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Schendel DJ. Evolution by innovation as a driving force to improve TCR-T therapies. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1216829. [PMID: 37810959 PMCID: PMC10552759 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1216829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapies continually evolve through science-based innovation. Specialized innovations for TCR-T therapies are described here that are embedded in an End-to-End Platform for TCR-T Therapy Development which aims to provide solutions for key unmet patient needs by addressing challenges of TCR-T therapy, including selection of target antigens and suitable T cell receptors, generation of TCR-T therapies that provide long term, durable efficacy and safety and development of efficient and scalable production of patient-specific (personalized) TCR-T therapy for solid tumors. Multiple, combinable, innovative technologies are used in a systematic and sequential manner in the development of TCR-T therapies. One group of technologies encompasses product enhancements that enable TCR-T therapies to be safer, more specific and more effective. The second group of technologies addresses development optimization that supports discovery and development processes for TCR-T therapies to be performed more quickly, with higher quality and greater efficiency. Each module incorporates innovations layered onto basic technologies common to the field of immunology. An active approach of "evolution by innovation" supports the overall goal to develop best-in-class TCR-T therapies for treatment of patients with solid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dolores J. Schendel
- Medigene Immunotherapies GmbH, Planegg, Germany
- Medigene AG, Planegg, Germany
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2
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de Lima SCG, Fantacini DMC, Furtado IP, Rossetti R, Silveira RM, Covas DT, de Souza LEB. Genome Editing for Engineering the Next Generation of Advanced Immune Cell Therapies. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1429:85-110. [PMID: 37486518 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-33325-5_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Our current genetic engineering capacity through synthetic biology and genome editing is the foundation of a revolution in biomedical science: the use of genetically programmed cells as therapeutics. The prime example of this paradigm is the adoptive transfer of genetically engineered T cells to express tumor-specific receptors, such as chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) or engineered T-cell receptors (TCR). This approach has led to unprecedented complete remission rates in patients with otherwise incurable hematological malignancies. However, this approach is still largely ineffective against solid tumors, which comprise the vast majority of neoplasms. Also, limitations associated with the autologous nature of this therapy and shared markers between cancer cells and T cells further restrict the access to these therapies. Here, we described how cutting-edge genome editing approaches have been applied to unlock the full potential of these revolutionary therapies, thereby increasing therapeutic efficacy and patient accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Caroline Gomes de Lima
- Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto - Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Izadora Peter Furtado
- Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto - Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Rossetti
- Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto - Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Roberta Maraninchi Silveira
- Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto - Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Dimas Tadeu Covas
- Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto - Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas Eduardo Botelho de Souza
- Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto - Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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3
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To V, Evtimov VJ, Jenkin G, Pupovac A, Trounson AO, Boyd RL. CAR-T cell development for Cutaneous T cell Lymphoma: current limitations and potential treatment strategies. Front Immunol 2022; 13:968395. [PMID: 36059451 PMCID: PMC9433932 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.968395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T therapy has demonstrated remarkable outcomes for B cell malignancies, however, its application for T cell lymphoma, particularly cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL), has been limited. Barriers to effective CAR-T cell therapy in treating CTCL include T cell aplasia in autologous transplants, CAR-T product contamination with leukemic T cells, CAR-T fratricide (when the target antigen is present on normal T cells), and tumor heterogeneity. To address these critical challenges, innovative CAR engineering by targeting multiple antigens to strike a balance between efficacy and safety of the therapy is necessary. In this review, we discuss the current obstacles to CAR-T cell therapy and highlight potential targets in treating CTCL. Looking forward, we propose strategies to develop more powerful dual CARs that are advancing towards the clinic in CTCL therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van To
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Graham Jenkin
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Alan O. Trounson
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Richard L. Boyd
- Cartherics Pty Ltd, Notting Hill, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Richard L. Boyd,
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Kyte JA. Strategies for Improving the Efficacy of CAR T Cells in Solid Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030571. [PMID: 35158839 PMCID: PMC8833730 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cell therapy with genetically retargeted T cells shows strong clinical efficacy against leukaemia and lymphoma. To make this therapy efficient against solid cancers, a series of hurdles must be addressed. This includes the need to enable the T cells to survive long term in patients and to overcome immunosuppressive mechanisms in the tumour. Further, it is essential to prevent tumour cells from escaping by losing the protein that is recognised by the infused cells. The present article provides an overview of the key strategies that are currently being investigated to overcome these hurdles. A series of approaches have been described in preclinical models, but these remain untested in patients. The further progress of the field will depend on evaluating more strategies in a proper clinical setting. Abstract Therapy with T cells equipped with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) shows strong efficacy against leukaemia and lymphoma, but not yet against solid cancers. This has been attributed to insufficient T cell persistence, tumour heterogeneity and an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment. The present article provides an overview of key strategies that are currently investigated to overcome these hurdles. Basic aspects of CAR design are revisited, relevant for tuning the stimulatory signal to the requirements of solid tumours. Novel approaches for enhancing T cell persistence are highlighted, based on epigenetic or post-translational modifications. Further, the article describes CAR T strategies that are being developed for overcoming tumour heterogeneity and the escape of cancer stem cells, as well as for countering prevalent mechanisms of immune suppression in solid cancers. In general, personalised medicine is faced with a lack of drugs matching the patient’s profile. The advances and flexibility of modern gene engineering may allow for the filling of some of these gaps with tailored CAR T approaches addressing mechanisms identified as important in the individual patient. At this point, however, CAR T cell therapy remains unproved in solid cancers. The further progress of the field will depend on bringing novel strategies into clinical evaluation, while maintaining safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Amund Kyte
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Mail Box 4950 Nydalen, 0424 Oslo, Norway;
- Department of Clinical Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Mail Box 4950 Nydalen, 0424 Oslo, Norway
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Mould RC, van Vloten JP, AuYeung AWK, Walsh SR, de Jong J, Susta L, Mutsaers AJ, Petrik JJ, Wood GA, Wootton SK, Karimi K, Bridle BW. Using a Prime-Boost Vaccination Strategy That Proved Effective for High Resolution Epitope Mapping to Characterize the Elusive Immunogenicity of Survivin. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246270. [PMID: 34944889 PMCID: PMC8699342 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The generation of tumor-specific T cells remains a pillar of modern cancer immunotherapy. Exogenous vaccines often rely on targeting tumor-associated antigens. The anti-apoptotic protein survivin has been deemed a high priority target due to its overexpression in a wide variety of tumor types. To support the analysis of tumor-associated T cell responses, optimization of epitope mapping would be valuable. A heterologous prime-boost vaccination strategy was designed to target survivin to induce anti-tumor immune responses. However, survivin-specific T cell responses could not be detected in mice. Potential mechanisms to explain this failure were explored. To confirm the robustness of the vaccination platform, enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) was targeted since it has been defined as a protein with relatively low immunogenicity. In this context the vaccination strategy uncovered novel T cell epitopes from eGFP in two strains of mice. This research highlighted the utility of the vaccine platform to triage potential target antigens based on their immunogenicity. Abstract Survivin is a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis family of proteins and has been reported to be highly expressed in a variety of cancer types, making it a high priority target for cancer vaccination. We previously described a heterologous prime-boost strategy using a replication-deficient adenovirus, followed by an oncolytic rhabdovirus that generates unprecedented antigen-specific T cell responses. We engineered each vector to express a mutated version of full-length murine survivin. We first sought to uncover the complete epitope map for survivin-specific T cell responses in C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice by flow cytometry. However, no T cell responses were detected by intracellular cytokine staining after re-stimulation of T cells. Survivin has been found to be expressed by activated T cells, which could theoretically cause T cell-mediated killing of activated T cells, known as fratricide. We were unable to recapitulate this phenomenon in experiments. Interestingly, the inactivated survivin construct has been previously shown to directly kill tumor cells in vitro. However, there was no evidence in our models of induction of death in antigen-presenting cells due to treatment with a survivin-expressing vector. Using the same recombinant virus-vectored prime-boost strategy targeting the poorly immunogenic enhanced green fluorescent protein proved to be a highly sensitive method for mapping T cell epitopes, particularly in the context of identifying novel epitopes recognized by CD4+ T cells. Overall, these results suggested there may be unusually robust tolerance to survivin in commonly used mouse strains that cannot be broken, even when using a particularly potent vaccination platform. However, the vaccination method shows great promise as a strategy for identifying novel and subdominant T cell epitopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert C. Mould
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (R.C.M.); (J.P.v.V.); (A.W.K.A.); (J.d.J.); (L.S.); (G.A.W.); (S.K.W.); (K.K.)
| | - Jacob P. van Vloten
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (R.C.M.); (J.P.v.V.); (A.W.K.A.); (J.d.J.); (L.S.); (G.A.W.); (S.K.W.); (K.K.)
| | - Amanda W. K. AuYeung
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (R.C.M.); (J.P.v.V.); (A.W.K.A.); (J.d.J.); (L.S.); (G.A.W.); (S.K.W.); (K.K.)
| | - Scott R. Walsh
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University Hamilton, Hamilton, ON L8S 3L8, Canada;
| | - Jondavid de Jong
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (R.C.M.); (J.P.v.V.); (A.W.K.A.); (J.d.J.); (L.S.); (G.A.W.); (S.K.W.); (K.K.)
| | - Leonardo Susta
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (R.C.M.); (J.P.v.V.); (A.W.K.A.); (J.d.J.); (L.S.); (G.A.W.); (S.K.W.); (K.K.)
| | - Anthony J. Mutsaers
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.J.M.); (J.J.P.)
| | - James J. Petrik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (A.J.M.); (J.J.P.)
| | - Geoffrey A. Wood
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (R.C.M.); (J.P.v.V.); (A.W.K.A.); (J.d.J.); (L.S.); (G.A.W.); (S.K.W.); (K.K.)
| | - Sarah K. Wootton
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (R.C.M.); (J.P.v.V.); (A.W.K.A.); (J.d.J.); (L.S.); (G.A.W.); (S.K.W.); (K.K.)
| | - Khalil Karimi
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (R.C.M.); (J.P.v.V.); (A.W.K.A.); (J.d.J.); (L.S.); (G.A.W.); (S.K.W.); (K.K.)
