytotoxic degranulation assays, and evaluation of CD133+ CICs modulation after coculture, and validated in vivo through NK cell neutralization assays. Correlation between EMT status, NK cell infiltration, and survival data, was evaluated in a cohort of surgically resected NSCLC cases (n=79). RESULTS We demonstrated that H-cells, have limited dissemination capability but show the highest potential to initiate metastases in vivo. This property was related to their ability to escape NK cell surveillance. Mechanistically, H-cells expressed low levels of NK-attracting chemokines (CXCL1 and CXCL8), generating poorly infiltrated metastases. Accordingly, proteomics and GO enrichment analysis of E, H, M cell lines showed that the related secretory processes could change during EMT.Furthermore, H-CICs uniquely expressed high levels of the inhibitory ligand B7-H3, which protected H-CIC from NK cell-mediated clearance. In vivo neutralization assays confirmed that, indeed, the pro-metastatic properties of H-cells are poorly controlled by NK cells.Finally, the analysis of patients revealed that detection of hybrid phenotypes associated with low NK infiltration in NSCLC clinical specimens could identify a subset of patients with poor prognosis. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that H-cells play a central role in the metastatic spread in NSCLC. Such pro-metastatic advantage of H-cells is supported by their altered interaction with NK cells and by the critical role of B7-H3 in preserving their H-CIC component, indicating B7-H3 as a potential target in combined NK-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Parodi
- Immunology Operative Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Centonze
- Unit of Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Murianni
- Unit of Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Orecchia
- Immunology Operative Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Francesca Andriani
- Unit of Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Ilaria Roato
- C.I.R Dental School, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Cecilia Gardelli
- Unit of Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Melissa Balsamo
- Unit of Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Massimo Moro
- Unit of Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Giulia Taiè
- Unit of Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Ugo Pastorino
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Andrea Petretto
- Core Facilities, Clinical Proteomics and Metabolomics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - Chiara Lavarello
- Core Facilities, Clinical Proteomics and Metabolomics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - Massimo Milione
- Pathology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Sozzi
- Unit of Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Luca Roz
- Unit of Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| | - Massimo Vitale
- Immunology Operative Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Giulia Bertolini
- Unit of Epigenomics and Biomarkers of Solid Tumors, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Annis JL, Duncan JBW, Billcheck HO, Kuzma AG, Crittenden RB, Brown MG. Multiple Immune and Genetic Mechanisms Contribute to Cmv5s-Driven Susceptibility and Tissue Damage during Acute Murine Cytomegalovirus Infection. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:813-824. [PMID: 38224204 PMCID: PMC10922835 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The MHC class I molecule H-2Dk conveys resistance to acute murine CMV infection in both C57L (H-2Dk transgenic) and MA/My mice. M.H2k/b mice are on an MA/My background aside from a C57L-derived region spanning the MHC (Cmv5s), which diminishes this resistance and causes significant spleen histopathology. To hone in on the effector elements within the Cmv5s interval, we generated several Cmv5-recombinant congenic mouse strains and screened them in vivo, allowing us to narrow the phenotype-associated interval >6-fold and segment the genetic mechanism to at least two independent loci within the MHC region. In addition, we sought to further characterize the Cmv5s-associated phenotypes in their temporal appearance and potential direct relationship to viral load. To this end, we found that Cmv5s histopathology and NK cell activation could not be fully mirrored in the MA/My mice with increased viral dose, and that marginal zone destruction was the first apparent Cmv5s phenotype, being reliably quantified as early as 2 d postinfection in the M.H2k/b mice, prior to divergence in viral load, weight loss, or NK cell phenotype. Finally, we further dissect NK cell involvement, finding no intrinsic differences in NK cell function, despite increased upregulation of activation markers and checkpoint receptors. In conclusion, these data dissect the genetic and immunologic underpinnings of Cmv5 and reveal a model in which polymorphism within the MHC region of the genome leads to the development of tissue damage and corrupts protective NK cell immunity during acute viral infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L. Annis
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville Virginia, USA
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - John Benjamin W. Duncan
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Helen O. Billcheck
- Center for Comparative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Anna G. Kuzma
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Rowena B. Crittenden
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Michael G. Brown
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville Virginia, USA
- Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Noel ODV, Hassouneh Z, Svatek RS, Mukherjee N. Innate Lymphoid Cells in Bladder Cancer: From Mechanisms of Action to Immune Therapies. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:149-160. [PMID: 38060011 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0414] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Bladder tumors have a high mutational burden and tend to be responsive to immune therapies; however, response rates remain modest. To date, immunotherapy in bladder cancer has largely focused on enhancing T-cell immune responses in the bladder tumor microenvironment. It is anticipated that other immune cells, including innate lymphoid cells (ILC), which play an important role in bladder oncogenesis and tumor suppression, could be targeted to improve response to existing therapies. ILCs are classified into five groups: natural killer cells, ILC1s, ILC2s, ILC3s, and lymphoid tissue inducer cells. ILCs are pleiotropic and play dual and sometimes paradoxical roles in cancer development and progression. Here, a comprehensive discussion of the current knowledge and recent advancements in understanding the role of ILCs in bladder cancer is provided. We discuss the multifaceted roles that ILCs play in bladder immune surveillance, tumor protection, and immunopathology of bladder cancer. This review provides a rationale for targeting ILCs in bladder cancer, which is relevant for other solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Onika D V Noel
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Zaineb Hassouneh
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Robert S Svatek
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Neelam Mukherjee
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Vivier E, Rebuffet L, Narni-Mancinelli E, Cornen S, Igarashi RY, Fantin VR. Natural killer cell therapies. Nature 2024; 626:727-736. [PMID: 38383621 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06945-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes of the innate immune system. A key feature of NK cells is their ability to recognize a wide range of cells in distress, particularly tumour cells and cells infected with viruses. They combine both direct effector functions against their cellular targets and participate in the generation, shaping and maintenance of a multicellular immune response. As our understanding has deepened, several therapeutic strategies focused on NK cells have been conceived and are currently in various stages of development, from preclinical investigations to clinical trials. Here we explore in detail the complexity of NK cell biology in humans and highlight the role of these cells in cancer immunity. We also analyse the harnessing of NK cell immunity through immune checkpoint inhibitors, NK cell engagers, and infusions of preactivated or genetically modified, autologous or allogeneic NK cell products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Vivier
- Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille, France.
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France.
- APHM, Hôpital de la Timone, Marseille-Immunopôle, Marseille, France.
- Paris-Saclay Cancer Cluster, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | - Lucas Rebuffet
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Emilie Narni-Mancinelli
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
| | - Stéphanie Cornen
- Innate Pharma Research Laboratories, Innate Pharma, Marseille, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Barshidi A, Ardeshiri K, Ebrahimi F, Alian F, Shekarchi AA, Hojjat-Farsangi M, Jadidi-Niaragh F. The role of exhausted natural killer cells in the immunopathogenesis and treatment of leukemia. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:59. [PMID: 38254135 PMCID: PMC10802000 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01428-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The immune responses to cancer cells involve both innate and acquired immune cells. In the meantime, the most attention has been drawn to the adaptive immune cells, especially T cells, while, it is now well known that the innate immune cells, especially natural killer (NK) cells, play a vital role in defending against malignancies. While the immune cells are trying to eliminate malignant cells, cancer cells try to prevent the function of these cells and suppress immune responses. The suppression of NK cells in various cancers can lead to the induction of an exhausted phenotype in NK cells, which will impair their function. Recent studies have shown that the occurrence of this phenotype in various types of leukemic malignancies can affect the prognosis of the disease, and targeting these cells may be considered a new immunotherapy method in the treatment of leukemia. Therefore, a detailed study of exhausted NK cells in leukemic diseases can help both to understand the mechanisms of leukemia progression and to design new treatment methods by creating a deeper understanding of these cells. Here, we will comprehensively review the immunobiology of exhausted NK cells and their role in various leukemic malignancies. Video Abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asal Barshidi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Keivan Ardeshiri
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farbod Ebrahimi
- Nanoparticle Process Technology, Faculty of Engineering, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Fatemeh Alian
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Shekarchi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Farhad Jadidi-Niaragh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Huang M, Liu Y, Yan Q, Peng M, Ge J, Mo Y, Wang Y, Wang F, Zeng Z, Li Y, Fan C, Xiong W. NK cells as powerful therapeutic tool in cancer immunotherapy. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024:10.1007/s13402-023-00909-3. [PMID: 38170381 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00909-3] [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] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural killer (NK) cells have gained considerable attention and hold great potential for their application in tumor immunotherapy. This is mainly due to their MHC-unrestricted and pan-specific recognition capabilities, as well as their ability to rapidly respond to and eliminate target cells. To artificially generate therapeutic NK cells, various materials can be utilized, such as peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), umbilical cord blood (UCB), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and NK cell lines. Exploiting the therapeutic potential of NK cells to treat tumors through in vivo and in vitro therapeutic modalities has yielded positive therapeutic results. CONCLUSION This review provides a comprehensive description of NK cell therapeutic approaches for tumors and discusses the current problems associated with these therapeutic approaches and the prospects of NK cell therapy for tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mao Huang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yixuan Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qijia Yan
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Miao Peng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Junshang Ge
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yongzhen Mo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yumin Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410078, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fuyan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Alkek Building, RM N720, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chunmei Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, 410013, Changsha, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Li L, Li A, Jin H, Li M, Jia Q. Inhibitory receptors and checkpoints on NK cells: Implications for cancer immunotherapy. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 253:155003. [PMID: 38042093 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.155003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
With the success of immunosuppressive checkpoint in tumor therapy, the corresponding adverse response and drug resistance defects have been exposed. T cells and NK cells are the body's immune system of the two substantial main forces. in recent years, study of T cell checkpoints appeared a certain block, such as PD-1 the effect not benign, on the distribution of NK cell surface excitatory and inhibitory receptors under normal conditions to maintain steady, could be targeted in the tumor treatment blockade have therapeutic effect. This paper reviews the function of NK cells and the effects of corresponding receptors in various types of tumors, providing a direction for the selection of appropriate gate control sites for future treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingfei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Pathology, Xijing Hospital and School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ang Li
- Department of Cardiology, 2nd Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hai Jin
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, China.
| | - Mingyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Pathology, Xijing Hospital and School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
| | - Qingge Jia
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Northwest University, Xi'an, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rahimi A, Malakoutikhah Z, Rahimmanesh I, Ferns GA, Nedaeinia R, Ishaghi SMM, Dana N, Haghjooy Javanmard S. The nexus of natural killer cells and melanoma tumor microenvironment: crosstalk, chemotherapeutic potential, and innovative NK cell-based therapeutic strategies. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:312. [PMID: 38057843 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03134-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The metastasis of melanoma cells to regional lymph nodes and distant sites is an important contributor to cancer-related morbidity and mortality among patients with melanoma. This intricate process entails dynamic interactions involving tumor cells, cellular constituents, and non-cellular elements within the microenvironment. Moreover, both microenvironmental and systemic factors regulate the metastatic progression. Central to immunosurveillance for tumor cells are natural killer (NK) cells, prominent effectors of the innate immune system with potent antitumor and antimetastatic capabilities. Recognizing their pivotal role, contemporary immunotherapeutic strategies are actively integrating NK cells to combat metastatic tumors. Thus, a meticulous exploration of the interplay between metastatic melanoma and NK cells along the metastatic cascade is important. Given the critical involvement of NK cells within the melanoma tumor microenvironment, this comprehensive review illuminates the intricate relationship between components of the melanoma tumor microenvironment and NK cells, delineating their multifaceted roles. By shedding light on these critical aspects, this review advocates for a deeper understanding of NK cell dynamics within the melanoma context, driving forward transformative strategies to combat this cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Rahimi
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zahra Malakoutikhah
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ilnaz Rahimmanesh
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Gordon A Ferns
- Division of Medical Education, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Brighton, Sussex, BN1 9PH, UK
| | - Reza Nedaeinia
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Nasim Dana
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Shaghayegh Haghjooy Javanmard
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hibler W, Merlino G, Yu Y. CAR NK Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Metastatic Melanoma: Potential & Prospects. Cells 2023; 12:2750. [PMID: 38067178 PMCID: PMC10706172 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232750] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is among the most lethal forms of cancer, accounting for 80% of deaths despite comprising just 5% of skin cancer cases. Treatment options remain limited due to the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms associated with melanoma heterogeneity that underlie the rapid development of secondary drug resistance. For this reason, the development of novel treatments remains paramount to the improvement of patient outcomes. Although the advent of chimeric antigen receptor-expressing T (CAR-T) cell immunotherapies has led to many clinical successes for hematological malignancies, these treatments are limited in their utility by their immune-induced side effects and a high risk of systemic toxicities. CAR natural killer (CAR-NK) cell immunotherapies are a particularly promising alternative to CAR-T cell immunotherapies, as they offer a more favorable safety profile and have the capacity for fine-tuned cytotoxic activity. In this review, the discussion of the prospects and potential of CAR-NK cell immunotherapies touches upon the clinical contexts of melanoma, the immunobiology of NK cells, the immunosuppressive barriers preventing endogenous immune cells from eliminating tumors, and the structure and design of chimeric antigen receptors, then finishes with a series of proposed design innovations that could improve the efficacy CAR-NK cell immunotherapies in future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yanlin Yu
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Davis MA, Cho E, Teplensky MH. Harnessing biomaterial architecture to drive anticancer innate immunity. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:10982-11005. [PMID: 37955201 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb01677c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Immunomodulation is a powerful therapeutic approach that harnesses the body's own immune system and reprograms it to treat diseases, such as cancer. Innate immunity is key in mobilizing the rest of the immune system to respond to disease and is thus an attractive target for immunomodulation. Biomaterials have widely been employed as vehicles to deliver immunomodulatory therapeutic cargo to immune cells and raise robust antitumor immunity. However, it is key to consider the design of biomaterial chemical and physical structure, as it has direct impacts on innate immune activation and antigen presentation to stimulate downstream adaptive immunity. Herein, we highlight the widespread importance of structure-driven biomaterial design for the delivery of immunomodulatory cargo to innate immune cells. The incorporation of precise structural elements can be harnessed to improve delivery kinetics, uptake, and the targeting of biomaterials into innate immune cells, and enhance immune activation against cancer through temporal and spatial processing of cargo to overcome the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Structural design of immunomodulatory biomaterials will profoundly improve the efficacy of current cancer immunotherapies by maximizing the impact of the innate immune system and thus has far-reaching translational potential against other diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meredith A Davis
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, USA.
| | - Ezra Cho
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, USA.
| | - Michelle H Teplensky
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, USA.
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Nersesian S, Carter EB, Lee SN, Westhaver LP, Boudreau JE. Killer instincts: natural killer cells as multifactorial cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1269614. [PMID: 38090565 PMCID: PMC10715270 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1269614] [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: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells integrate heterogeneous signals for activation and inhibition using germline-encoded receptors. These receptors are stochastically co-expressed, and their concurrent engagement and signaling can adjust the sensitivity of individual cells to putative targets. Against cancers, which mutate and evolve under therapeutic and immunologic pressure, the diversity for recognition provided by NK cells may be key to comprehensive cancer control. NK cells are already being trialled as adoptive cell therapy and targets for immunotherapeutic agents. However, strategies to leverage their naturally occurring diversity and agility have not yet been developed. In this review, we discuss the receptors and signaling pathways through which signals for activation or inhibition are generated in NK cells, focusing on their roles in cancer and potential as targets for immunotherapies. Finally, we consider the impacts of receptor co-expression and the potential to engage multiple pathways of NK cell reactivity to maximize the scope and strength of antitumor activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Nersesian
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Emily B. Carter
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Stacey N. Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Jeanette E. Boudreau
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Xu S, Zhang N, Rinne ML, Sun H, Stein AM. Sabatolimab (MBG453) model-informed drug development for dose selection in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myeloid leukemia and solid tumors. CPT Pharmacometrics Syst Pharmacol 2023; 12:1653-1665. [PMID: 37186155 PMCID: PMC10681456 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Sabatolimab is a novel immunotherapy with immuno-myeloid activity that targets T-cell immunoglobulin domain and mucin domain-3 (TIM-3) on immune cells and leukemic blasts. It is being evaluated for the treatment of myeloid malignancies in the STIMULUS clinical trial program. The objective of this analysis was to support the sabatolimab dose-regimen selection in hematologic malignancies. A population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model was fit to patients with solid tumors and hematologic malignancies, which included acute myeloid leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome (including intermediate-, high-, and very high-risk per Revised International Prognostic Scoring System), and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. The PopPK model, together with a predictive model of sabatolimab distribution to the bone marrow and binding to TIM-3 was used to predict membrane-bound TIM-3 bone marrow occupancy. In addition, the total soluble TIM-3 (sTIM-3) kinetics and the pharmacokinetic (PK) exposure-response relationship in patients with hematologic malignancies were examined. At intravenous doses above 240 mg Q2w and 800 mg Q4w, we observed linear PK, a plateau in the accumulation of total sTIM-3, and a flat exposure-response relationship for both safety and efficacy. In addition, the model predicted membrane-bound TIM-3 occupancy in the bone marrow was above 95% in over 95% of patients. Therefore, these results support the selection of the 400 mg Q2w and 800 mg Q4w dosing regimens for the STIMULUS clinical trial program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siyan Xu
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical ResearchCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Na Zhang
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical ResearchCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Haiying Sun
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical ResearchCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Andrew M. Stein
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical ResearchCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sauer N, Janicka N, Szlasa W, Skinderowicz B, Kołodzińska K, Dwernicka W, Oślizło M, Kulbacka J, Novickij V, Karłowicz-Bodalska K. TIM-3 as a promising target for cancer immunotherapy in a wide range of tumors. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:3405-3425. [PMID: 37567938 PMCID: PMC10576709 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03516-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (TIM-3) expression has been a trending topic in recent years due to its differential expression in a wide range of neoplasms. TIM-3 is one of the key immune checkpoint receptors that interact with GAL-9, PtdSer, HMGB1 and CEACAM1. Initially identified on the surface of T helper 1 (Th1) lymphocytes and later on cytotoxic lymphocytes (CTLs), monocytes, macrophages, natural killer cells (NKs), and dendritic cells (DCs), TIM-3 plays a key role in immunoregulation. Recently, a growing body of evidence has shown that its differential expression in various tumor types indicates a specific prognosis for cancer patients. Here, we discuss which types of cancer TIM-3 can serve as a prognostic factor and the influence of coexpressed immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as LAG-3, PD-1, and CTLA-4 on patients' outcomes. Currently, experimental medicine involving TIM-3 has significantly enhanced the anti-tumor effect and improved patient survival. In this work, we summarized clinical trials incorporating TIM-3 targeting monoclonal and bispecific antibodies in monotherapy and combination therapy and highlighted the emerging role of cell-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Sauer
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Janicka
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Wojciech Szlasa
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Wioletta Dwernicka
- Faculty of Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Julita Kulbacka
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology, Vilnius, Lithuania.
