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Zhu Y, Zhou M, Li C, Kong W, Hu Y. Gastric cancer with brain metastasis: from molecular characteristics and treatment. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1310325. [PMID: 38577333 PMCID: PMC10991736 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1310325] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer is one of the cancers with increasing incidence and ranks fourth globally among the most frequent causes of cancer-related mortality. Early gastric cancer is often asymptomatic or presents with atypical symptoms, and the majority of patients present with advanced disease upon diagnosis. Brain metastases are present in approximately 1% of gastric cancer patients at the time of diagnosis, which significantly contributed to the overall mortality of the disease worldwide. Conventional therapies for patients with brain metastases remain limited and the median overall survival of patients is only 8 months in advanced cases. Recent studies have improved our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying gastric cancer brain metastases, and immunotherapy has become an important treatment option in combination with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and surgery. This review aims to provide insight into the cellular processes involved in gastric cancer brain metastases, discuss diagnostic approaches, evaluate the integration of immune checkpoint inhibitors into treatment and prognosis, and explore the predictive value of biomarkers in immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingze Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Miao Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Tang Shan Central Hospital, Tangshan, China
| | - Congling Li
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Wenyue Kong
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yuning Hu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
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2
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Sakai A, Ebisumoto K, Iijima H, Yamauchi M, Maki D, Fukuzawa T, Okami K. Abscopal effect in maxillary sinus cancer: Insights from two case reports and a literature review. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e1994. [PMID: 38351554 PMCID: PMC10864721 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The abscopal effect is a rare phenomenon in which localized radiation therapy triggers tumor reduction in nontargeted areas. Although this phenomenon has been observed in various cancer types, it remains infrequent and not fully understood. CASE Two patients with maxillary sinus cancer with distant metastases were treated with radiotherapy after immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. The patients demonstrated abscopal effects following ICI therapy and radiotherapy, showing shrinkage in metastatic areas not directly targeted by radiation. CONCLUSION This report was reviewed to examine the synergistic effects of ICI and radiotherapy and to identify optimal strategies to enhance the abscopal effect in clinical practice. It has also touched on various ongoing debates and clinical trials aimed at understanding and exploiting this effect to improve cancer treatment. The exact mechanisms and optimal treatment protocols remain areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Sakai
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokai University, School of MedicineIseharaJapan
| | - Koji Ebisumoto
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokai University, School of MedicineIseharaJapan
| | - Hiroaki Iijima
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokai University, School of MedicineIseharaJapan
| | - Mayu Yamauchi
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokai University, School of MedicineIseharaJapan
| | - Daisuke Maki
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokai University, School of MedicineIseharaJapan
| | - Tsuyoshi Fukuzawa
- Department of Radiation OncologyTokai University, School of MedicineIseharaJapan
| | - Kenji Okami
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokai University, School of MedicineIseharaJapan
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3
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Liu S, Wang R, Fang J. Exploring the frontiers: tumor immune microenvironment and immunotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:22. [PMID: 38294629 PMCID: PMC10830966 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-00870-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The global prevalence of head and neck malignancies positions them as the sixth most common form of cancer, with the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) representing the predominant histological subtype. Despite advancements in multidisciplinary approaches and molecular targeted therapies, the therapeutic outcomes for HNSCC have only marginally improved, particularly in cases of recurrent or metastatic HNSCC (R/MHNSCC). This situation underscores the critical necessity for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. Such strategies are essential not only to enhance the efficacy of HNSCC treatment but also to minimize the incidence of associated complications, thus improving overall patient prognosis. Cancer immunotherapy represents a cutting-edge cancer treatment that leverages the immune system for targeting and destroying cancer cells. It's applied to multiple cancers, including melanoma and lung cancer, offering precision, adaptability, and the potential for long-lasting remission through immune memory. It is observed that while HNSCC patients responsive to immunotherapy often experience prolonged therapeutic benefits, only a limited subset demonstrates such responsiveness. Additionally, significant clinical challenges remain, including the development of resistance to immunotherapy. The biological characteristics, dynamic inhibitory changes, and heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in HNSCC play critical roles in its pathogenesis, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance. This review aims to elucidate the functions and mechanisms of anti-tumor immune cells and extracellular components within the HNSCC TME. It also introduces