| | - Byram W. Bridle
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (R.C.M.); (J.P.v.V.); (A.W.K.A.); (J.d.J.); (L.S.); (G.A.W.); (S.K.W.); (K.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +51-9824-4120 (ext. 54657)
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6
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Davari K, Holland T, Prassmayer L, Longinotti G, Ganley KP, Pechilis LJ, Diaconu I, Nambiar PR, Magee MS, Schendel DJ, Sommermeyer D, Ellinger C. Development of a CD8 co-receptor independent T-cell receptor specific for tumor-associated antigen MAGE-A4 for next generation T-cell-based immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:e002035. [PMID: 33771892 PMCID: PMC7996660 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2020-002035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cancer-testis antigen MAGE-A4 is an attractive target for T-cell-based immunotherapy, especially for indications with unmet clinical need like non-small cell lung or triple-negative breast cancer. METHODS An unbiased CD137-based sorting approach was first used to identify an immunogenic MAGE-A4-derived epitope (GVYDGREHTV) that was properly processed and presented on human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A2 molecules encoded by the HLA-A*02:01 allele. To isolate high-avidity T cells via subsequent multimer sorting, an in vitro priming approach using HLA-A2-negative donors was conducted to bypass central tolerance to this self-antigen. Pre-clinical parameters of safety and activity were assessed in a comprehensive set of in vitro and in vivo studies. RESULTS A MAGE-A4-reactive, HLA-A2-restricted T-cell receptor (TCR) was isolated from primed T cells of an HLA-A2-negative donor. The respective TCR-T-cell (TCR-T) product bbT485 was demonstrated pre-clinically to have a favorable safety profile and superior in vivo potency compared with TCR-Ts expressing a TCR derived from a tolerized T-cell repertoire to self-antigens. This natural high-avidity TCR was found to be CD8 co-receptor independent, allowing effector functions to be elicited in transgenic CD4+ T helper cells. These CD4+ TCR-Ts supported an anti-tumor response by direct killing of MAGE-A4-positive tumor cells and upregulated hallmarks associated with helper function, such as CD154 expression and release of key cytokines on tumor-specific stimulation. CONCLUSION The extensive pre-clinical assessment of safety and in vivo potency of bbT485 provide the basis for its use in TCR-T immunotherapy studies. The ability of this non-mutated high-avidity, co-receptor-independent TCR to activate CD8+ and CD4+ T cells could potentially provide enhanced cellular responses in the clinical setting through the induction of functionally diverse T-cell subsets that goes beyond what is currently tested in the clinic.
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MESH Headings
- A549 Cells
- Animals
- Antigens, Neoplasm/genetics
- Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology
- Antigens, Neoplasm/metabolism
- CD8 Antigens/genetics
- CD8 Antigens/immunology
- CD8 Antigens/metabolism
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/transplantation
- Coculture Techniques
- Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
- Female
- HEK293 Cells
- HLA-A2 Antigen/immunology
- HLA-A2 Antigen/metabolism
- Humans
- Immunodominant Epitopes
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive
- K562 Cells
- Mice, Inbred NOD
- Mice, SCID
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Neoplasm Proteins/immunology
- Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism
- Neoplasms/genetics
- Neoplasms/immunology
- Neoplasms/metabolism
- Neoplasms/therapy
- Phenotype
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/genetics
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/metabolism
- Tumor Burden
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Davari
- Medigene Immunotherapies GmbH, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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7
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Munir S, Frøsig TM, Hansen M, Svane IM, Andersen MH. Characterization of T-cell responses against IκBα in cancer patients. Oncoimmunology 2021; 1:1290-1296. [PMID: 23243592 PMCID: PMC3518501 DOI: 10.4161/onci.21625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The nuclear factor κ light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB) is constitutively active in most cancers, controlling multiple cellular processes including proliferation, invasion and resistance to therapy. NFκB is primarily regulated through the association with inhibitory proteins that are known as inhibitors of NFκB (IκBs). Increased NFκB activity in tumor cells has been correlated with decrease stability of IκB proteins, in particular IκBα. In responso to a large number of stimuli, IκB proteins are degraded by the proteasome. Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) recognize HLA-restricted antigenic peptides that are generated by proteasomal degradation in target cells. In the present study, we demonstrate the presence of naturally occurring IκBα -specific T cells in the peripheral blood of patients suffering from several unrelated tumor types, i.e., breast cancer, malignant melanoma and renal cell carcinoma, but not of healthy controls. Furthermore, we show that such IBα-specific T cells are granzyme B-releasing, cytotoxic cells. Hence, the increased proteasomal degradation of IκBα in cancer induces IκBα-specific CTLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamaila Munir
- Center for Cancer Immune Therapy (CCIT); Department of Hematology and Oncology; Copenhagen University Hospital; Herlev, Denmark
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8
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Iżykowska K, Rassek K, Korsak D, Przybylski GK. Novel targeted therapies of T cell lymphomas. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:176. [PMID: 33384022 PMCID: PMC7775630 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-01006-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
T cell lymphomas (TCL) comprise a heterogeneous group of non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) that often present at an advanced stage at the time of diagnosis and that most commonly have an aggressive clinical course. Treatment in the front-line setting is most often cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP) or CHOP-like regimens, which are effective in B cell lymphomas, but in TCL are associated with a high failure rate and frequent relapses. Furthermore, in contrast to B cell NHL, in which substantial clinical progress has been made with the introduction of monoclonal antibodies, no comparable advances have been seen in TCL. To change this situation and improve the prognosis in TCL, new gene-targeted therapies must be developed. This is now possible due to enormous progress that has been made in the last years in the understanding of the biology and molecular pathogenesis of TCL, which enables the implementation of the research findings in clinical practice. In this review, we present new therapies and current clinical and preclinical trials on targeted treatments for TCL using histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi), antibodies, chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CARTs), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitors (PI3Ki), anaplastic lymphoma kinase inhibitors (ALKi), and antibiotics, used alone or in combinations. The recent clinical success of ALKi and conjugated anti-CD30 antibody (brentuximab-vedotin) suggests that novel therapies for TCL can significantly improve outcomes when properly targeted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Iżykowska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszyńska 32, 60-479, Poznań, Poland
| | - Karolina Rassek
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszyńska 32, 60-479, Poznań, Poland
| | - Dorota Korsak
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszyńska 32, 60-479, Poznań, Poland
| | - Grzegorz K Przybylski
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszyńska 32, 60-479, Poznań, Poland.
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9
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Rogers AM, Brammer JE. Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation and Adoptive Cell Therapy in Peripheral T Cell Lymphoma. Curr Hematol Malig Rep 2020; 15:316-332. [PMID: 32529515 DOI: 10.1007/s11899-020-00590-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Peripheral T cell lymphomas (PTCLs) are a heterogeneous group of diseases and represent approximately 10-15% of all non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Multiagent chemotherapy with a CHOP (cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, vincristine, prednisone)-like regimen is the current standard of care in the frontline setting, but outcomes for PTCL patients generally remain poor. Strategies used to improve survival and reduce the risk of relapse in PTCL patients include autologous hematopoietic cell transplant (autoHCT) and allogeneic HCT (alloHCT). Due to the relative rarity of these diseases, the evidence supporting the use of autoHCT and alloHCT is based on retrospective and single-arm prospective studies. Novel targeted therapies are now being incorporated into the treatment of PTCL, and they may play important roles in improving upon current standards of care. Herein, we summarize the evidence supporting HCT for the treatment of the most common PTCL histologic subtypes and highlight novel treatment strategies aimed at improving outcomes for these patients, including cutting-edge approaches using chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T). RECENT FINDINGS Given recent improvements in OS and PFS in CD30+ PTCL using the drug-antibody conjugate brentuximab vedotin (BV), new questions arise regarding the impact of BV on consolidative autoHCT, and its role as a maintenance therapy. Multiple histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) have been approved for the treatment of relapsed/refractory PTCL, and these agents are being incorporated into HCT approaches, both in the frontline and maintenance settings. Early data incorporating these agents into novel conditioning regimens have been reported, and emerging evidence from recent trials suggests that CART cell therapies may prove effective in relapsed/refractory PTCL. The recommended treatment strategy in non-ALK+ PTCL remains induction with a CHOP-like regimen followed by consolidative autoHCT in first remission. In the relapsed/refractory setting, salvage chemotherapy followed by HCT (autoHCT or alloHCT depending on histologic subtype and HCT history) offers the only potential for cure or long-term remission. Ample room for improvement remains in the treatment of patients with PTCL, and novel treatment strategies incorporating targeted agents and CAR-T therapy may help to address the unmet needs of this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Rogers
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, 320 West Tenth Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Jonathan E Brammer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, 320 West Tenth Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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10
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Ernst MPT, Broeders M, Herrero-Hernandez P, Oussoren E, van der Ploeg AT, Pijnappel WWMP. Ready for Repair? Gene Editing Enters the Clinic for the Treatment of Human Disease. Mol Ther Methods Clin Dev 2020; 18:532-557. [PMID: 32775490 PMCID: PMC7393410 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We present an overview of clinical trials involving gene editing using clustered interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), or zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) and discuss the underlying mechanisms. In cancer immunotherapy, gene editing is applied ex vivo in T cells, transgenic T cell receptor (tTCR)-T cells, or chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells to improve adoptive cell therapy for multiple cancer types. This involves knockouts of immune checkpoint regulators such as PD-1, components of the endogenous TCR and histocompatibility leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex to generate universal allogeneic CAR-T cells, and CD7 to prevent self-destruction in adoptive cell therapy. In cervix carcinoma caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), E6 and E7 genes are disrupted using topically applied gene editing machinery. In HIV infection, the CCR5 co-receptor is disrupted ex vivo to generate HIV-resistant T cells, CAR-T cells, or hematopoietic stem cells. In β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease, hematopoietic stem cells are engineered ex vivo to induce the production of fetal hemoglobin. AAV-mediated in vivo gene editing is applied to exploit the liver for systemic production of therapeutic proteins in hemophilia and mucopolysaccharidoses, and in the eye to restore splicing of the CEP920 gene in Leber's congenital amaurosis. Close consideration of safety aspects and education of stakeholders will be essential for a successful implementation of gene editing technology in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martijn P T Ernst