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Vitalij Novickij
- State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, Department of Immunology, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Faculty of Electronics, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Carreira-Santos S, López-Sejas N, González-Sánchez M, Sánchez-Hernández E, Pera A, Hassouneh F, Durán E, Solana R, Casado JG, Tarazona R. Enhanced expression of natural cytotoxicity receptors on cytokine-induced memory-like natural killer cells correlates with effector function. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1256404. [PMID: 37908353 PMCID: PMC10613704 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1256404] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Natural killer (NK) cells are a key component of the innate immune system, involved in defending the host against virus-infected cells and tumor immunosurveillance. Under in vitro culture conditions, IL-12/15/18 can induce a memory-like phenotype in NK cells. These cytokine-induced memory-like (CIML) NK cells possess desirable characteristics for immunotherapies, including a longer lifespan and increased cytotoxicity. Methods In this study, NK cells were isolated from peripheral blood of healthy donors and stimulated with IL-12/15/18 to induce a memory-like phenotype or with IL-15 alone as a control. After seven days of culture, multiparametric flow cytometry analysis was performed to evaluate the phenotypic and functional profiles of CIML and control NK cells. Results Our results showed a significantly higher expression of CD25, CD69, NKG2D, NKp30, NKp44, NKp46, TACTILE, and Granzyme B in CIML NK cells compared to control NK cells. In contrast, KIR2D expression was significantly lower in CIML NK cells than in control NK cells. Moreover, functional experiments demonstrated that CIML NK cells displayed enhanced degranulation capacity and increased intracellular IFN-γ production against the target cell line K562. Interestingly, the degranulation capacity of CIML NK cells was positively correlated with the expression of the activating receptors NKp46 and NKp30, as well as with the inhibitory receptor TACTILE. Discussion In conclusion, this study provides a deep phenotypic characterization of in vitro-expanded CIML NK cells. Moreover, the correlations found between NK cell receptors and degranulation capacity of CIML NK cells allowed the identification of several biomarkers that could be useful in clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofía Carreira-Santos
- Immunology Unit, Department of Physiology, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Nelson López-Sejas
- Immunology Unit, Department of Physiology, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | | | - Eva Sánchez-Hernández
- Immunology Unit, Department of Physiology, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Alejandra Pera
- Immunology and Allergy Group (GC01), Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Fakhri Hassouneh
- Immunology and Allergy Group (GC01), Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Esther Durán
- Anatomy and Comparative Pathological Anatomy Unit, Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Rafael Solana
- Immunology and Allergy Group (GC01), Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Immunology and Allergy Service, Reina Sofia University Hospital, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Javier G. Casado
- Immunology Unit, Department of Physiology, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica En Red (CIBER) de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- RICORS-TERAV Network, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Molecular Pathology Biomarkers, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Raquel Tarazona
- Immunology Unit, Department of Physiology, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
- Institute of Molecular Pathology Biomarkers, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ma S, Caligiuri MA, Yu J. Harnessing Natural Killer Cells for Lung Cancer Therapy. Cancer Res 2023; 83:3327-3339. [PMID: 37531223 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-23-1097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Although natural killer (NK) cells are garnering interest as a potential anticancer therapy because they selectively recognize and eliminate cancer cells, their use in treating solid tumors, including lung cancer, has been limited due to impediments to their efficacy, such as their limited ability to reach tumor tissues, the reduced antitumor activity of tumor-infiltrating NK cells, and the suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). This comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of the cross-talk between the lung cancer TME and NK cells. We highlight the various mechanisms used by the TME to modulate NK-cell phenotypes and limit infiltration, explore the role of the TME in limiting the antitumor activity of NK cells, and discuss the current challenges and obstacles that hinder the success of NK-cell-based immunotherapy for lung cancer. Potential opportunities and promising strategies to address these challenges have been implemented or are being developed to optimize NK-cell-based immunotherapy for lung cancer. Through critical evaluation of existing literature and emerging trends, this review provides a comprehensive outlook on the future of NK-cell-based immunotherapy for treating lung cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shoubao Ma
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Michael A Caligiuri
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplantation Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, Los Angeles, California
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kitamura T. Tumour-associated macrophages as a potential target to improve natural killer cell-based immunotherapies. Essays Biochem 2023; 67:1003-1014. [PMID: 37313600 PMCID: PMC10539946 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20230002] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Adoptive transfer of natural killer (NK) cells has been proposed as a novel immunotherapy for malignant tumours resistant to current therapeutic modalities. Several clinical studies have demonstrated that the NK cell-infusion is well tolerated without severe side effects and shows promising results in haematological malignancies. However, patients with malignant solid tumours do not show significant responses to this therapy. Such disappointing results largely arise from the inefficient delivery of infused NK cells and the impairment of their functions in the tumour microenvironment (TME). Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant stromal cells in the TME of most solid tumours, and a high TAM density correlates with poor prognosis of cancer patients. Although our knowledge of the interactions between TAMs and NK cells is limited, many studies have indicated that TAMs suppress NK cell cytotoxicity against cancer cells. Therefore, blockade of TAM functions can be an attractive strategy to improve NK cell-based immunotherapies. On the other hand, macrophages are reported to activate NK cells under certain circumstances. This essay presents our current knowledge about mechanisms by which macrophages regulate NK cell functions and discusses possible therapeutic approaches to block macrophage-mediated NK cell suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Kitamura
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Odstrcil RE, Dutta P, Liu J. Prediction of the Peptide-TIM3 Binding Site in Inhibiting TIM3-Galectin 9 Binding Pathways. J Chem Theory Comput 2023; 19:6500-6509. [PMID: 37649156 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.3c00487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein-3 (TIM3) is an important receptor protein that modulates the immune system. The binding of TIM3 with Galectin 9 (GAL9) triggers immune system suppression, but the TIM3-GAL9 binding can be inhibited by binding of the peptide P26 to TIM3. A fast and accurate prediction of the P26-TIM3 binding site is crucial and a prerequisite for the investigation of P26-TIM3 interactions and TIM3-GAL9 binding pathways. Here, we present a machine learning approach, which considers protein conformational changes, to quickly identify the ligand-binding site on TIM3. Our results show that the P26 binding site is located near the C″-D loop of TIM3. Further simulations show that the binding pose is stabilized by a variety of electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. Binding of P26 can alter the conformations of nearby glycan side chains on TIM3, providing possible mechanisms of how P26 inhibits TIM3-GAL9 binding pathways. The insights from this work will facilitate the identification of other peptides or antibodies that may also inhibit the TIM3-GAL9 pathways and eventually lead to improved attempts in the modulation of the TIM3-GAL9 immunosuppression pathways. The strategies and machine learning method can be generalized to study ligand-receptor binding when the conformational changes during the binding are important.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan E Odstrcil
- School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman ,Washington 99164, United States
| | - Prashanta Dutta
- School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman ,Washington 99164, United States
| | - Jin Liu
- School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman ,Washington 99164, United States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Cai L, Li Y, Tan J, Xu L, Li Y. Targeting LAG-3, TIM-3, and TIGIT for cancer immunotherapy. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:101. [PMID: 37670328 PMCID: PMC10478462 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01499-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In one decade, immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs) has become a new pillar of cancer treatment following surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. However, not all cancer patients benefit from single or combination therapy with anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1/PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies. Thus, an increasing number of immune checkpoint proteins (ICPs) have been screened and their effectiveness evaluated in preclinical and clinical trials. Lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG-3), T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain-containing-3 (TIM-3), and T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and tyrosine-based inhibitory motif (ITIM) domain (TIGIT) constitute the second wave of immunotherapy targets that show great promise for use in the treatment of solid tumors and leukemia. To promote the research and clinical application of ICBs directed at these targets, we summarize their discovery, immunotherapy mechanism, preclinical efficiency, and clinical trial results in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Letong Cai
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yuchen Li
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Jiaxiong Tan
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Ling Xu
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
- Key Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| | - Yangqiu Li
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of Education, Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