several immunosuppressive agents commonly utilized in HNSCC immunotherapy, examines factors influencing the effectiveness of these treatments, and provides a comprehensive summary of immunotherapeutic strategies relevant to HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaokun Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ru Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Jugao Fang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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Wei C, Lan X, Qiu M, Cui R, Fu Q, Shinge SAU, Muluh TA, Jiang O. Expanding the role of combined immunochemotherapy and immunoradiotherapy in the management of head and neck cancer (Review). Oncol Lett 2023; 26:372. [PMID: 37965160 PMCID: PMC10641411 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2023.13958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has become one of the most promising approaches in tumor therapy, and there are numerous associated clinical trials in China. As an immunosuppressive tumor, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) carries a high mutation burden, making immune checkpoint inhibitors promising candidates in this field due to their unique mechanism of action. The present review outlines a comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer treatment approach and elaborates on how combining immunochemotherapy and immunoradiotherapy guidelines could enhance clinical efficacy in patients with HNSCC. Furthermore, the present review explores the immunology of HNSCC, current immunotherapeutic strategies to enhance antitumor activity, ongoing clinical trials and the future direction of the current immune landscape in HNSCC. Advanced-stage HNSCC presents with a poor prognosis, low survival rates and minimal improvement in patient survival trends over time. Understanding the potential of immunotherapy and ways to combine it with surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy confers good prospects for the management of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive HNSCC, as well as other HPV-positive malignancies. Understanding the immune system and its effect on HNSCC progression and metastasis will help to uncover novel biomarkers for the selection of patients and to enhance the efficacy of treatments. Further research on why current immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted drugs are only effective for some patients in the clinic is needed; therefore, further research is required to improve the overall survival of affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Wei
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojun Lan
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Maona Qiu
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Ran Cui
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
| | - Qiuxia Fu
- Department of General Medicine, The People's Hospital of Luzhou City, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, P.R. China
| | - Shafiu A. Umar Shinge
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, P.R. China
| | - Tobias Achu Muluh
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, P.R. China
| | - Ou Jiang
- Department of Oncology, The Second People's Hospital of Neijiang City, Neijiang, Sichuan 641000, P.R. China
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Tomaciello M, Conte M, Montinaro FR, Sabatini A, Cunicella G, Di Giammarco F, Tini P, Gravina GL, Cortesi E, Minniti G, De Vincentis G, Frantellizzi V, Marampon F. Abscopal Effect on Bone Metastases from Solid Tumors: A Systematic Review and Retrospective Analysis of Challenge within a Challenge. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041157. [PMID: 37189775 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abscopal effect (AE) describes the ability of radiotherapy (RT) to induce immune-mediated responses in nonirradiated distant metastasis. Bone represents the third most frequent site of metastasis and an immunologically favorable environment for the proliferation of cancer cells. We revised the literature, searching documented cases of AE involving bone metastases (BMs) and evaluated the incidence of AE involving BMs in patients requiring palliative RT on BMs or non-BMs treated at our department. METHODS Articles published in the PubMed/MEDLINE database were selected using the following search criteria: ((abscopal effect)) AND ((metastases)). Patients with BMs, who underwent performed bone scintigraphy before and at least 2-3 months after RT, were selected and screened between January 2015 and July 2022. AE was defined as an objective response according to the scan bone index for at least one nonirradiated metastasis at a distance > 10 cm from the irradiated lesion. The primary endpoint was the rate of AE on BMs. RESULTS Ten cases experiencing AE of BMs were identified from the literature and eight among our patients. CONCLUSIONS The analysis performed here suggests the use of hypofractionated radiotherapy as the only triggering factor for AE of BMs through the activation of the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Tomaciello
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Radiotherapy, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Miriam Conte
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Romana Montinaro
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Radiotherapy, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Sabatini
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Oncology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgia Cunicella
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Radiotherapy, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Di Giammarco
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Radiotherapy, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Tini
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca Gravina
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Enrico Cortesi
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Oncology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Minniti
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Radiotherapy, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, 86077 Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Vincentis