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mike Broeders
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Pablo Herrero-Hernandez
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Esmee Oussoren
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ans T van der Ploeg
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - W W M Pim Pijnappel
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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11
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Chen Q, Jia G, Zhao X, Bao Y, Zhang Y, Ozkan C, Minev B, Ma W. Novel Survivin Peptides Screened With Computer Algorithm Induce Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes With Higher Cytotoxic Efficiency to Cancer Cells. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 7:570003. [PMID: 33102521 PMCID: PMC7496070 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2020.570003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets in advanced cancer is critical for improving cancer diagnosis and therapeutics. Survivin (SV) is highly expressed predominantly in most cancer cells and tissues but is absent or undetectable in terminally differentiated normal adult tissues. Therefore, it functions as an almost universal tumor antigen. Peptides are short chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. To obtain novel SV decamers that are able to induce SV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) with a higher cytotoxic efficiency against cancer cells, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) peptide binding algorithms were conducted to predict nine modified SV95 decamers (from SV95–2 to SV95–10) based on the natural SV95–104 peptide sequence of ELTLGEFLKL (here defined as SV95–1). The fluorescent density of each SV95 peptide was determined by a MHC stability assay, followed by the generation of SV95-specific CTLs with each SV95 peptide (from SV95–1 to SV95–10) and human dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles encapsulated with SV95 peptide. Finally, IFN-γ ELISpot and CytoTox 96® Non-Radioactive Cytotoxicity Assays were employed to verify their cytotoxic efficiency of the SV95-specific CTLs generated with the corresponding artificial antigen presenting cells (aAPCs) containing SV95 (SV95–1 to SV95–10) peptide. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of the SV95 specific CTLs generated with nine mutated SV95 peptides was compared to the one generated with natural SV95–1 peptide and TIL2080 cells. The results indicated that the HLA-A2-restricted mutated SV95 epitope decamers (SV95–6 and SV95–7) showed significant higher binding ability compared to natural peptide SV95–1 in MHC stability assay. More importantly, SV95–specific CTLs with higher cytotoxicity were successfully induced with both SV95–6 and SV95–7 peptides, which significantly eliminated target cells (not only SV95–1 peptide pulsed T2 cells, but also both HLA-A2 and SV positive cancer cells) when compared to those generated with natural SV95–1 peptide and TIL2080 cells. These findings suggest that the SV95–6 and SV95–7 peptides are two novel HLA-A2-restricted CTL epitopes and may be useful for the immunotherapy for patients with survivin expressing cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuqiang Chen
- Key Laboratory for Translational Medicine, The First Hospital Affiliated to Huzhou University School of Medicine, Huzhou, China
| | - Gang Jia
- Department of Oncology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaolei Zhao
- Department of Urology, Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Ying Bao
- Key Laboratory for Translational Medicine, The First Hospital Affiliated to Huzhou University School of Medicine, Huzhou, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Materials Science and Engineering Program, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Cengiz Ozkan
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Boris Minev
- Department of Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Wenxue Ma
- Department of Medicine, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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12
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Abstract
Adoptive immunotherapy with engineered T cells is at the forefront of cancer treatment. T cells can be engineered to express T-cell receptors (TCRs) specific for tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) derived from intracellular or cell surface proteins. T cells engineered with TCRs (TCR-T) allow for targeting diverse types of TAAs, including proteins overexpressed in malignant cells, those with lineage-restricted expression, cancer-testis antigens, and neoantigens created from abnormal, malignancy-restricted proteins. Minor histocompatibility antigens can also serve as TAAs for TCR-T to treat relapsed hematologic malignancies after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Moreover, TCR constructs can be modified to improve safety and enhance function and persistence of TCR-T. Transgenic T-cell receptor therapies targeting 3 different TAAs are in early-phase clinical trials for treatment of hematologic malignancies. Preclinical studies of TCR-T specific for many other TAAs are underway and offer great promise as safe and effective therapies for a wide range of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda A Biernacki
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Michelle Brault
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
| | - Marie Bleakley
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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13
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Engelberts PJ, Hiemstra IH, de Jong B, Schuurhuis DH, Meesters J, Beltran Hernandez I, Oostindie SC, Neijssen J, van den Brink EN, Horbach GJ, Verploegen S, Labrijn AF, Salcedo T, Schuurman J, Parren PWHI, Breij ECW. DuoBody-CD3xCD20 induces potent T-cell-mediated killing of malignant B cells in preclinical models and provides opportunities for subcutaneous dosing. EBioMedicine 2020; 52:102625. [PMID: 31981978 PMCID: PMC6992935 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.102625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background DuoBody®-CD3xCD20 (GEN3013) is a full-length human IgG1 bispecific antibody (bsAb) recognizing CD3 and CD20, generated by controlled Fab-arm exchange. Its Fc domain was silenced by introduction of mutations L234F L235E D265A. Methods T-cell activation and T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity were measured by flow cytometry following co-culture with tumour cells. Anti-tumour activity of DuoBody-CD3xCD20 was assessed in humanized mouse models in vivo. Non-clinical safety studies were performed in cynomolgus monkeys. Findings DuoBody-CD3xCD20 induced highly potent T-cell activation and T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity towards malignant B cells in vitro. Comparison of DuoBody-CD3xCD20 to CD3 bsAb targeting alternative B-cell antigens, or to CD3xCD20 bsAb generated using alternative CD20 Ab, emphasized its exceptional potency. In vitro comparison with other CD3xCD20 bsAb in clinical development showed that DuoBody-CD3xCD20 was significantly more potent than three other bsAb with single CD3 and CD20 binding regions and equally potent as a bsAb with a single CD3 and two CD20 binding regions. DuoBody-CD3xCD20 showed promising anti-tumour activity in vivo, also in the presence of excess levels of a CD20 Ab that competes for binding. In cynomolgus monkeys, DuoBody-CD3xCD20 demonstrated profound and long-lasting B-cell depletion from peripheral blood and lymphoid organs, which was comparable after subcutaneous and intravenous administration. Peak plasma levels of DuoBody-CD3xCD20 were lower and delayed after subcutaneous administration, which was associated with a reduction in plasma cytokine levels compared to intravenous administration, while bioavailability was comparable. Interpretation Based on these preclinical studies, a clinical trial was initiated to assess the clinical safety of subcutaneous DuoBody-CD3xCD20 in patients with B-cell malignancies. Funding Genmab
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antibodies, Bispecific/genetics
- Antibodies, Bispecific/immunology
- Antibodies, Bispecific/pharmacology
- Antibody Specificity/immunology
- Antibody-Dependent Cell Cytotoxicity
- Antigens, CD20/metabolism
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/pharmacology
- CD3 Complex/metabolism
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
- Disease Models, Animal
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Female
- Humans
- Leukemia, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Leukemia, B-Cell/etiology
- Leukemia, B-Cell/pathology
- Lymphocyte Activation/immunology
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/drug therapy
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/etiology
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/pathology
- Macaca fascicularis
- Mice
- Mutation
- Recombinant Proteins
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Simone C Oostindie
- Genmab, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Dept of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Paul W H I Parren
- Genmab, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Dept of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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14
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Shirjang S, Alizadeh N, Mansoori B, Mahmoodpoor A, Kafil HS, Hojjat-Farsangi M, Yousefi M. Promising immunotherapy: Highlighting cytokine-induced killer cells. J Cell Biochem 2018; 120:8863-8883. [PMID: 30556298 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
For many years, cancer therapy has appeared to be a challenging issue for researchers and physicians. By the introduction of novel methods in immunotherapy, the prospect of cancer therapy even more explained than before. Cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cell-based immunotherapy demonstrated to have potentiality in improving clinical outcomes and relieving major side effects of standard treatment options. In addition, given the distinctive features such as high safety, low toxicity effects on healthy cells, numerous clinical trials conducted on CIK cells. Due to the shortcomings that observed in CIK cell immunotherapy alone, arising a tendency to make modifications (combined modality therapy or combination therapy) including the addition of various types of cytokines, genetic engineering, combination with immune checkpoints, and so on. In this review, we have tried to bring forth the latest immunotherapy methods and their overview. We have discussed the combination therapies with CIK cells and the conducted clinical trials. This helps the future studies to use integrated therapies with CIK cells as a promising treatment of many types of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solmaz Shirjang
- Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nazila Alizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Mansoori
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ata Mahmoodpoor
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Hojjat-Farsangi
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Immune and Gene therapy Lab, Cancer Center Karolinska (CCK), Karolinska University Hospital Solna and Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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15
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Breman E, Demoulin B, Agaugué S, Mauën S, Michaux A, Springuel L, Houssa J, Huberty F, Jacques-Hespel C, Marchand C, Marijsse J, Nguyen T, Ramelot N, Violle B, Daro D, De Waele P, Gilham DE, Steenwinckel V. Overcoming Target Driven Fratricide for T Cell Therapy. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2940. [PMID: 30619300 PMCID: PMC6299907 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cells expressing the fusion of the NKG2D protein with CD3ζ (NKG2D-CAR T Cells) acquire a specificity for stress-induced ligands expressed on hematological and solid cancers. However, these stress ligands are also transiently expressed by activated T cells implying that NKG2D-based T cells may undergo self-killing (fratricide) during cell manufacturing or during the freeze thaw cycle prior to infusion in patients. To avoid target-driven fratricide and enable the production of NKG2D-CAR T cells for clinical application, two distinct approaches were investigated. The first focused upon the inclusion of a Phosphoinositol-3-Kinase inhibitor (LY294002) into the production process. A second strategy involved the inclusion of antibody blockade of NKG2D itself. Both processes impacted T cell fratricide, albeit at different levels with the antibody process being the most effective in terms of cell yield. While both approaches generated comparable NKG2D-CAR T cells, there were subtle differences, for example in differentiation status, that were fine-tuned through the phasing of the inhibitor and antibody during culture in order to generate a highly potent NKG2D-CAR T cell product. By means of targeted inhibition of NKG2D expression or generic inhibition of enzyme function, target-driven CAR T fratricide can be overcome. These strategies have been incorporated into on-going clinical trials to enable a highly efficient and reproducible manufacturing process for NKG2D-CAR T cells.