- Key Laboratory of Viral Pathogenesis & Infection Prevention and Control (Jinan University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Luo J, Pang S, Hui Z, Zhao H, Xu S, Yu W, Yang L, Sun Q, Hao X, Wei F, Wang J, Ren X. Blocking Tim-3 enhances the anti-tumor immunity of STING agonist ADU-S100 by unleashing CD4 + T cells through regulating type 2 conventional dendritic cells. Theranostics 2023; 13:4836-4857. [PMID: 37771774 PMCID: PMC10526657 DOI: 10.7150/thno.86792] [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: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: An immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) is a major obstacle in tumor immunotherapy. Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists trigger an inflammatory innate immune response to potentially overcome tumor immunosuppression. While STING agonists may hold promise as potential cancer therapy agents, tumor resistance to STING monotherapy has emerged in clinical trials, and the mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: The in vivo anti-tumor immunity of STING agonist ADU-S100 (S100), plus anti-T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 antibody (αTim-3) were measured using murine tumor models. Tumor-specific T cell activation and alterations in the TME were detected using flow cytometry. The maturation and function of dendritic cells (DC) were also measured using flow cytometry, and the importance of CD4+ T cells in combination therapy was measured by blocking antibodies. Additionally, the effect of S100 on CD4+ T was verified via in vitro assays. Lastly, the impact of conventional dendritic cells (cDC) 2 with a high expression of Tim-3 on survival or therapeutic outcomes was further evaluated in human tumor samples. Results: S100 boosted CD8+ T by activating cDC1 but failed to initiate cDC2. Mechanistically, the administration of S100 results in an upregulation of Tim-3 expressed in cDC2 (Tim-3+cDC2) in both mice and humans, which is immunosuppressive. Tim-3+cDC2 restrained CD4+ T and attenuated the CD4+ T-driven anti-tumor response. Combining S100 with αTim-3 effectively promoted cDC2 maturation and antigen presentation, releasing CD4+ T cells, thus reducing tumor burden while prolonging survival. Furthermore, high percentages of Tim-3+cDC2 in the human TME predicted poor prognosis, whereas the abundance of Tim-3+cDC2 may act as a biomarker for CD4+ T quality and a contributing indicator for responsiveness to immunotherapy. Conclusion: This research demonstrated that blocking Tim-3 could enhance the anti-tumor immunity of STING agonist ADU-S100 by releasing CD4+ T cells through regulating cDC2. It also revealed an intrinsic barrier to ADU-S100 monotherapy, besides providing a combinatorial strategy for overcoming immunosuppression in tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Luo
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Shuju Pang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Zhenzhen Hui
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Shilei Xu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Wenwen Yu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Lili Yang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Qian Sun
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Xishan Hao
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Feng Wei
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Xiubao Ren
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Department of Biotherapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Tianjin 300060, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Tamura T, Cheng C, Chen W, Merriam LT, Athar H, Kim YH, Manandhar R, Amir Sheikh MD, Pinilla-Vera M, Varon J, Hou PC, Lawler PR, Oldham WM, Seethala RR, Tesfaigzi Y, Weissman AJ, Baron RM, Ichinose F, Berg KM, Bohula EA, Morrow DA, Chen X, Kim EY. Single-cell transcriptomics reveal a hyperacute cytokine and immune checkpoint axis after cardiac arrest in patients with poor neurological outcome. MED 2023; 4:432-456.e6. [PMID: 37257452 PMCID: PMC10524451 DOI: 10.1016/j.medj.2023.05.003] [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: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most patients hospitalized after cardiac arrest (CA) die because of neurological injury. The systemic inflammatory response after CA is associated with neurological injury and mortality but remains poorly defined. METHODS We determine the innate immune network induced by clinical CA at single-cell resolution. FINDINGS Immune cell states diverge as early as 6 h post-CA between patients with good or poor neurological outcomes 30 days after CA. Nectin-2+ monocyte and Tim-3+ natural killer (NK) cell subpopulations are associated with poor outcomes, and interactome analysis highlights their crosstalk via cytokines and immune checkpoints. Ex vivo studies of peripheral blood cells from CA patients demonstrate that immune checkpoints are a compensatory mechanism against inflammation after CA. Interferon γ (IFNγ)/interleukin-10 (IL-10) induced Nectin-2 on monocytes; in a negative feedback loop, Nectin-2 suppresses IFNγ production by NK cells. CONCLUSIONS The initial hours after CA may represent a window for therapeutic intervention in the resolution of inflammation via immune checkpoints. FUNDING This work was supported by funding from the American Heart Association, Brigham and Women's Hospital Department of Medicine, the Evergreen Innovation Fund, and the National Institutes of Health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyoshi Tamura
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Changde Cheng
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Wenan Chen
- Center for Applied Bioinformatics, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Louis T Merriam
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Humra Athar
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yaunghyun H Kim
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Reshmi Manandhar
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Muhammad Dawood Amir Sheikh
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mayra Pinilla-Vera
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jack Varon
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Peter C Hou
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Division of Emergency Critical Care Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Patrick R Lawler
- Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 2N2, Canada; McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - William M Oldham
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Raghu R Seethala
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Division of Emergency Critical Care Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yohannes Tesfaigzi
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alexandra J Weissman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Rebecca M Baron
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Fumito Ichinose
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Katherine M Berg
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Erin A Bohula
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - David A Morrow
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Xiang Chen
- Department of Computational Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
| | - Edy Y Kim
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Yang YL, Yang F, Huang ZQ, Li YY, Shi HY, Sun Q, Ma Y, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Yang S, Zhao GR, Xu FH. T cells, NK cells, and tumor-associated macrophages in cancer immunotherapy and the current state of the art of drug delivery systems. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1199173. [PMID: 37457707 PMCID: PMC10348220 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1199173] [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: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune system provides full protection for the body by specifically identifying 'self' and removing 'others'; thus protecting the body from diseases. The immune system includes innate immunity and adaptive immunity, which jointly coordinate the antitumor immune response. T cells, natural killer (NK) cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the main tumor-killing immune cells active in three antitumor immune cycle. Cancer immunotherapy focusses on activating and strengthening immune response or eliminating suppression from tumor cells in each step of the cancer-immunity cycle; thus, it strengthens the body's immunity against tumors. In this review, the antitumor immune cycles of T cells, natural killer (NK) cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are discussed. Co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory molecules in the three activity cycles and the development of drugs and delivery systems targeting these molecules are emphasized, and the current state of the art of drug delivery systems for cancer immunotherapy are summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-long Yang
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuan-qing Huang
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan-yuan Li
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hao-yuan Shi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Sun
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Wang
- Department of Biotherapeutic, The First Medical Centre, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Sen Yang
- Chinese People’s Armed Police Force Hospital of Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Guan-ren Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Feng-hua Xu
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center, People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Portale F, Di Mitri D. NK Cells in Cancer: Mechanisms of Dysfunction and Therapeutic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119521. [PMID: 37298470 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer cells (NK) are innate lymphocytes endowed with the ability to recognize and kill cancer cells. Consequently, adoptive transfer of autologous or allogeneic NK cells represents a novel opportunity in cancer treatment that is currently under clinical investigation. However, cancer renders NK cells dysfunctional, thus restraining the efficacy of cell therapies. Importantly, extensive effort has been employed to investigate the mechanisms that restrain NK cell anti-tumor function, and the results have offered forthcoming solutions to improve the efficiency of NK cell-based therapies. The present review will introduce the origin and features of NK cells, summarize the mechanisms of action and causes of dysfunction of NK cells in cancer, and frame NK cells in the tumoral microenvironment and in the context of immunotherapies. Finally, we will discuss therapeutic potential and current limitations of NK cell adoptive transfer in tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Portale
- Tumor Microenviroment Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Milan, Italy
| | - Diletta Di Mitri
- Tumor Microenviroment Unit, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, 20072 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ziogas DC, Theocharopoulos C, Lialios PP, Foteinou D, Koumprentziotis IA, Xynos G, Gogas H. Beyond CTLA-4 and PD-1 Inhibition: Novel Immune Checkpoint Molecules for Melanoma Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2718. [PMID: 37345056 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
More than ten years after the approval of ipilimumab, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) against PD-1 and CTLA-4 have been established as the most effective treatment for locally advanced or metastatic melanoma, achieving durable responses either as monotherapies or in combinatorial regimens. However, a considerable proportion of patients do not respond or experience early relapse, due to multiple parameters that contribute to melanoma resistance. The expression of other immune checkpoints beyond the PD-1 and CTLA-4 molecules remains a major mechanism of immune evasion. The recent approval of anti-LAG-3 ICI, relatlimab, in combination with nivolumab for metastatic disease, has capitalized on the extensive research in the field and has highlighted the potential for further improvement of melanoma prognosis by synergistically blocking additional immune targets with new ICI-doublets, antibody-drug conjugates, or other novel modalities. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of presently published immune checkpoint molecules, including LAG-3, TIGIT, TIM-3, VISTA, IDO1/IDO2/TDO, CD27/CD70, CD39/73, HVEM/BTLA/CD160 and B7-H3. Beginning from their immunomodulatory properties as co-inhibitory or co-stimulatory receptors, we present all therapeutic modalities targeting these molecules that have been tested in melanoma treatment either in preclinical or clinical settings. Better understanding of the checkpoint-mediated crosstalk between melanoma and immune effector cells is essential for generating more effective strategies with augmented immune response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios C Ziogas