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Viviana Frantellizzi
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Marampon
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Anatomical Pathology, Division of Radiotherapy, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Endo M, Fukuda Y, Okada K, Ogawa K, Nakamura M, Takahashi S, Kawahara M, Akahane K, Nagai Y, Yamaguchi H, Nishino H, Mori H, Shirai K. Abscopal Effect after Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy with Nivolumab for Lung Metastasis of Head and Neck Cancer: A Case Report. Case Rep Oncol 2023; 16:1345-1352. [PMID: 37946746 PMCID: PMC10631779 DOI: 10.1159/000534609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The abscopal effect (AE) is a phenomenon, in which radiotherapy exerts an antitumour effect on distant lesions outside the primary irradiated area. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors have been widely studied for their potential to enhance the AE and improve patient outcomes, findings in cases of head and neck cancers remain limited. Case Presentation We report the case of a 72-year-old man who experienced lung oligoprogression during nivolumab treatment for metastatic hypopharyngeal cancer. Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) was administered to one of the lung lesions, after which both irradiated and nonirradiated lesions regressed. Upon an 18-month follow-up period after SBRT, the patient showed no disease progression or toxicity, and continued receiving nivolumab therapy. Conclusion The intent behind presenting this case report was to contribute to the accumulation of evidence regarding the AE in cases of head and neck cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Endo
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yukiko Fukuda
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kouhei Okada
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kazunari Ogawa
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Michiko Nakamura
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Satoru Takahashi
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kawahara
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Keiko Akahane
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Nagai
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hironori Yamaguchi
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nishino
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Harushi Mori
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Katsuyuki Shirai
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Hospital, Tochigi, Japan
- Department of Radiology, Jichi Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
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Marco DF, Gianluca A, Mariagrazia T, Luca EP. Overcoming immune-resistance in laryngeal cancer: a case report of the abscopal effect and nivolumab beyond progression. Immunotherapy 2022; 14:1089-1095. [PMID: 36040238 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2021-0309] [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
The abscopal effect is defined as the systemic regression of distant neoplastic lesions induced by localized treatment. Although the first case reports date back to the beginning of the twentieth century, it remains a very rare event. In recent years, research and reporting on the subject has increased thanks to the development of new immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and stereotactic body radiotherapy, as a consequence of molecular and clinical synergism. This work describes an extremely particular presentation of metastatic laryngeal cancer, with mediastinal abdominal nodes and bone progressive disease after PD-1 inhibitor failure, which resulted in reductions of bone pain and abdominal and thoracic lymphadenopathies and an improvement in clinical conditions after treatment with concurrent palliative radiotherapy on the bulky mediastinal node and ICI beyond progression, configuring an important abscopal response.
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Affiliation(s)
- De Felice Marco
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, 80138, Italy.,Department of Oncology, AORN 'Sant' Anna e San Sebastiano', Caserta, 81100, Italy
| | - Arrichiello Gianluca
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, 80138, Italy
| | | | - E Poliero Luca
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, 80138, Italy
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Wakasugi T, Takeuchi S, Ohkubo JI, Suzuki H. Retreatment with nivolumab for patients with recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck cancer. Acta Otolaryngol 2022; 142:206-212. [PMID: 35148228 DOI: 10.1080/00016489.2022.2033317] [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: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND After treatment with an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) is discontinued, retreatment with an ICI is a potential sequential treatment, but the clinical efficacy/safety data for this treatment of recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck cancer (R/M-HNC) are limited. AIMS/OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of retreatment with nivolumab in R/M HNC. MATERIALS AND METHODS We divided the 29 eligible R/M-HNC patients who discontinued ICI treatment at our hospital into two cohorts to analyze the clinical characteristics and the efficacy of the salvage therapy: the Niv cohort (nivolumab retreatment) and the no-Niv cohort (no nivolumab retreatment). RESULTS The Niv cohort's median overall survival (OS) of 17.5 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.7-32.3) was significantly prolonged compared to that of the no-Niv cohort: 5.8 months (95%CI: 2.4-9.2, p = .034). The Niv cohort achieved objective response rate of 16.7% and a disease control rate of 50.0%. No adverse events > grade 3 occurred in the Niv cohort. CONCLUSION Nivolumab retreatment is an option for sequential treatment post-immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuro Wakasugi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Shoko Takeuchi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Jun-ichi Ohkubo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Hideaki Suzuki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