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16
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Echchannaoui H, Petschenka J, Ferreira EA, Hauptrock B, Lotz-Jenne C, Voss RH, Theobald M. A Potent Tumor-Reactive p53-Specific Single-Chain TCR without On- or Off-Target Autoimmunity In Vivo. Mol Ther 2018; 27:261-271. [PMID: 30528087 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic engineering of T cells with a T cell receptor (TCR) targeting tumor antigen is a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy. Inefficient expression of the introduced TCR due to TCR mispairing may limit the efficacy and adversely affect the safety of TCR gene therapy. Here, we evaluated the safety and therapeutic efficiency of an optimized single-chain TCR (scTCR) specific for an HLA-A2.1-restricted (non-mutated) p53(264-272) peptide in adoptive T cell transfer (ACT) models using our unique transgenic mice expressing human p53 and HLA-A2.1 that closely mimic the human setting. Specifically, we showed that adoptive transfer of optimized scTCR-redirected T cells does not induce on-target and off-target autoimmunity. Furthermore, ACT resulted in full tumor protection and led to a long-lived effective, antigen-specific memory T cell response in syngeneic and xenograft models. Taken together, the study demonstrated that our scTCR specific for the broadly expressed tumor-associated antigen p53(264-272) can eradicate p53+A2.1+ tumor cells without inducing off-target or self-directed toxicities in mouse models of ACT. These data strongly support the improved safety and therapeutic efficacy of high-affinity p53scTCR for TCR-based immunotherapy of p53-associated malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakim Echchannaoui
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center (UMC) and University Cancer Center (UCT), Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; Research Center for Immunotherapy (FZI), University Medical Center (UMC), Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Frankfurt/Mainz, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Jutta Petschenka
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center (UMC) and University Cancer Center (UCT), Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Edite Antunes Ferreira
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center (UMC) and University Cancer Center (UCT), Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Beate Hauptrock
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center (UMC) and University Cancer Center (UCT), Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Carina Lotz-Jenne
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center (UMC) and University Cancer Center (UCT), Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Ralf-Holger Voss
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center (UMC) and University Cancer Center (UCT), Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Matthias Theobald
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, and Pneumology, University Medical Center (UMC) and University Cancer Center (UCT), Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; Research Center for Immunotherapy (FZI), University Medical Center (UMC), Johannes Gutenberg University, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany; German Consortium for Translational Cancer Research (DKTK), Frankfurt/Mainz, Germany; German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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17
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Baldauf MC, Gerke JS, Kirschner A, Blaeschke F, Effenberger M, Schober K, Rubio RA, Kanaseki T, Kiran MM, Dallmayer M, Musa J, Akpolat N, Akatli AN, Rosman FC, Özen Ö, Sugita S, Hasegawa T, Sugimura H, Baumhoer D, Knott MML, Sannino G, Marchetto A, Li J, Busch DH, Feuchtinger T, Ohmura S, Orth MF, Thiel U, Kirchner T, Grünewald TGP. Systematic identification of cancer-specific MHC-binding peptides with RAVEN. Oncoimmunology 2018; 7:e1481558. [PMID: 30228952 PMCID: PMC6140548 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2018.1481558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy can revolutionize anti-cancer therapy if specific targets are available. Immunogenic peptides encoded by cancer-specific genes (CSGs) may enable targeted immunotherapy, even of oligo-mutated cancers, which lack neo-antigens generated by protein-coding missense mutations. Here, we describe an algorithm and user-friendly software named RAVEN (Rich Analysis of Variable gene Expressions in Numerous tissues) that automatizes the systematic and fast identification of CSG-encoded peptides highly affine to Major Histocompatibility Complexes (MHC) starting from transcriptome data. We applied RAVEN to a dataset assembled from 2,678 simultaneously normalized gene expression microarrays comprising 50 tumor entities, with a focus on oligo-mutated pediatric cancers, and 71 normal tissue types. RAVEN performed a transcriptome-wide scan in each cancer entity for gender-specific CSGs, and identified several established CSGs, but also many novel candidates potentially suitable for targeting multiple cancer types. The specific expression of the most promising CSGs was validated in cancer cell lines and in a comprehensive tissue-microarray. Subsequently, RAVEN identified likely immunogenic CSG-encoded peptides by predicting their affinity to MHCs and excluded sequence identity to abundantly expressed proteins by interrogating the UniProt protein-database. The predicted affinity of selected peptides was validated in T2-cell peptide-binding assays in which many showed binding-kinetics like a very immunogenic influenza control peptide. Collectively, we provide an exquisitely curated catalogue of cancer-specific and highly MHC-affine peptides across 50 cancer types, and a freely available software (https://github.com/JSGerke/RAVENsoftware) to easily apply our algorithm to any gene expression dataset. We anticipate that our peptide libraries and software constitute a rich resource to advance anti-cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela C Baldauf
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia S Gerke
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Andreas Kirschner
- Children's Cancer Research Center, Technische Universität München (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Franziska Blaeschke
- Department of Pediatrics, Dr. von Hauner'sches Children's Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Manuel Effenberger
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technische Universität München (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Kilian Schober
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technische Universität München (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Rebeca Alba Rubio
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Merve M Kiran
- Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty, Yildirim Beyazit University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Marlene Dallmayer
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Julian Musa
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nurset Akpolat
- Department of Pathology, Turgut Ozal Medical Center, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Ayse N Akatli
- Department of Pathology, Turgut Ozal Medical Center, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Fernando C Rosman
- Department for Pathology, Hospital Municipal Jesus, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Özlem Özen
- Department of Pathology, Medical Faculty, Başkent University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Shintaro Sugita
- Department of Pathology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tadashi Hasegawa
- Department of Pathology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Sugimura
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Daniel Baumhoer
- Bone Tumor Reference Center, Institute of Pathology of the University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maximilian M L Knott
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Giuseppina Sannino
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Aruna Marchetto
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jing Li
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Dirk H Busch
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technische Universität München (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Feuchtinger
- Department of Pediatrics, Dr. von Hauner'sches Children's Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Shunya Ohmura
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin F Orth
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Uwe Thiel
- Children's Cancer Research Center, Technische Universität München (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Kirchner
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas G P Grünewald
- Faculty of Medicine, Max-Eder Research Group for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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18
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Circosta P, Vitaggio K, Elia AR, Todorovic M, Sangiolo D, Carnevale-Schianca F, Vallario A, Geuna M, Aglietta M, Cignetti A. Survivin-peptide vaccination elicits immune response after allogeneic nonmyeloablative transplantation: a safe strategy to enhance the graft versus tumor effect. Immunotherapy 2018; 10:753-767. [PMID: 30008257 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2017-0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is an adoptive immunotherapy strategy whose effectiveness relies on graft-versus-tumor (GVT) effect. We explored the feasibility of enhancing GVT after allo-HCT by peptide vaccination. Two myeloma patients were transplanted with a fludarabine-total body irradiation conditioning regimen and vaccinated with an HLA-A*0201-restricted modified survivin nonapeptide, plus montanide as adjuvant. At time of first vaccination, one patient had just attained serological remission despite documented relapse after transplant, while the other patient was in stable disease. Both patients had an immune response to vaccination: the frequency of survivin-specific CD8+ T cells increased between second and sixth vaccination and accounted for 0.5-0.8% of CD8+ cells; CD8+ cells were functional in ELISPOT assay. The first patient persists in complete remission with a follow-up of >5 years, while the second patient did not have a clinical response and vaccination was halted. We analyzed the T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire of the first patient by spectratyping and found that vaccination did not affect the diversity of TCR profile, indicating that survivin clonotypes were probably spread in multiple TCR families. We generated a limited number (n = 4) of survivin-specific T cell clones: three were reactive only against the modified peptide, whereas one clone recognized also the naive peptide. Peptide vaccination is safe and applicable after allo-HCT and elicits an efficient antigen-specific T cell response without causing graft-versus-host disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Circosta
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Katia Vitaggio
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Angela Rita Elia
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Maja Todorovic
- Laboratory of Medical Oncology-Experimental Cell Therapy, Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Dario Sangiolo
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Turin, Italy.,Laboratory of Medical Oncology-Experimental Cell Therapy, Candiolo Cancer Institute-FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Carnevale-Schianca
- Division of Medical Oncology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, University of Torino Medical School, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Antonella Vallario
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale Amedeo Avogadro, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Massimo Geuna
- Laboratory of Immunopathology Mauriziano Hospital & University of Torino, 10128 Turin, Italy
| | - Massimo Aglietta
- Division of Medical Oncology, Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, University of Torino Medical School, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cignetti
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, 10126 Turin, Italy.,University Division of Hematology & Cell Therapy, Mauriziano Umberto I Hospital & University of Torino, 10128 Turin, Italy
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19
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Jahn L, van der Steen DM, Hagedoorn RS, Hombrink P, Kester MGD, Schoonakker MP, de Ridder D, van Veelen PA, Falkenburg JHF, Heemskerk MHM. Generation of CD20-specific TCRs for TCR gene therapy of CD20low B-cell malignancies insusceptible to CD20-targeting antibodies. Oncotarget 2018; 7:77021-77037. [PMID: 27776339 PMCID: PMC5363567 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy of B-cell leukemia and lymphoma with CD20-targeting monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) has demonstrated clinical efficacy. However, the emergence of unresponsive disease due to low or absent cell surface CD20 urges the need to develop additional strategies. In contrast to mAbs, T-cells via their T-cell receptor (TCR) can recognize not only extracellular but also intracellular antigens in the context of HLA molecules. We hypothesized that T-cells equipped with high affinity CD20-targeting TCRs would be able to recognize B-cell malignancies even in the absence of extracellular CD20. We isolated CD8+ T-cell clones binding to peptide-MHC-tetramers composed of HLA-A*02:01 and CD20-derived peptide SLFLGILSV (CD20SLF) from HLA-A*02:01neg healthy individuals to overcome tolerance towards self-antigens such as CD20. High avidity T-cell clones were identified that readily recognized and lysed primary HLA-A2pos B-cell leukemia and lymphoma in the absence of reactivity against CD20-negative but HLA-A2pos healthy hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic cells. The T-cell clone with highest avidity efficiently lysed malignant cell-lines that had insufficient extracellular CD20 to be targeted by CD20 mAbs. Transfer of this TCR installed potent CD20-specificity onto recipient T-cells and led to lysis of CD20low malignant cell-lines. Moreover, our approach facilitates the generation of an off-the-shelf TCR library with broad applicability by targeting various HLA alleles. Using the same methodology, we isolated a T-cell clone that efficiently lysed primary HLA-B*07:02pos B-cell malignancies by targeting another CD20-derived peptide. TCR gene transfer of high affinity CD20-specific TCRs can be a valuable addition to current treatment options for patients suffering from CD20low B-cell malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenz Jahn
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk M van der Steen
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Renate S Hagedoorn
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Pleun Hombrink
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Hematopoiesis, Sanquin Research, 1006 AD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michel G D Kester
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Daniëlle de Ridder
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter A van Veelen
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.,Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Mirjam H M Heemskerk
- Department of Hematology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
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20
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Landoni E, Savoldo B. Treating hematological malignancies with cell therapy: where are we now? Expert Opin Biol Ther 2017; 18:65-75. [DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2018.1384810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Landoni
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Barbara Savoldo
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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21
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Bräunlein E, Krackhardt AM. Tools to define the melanoma-associated immunopeptidome. Immunology 2017; 152:536-544. [PMID: 28755382 DOI: 10.1111/imm.12803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies have been traditionally applied in malignant melanoma, which represent one of the most immunogenic tumours. Recently, immune checkpoint modulation has shown high therapeutic efficacy and may provide long-term survival in a significant proportion of affected patients. T cells are the major players in tumour rejection and recognize tumour cells predominantly in an MHC-dependent way. The immunopeptidome comprises the peptide repertoire presented by MHC class I and II molecules on the surface of the body's cells including tumour cells. To understand characteristics of suitable rejection antigens as well as respective effective T-cell responses, determination of the immunopeptidome is of utmost importance. Suitable rejection antigens need to be further characterized and validated not only to systematically improve current therapeutic approaches, but also to develop individualized treatment options. In this review, we report on current tools to explore the immunopeptidome in human melanoma and discuss current understanding and future developments to specifically detect and select those antigens that may be most relevant and promising for effective tumour rejection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Bräunlein
- Medizinische Klinik III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Angela M Krackhardt
- Medizinische Klinik III, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium of Translational Cancer Research (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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22
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Sontag ED. A Dynamic Model of Immune Responses to Antigen Presentation Predicts Different Regions of Tumor or Pathogen Elimination. Cell Syst 2017; 4:231-241.e11. [PMID: 28131824 PMCID: PMC5323365 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The immune system must discriminate between agents of disease and an organism's healthy cells. While the identification of an antigen as self/non-self is critically important, the dynamic features of antigen presentation may also determine the immune system's response. Here, we use a simple mathematical model of immune activation to explore the idea of antigen discrimination through dynamics. We propose that antigen presentation is coupled to two nodes, one regulatory and one effecting the immune response, through an incoherent feedforward loop and repressive feedback. This circuit would allow the immune system to effectively estimate the increase of antigens with respect to time, a key determinant of immune reactivity in vivo. Our model makes the prediction that tumors growing at specific rates evade the immune system despite the continuous presence of antigens indicating disease, a phenomenon closely related to clinically observed "two-zone tolerance." Finally, we discuss a plausible biological instantiation of our circuit using combinations of regulatory and effector T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo D Sontag
- Department of Mathematics and Center for Quantitative Biology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA.