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Charalampos Theocharopoulos
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis-Petros Lialios
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitra Foteinou
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis-Alexios Koumprentziotis
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Xynos
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Helen Gogas
- First Department of Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
D’Silva SZ, Singh M, Pinto AS. NK cell defects: implication in acute myeloid leukemia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1112059. [PMID: 37228595 PMCID: PMC10203541 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1112059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a complex disease with rapid progression and poor/unsatisfactory outcomes. In the past few years, the focus has been on developing newer therapies for AML; however, relapse remains a significant problem. Natural Killer cells have strong anti-tumor potential against AML. This NK-mediated cytotoxicity is often restricted by cellular defects caused by disease-associated mechanisms, which can lead to disease progression. A stark feature of AML is the low/no expression of the cognate HLA ligands for the activating KIR receptors, due to which these tumor cells evade NK-mediated lysis. Recently, different Natural Killer cell therapies have been implicated in treating AML, such as the adoptive NK cell transfer, Chimeric antigen receptor-modified NK (CAR-NK) cell therapy, antibodies, cytokine, and drug treatment. However, the data available is scarce, and the outcomes vary between different transplant settings and different types of leukemia. Moreover, remission achieved by some of these therapies is only for a short time. In this mini-review, we will discuss the role of NK cell defects in AML progression, particularly the expression of different cell surface markers, the available NK cell therapies, and the results from various preclinical and clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Selma Z. D’Silva
- Transplant Immunology and Immunogenetics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Education and Research in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Meenakshi Singh
- Transplant Immunology and Immunogenetics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Education and Research in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Andrea S. Pinto
- Transplant Immunology and Immunogenetics Lab, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Education and Research in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Verkleij CPM, Frerichs KA, Broekmans MEC, Duetz C, O'Neill CA, Bruins WSC, Homan-Weert PM, Minnema MC, Levin MD, Broijl A, Bos GMJ, Kersten MJ, Klein SK, Shikhagaie MM, Casneuf T, Abraham Y, Smets T, Vanhoof G, Cortes-Selva D, van Steenbergen L, Ramos E, Verona RI, Krevvata M, Sonneveld P, Zweegman S, Mutis T, van de Donk NWCJ. NK Cell Phenotype Is Associated With Response and Resistance to Daratumumab in Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma. Hemasphere 2023; 7:e881. [PMID: 37153876 PMCID: PMC10155898 DOI: 10.1097/hs9.0000000000000881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The CD38-targeting antibody daratumumab has marked activity in multiple myeloma (MM). Natural killer (NK) cells play an important role during daratumumab therapy by mediating antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity via their FcγRIII receptor (CD16), but they are also rapidly decreased following initiation of daratumumab treatment. We characterized the NK cell phenotype at baseline and during daratumumab monotherapy by flow cytometry and cytometry by time of flight to assess its impact on response and development of resistance (DARA-ATRA study; NCT02751255). At baseline, nonresponding patients had a significantly lower proportion of CD16+ and granzyme B+ NK cells, and higher frequency of TIM-3+ and HLA-DR+ NK cells, consistent with a more activated/exhausted phenotype. These NK cell characteristics were also predictive of inferior progression-free survival and overall survival. Upon initiation of daratumumab treatment, NK cells were rapidly depleted. Persisting NK cells exhibited an activated and exhausted phenotype with reduced expression of CD16 and granzyme B, and increased expression of TIM-3 and HLA-DR. We observed that addition of healthy donor-derived purified NK cells to BM samples from patients with either primary or acquired daratumumab-resistance improved daratumumab-mediated MM cell killing. In conclusion, NK cell dysfunction plays a role in primary and acquired daratumumab resistance. This study supports the clinical evaluation of daratumumab combined with adoptive transfer of NK cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christie P M Verkleij
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kristine A Frerichs
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marloes E C Broekmans
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carolien Duetz
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Chloe A O'Neill
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wassilis S C Bruins
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paola M Homan-Weert
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Monique C Minnema
- University Medical Center Utrecht, Department of Hematology, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Mark-David Levin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Dordrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Annemiek Broijl
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard M J Bos
- Department of Hematology, Maastricht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Marie José Kersten
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia K Klein
- Department of Internal Medicine, Meander Medical Center, Amersfoort, The Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Medya M Shikhagaie
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Yann Abraham
- Janssen Research and Development, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Tina Smets
- Janssen Research and Development, Beerse, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Pieter Sonneveld
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sonja Zweegman
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tuna Mutis
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Niels W C J van de Donk
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Dumolard L, Aspord C, Marche PN, Macek Jilkova Z. Immune checkpoints on T and NK cells in the context of HBV infection: Landscape, pathophysiology and therapeutic exploitation. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1148111. [PMID: 37056774 PMCID: PMC10086248 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1148111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, the interplay between the virus and the host immune system is crucial in determining the pathogenesis of the disease. Patients who fail to mount a sufficient and sustained anti-viral immune response develop chronic hepatitis B (CHB). T cells and natural killer (NK) cells play decisive role in viral clearance, but they are defective in chronic HBV infection. The activation of immune cells is tightly controlled by a combination of activating and inhibitory receptors, called immune checkpoints (ICs), allowing the maintenance of immune homeostasis. Chronic exposure to viral antigens and the subsequent dysregulation of ICs actively contribute to the exhaustion of effector cells and viral persistence. The present review aims to summarize the function of various ICs and their expression in T lymphocytes and NK cells in the course of HBV infection as well as the use of immunotherapeutic strategies targeting ICs in chronic HBV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucile Dumolard
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team Epigenetics, Immunity, Metabolism, Cell Signaling & Cancer, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France
| | - Caroline Aspord
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team Epigenetics, Immunity, Metabolism, Cell Signaling & Cancer, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France
- R&D Laboratory, Etablissement Français du Sang Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Patrice N. Marche
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team Epigenetics, Immunity, Metabolism, Cell Signaling & Cancer, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France
| | - Zuzana Macek Jilkova
- University Grenoble Alpes, Inserm U 1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Team Epigenetics, Immunity, Metabolism, Cell Signaling & Cancer, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, France
- Hepato-Gastroenterology and Digestive Oncology Department, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
- *Correspondence: Zuzana Macek Jilkova,
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Zheng X, Hou Z, Qian Y, Zhang Y, Cui Q, Wang X, Shen Y, Liu Z, Zhou Y, Fu B, Sun R, Tian Z, Huang G, Wei H. Tumors evade immune cytotoxicity by altering the surface topology of NK cells. Nat Immunol 2023; 24:802-813. [PMID: 36959292 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-023-01462-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
The highly variable response rates to immunotherapies underscore our limited knowledge about how tumors can manipulate immune cells. Here the membrane topology of natural killer (NK) cells from patients with liver cancer showed that intratumoral NK cells have fewer membrane protrusions compared with liver NK cells outside tumors and with peripheral NK cells. Dysregulation of these protrusions prevented intratumoral NK cells from recognizing tumor cells, from forming lytic immunological synapses and from killing tumor cells. The membranes of intratumoral NK cells have altered sphingomyelin (SM) content and dysregulated serine metabolism in tumors contributed to the decrease in SM levels of intratumoral NK cells. Inhibition of SM biosynthesis in peripheral NK cells phenocopied the disrupted membrane topology and cytotoxicity of the intratumoral NK cells. Targeting sphingomyelinase confers powerful antitumor efficacy, both as a monotherapy and as a combination therapy with checkpoint blockade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohu Zheng
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- Institute of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Zhuanghao Hou
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science and National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yeben Qian
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yongwei Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Quanwei Cui
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xuben Wang
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yiqing Shen
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhenbang Liu
- Core Facility Center for Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yonggang Zhou
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Binqing Fu
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Institute of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhigang Tian
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- Institute of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- Research Unit Of NK Cells, Chinese Academy Of Medical Sciences, Hefei, China.