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Alcohol and Head and Neck Cancer: Updates on the Role of Oxidative Stress, Genetic, Epigenetics, Oral Microbiota, Antioxidants, and Alkylating Agents. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11010145. [PMID: 35052649 PMCID: PMC8773066 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancer (HNC) concerns more than 890,000 patients worldwide annually and is associated with the advanced stage at presentation and heavy outcomes. Alcohol drinking, together with tobacco smoking, and human papillomavirus infection are the main recognized risk factors. The tumorigenesis of HNC represents an intricate sequential process that implicates a gradual acquisition of genetic and epigenetics alterations targeting crucial pathways regulating cell growth, motility, and stromal interactions. Tumor microenvironment and growth factors also play a major role in HNC. Alcohol toxicity is caused both directly by ethanol and indirectly by its metabolic products, with the involvement of the oral microbiota and oxidative stress; alcohol might enhance the exposure of epithelial cells to carcinogens, causing epigenetic modifications, DNA damage, and inaccurate DNA repair with the formation of DNA adducts. Long-term markers of alcohol consumption, especially those detected in the hair, may provide crucial information on the real alcohol drinking of HNC patients. Strategies for prevention could include food supplements as polyphenols, and alkylating drugs as therapy that play a key role in HNC management. Indeed, polyphenols throughout their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions may counteract or limit the toxic effect of alcohol whereas alkylating agents inhibiting cancer cells’ growth could reduce the carcinogenic damage induced by alcohol. Despite the established association between alcohol and HNC, a concerning pattern of alcohol consumption in survivors of HNC has been shown. It is of primary importance to increase the awareness of cancer risks associated with alcohol consumption, both in oncologic patients and the general population, to provide advice for reducing HNC prevalence and complications.
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Xing DT, Khor R, Gan H, Wada M, Ermongkonchai T, Ng SP. Recent Research on Combination of Radiotherapy with Targeted Therapy or Immunotherapy in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Review for Radiation Oncologists. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5716. [PMID: 34830871 PMCID: PMC8616456 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiotherapy plays an important role of managing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Concurrent radiotherapy with radiosensitizing cisplastin chemotherapy is the standard of care (SOC) for non-operable locally advanced HNSCC. Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody of epidermal growth factor receptor, was the most extensively studied targeted therapy as a chemo-sparing agent that was used concurrently with radiotherapy. Immunotherapy is used in the treatment of metastatic HNSCC. There is evidence to support the synergistic effect when combining radiotherapy with immunotherapy to potentiate anti-tumor immune response. There has been increasing interest to incorporate immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) with radiotherapy in the curative setting for HNSCC. In this review, we discuss the latest evidence that supports concurrent radiotherapy with cisplatin which remains the SOC for locally advanced HNSCC (LA-HNSCC). Cetuximab is suitable for patients who are not fit for cisplatin. We then summarize the clinical trials that incorporate ICI with radiotherapy for LA-HNSCC in concurrent, neoadjuvant, and adjuvant settings. We also discuss the potential of combining immunotherapy with radiotherapy as a treatment de-escalating strategy in HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma. Finally, the pre-clinical and clinical evidence of the abscopal effect when combining stereotactic body radiotherapy with ICIs is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Tao Xing
- Oliver Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3079, Australia; (D.T.X.); (R.K.); (M.W.)
| | - Richard Khor
- Oliver Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3079, Australia; (D.T.X.); (R.K.); (M.W.)
| | - Hui Gan
- Medical Oncology, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, VIC 3079, Australia;
- La Trobe University School of Cancer Medicine, Heidelberg, VIC 3079, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Morikatsu Wada
- Oliver Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3079, Australia; (D.T.X.); (R.K.); (M.W.)
| | - Tai Ermongkonchai
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia;
| | - Sweet Ping Ng
- Oliver Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3079, Australia; (D.T.X.); (R.K.); (M.W.)
- La Trobe University School of Cancer Medicine, Heidelberg, VIC 3079, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia;
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11
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Moving towards the Future of Radio-Immunotherapy: Could We “Tailor” the Abscopal Effect on Head and Neck Cancer Patients? IMMUNO 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/immuno1040029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The abscopal effect (AbE) is defined as radiation-induced shrinkage of distant, non-treated, neoplastic lesions and it is considered the best clinical picture of the efficient immune stimulation by irradiation. The first report about abscopal tumor regression upon radiotherapy dates back to the beginning of the 20th century. The growing preclinical and clinical synergism between radiation and immunotherapy gave birth the purpose to more easily reproduce the abscopal effect, nevertheless, it is still rare in clinical practice. In this review we summarize immunological modulation of radiotherapy, focusing on the well-balanced equilibrium of tumor microenvironment and how radio-immunotherapy combinations can perturb it, with particular attention on head and neck squamous cell cancer. Finally, we investigate future perspectives, with the aim to “tailor” the abscopal effect to the patient.