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23
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TCR-based therapy for multiple myeloma and other B-cell malignancies targeting intracellular transcription factor BOB1. Blood 2017; 129:1284-1295. [PMID: 28053195 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2016-09-737536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy for hematological malignancies or solid tumors by administration of monoclonal antibodies or T cells engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors or T-cell receptors (TCRs) has demonstrated clinical efficacy. However, antigen-loss tumor escape variants and the absence of currently targeted antigens on several malignancies hamper the widespread application of immunotherapy. We have isolated a TCR targeting a peptide of the intracellular B cell-specific transcription factor BOB1 presented in the context of HLA-B*07:02. TCR gene transfer installed BOB1 specificity and reactivity onto recipient T cells. TCR-transduced T cells efficiently lysed primary B-cell leukemia, mantle cell lymphoma, and multiple myeloma in vitro. We also observed recognition and lysis of healthy BOB1-expressing B cells. In addition, strong BOB1-specific proliferation could be demonstrated for TCR-modified T cells upon antigen encounter. Furthermore, clear in vivo antitumor reactivity was observed of BOB1-specific TCR-engineered T cells in a xenograft mouse model of established multiple myeloma. Absence of reactivity toward a broad panel of BOB1- but HLA-B*07:02+ nonhematopoietic and hematopoietic cells indicated no off-target toxicity. Therefore, administration of BOB1-specific TCR-engineered T cells may provide novel cellular treatment options to patients with B-cell malignancies, including multiple myeloma.
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24
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Reeves E, James E. Antigen processing and immune regulation in the response to tumours. Immunology 2016; 150:16-24. [PMID: 27658710 DOI: 10.1111/imm.12675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2016] [Revised: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The MHC class I and II antigen processing and presentation pathways display peptides to circulating CD8+ cytotoxic and CD4+ helper T cells respectively to enable pathogens and transformed cells to be identified. Once detected, T cells become activated and either directly kill the infected / transformed cells (CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes) or orchestrate the activation of the adaptive immune response (CD4+ T cells). The immune surveillance of transformed/tumour cells drives alteration of the antigen processing and presentation pathways to evade detection and hence the immune response. Evasion of the immune response is a significant event tumour development and considered one of the hallmarks of cancer. To avoid immune recognition, tumours employ a multitude of strategies with most resulting in a down-regulation of the MHC class I expression at the cell surface, significantly impairing the ability of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes to recognize the tumour. Alteration of the expression of key players in antigen processing not only affects MHC class I expression but also significantly alters the repertoire of peptides being presented. These modified peptide repertoires may serve to further reduce the presentation of tumour-specific/associated antigenic epitopes to aid immune evasion and tumour progression. Here we review the modifications to the antigen processing and presentation pathway in tumours and how it affects the anti-tumour immune response, considering the role of tumour-infiltrating cell populations and highlighting possible future therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Reeves
- Cancer Sciences Unit, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Edward James
- Cancer Sciences Unit, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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25
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Kirschner A, Thiede M, Blaeschke F, Richter GH, Gerke JS, Baldauf MC, Grünewald TG, Busch DH, Burdach S, Thiel U. Lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein 1 predicts fratricide amongst T cell receptor transgenic CD8+ T cells directed against tumor-associated antigens. Oncotarget 2016; 7:56584-56597. [PMID: 27447745 PMCID: PMC5302936 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.10647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Autologous as well as allogeneic CD8+ T cells transduced with tumor antigen specific T cell receptors (TCR) may cause significant tumor lysis upon adoptive transfer. Besides unpredictable life-threatening off-target effects, these TCRs may unexpectedly commit fratricide. We hypothesized lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein 1 (LAMP1, CD107a) to be a marker for fratricide in TCR transgenic CD8+ T cells. METHODS We identified HLA-A*02:01/peptide-restricted T cells directed against ADRB3295. After TCR identification, we generated HLA-A*02:01/peptide restricted TCR transgenic T cells by retroviral transduction and tested T cell expansion rates as well as A*02:01/peptide recognition and ES killing in ELISpot and xCELLigence assays. Expansion arrest was analyzed via Annexin and CD107a staining. Results were compared to CHM1319-TCR transgenic T cells. RESULTS Beta-3-adrenergic receptor (ADRB3) as well as chondromodulin-1 (CHM1) are over-expressed in Ewing Sarcoma (ES) but not on T cells. TCR transgenic T cells demonstrated HLA-A*02:01/ADRB3295 mediated ES recognition and killing in ELISpot and xCELLigence assays. 24h after TCR transduction, CD107a expression correlated with low expansion rates due to apoptosis of ADRB3 specific T cells in contrast to CHM1 specific transgenic T cells. Amino-acid exchange scans clearly indicated the cross-reactive potential of HLA-A*02:01/ADRB3295- and HLA-A*02:01/CHM1319-TCR transgenic T cells. Comparison of peptide motive binding affinities revealed extended fratricide among ADRB3295 specific TCR transgenic T cells in contrast to CHM1319. CONCLUSION Amino-acid exchange scans alone predict TCR cross-reactivity with little specificity and thus require additional assessment of potentially cross-reactive HLA-A*02:01 binding candidates. CD107a positivity is a marker for fratricide of CD8+ TCR transgenic T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Kirschner
- Laboratory for Functional Genomics and Transplantation Biology, Departments of Pediatrics and Children's Cancer Research Center, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Melanie Thiede
- Laboratory for Functional Genomics and Transplantation Biology, Departments of Pediatrics and Children's Cancer Research Center, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Franziska Blaeschke
- Laboratory for Functional Genomics and Transplantation Biology, Departments of Pediatrics and Children's Cancer Research Center, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Laboratory for Immunotherapy, Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, Medical center of the LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Günther H.S. Richter
- Laboratory for Functional Genomics and Transplantation Biology, Departments of Pediatrics and Children's Cancer Research Center, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia S. Gerke
- Laboratory for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology of the LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michaela C. Baldauf
- Laboratory for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology of the LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas G.P. Grünewald
- Laboratory for Pediatric Sarcoma Biology, Institute of Pathology of the LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dirk H. Busch
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Burdach
- Laboratory for Functional Genomics and Transplantation Biology, Departments of Pediatrics and Children's Cancer Research Center, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Uwe Thiel
- Laboratory for Functional Genomics and Transplantation Biology, Departments of Pediatrics and Children's Cancer Research Center, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
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26
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Mensali N, Ying F, Sheng VOY, Yang W, Walseng E, Kumari S, Fallang LE, Kolstad A, Uckert W, Malmberg KJ, Wälchli S, Olweus J. Targeting B-cell neoplasia with T-cell receptors recognizing a CD20-derived peptide on patient-specific HLA. Oncoimmunology 2016; 5:e1138199. [PMID: 27467957 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2016.1138199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Revised: 12/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) targeted to CD19 are effective in treatment of B-lymphoid malignancies. However, CARs recognize all CD19 positive (pos) cells, and durable responses are linked to profound depletion of normal B cells. Here, we designed a strategy to specifically target patient B cells by utilizing the fact that T-cell receptors (TCRs), in contrast to CARs, are restricted by HLA. Two TCRs recognizing a peptide from CD20 (SLFLGILSV) in the context of foreign HLA-A*02:01 (CD20p/HLA-A2) were expressed as 2A-bicistronic constructs. T cells re-directed with the A23 and A94 TCR constructs efficiently recognized malignant HLA-A2(pos) B cells endogenously expressing CD20, including patient-derived follicular lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells. In contrast, a wide range of HLA-A2(pos)CD20(neg) cells representing different tissue origins, and HLA-A2(neg)CD20(pos) cells, were not recognized. Cytotoxic T cells re-directed with CD20p/HLA-A2-specific TCRs or CD19 CARs responded with similar potencies to cells endogenously expressing comparable levels of CD20 and CD19. The CD20p/HLA-A2-specific TCRs recognized CD20p bound to HLA-A2 with high functional avidity. The results show that T cells expressing CD20p/HLA-A2-specific TCRs efficiently and specifically target B cells. When used in context of an HLA-haploidentical allogeneic stem cell transplantation where the donor is HLA-A2(neg) and the patient HLA-A2(pos), these T cells would selectively kill patient-derived B cells and allow reconstitution of the B-cell compartment with HLA-A2(neg) donor cells. These results should pave the way for clinical testing of T cells genetically engineered to target malignant B cells without permanent depletion of normal B cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Mensali
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; K.G Jebsen Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Fan Ying
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; K.G Jebsen Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Vincent Oei Yi Sheng
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; K.G Jebsen Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Weiwen Yang
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; K.G Jebsen Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Even Walseng