| | - Guangming Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science and National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Haiming Wei
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- Institute of Immunology, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
- Research Unit Of NK Cells, Chinese Academy Of Medical Sciences, Hefei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Rahmati A, Bigam S, Elahi S. Galectin-9 promotes natural killer cells activity via interaction with CD44. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1131379. [PMID: 37006235 PMCID: PMC10060867 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1131379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are a potent innate source of cytokines and cytoplasmic granules. Their effector functions are tightly synchronized by the balance between the stimulatory and inhibitory receptors. Here, we quantified the proportion of NK cells and the surface presence of Galectin-9 (Gal-9) from the bone marrow, blood, liver, spleen, and lungs of adult and neonatal mice. We also examined the effector functions of Gal-9+NK cells compared with their Gal-9- counterparts. Our results revealed that Gal-9+NK cells are more abundant in tissues, in particular, in the liver than in the blood and bone marrow. We found Gal-9 presence was associated with enhanced cytotoxic effector molecules granzyme B (GzmB) and perforin expression. Likewise, Gal-9 expressing NK cells displayed greater IFN-γ and TNF-α expression than their negative counterparts under hemostatic circumstances. Notably, the expansion of Gal-9+NK cells in the spleen of mice infected with E. coli implies that Gal-9+NK cells may provide a protective role against infection. Similarly, we found the expansion of Gal-9+NK cells in the spleen and tumor tissues of melanoma B16-F10 mice. Mechanistically, our results revealed the interaction of Gal-9 with CD44 as noted by their co-expression/co-localization. Subsequently, this interaction resulted in enhanced expression of Phospho-LCK, ERK, Akt, MAPK, and mTOR in NK cells. Moreover, we found Gal-9+NK cells exhibited an activated phenotype as evidenced by increased CD69, CD25, and Sca-1 but reduced KLRG1 expression. Likewise, we found Gal-9 preferentially interacts with CD44high in human NK cells. Despite this interaction, we noted a dichotomy in terms of effector functions in NK cells from COVID-19 patients. We observed that the presence of Gal-9 on NK cells resulted in a greater IFN-γ expression without any changes in cytolytic molecule expression in these patients. These observations suggest differences in Gal-9+NK cell effector functions between mice and humans that should be considered in different physiological and pathological conditions. Therefore, our results highlight the important role of Gal-9 via CD44 in NK cell activation, which suggests Gal-9 is a potential new avenue for the development of therapeutic approaches to modulate NK cell effector functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Rahmati
- School of Dentistry, Division of Foundational Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Steven Bigam
- School of Dentistry, Division of Foundational Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Shokrollah Elahi
- School of Dentistry, Division of Foundational Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Shokrollah Elahi,
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
T Cell Immunoglobulin and Mucin Domain 3 (TIM-3) in Cutaneous Melanoma: A Narrative Review. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15061697. [PMID: 36980583 PMCID: PMC10046653 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15061697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (TIM-3) is an inhibitory immunocheckpoint that belongs to the TIM gene family. Monney et al. first discovered it about 20 years ago and linked it to some autoimmune diseases; subsequent studies have revealed that some tumours, including melanoma, have the capacity to produce inhibitory ligands that bind to these receptor checkpoints on tumour-specific immune cells. We conducted a literature search using PubMed, Web of Science (WoS), Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane, searching for the following keywords: “T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3”, “TIM-3” and/or “Immunocheckpoint inhibitors” in combination with “malignant melanoma” or “human malignant melanoma” or “cutaneous melanoma”. The literature search initially turned up 117 documents, 23 of which were duplicates. After verifying eligibility and inclusion criteria, 17 publications were ultimately included. A growing body of scientific evidence considers TIM-3 a valid inhibitory immuno-checkpoint with a very interesting potential in the field of melanoma. However, other recent studies have discovered new roles for TIM-3 that seem almost to contradict previous findings in this regard. All this demonstrates how common and valid the concept of ‘pleiotropism’ is in the TME field, in that the same molecule can behave completely or partially differently depending on the cell type considered or on temporary conditions. Further studies, large case series, and a special focus on the immunophenotype of TIM-3 are absolutely necessary in order to explore this highly promising topic in the near future.
Collapse
|
36
|
Azoulay T, Slouzky I, Karmona M, Filatov M, Hayun M, Ofran Y, Sarig G, Ringelstein-Harlev S. Compromised activity of natural killer cells in diffuse large b-cell lymphoma is related to lymphoma-induced modification of their surface receptor expression. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:707-718. [PMID: 36048214 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-022-03284-4] [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: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
While natural killer (NK) cells are essential players in detection and elimination of malignant cells, these surveillance properties can be compromised by cancer cells. Since NK cell education primarily occurs in the bone marrow and lymphoid tissue, this process might be particularly affected by their infiltration with lymphoma cells. This study aimed to explore functional properties of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patient NK cells, which could potentially promote tumour immune evasion and disease propagation.NK cells isolated from the peripheral blood (PB) of 26 DLBCL patients and 13 age-matched healthy controls (HC) were analysed. The cytotoxic CD56dim subtype was the only one identified in patients. Compared to HC, patient cells demonstrated low levels of inhibitory CD158a/b along with decreased expression of activating NKG2D and CD161 and increased inhibitory NKG2A levels. Patient NK cell cytotoxic activity was impaired, as were their degranulation and inflammatory cytokine production, which partially recovered following non-receptor-dependant stimulation.The phenotypically skewed and restricted population of patient NK cells, along with their blunted cytotoxic and immune-regulatory activity, appear to be driven by exposure to lymphoma environment. These NK cell functional aberrations could support lymphoma immune evasion and should be considered in the era of cellular therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tehila Azoulay
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Rambam Health Care Campus, 8, Ha'Aliya Street, 3109601, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ilana Slouzky
- Hematology Laboratory, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Michal Karmona
- Hematology Laboratory, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Michal Hayun
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Rambam Health Care Campus, 8, Ha'Aliya Street, 3109601, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yishai Ofran
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Rambam Health Care Campus, 8, Ha'Aliya Street, 3109601, Haifa, Israel.,Department of Hematology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Galit Sarig
- Hematology Laboratory, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel. .,The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Shimrit Ringelstein-Harlev
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Rambam Health Care Campus, 8, Ha'Aliya Street, 3109601, Haifa, Israel. .,The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Development and Validation of a Prognostic Risk Model Based on Nature Killer Cells for Serous Ovarian Cancer. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13030403. [PMID: 36983585 PMCID: PMC10055736 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13030403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Nature killer (NK) cells are increasingly considered important in tumor microenvironment, but their role in predicting the prognosis of ovarian cancer has not been revealed. This study aimed to develop a prognostic risk model for ovarian cancer based on NK cells. Firstly, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of NK cells were found by single-cell RNA-sequencing dataset analysis. Based on six NK-cell DEGs identified by univariable, Lasso and multivariable Cox regression analyses, a prognostic risk model for serous ovarian cancer was developed in the TCGA cohort. This model was then validated in three external cohorts, and evaluated as an independent prognostic factor by multivariable Cox regression analysis together with clinical characteristics. With the investigation of the underlying mechanism, a relation between a higher risk score of this model and more immune activities in tumor microenvironment was revealed. Furthermore, a detailed inspection of infiltrated immunocytes indicated that not only quantity, but also the functional state of these immunocytes might affect prognostic risk. Additionally, the potential of this model to predict immunotherapeutic response was exhibited by evaluating the functional state of cytotoxic T lymphocytes. To conclude, this study introduced a novel prognostic risk model based on NK-cell DEGs, which might provide assistance for the personalized management of serous ovarian cancer patients.