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Link B, Torres Crigna A, Hölzel M, Giordano FA, Golubnitschaja O. Abscopal Effects in Metastatic Cancer: Is a Predictive Approach Possible to Improve Individual Outcomes? J Clin Med 2021; 10:5124. [PMID: 34768644 PMCID: PMC8584726 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10215124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with metastatic cancers often require radiotherapy (RT) as a palliative therapy for cancer pain. RT can, however, also induce systemic antitumor effects outside of the irradiated field (abscopal effects) in various cancer entities. The occurrence of the abscopal effect is associated with a specific immunological activation in response to RT-induced cell death, which is mainly seen under concomitant immune checkpoint blockade. Even if the number of reported apscopal effects has increased since the introduction of immune checkpoint inhibition, its occurrence is still considered rare and unpredictable. The cases reported so far may nevertheless allow for identifying first biomarkers and clinical patterns. We here review biomarkers that may be helpful to predict the occurrence of abscopal effects and hence to optimize therapy for patients with metastatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Link
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (B.L.); (A.T.C.); (F.A.G.)
| | - Adriana Torres Crigna
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (B.L.); (A.T.C.); (F.A.G.)
| | - Michael Hölzel
- Institute of Experimental Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Frank A. Giordano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (B.L.); (A.T.C.); (F.A.G.)
| | - Olga Golubnitschaja
- Predictive, Preventive, Personalised (3P) Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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Muto M, Nakata H, Ishigaki K, Tachibana S, Yoshida M, Muto M, Yanagawa N, Okumura T. Successful Treatment of Advanced Gastric Cancer with Brain Metastases through an Abscopal Effect by Radiation and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy. J Gastric Cancer 2021; 21:319-324. [PMID: 34691815 PMCID: PMC8505119 DOI: 10.5230/jgc.2021.21.e24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The abscopal effect refers to the phenomenon in which local radiotherapy is associated with the regression of metastatic cancer that is distantly located from the irradiated site. Here, we present a case of a patient with advanced gastric cancer and brain metastases who was successfully treated with brain radiotherapy and anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1) therapy-induced abscopal effect. Although anti-PD-1 therapy alone could not prevent disease progression, the metastatic lesions in the brain and also in the abdominal lymph node showed a drastic response after brain radiotherapy and anti-PD-1 therapy. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of successful treatment of advanced gastric cancer with multiple brain and abdominal lymph node metastases, possibly through anti-PD-1 therapy combined with brain radiotherapy-induced abscopal effect. We suggest that the combination of brain radiotherapy and anti-PD-1 therapy may be considered as a therapeutic option for advanced gastric cancer, especially when there is brain metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Momotaro Muto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Engaru Kosei General Hospital, Engaru, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Nakata
- Department of Internal Medicine, Engaru Kosei General Hospital, Engaru, Japan
| | - Kenichi Ishigaki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Engaru Kosei General Hospital, Engaru, Japan
| | - Shion Tachibana
- Department of Internal Medicine, Engaru Kosei General Hospital, Engaru, Japan
| | - Moe Yoshida
- Department of Internal Medicine, Engaru Kosei General Hospital, Engaru, Japan
| | - Mizue Muto
- Department of Internal Medicine, Engaru Kosei General Hospital, Engaru, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Yanagawa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Engaru Kosei General Hospital, Engaru, Japan
| | - Toshikatsu Okumura
- Division of Metabolism, Systemic Bioscience, Gastroenterology and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
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14
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Ionna F, Bossi P, Guida A, Alberti A, Muto P, Salzano G, Ottaiano A, Maglitto F, Leopardo D, De Felice M, Longo F, Tafuto S, Della Vittoria Scarpati G, Perri F. Recurrent/Metastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck: A Big and Intriguing Challenge Which May Be Resolved by Integrated Treatments Combining Locoregional and Systemic Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2371. [PMID: 34069092 PMCID: PMC8155962 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) is a complex group of malignancies, posing several challenges to treating physicians. Most patients are diagnosed with a locally advanced disease and treated with strategies integrating surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. About 50% of these patients will experience a recurrence of disease. Recurrent/metastatic SCCHN have poor prognosis with a median survival of about 12 months despite treatments. In the last years, the strategy to manage recurrent/metastatic SCCHN has profoundly evolved. Salvage treatments (surgery or re-irradiation) are commonly employed in patients suffering from locoregional recurrences and their role has gained more and more importance in the last years. Re-irradiation, using some particularly fractionating schedules, has the dual task of reducing the tumor mass and eliciting an immune response against cancer (abscopal effect). In this review, we will analyze the main systemic and/or locoregional strategies aimed at facing the recurrent/metastatic disease, underlining the enormous importance of the multidisciplinary approach in these types of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Ionna
- Otolaryngology Unit, INT IRCCS Foundation G. Pascale, Naples. Via M. Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.I.); (G.S.); (F.M.)