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet , Oslo, Norway
| | - Shraddha Kumari
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; K.G Jebsen Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars-Egil Fallang
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet , Oslo, Norway
| | - Arne Kolstad
- K.G Jebsen Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Wolfgang Uckert
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine and Institute of Biology, Humboldt University , Berlin, Germany
| | - Karl Johan Malmberg
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; K.G Jebsen Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Center for Infectious Medicine, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sébastien Wälchli
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Department of Cell Therapy, Oslo University Hospital, Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Johanna Olweus
- Department of Cancer Immunology, Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital Radiumhospitalet, Oslo, Norway; K.G Jebsen Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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27
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Sandri S, Bobisse S, Moxley K, Lamolinara A, De Sanctis F, Boschi F, Sbarbati A, Fracasso G, Ferrarini G, Hendriks RW, Cavallini C, Scupoli MT, Sartoris S, Iezzi M, Nishimura MI, Bronte V, Ugel S. Feasibility of Telomerase-Specific Adoptive T-cell Therapy for B-cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Solid Malignancies. Cancer Res 2016; 76:2540-51. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-15-2318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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28
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Arsenic R, Braicu EI, Letsch A, Dietel M, Sehouli J, Keilholz U, Ochsenreither S. Cancer-testis antigen cyclin A1 is broadly expressed in ovarian cancer and is associated with prolonged time to tumor progression after platinum-based therapy. BMC Cancer 2015; 15:784. [PMID: 26499264 PMCID: PMC4619521 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-015-1824-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cyclin A1 is essential for male gametopoiesis. In acute myeloid leukemia, it acts as a leukemia-associated antigen. Cyclin A1 expression has been reported in several epithelial malignancies, including testicular, endometrial, and epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). We analyzed Cyclin A1 expression in EOC and its correlation with clinical features to evaluate Cyclin A1 as a T-cell target in EOC. METHODS Cyclin A1 mRNA expression in EOC and healthy tissues was quantified by microarray analysis and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Protein expression in clinical samples was assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and was correlated to clinical features. RESULTS Cyclin A1 protein was homogeneously expressed in 43 of 62 grade 3 tumor samples and in 1 of 10 grade 2 specimens (p < 0.001). Survival analysis showed longer time to progression (TTP) among patients with at least moderate Cyclin A1 expression (univariate: p = 0.018, multivariate: p = 0.035). FIGO stage, grading, age, macroscopic residual tumor after debulking, and peritoneal carcinomatosis / distant metastasis had no impact on TTP or overall survival (OS). CONCLUSION Cyclin A1 is highly expressed in most EOCs. The mechanism behind the prolonged TTP in patients with high Cyclin A1 expression warrants further investigation. The frequent, selectively high expression of Cyclin A1 in EOC makes it a promising target for T-cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruza Arsenic
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Charité - University Hospital Berlin, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Elena Ilona Braicu
- Departement of Gynecology, University Hospital Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Anne Letsch
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology - University Hospital Berlin, 12200, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Manfred Dietel
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Charité - University Hospital Berlin, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Jalid Sehouli
- Departement of Gynecology, University Hospital Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Ulrich Keilholz
- Charité Cancer Comprehensive Center, Charité, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Sebastian Ochsenreither
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology - University Hospital Berlin, 12200, Berlin, Germany.
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29
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Anguille S, Smits EL, Bryant C, Van Acker HH, Goossens H, Lion E, Fromm PD, Hart DN, Van Tendeloo VF, Berneman ZN. Dendritic Cells as Pharmacological Tools for Cancer Immunotherapy. Pharmacol Rev 2015; 67:731-53. [DOI: 10.1124/pr.114.009456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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30
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Tan MP, Gerry AB, Brewer JE, Melchiori L, Bridgeman JS, Bennett AD, Pumphrey NJ, Jakobsen BK, Price DA, Ladell K, Sewell AK. T cell receptor binding affinity governs the functional profile of cancer-specific CD8+ T cells. Clin Exp Immunol 2015; 180:255-70. [PMID: 25496365 PMCID: PMC4408161 DOI: 10.1111/cei.12570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Antigen-specific T cell receptor (TCR) gene transfer via patient-derived T cells is an attractive approach to cancer therapy, with the potential to circumvent immune regulatory networks. However, high-affinity tumour-specific TCR clonotypes are typically deleted from the available repertoire during thymic selection because the vast majority of targeted epitopes are derived from autologous proteins. This process places intrinsic constraints on the efficacy of T cell-based cancer vaccines and therapeutic strategies that employ naturally generated tumour-specific TCRs. In this study, we used altered peptide ligands and lentivirus-mediated transduction of affinity-enhanced TCRs selected by phage display to study the functional properties of CD8(+) T cells specific for three different tumour-associated peptide antigens across a range of binding parameters. The key findings were: (i) TCR affinity controls T cell antigen sensitivity and polyfunctionality; (ii) supraphysiological affinity thresholds exist, above which T cell function cannot be improved; and (iii) T cells transduced with very high-affinity TCRs exhibit cross-reactivity with self-derived peptides presented by the restricting human leucocyte antigen. Optimal system-defined affinity windows above the range established for natural tumour-specific TCRs therefore allow the enhancement of T cell effector function without off-target effects. These findings have major implications for the rational design of novel TCR-based biologics underpinned by rigorous preclinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M P Tan
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
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31
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A T-cell-directed chimeric antigen receptor for the selective treatment of T-cell malignancies. Blood 2015; 126:983-92. [PMID: 26056165 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2015-02-629527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Options for targeted therapy of T-cell malignancies remain scarce. Recent clinical trials demonstrated that chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) can effectively redirect T lymphocytes to eradicate lymphoid malignancies of B-cell origin. However, T-lineage neoplasms remain a more challenging task for CAR T cells due to shared expression of most targetable surface antigens between normal and malignant T cells, potentially leading to fratricide of CAR T cells or profound immunodeficiency. Here, we report that T cells transduced with a CAR targeting CD5, a common surface marker of normal and neoplastic T cells, undergo only limited fratricide and can be expanded long-term ex vivo. These CD5 CAR T cells effectively eliminate malignant T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and T-cell lymphoma lines in vitro and significantly inhibit disease progression in xenograft mouse models of T-ALL. These data support the therapeutic potential of CD5 CAR in patients with T-cell neoplasms.
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32
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Liikanen I, Koski A, Merisalo-Soikkeli M, Hemminki O, Oksanen M, Kairemo K, Joensuu T, Kanerva A, Hemminki A. Serum HMGB1 is a predictive and prognostic biomarker for oncolytic immunotherapy. Oncoimmunology 2015; 4:e989771. [PMID: 25949903 PMCID: PMC4404794 DOI: 10.4161/2162402x.2014.989771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
With the emergence of effective immunotherapeutics, which nevertheless harbor the potential for toxicity and are expensive to use, biomarkers are urgently needed for identification of cancer patients who respond to treatment. In this clinical-epidemiological study of 202 cancer patients treated with oncolytic adenoviruses, we address the biomarker value of serum high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein. Overall survival and imaging responses were studied as primary endpoints and adjusted for confounding factors in two multivariate analyses (Cox and logistic regression). Mechanistic studies included assessment of circulating tumor-specific T-cells by ELISPOT, virus replication by quantitative PCR, and inflammatory cytokines by cytometric bead array. Patients with low HMGB1 baseline levels (below median concentration) showed significantly improved survival (p = 0.008, Log-Rank test) and radiological disease control rate (49.2% vs. 30.0%, p = 0.038, χ2 test) as compared to high-baseline patients. In multivariate analyses, the low HMGB1 baseline status was a strong prognostic (HR 0.638, 95% CI 0.462–0.881) and the best predictive factor for disease control (OR 2.618, 95% CI 1.004–6.827). Indicative of an immune-mediated mechanism, antitumor T-cell activity in blood and response to immunogenic-transgene coding viruses associated with improved outcome only in HMGB1-low patients. Our results suggest that serum HMGB1 baseline is a useful prognostic and predictive biomarker for oncolytic immunotherapy with adenoviruses, setting the stage for prospective clinical studies.
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Key Words
- ATAP, Advanced Therapy Access Program; CD40L, CD40-ligand; CI, confidence interval; CT, contrast-enhanced computed tomography; DAMP, damage-associated molecular pattern; GMCSF, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor; HMGB1, high-mobility group box 1; HR, hazard ratio; IL-6, -8, -10, interleukin-6, -8, -10; ILT2, immunoglobulin-like transcript 2; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; OR, odds ratio; PET, positron emission tomography; RECIST, Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors; TNF-a, tumor-necrosis factor-α; WHO, World Health Organization.