Collapse
|
38
|
Mace EM. Human natural killer cells: Form, function, and development. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023; 151:371-385. [PMID: 36195172 PMCID: PMC9905317 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2022.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Human natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells that mediate important effector functions in the control of viral infection and malignancy. Their ability to distinguish "self" from "nonself" and lyse virally infected and tumorigenic cells through germline-encoded receptors makes them important players in maintaining human health and a powerful tool for immunotherapeutic applications and fighting disease. This review introduces our current understanding of NK cell biology, including key facets of NK cell differentiation and the acquisition and execution of NK cell effector function. Further, it addresses the clinical relevance of NK cells in both primary immunodeficiency and immunotherapy. It is intended to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of this important and interesting innate immune effector cell subset.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily M Mace
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Bi J, Huang C, Jin X, Zheng C, Huang Y, Zheng X, Tian Z, Sun H. TIPE2 deletion improves the therapeutic potential of adoptively transferred NK cells. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:jitc-2022-006002. [PMID: 36725083 PMCID: PMC9896240 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-006002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To enhance the efficacy of adoptive NK cell therapy against solid tumors, NK cells must be modified to resist exhaustion in the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the molecular checkpoint underlying NK cell exhaustion in the TME remains elusive. METHODS We analyzed the correlation between TIPE2 expression and NK cell functional exhaustion in the TME both in humans and mice by single-cell transcriptomic analysis and by using gene reporter mice. We investigated the effects of TIPE2 deletion on adoptively transferred NK cell therapy against cancers by using NK cells from NK-specific Tipe2-deficient mice or peripheral blood-derived or induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived human NK cells with TIPE2 deletion by CRISPR/Cas9. We also investigated the potential synergy of double deletion of TIPE2 and another checkpoint molecule, CISH. RESULTS By single-cell transcriptomic analysis and by using gene reporter mice, we found that TIPE2 expression correlated with NK cell exhaustion in the TME both in humans and mice and that the TIPE2 high NK cell subset correlated with poorer survival of tumor patients. TIPE2 deletion promoted the antitumor activity of adoptively transferred mouse NK cells and adoptively transferred human NK cells, either derived from peripheral blood or differentiated from iPSCs. TIPE2 deletion rendered NK cells with elevated capacities for tumor infiltration and effector functions. TIPE2 deletion also synergized with CISH deletion to further improve antitumor activity in vivo. CONCLUSIONS This study highlighted TIPE2 targeting as a promising approach for enhancing adoptive NK cell therapy against solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiacheng Bi
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Huang
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomeng Jin
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaoyue Zheng
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Huang
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohu Zheng
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, People's Republic of China,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhigang Tian
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, People's Republic of China .,The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, People's Republic of China.,Research Unit of NK Cell Study, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoyu Sun
- The CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, People's Republic of China .,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Al Olabi R, Hendy AEA, Alkassab MB, Alnajm K, Elias M, Ibrahim M, Carlyle JR, Makrigiannis AP, Rahim MMA. The inhibitory NKR-P1B receptor regulates NK cell-mediated mammary tumor immunosurveillance in mice. Oncoimmunology 2023; 12:2168233. [PMID: 36704449 PMCID: PMC9872954 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2023.2168233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are an important component of anti-cancer immunity, and their activity is regulated by an array of activating and inhibitory receptors. In mice, the inhibitory NKR-P1B receptor is expressed in NK cells and recognizes the C-type lectin-related protein-b (Clr-b) ligand. NKR-P1B:Clr-b interactions represent a 'missing-self' recognition system to monitor cellular levels of Clr-b on healthy and diseased cells. Here, we report an important role for NKR-P1B:Clr-b interactions in tumor immunosurveillance in MMTV-PyVT mice, which develop spontaneous mammary tumors. MMTV-PyVT mice on NKR-P1B-deficient genetic background developed mammary tumors earlier than on wild-type (WT) background. A greater proportion of tumor-infiltrating NK cells downregulate expression of the transcription factor Eomesodermin (EOMES) in NKR-P1B-deficient mice compared to WT mice. Tumor-infiltrating NK cells also downregulated CD49b expression but gain CD49a expression and exhibit effector functions, such as granzyme B upregulation and proliferation in mammary tumors. However, unlike the EOMES+ NK cells, the EOMES‒ NK cell subset is unable to respond to further in vitro stimulation and exhibits phenotypic alterations associated with immune dysfunction. These alterations included increased expression of PD-1, LAG-3, and TIGIT and decreased expression of NKp46, Ly49C/I, CD11b, and KLRG-1. Furthermore, tumor-infiltrating NKR-P1B-deficient NK cells exhibited an elevated dysfunctional immune phenotype compared to WT NK cells. These findings demonstrate that the NKR-P1B receptor plays an important role in mammary tumor surveillance by regulating anti-cancer immune responses and functional homeostasis in NK cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raghd Al Olabi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Abd El Aziz Hendy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Karla Alnajm
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Manahel Elias
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mary Ibrahim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - James R. Carlyle
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew P. Makrigiannis
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Mir Munir A Rahim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada,CONTACT Mir Munir A Rahim Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Avenue, Windsor, Ontario, N9B 3P4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Guo Z, Zhang R, Yang AG, Zheng G. Diversity of immune checkpoints in cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1121285. [PMID: 36960057 PMCID: PMC10027905 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1121285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Finding effective treatments for cancer remains a challenge. Recent studies have found that the mechanisms of tumor evasion are becoming increasingly diverse, including abnormal expression of immune checkpoint molecules on different immune cells, in particular T cells, natural killer cells, macrophages and others. In this review, we discuss the checkpoint molecules with enhanced expression on these lymphocytes and their consequences on immune effector functions. Dissecting the diverse roles of immune checkpoints in different immune cells is crucial for a full understanding of immunotherapy using checkpoint inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhangyan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - An-Gang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Guoxu Zheng, ; An-Gang Yang,
| | - Guoxu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Department of Immunology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Guoxu Zheng, ; An-Gang Yang,
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Secchiari F, Nuñez SY, Sierra JM, Ziblat A, Regge MV, Raffo Iraolagoitia XL, Rovegno A, Ameri C, Secin FP, Richards N, Ríos Pita H, Vitagliano G, Rico L, Mieggi M, Frascheri F, Bonanno N, Blas L, Trotta A, Friedrich AD, Fuertes MB, Domaica CI, Zwirner NW. The MICA-NKG2D axis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma bolsters MICA as target in immuno-oncology. Oncoimmunology 2022; 11:2104991. [PMID: 35936986 PMCID: PMC9354769 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2022.2104991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
NKG2D is a major natural killer (NK) cell-activating receptor that recognizes eight ligands (NKG2DLs), including MICA, and whose engagement triggers NK cell effector functions. As NKG2DLs are upregulated on tumor cells but tumors can subvert the NKG2D-NKG2DL axis, NKG2DLs constitute attractive targets for antibody (Ab)-based immuno-oncology therapies. However, such approaches require a deep characterization of NKG2DLs and NKG2D cell surface expression on primary tumor and immune cells. Here, using a bioinformatic analysis, we observed that MICA is overexpressed in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and we also detected an association between the NKG2D-MICA axis and a diminished overall survival of RCC patients. Also, by flow cytometry (FC), we observed that MICA was the only NKG2DL over-expressed on clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) tumor cells, including cancer stem cells (CSC) that also coexpressed NKG2D. Moreover, tumor-infiltrating leukocytes (TIL), but not peripheral blood lymphoid cells (PBL) from ccRCC patients, over-expressed MICA, ULBP3 and ULBP4. In addition, NKG2D was downregulated on peripheral blood NK cells (PBNK) from ccRCC patients but upregulated on tumor-infiltrating NK cells (TINK). These TINK exhibited impaired degranulation that negatively correlated with NKG2D expression, diminished IFN-γ production, upregulation of TIM-3, and an impaired glucose intake upon stimulation with cytokines, indicating that they are dysfunctional, display features of exhaustion and an altered metabolic fitness. We conclude that ccRCC patients exhibit a distorted MICA-NKG2D axis, and MICA emerges as the forefront NKG2DL for the development of targeted therapies in ccRCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Florencia Secchiari
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
| | - Sol Yanel Nuñez
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
| | - Jessica Mariel Sierra
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
| | - Andrea Ziblat
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
| | - María Victoria Regge
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
| | - Ximena Lucía Raffo Iraolagoitia
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
| | - Agustín Rovegno
- Servicio de Urología, Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas “Norberto Quirno” (CEMIC)
| | - Carlos Ameri
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Alemán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernando Pablo Secin
- Servicio de Urología, Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas “Norberto Quirno” (CEMIC)
| | - Nicolás Richards
- Servicio de Urología, Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas “Norberto Quirno” (CEMIC)
| | | | | | - Luis Rico
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Alemán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mauro Mieggi
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Alemán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Nicolás Bonanno
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Alemán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leandro Blas
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Alemán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Aldana Trotta
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
| | - Adrián David Friedrich
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
| | - Mercedes Beatriz Fuertes
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
| | - Carolina Inés Domaica
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
| | - Norberto Walter Zwirner
- Laboratorio de Fisiopatología de la Inmunidad Innata, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Química Biológica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Immune checkpoint blockade in melanoma: Advantages, shortcomings and emerging roles of the nanoparticles. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 113:109300. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
44
|
Deng X, Terunuma H. Harnessing NK Cells to Control Metastasis. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10122018. [PMID: 36560427 PMCID: PMC9781233 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10122018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, tumor immunotherapy has produced remarkable results in tumor treatment. Nevertheless, its effects are severely limited in patients with low or absent pre-existing T cell immunity. Accordingly, metastasis remains the major cause of tumor-associated death. On the other hand, natural killer (NK) cells have the unique ability to recognize and rapidly act against tumor cells and surveil tumor cell dissemination. The role of NK cells in metastasis prevention is undisputable as an increase in the number of these cells mostly leads to a favorable prognosis. Hence, it is reasonable to consider that successful metastasis involves evasion of NK-cell-mediated immunosurveillance. Therefore, harnessing NK cells to control metastasis is promising. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are the seeds for distant metastasis, and the number of CTCs detected in the blood of patients with tumor is associated with a worse prognosis, whereas NK cells can eliminate highly motile CTCs especially in the blood. Here, we review the role of NK cells during metastasis, particularly the specific interactions of NK cells with CTCs, which may provide essential clues on how to harness the power of NK cells against tumor metastasis. As a result, a new way to prevent or treat metastatic tumor may be developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuewen Deng
- Biotherapy Institute of Japan Inc., 2-4-8 Edagawa, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0051, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-5632-6080; Fax: +81-3-5632-6083
| | - Hiroshi Terunuma
- Biotherapy Institute of Japan Inc., 2-4-8 Edagawa, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0051, Japan
- N2 Clinic Yotsuya, 5F 2-6 Samon-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0017, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Immunotherapy targeting inhibitory checkpoints: The role of NK and other innate lymphoid cells. Semin Immunol 2022; 61-64:101660. [PMID: 36370672 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2022.101660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies that target specific ligand-receptor signaling pathways and act as immune checkpoint inhibitors have been designed to remove the brakes in T cells and restore strong and long-term antitumor-immunity. Of note, many of these inhibitory receptors are also expressed by Innate Lymphoid Cells (ILCs), suggesting that also blockade of inhibitory pathways in innate lymphocytes has a role in the response to the treatment with checkpoint inhibitors. ILCs comprise cytotoxic NK cells and "helper" subsets and are important cellular components in the tumor microenvironment. In addition to killing tumor cells, ILCs release inflammatory cytokines, thus contributing to shape adaptive cell activation in the context of immunotherapy. Therefore, ILCs play both a direct and indirect role in the response to checkpoint blockade. Understanding the impact of ILC-mediated response on the treatment outcome would contribute to enhance immunotherapy efficacy, as still numerous patients resist or relapse.