- HMGB1
- cancer
- immunotherapy
- oncolytic adenovirus
- predictive markers
- prognostic markers
- tumor biomarkers
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilkka Liikanen
- Transplantation laboratory; Cancer Gene Therapy Group (CGTG); Haartman Institute; University of Helsinki ; Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anniina Koski
- Transplantation laboratory; Cancer Gene Therapy Group (CGTG); Haartman Institute; University of Helsinki ; Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maiju Merisalo-Soikkeli
- Transplantation laboratory; Cancer Gene Therapy Group (CGTG); Haartman Institute; University of Helsinki ; Helsinki, Finland
| | - Otto Hemminki
- Transplantation laboratory; Cancer Gene Therapy Group (CGTG); Haartman Institute; University of Helsinki ; Helsinki, Finland
| | - Minna Oksanen
- Transplantation laboratory; Cancer Gene Therapy Group (CGTG); Haartman Institute; University of Helsinki ; Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | - Anna Kanerva
- Transplantation laboratory; Cancer Gene Therapy Group (CGTG); Haartman Institute; University of Helsinki ; Helsinki, Finland ; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; HUCH , Helsinki, Finland
| | - Akseli Hemminki
- Transplantation laboratory; Cancer Gene Therapy Group (CGTG); Haartman Institute; University of Helsinki ; Helsinki, Finland ; TILT Biotherapeutics Ltd. ; Helsinki, Finland
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Thymic expression of a T-cell receptor targeting a tumor-associated antigen coexpressed in the thymus induces T-ALL. Blood 2015; 125:2958-67. [PMID: 25814528 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2014-10-609271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
T-cell receptors (TCRs) and chimeric antigen receptors recognizing tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) can now be engineered to be expressed on a wide array of immune effectors. Engineered receptors targeting TAAs have most commonly been expressed on mature T cells, however, some have postulated that receptor expression on immune progenitors could yield T cells with enhanced potency. We generated mice (survivin-TCR-transgenic [Sur-TCR-Tg]) expressing a TCR recognizing the immunodominant epitope (Sur20-28) of murine survivin during early stages of thymopoiesis. Spontaneous T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) occurred in 100% of Sur-TCR-Tg mice derived from 3 separate founders. The leukemias expressed the Sur-TCR and signaled in response to the Sur20-28 peptide. In preleukemic mice, we observed increased cycling of double-negative thymocytes expressing the Sur-TCR and increased nuclear translocation of nuclear factor of activated T cells, consistent with TCR signaling induced by survivin expression in the murine thymus. β2M(-/-) Sur-TCR-Tg mice, which cannot effectively present survivin peptides on class I major histocompatibility complex, had significantly diminished rates of leukemia. We conclude that TCR signaling during the early stages of thymopoiesis mediates an oncogenic signal, and therefore expression of signaling receptors on developing thymocytes with specificity for TAAs expressed in the thymus could pose a risk for neoplasia, independent of insertional mutagenesis.
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Lorenz FKM, Wilde S, Voigt K, Kieback E, Mosetter B, Schendel DJ, Uckert W. Codon optimization of the human papillomavirus E7 oncogene induces a CD8+ T cell response to a cryptic epitope not harbored by wild-type E7. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0121633. [PMID: 25799237 PMCID: PMC4370481 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0121633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Codon optimization of nucleotide sequences is a widely used method to achieve high levels of transgene expression for basic and clinical research. Until now, immunological side effects have not been described. To trigger T cell responses against human papillomavirus, we incubated T cells with dendritic cells that were pulsed with RNA encoding the codon-optimized E7 oncogene. All T cell receptors isolated from responding T cell clones recognized target cells expressing the codon-optimized E7 gene but not the wild type E7 sequence. Epitope mapping revealed recognition of a cryptic epitope from the +3 alternative reading frame of codon-optimized E7, which is not encoded by the wild type E7 sequence. The introduction of a stop codon into the +3 alternative reading frame protected the transgene product from recognition by T cell receptor gene-modified T cells. This is the first experimental study demonstrating that codon optimization can render a transgene artificially immunogenic through generation of a dominant cryptic epitope. This finding may be of great importance for the clinical field of gene therapy to avoid rejection of gene-corrected cells and for the design of DNA- and RNA-based vaccines, where codon optimization may artificially add a strong immunogenic component to the vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Susanne Wilde
- Institute for Molecular Immunology, Helmholtz-Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Katrin Voigt
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elisa Kieback
- Institute of Biology, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Barbara Mosetter
- Institute for Molecular Immunology, Helmholtz-Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Dolores J. Schendel
- Institute for Molecular Immunology, Helmholtz-Zentrum München, Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Uckert
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Biology, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
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35
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Therapeutic targeting of the BCR-associated protein CD79b in a TCR-based approach is hampered by aberrant expression of CD79b. Blood 2015; 125:949-58. [DOI: 10.1182/blood-2014-07-587840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Key Points
B-cell malignancies were efficiently recognized by T cells expressing high-affinity alloHLA-restricted TCRs specific for CD79b. Aberrant expression of CD79b in non–B cells caused unwanted reactivity, rendering CD79b unsuitable for TCR-based immunotherapies.
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36
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Ghorashian S, Veliça P, Chua I, McNicol AM, Carpenter B, Holler A, Nicholson E, Ahmadi M, Zech M, Xue SA, Uckert W, Morris E, Chakraverty R, Stauss HJ. CD8 T cell tolerance to a tumor-associated self-antigen is reversed by CD4 T cells engineered to express the same T cell receptor. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2014; 194:1080-9. [PMID: 25539815 PMCID: PMC4298128 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1401703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Ag receptors used for cancer immunotherapy are often directed against tumor-associated Ags also expressed in normal tissues. Targeting of such Ags can result in unwanted autoimmune attack of normal tissues or induction of tolerance in therapeutic T cells. We used a murine model to study the phenotype and function of T cells redirected against the murine double minute protein 2 (MDM2), a tumor-associated Ag that shows low expression in many normal tissues. Transfer of MDM2-TCR–engineered T cells into bone marrow chimeric mice revealed that Ag recognition in hematopoietic tissues maintained T cell function, whereas presentation of MDM2 in nonhematopoietic tissues caused reduced effector function. TCR-engineered CD8+ T cells underwent rapid turnover, downmodulated CD8 expression, and lost cytotoxic function. We found that MDM2-TCR–engineered CD4+ T cells provided help and restored cytotoxic function of CD8+ T cells bearing the same TCR. Although the introduction of the CD8 coreceptor enhanced the ability of CD4+ T cells to recognize MDM2 in vitro, the improved self-antigen recognition abolished their ability to provide helper function in vivo. The data indicate that the same class I–restricted TCR responsible for Ag recognition and tolerance induction in CD8+ T cells can, in the absence of the CD8 coreceptor, elicit CD4 T cell help and partially reverse tolerance. Thus MHC class I–restricted CD4+ T cells may enhance the efficacy of therapeutic TCR-engineered CD8+ T cells and can be readily generated with the same TCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ghorashian
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom; Transplantation Immunology Group, Department of Haematology, Division of Cancer Studies, University College London, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom; and
| | - Pedro Veliça
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom; Transplantation Immunology Group, Department of Haematology, Division of Cancer Studies, University College London, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom; and
| | - Ignatius Chua
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Anne-Marie McNicol
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Carpenter
- Transplantation Immunology Group, Department of Haematology, Division of Cancer Studies, University College London, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom; and
| | - Angelika Holler
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Nicholson
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Maryam Ahmadi
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Mathias Zech
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Shao-An Xue
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Wolfgang Uckert
- Institute of Biology, Humboldt University Berlin and Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Emma Morris
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom
| | - Ronjon Chakraverty
- Transplantation Immunology Group, Department of Haematology, Division of Cancer Studies, University College London, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom; and
| | - Hans J Stauss
- Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, University College London, Royal Free Hospital, London NW3 2PF, United Kingdom;
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Peptide-Based Vaccination and Induction of CD8+ T-Cell Responses Against Tumor Antigens in Breast Cancer. BioDrugs 2014; 29:15-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s40259-014-0114-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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38
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Arber C, Feng X, Abhyankar H, Romero E, Wu MF, Heslop HE, Barth P, Dotti G, Savoldo B. Survivin-specific T cell receptor targets tumor but not T cells. J Clin Invest 2014; 125:157-68. [PMID: 25415440 DOI: 10.1172/jci75876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Survivin is a tumor-associated antigen (TAA) that inhibits apoptosis and is widely overexpressed in cancer cells; therefore, survivin has potential as a target for cancer immunotherapy. Application of HLA-A2-restricted survivin-specific T cell receptors (TCRs) isolated from allogeneic HLA-mismatched TCR repertoires has, however, been impeded by the inability of these TCRs to distinguish healthy cells expressing low levels of survivin from cancer cells with high survivin expression levels. Here, we identified an HLA-A2-restricted survivin-specific TCR isolated from autologous TCR repertoires that targets tumor cells in vitro and in vivo but does not cause fratricidal toxicity. Molecular modeling of the TCR-peptide-HLA ternary complexes and alanine scanning revealed that the autologously derived TCRs had tighter interactions with the survivin peptide than did fratricidal TCRs. Similar recognition patterns were observed among 7 additional TAA-specific TCRs isolated from allogeneic versus autologous repertoires. Together, the results from this study indicate that maximal peptide recognition is key for TCR selectivity and likely critical for reducing unwanted off-target toxicities. Moreover, isolating TCRs from autologous repertoires to maximize TCR selectivity has potential as a useful strategy to identify and select other shared tumor- and self-antigen-specific TCRs and ensure selective antitumor activity.
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39
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Snauwaert S, Vandekerckhove B, Kerre T. Can immunotherapy specifically target acute myeloid leukemic stem cells? Oncoimmunology 2014; 2:e22943. [PMID: 23526057 PMCID: PMC3601163 DOI: 10.4161/onci.22943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence supports the role of leukemic stem cells (LSCs) in the high relapse rate of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. The clinical relevance of LSCs, which were originally characterized in xenograft models, has recently been confirmed by the finding that stem cell-like gene expression signatures can predict the clinical outcome of AML patients. The targeted elimination of LSCs might hence constitute an efficient therapeutic approach to AML. Here, we review immunotherapeutic strategies that target LSC-associated antigens, including T cell-mediated and monoclonal antibody-based regimens. Attention is given to the issue of antigen specificity because this is relevant to the therapeutic window and determines the superiority of LSC-targeting immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Snauwaert
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology and Immunology; Ghent University Hospital; Ghent, Belgium
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40
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Schendel DJ, Frankenberger B. Limitations for TCR gene therapy by MHC-restricted fratricide and TCR-mediated hematopoietic stem cell toxicity. Oncoimmunology 2014; 2:e22410. [PMID: 23483031 PMCID: PMC3583918 DOI: 10.4161/onci.22410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical use of lymphocytes engineered to express high affinity T-cell receptors (TCRs) specific for two broadly expressed tumor-associated antigens is strongly limited by MHC-restricted fratricide of lymphocytes and TCR-mediated killing of hematopoietic stem cells. Specific clinical applications must therefore be conceived to bypass these limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dolores J Schendel
- Institute of Molecular Immunology; Helmholtz Zentrum München; German Research Center for Environmental Health; Munich, Germany ; Clinical Cooperation Group "Immune Monitoring"; Helmholtz Zentrum München; German Research Center for Environmental Health; Munich, Germany
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41
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Zang YW, Gu XD, Xiang JB, Chen ZY. Clinical application of adoptive T cell therapy in solid tumors. Med Sci Monit 2014; 20:953-9. [PMID: 24912947 PMCID: PMC4063985 DOI: 10.12659/msm.890496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
As an emerging therapeutic approach, adoptive T cell therapy shown promise in advanced solid malignancies. The results obtained in patients with metastatic melanoma and kidney cancer are encouraging because of the visible clinical benefits and limited adverse effects. Recently, the genetically-modified T cells expressing specific T cell receptors or chimeric antigen receptors are just now entering the clinical arena and show great potential for high avidity to tumor-associated antigens and long-lasting anti-tumor responses. However, continued investigations are necessary to improve the cell product quality so as to decrease adverse effects and clinical costs, and make adoptive T cell therapy a tool of choice for solid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Wen Zang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Xiao-Dong Gu
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Jian-Bin Xiang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (mainland)
| | - Zong-You Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China (mainland)
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42
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Lennerz V, Gross S, Gallerani E, Sessa C, Mach N, Boehm S, Hess D, von Boehmer L, Knuth A, Ochsenbein AF, Gnad-Vogt U, Zieschang J, Forssmann U, Woelfel T, Kaempgen E. Immunologic response to the survivin-derived multi-epitope vaccine EMD640744 in patients with advanced solid tumors. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2014; 63:381-94. [PMID: 24487961 PMCID: PMC11029529 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-013-1516-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Survivin is a member of the inhibitor-of-apoptosis family. Essential for tumor cell survival and overexpressed in most cancers, survivin is a promising target for anti-cancer immunotherapy. Immunogenicity has been demonstrated in multiple cancers. Nonetheless, few clinical trials have demonstrated survivin-vaccine-induced immune responses. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN This phase I trial was conducted to test whether vaccine EMD640744, a cocktail of five HLA class I-binding survivin peptides in Montanide(®) ISA 51 VG, promotes anti-survivin T-cell responses in patients with solid cancers. The primary objective was to compare immunologic efficacy of EMD640744 at doses of 30, 100, and 300 μg. Secondary objectives included safety, tolerability, and clinical efficacy. RESULTS In total, 49 patients who received ≥2 EMD640744 injections with available baseline- and ≥1 post-vaccination samples [immunologic-diagnostic (ID)-intention-to-treat] were analyzed by ELISpot- and peptide/MHC-multimer staining, revealing vaccine-activated peptide-specific T-cell responses in 31 patients (63 %). This cohort included the per study protocol relevant ID population for the primary objective, i.e., T-cell responses by ELISpot in 17 weeks following first vaccination, as well as subjects who discontinued the study before week 17 but showed responses to the treatment. No dose-dependent effects were observed. In the majority of patients (61 %), anti-survivin responses were detected only after vaccination, providing evidence for de novo induction. Best overall tumor response was stable disease (28 %). EMD640744 was well tolerated; local injection-site reactions constituted the most frequent adverse event. CONCLUSIONS Vaccination with EMD640744 elicited T-cell responses against survivin peptides in the majority of patients, demonstrating the immunologic efficacy of EMD640744.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Lennerz
- III. Medical Clinic/Hematology/Oncology, Verfügungsgebäude f. Forschung and Entwicklung, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher Straße 63, 55131, Mainz, Germany,
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43
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Alloreactive cytotoxic T cells provide means to decipher the immunopeptidome and reveal a plethora of tumor-associated self-epitopes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 111:403-8. [PMID: 24344295 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1306549111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
HLA molecules presenting peptides derived from tumor-associated self-antigens (self-TAA) are attractive targets for T-cell-based immunotherapy of cancer. However, detection of such epitopes is hampered by self-tolerance and limitations in the sensitivity of mass spectrometry. Here, we used T cells from HLA-A2-negative donors as tools to detect HLA-A2-bound peptides from two leukemia-associated differentiation antigens; CD20 and the previously undescribed cancer target myeloperoxidase. A high-throughput platform for epitope discovery was designed using dendritic cells cotransfected with full-length transcripts of self-TAA and HLA-A2 to allow presentation of all naturally processed peptides from a predefined self-protein on foreign HLA. Antigen-reactive T cells were directly detected using panels of color-coded peptide-HLA multimers containing epitopes predicted by a computer algorithm. Strikingly, cytotoxic T cells were generated against 37 out of 50 peptides predicted to bind HLA-A2. Among these, 36 epitopes were previously undescribed. The allorestricted T cells were exquisitely peptide- and HLA-specific and responded strongly to HLA-A2-positive leukemic cells with endogenous expression of CD20 or myeloperoxidase. These results indicate that the repertoire of self-peptides presented on HLA class I has been underestimated and that a wealth of self-TAA can be targeted by T cells when using nontolerized T-cell repertoires.
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44
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Stärck L, Popp K, Pircher H, Uckert W. Immunotherapy with TCR-Redirected T Cells: Comparison of TCR-Transduced and TCR-Engineered Hematopoietic Stem Cell–Derived T Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 192:206-13. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1202591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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45
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Engineered T cells for cancer treatment. Cytotherapy 2013; 16:713-33. [PMID: 24239105 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Revised: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 10/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Adoptively transferred T cells have the capacity to traffic to distant tumor sites, infiltrate fibrotic tissue and kill antigen-expressing tumor cells. Various groups have investigated different genetic engineering strategies designed to enhance tumor specificity, increase T cell potency, improve proliferation, persistence or migratory capacity and increase safety. This review focuses on recent developments in T cell engineering, discusses the clinical application of these engineered cell products and outlines future prospects for this therapeutic modality.
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46
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Lee WT. Dendritic cell vaccines targeting survivin in head and neck cancer. Immunotherapy 2013; 5:1169-71. [PMID: 24188670 DOI: 10.2217/imt.13.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Evaluation of: Turksma AW, Bontkes HJ, Ruizendaal JJ et al. Exploring dendritic cell based vaccines targeting survivin for the treatment of head and neck cancer patients. J. Transl. Med. 11, 152-165 (2013). Survivin has been identified to be an inhibitor of apoptosis and is highly expressed in many cancers. A number of strategies have targeted survivin as a novel cancer therapy approach. The evaluated paper makes a number of observations regarding the presence of survivin-specific T cells, as well as attempts for in vitro expansion. The research team has shown that survivin-specific T cells can be measured ex vivo in the peripheral blood of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by tetramer analysis and from the tumor-draining lymph node of a patient with locally advanced breast cancer by ELIspot analysis. Furthermore, dendritic cells electroporated with survivin and cytokine (i.e., IL-12 and IL-21) mRNA can be used to generate survivin-specific T cells in vitro. However, the enriched or cloned survivin-specific T cells isolated from patients or obtained by in vitro induction could not be maintained for prolonged periods of time. The study team proposed that one explanation for this is fracticide, as activated T cells were shown to express survivin. The evaluated paper therefore concluded that strategies that rely on expansion and adoptive transfer of survivin-specific T cells would not be possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter T Lee
- Section of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC 27705, USA and Division of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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47
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Abstract
Over-expression of the proto-oncogene c-MYC is frequently observed in a variety of tumors and is a hallmark of Burkitt´s lymphoma. The fact that many tumors are oncogene-addicted to c-MYC, renders c-MYC a powerful target for anti-tumor therapy. Using a xenogenic vaccination strategy by immunizing C57BL/6 mice with human c-MYC protein or non-homologous peptides, we show that the human c-MYC protein, despite its high homology between mouse and man, contains several immunogenic epitopes presented in the context of murine H2b haplotype. We identified an MHC class II-restricted CD4+ T-cell epitope and therein an MHC class I-restricted CD8+ T-cell epitope (SSPQGSPEPL) that, after prime/boost immunization, protected up to 25% of mice against a lethal lymphoma challenge. Lymphoma-rejecting animals contained MHC multimer-binding CD8+ cell within the peripheral blood and displayed in vivo cytolytic activity with specificity for SSPQGSPEPL. Taken together these data suggest that oncogenic c-MYC can be targeted with specific T-cells.
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48
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Luke GA, Ryan MD. The protein coexpression problem in biotechnology and biomedicine: virus 2A and 2A-like sequences provide a solution. Future Virol 2013. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl.13.82] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic biology enables us to create genes virtually at will. Ensuring that multiple genes are efficiently coexpressed within the same cell in order to assemble multimeric complexes, transfer biochemical pathways and transfer traits is more problematic. Viruses such as picornaviruses accomplish exactly this task: they generate multiple different proteins from a single open reading frame. The study of how foot-and-mouth disease virus controls its protein biogenesis led to the discovery of a short oligopeptide sequence, ‘2A’, that is able to mediate a cotranslational cleavage between proteins. 2A and ‘2A-like’ sequences (from other viruses and cellular sequences) can be used to concatenate multiple gene sequences into a single gene, ensuring their coexpression within the same cell. These sequences are now being used in the treatment of cancer, in the production of pluripotent stem cells, and to create transgenic plants and animals among a host of other biotechnological and biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garry A Luke
- Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, Fife, Scotland, KY16 9ST, UK
| | - Martin D Ryan
- Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, Fife, Scotland, KY16 9ST, UK
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49
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Abstract
Gene therapy as a treatment for cancer is regarded as high in promise, but low in delivery, a deficiency that has become more obvious with ever-increasing reports of the successful correction of monogenic disorders by this approach. We review the commercial and scientific obstacles that have led to these delays and describe how they are progressively being overcome. Recent and striking successes and correspondingly increased commercial involvement suggest that gene transfer could finally become a powerful method for development of safe and effective cancer therapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm K Brenner
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, The Methodist Hospital and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Stephen Gottschalk
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, The Methodist Hospital and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ann M Leen
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, The Methodist Hospital and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Juan F Vera
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, The Methodist Hospital and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Abstract
T cells have the capacity to eradicate diseased cells, but tumours present considerable challenges that render T cells ineffectual. Cancer cells often make themselves almost 'invisible' to the immune system, and they sculpt a microenvironment that suppresses T cell activity, survival and migration. Genetic engineering of T cells can be used therapeutically to overcome these challenges. T cells can be taken from the blood of cancer patients and then modified with genes encoding receptors that recognize cancer-specific antigens. Additional genes can be used to enable resistance to immunosuppression, to extend survival and to facilitate the penetration of engineered T cells into tumours. Using genetic modification, highly active, self-propagating 'slayers' of cancer cells can be generated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Kershaw
- Cancer Immunology Research Program, Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia. michael.kershaw@ petermac.org
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