Collapse
|
46
|
Laba S, Mallett G, Amarnath S. The depths of PD-1 function within the tumor microenvironment beyond CD8 + T cells. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:1045-1055. [PMID: 34048897 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Programmed cell death-1 (PD-1; CD279) is a cell surface receptor that is expressed in both innate and adaptive immune cells. The role of PD-1 in adaptive immune cells, specifically in CD8+ T cells, has been thoroughly investigated but its significance in other immune cells is yet to be well established. This review will address the role of PD-1 based therapies in enhancing non-CD8+ T cell immune responses within cancer. Specifically, the expression and function of PD-1 in non-CD8+ immune cell compartments such as CD4+ T helper cell subsets, myeloid cells and innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) will be discussed. By understanding the immune cell specific function of PD-1 within tissue resident innate and adaptive immune cells, it will be possible to stratify patients for PD-1 based therapies for both immunogeneic and non-immunogeneic neoplastic disorders. With this knowledge from fundamental and translational studies, PD-1 based therapies can be utilized to enhance T cell independent immune responses in cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Laba
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom.
| | - Grace Mallett
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom
| | - Shoba Amarnath
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Yenyuwadee S, Aliazis K, Wang Q, Christofides A, Shah R, Patsoukis N, Boussiotis VA. Immune cellular components and signaling pathways in the tumor microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:187-201. [PMID: 35985559 PMCID: PMC10735089 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
During the past decade there has been a revolution in cancer therapeutics by the emergence of antibody-based and cell-based immunotherapies that modulate immune responses against tumors. These new therapies have extended and improved the therapeutic efficacy of chemo-radiotherapy and have offered treatment options to patients who are no longer responding to these classic anti-cancer treatments. Unfortunately, tumor eradication and long-lasting responses are observed in a small fraction of patients, whereas the majority of patients respond only transiently. These outcomes indicate that the maximum potential of immunotherapy has not been reached due to incomplete knowledge of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that guide the development of successful anti-tumor immunity and its failure. In this review, we discuss recent discoveries about the immune cellular composition of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the role of key signaling mechanisms that compromise the function of immune cells leading to cancer immune escape.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sasitorn Yenyuwadee
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School; Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Konstantinos Aliazis
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School
| | - Qi Wang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School
| | - Anthos Christofides
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School
| | - Rushil Shah
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School
| | - Nikolaos Patsoukis
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School; Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Vassiliki A Boussiotis
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Department of Medicine Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School; Cancer Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Grottoli M, Carrega P, Zullo L, Dellepiane C, Rossi G, Parisi F, Barletta G, Zinoli L, Coco S, Alama A, Marconi S, Parodi M, Orecchia P, Bassi S, Vitale M, Mingari MC, Pfeffer U, Genova C, Pietra G. Immune Checkpoint Blockade: A Strategy to Unleash the Potential of Natural Killer Cells in the Anti-Cancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14205046. [PMID: 36291830 PMCID: PMC9599824 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) with antibodies targeting CTLA-4 (Cytotoxic Lymphocyte Antigen 4) and/or programmed death-1 protein (PD-1)/programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) has significantly modified the therapeutic landscape of a broad range of human tumor types, including advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Despite great advances of checkpoint immunotherapies, a minority of NSCLC patients (<20%) respond and/or experience long-term clinical benefits from these treatments. Limited response rates of T cell–based checkpoint immunotherapies suggest the presence of other checkpoints able to inhibit effective anti-tumor immune responses. Natural Killer (NK) cells represent a promising target for tumor immunotherapies, particularly against tumors that escape T-cell-mediated control. Like T cell function, NK cell function is also regulated by inhibitory immune-checkpoint molecules. In this review, we will provide an overview of the rationale, mechanisms of action, and clinical efficacy of these NK cell-based checkpoint therapy approaches. Finally, the future directions and current enhancements planned will be discussed. Abstract Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) immunotherapy has represented a breakthrough in cancer treatment. Clinical use of ICIs has shown an acceptable safety profile and promising antitumor activity. Nevertheless, some patients do not obtain clinical benefits after ICIs therapy. In order to improve and cure an increasing number of patients, the field has moved toward the discovery of new ICIs expressed by cells of innate immunity with an elevated inherent antitumor activity, such as natural killer cells. This review will focus on the recent findings concerning the role of classical and non-classical immune checkpoint molecules and receptors that regulate natural killer cell function, as potential targets, and their future clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melania Grottoli
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Carrega
- Laboratory of Immunology and Biotherapy, Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | - Lodovica Zullo
- UO Oncologia Medica 2 IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Chiara Dellepiane
- UO Oncologia Medica 2 IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Rossi
- UO Oncologia Medica 2 IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Francesca Parisi
- UO Oncologia Medica 2 IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Giulia Barletta
- UO Oncologia Medica 2 IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Linda Zinoli
- DiMI, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Simona Coco
- UOS Tumori Polmonari IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Angela Alama
- UOS Tumori Polmonari IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Silvia Marconi
- UOS Tumori Polmonari IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Monica Parodi
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Orecchia
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Sara Bassi
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Massimo Vitale
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Mingari
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
- DiMES, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Ulrich Pfeffer
- Laboratory of Tumor Epigenetics IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Carlo Genova
- DiMI, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
- UO Clinica di Oncologia Medica IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Gabriella Pietra
- UO Immunologia IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
- DiMES, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.G.); (G.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells comprise a unique population of innate lymphoid cells endowed with intrinsic abilities to identify and eliminate virally infected cells and tumour cells. Possessing multiple cytotoxicity mechanisms and the ability to modulate the immune response through cytokine production, NK cells play a pivotal role in anticancer immunity. This role was elucidated nearly two decades ago, when NK cells, used as immunotherapeutic agents, showed safety and efficacy in the treatment of patients with advanced-stage leukaemia. In recent years, following the paradigm-shifting successes of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered adoptive T cell therapy and the advancement in technologies that can turn cells into powerful antitumour weapons, the interest in NK cells as a candidate for immunotherapy has grown exponentially. Strategies for the development of NK cell-based therapies focus on enhancing NK cell potency and persistence through co-stimulatory signalling, checkpoint inhibition and cytokine armouring, and aim to redirect NK cell specificity to the tumour through expression of CAR or the use of engager molecules. In the clinic, the first generation of NK cell therapies have delivered promising results, showing encouraging efficacy and remarkable safety, thus driving great enthusiasm for continued innovation. In this Review, we describe the various approaches to augment NK cell cytotoxicity and longevity, evaluate challenges and opportunities, and reflect on how lessons learned from the clinic will guide the design of next-generation NK cell products that will address the unique complexities of each cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamara J Laskowski
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alexander Biederstädt
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Medicine III: Hematology and Oncology, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katayoun Rezvani
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Wang J, Liu X, Jin T, Cao Y, Tian Y, Xu F. NK cell immunometabolism as target for liver cancer therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 112:109193. [PMID: 36087507 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are being used effectively as a potential candidate in tumor immunotherapy. However, the migration and transport of NK cells to solid tumors is inadequate. NK cell dysfunction, tumor invasiveness, and metastasis are associated with altered metabolism of NK cells in the liver cancer microenvironment. However, in liver cancers, metabolic impairment of NK cells is still not understood fully. Evidence from various sources has shown that the interaction of NK cell's immune checkpoints with its metabolic checkpoints is responsible for the regulation of the development and function of these cells. How immune checkpoints contribute to metabolic programming is still not fully understood, and how this can be beneficial needs a better understanding, but they are emerging to be incredibly compelling to rebuilding the function of NK cells in the tumor. It is expected to represent a potential aim that focuses on improving the efficacy of therapies based on NK cells for treating liver cancer. Here, the recent advancements made to understand the NK cell's metabolic reprogramming in liver cancer have been summarized, along with the possible interplay between the immune and the metabolic checkpoints in NK cell function. Finally, an overview of some potential metabolic-related targets that can be used for liver cancer therapy treatment has been presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junqi Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Xiaolin Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing 314000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tianqiang Jin
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Yuqing Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Yu Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Feng Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
| |
Collapse
|