| | - Paolo Bossi
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health University of Brescia, ASST-Spedali Civili, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (P.B.); (A.A.)
| | - Agostino Guida
- U.O.C. Odontostomatologia, A.O.R.N. Cardarelli, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Andrea Alberti
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health University of Brescia, ASST-Spedali Civili, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (P.B.); (A.A.)
| | - Paolo Muto
- Radiation Therapy Unit, INT IRCCS Foundation G Pascale, Via M. Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Salzano
- Otolaryngology Unit, INT IRCCS Foundation G. Pascale, Naples. Via M. Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.I.); (G.S.); (F.M.)
| | - Alessandro Ottaiano
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, SSD-Innovative Therapies for Abdominal Cancers, Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, IRCCS “G. Pascale” Via M. Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Fabio Maglitto
- Otolaryngology Unit, INT IRCCS Foundation G. Pascale, Naples. Via M. Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (F.I.); (G.S.); (F.M.)
| | - Davide Leopardo
- Medical Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera S. Anna e S. Sebastiano, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (D.L.); (M.D.F.)
| | - Marco De Felice
- Medical Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera S. Anna e S. Sebastiano, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (D.L.); (M.D.F.)
| | - Francesco Longo
- Otolaryngology and Maxillo-Facial Surgery Unit, Ospedale Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Tafuto
- Sarcoma and Rare Tumors Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, IRCCS “G. Pascale” Via M. Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | | | - Francesco Perri
- Medical and Experimental Head and Neck Oncology Unit, INT IRCCS Foundation G Pascale, Via M. Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy
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15
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Risk factors for distant metastasis in locoregionally controlled oral squamous cell carcinoma: a retrospective study. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5213. [PMID: 33664318 PMCID: PMC7933271 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-84704-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The control of distant metastasis in oral squamous cell carcinoma is an important determinant of improved prognosis. The study aimed to identify risk factors for distant metastasis in patients with locoregionally controlled oral carcinoma. We identified 982 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma treated at our hospital between January 2008 and December 2017. After excluding patients with distant metastasis at initial treatment, patients with metastasis to the oral cavity, those receiving palliative treatment, and those lacking follow-up data, 941 patients were selected. Finally, among these 941 patients, 887 with locoregionally controlled oral squamous cell carcinoma were included in the study. Among the 887 patients, 36 had confirmed distant metastasis (4.1%), and the lung was the most common site (31/36 patients, 86.1%). Multivariate analysis showed that the incidence of primary intraosseous carcinoma of the mandible, cervical lymph node metastasis at levels IV and V, and the presence of pathological extranodal extension were significant risk factors for distant metastasis. When treating patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma who are positive for the aforementioned risk factors, the possibility of developing distant metastases must be accounted for, and aggressive treatment should be planned accordingly.
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16
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Szturz P, Nevens D, Vermorken JB. Oligometastatic Disease Management: Finding the Sweet Spot. Front Oncol 2020; 10:617793. [PMID: 33415080 PMCID: PMC7783387 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.617793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematogenous dissemination represents a common manifestation of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, and the recommended therapeutic options usually consist of systemically administered drugs with palliative intent. However, mounting evidence suggests that patients with few and slowly progressive distant lesions of small size may benefit from various local ablation techniques, which have already been established as standard-of-care modalities for example in colorectal and renal cell carcinomas and in sarcomas. In principle, serving as radical approaches to eradicate cancer, these interventions can be curative. Their impact on local control and overall survival has been shown in numerous retrospective and prospective studies. The term oligometastatic refers to the number of distant lesions which should generally not surpass five in total, ideally in one organ. Currently, surgical resection remains the method of choice supported by the majority of published data. More recently, stereotactic (ablative) body radiotherapy (SABR/SBRT) has emerged as a viable alternative. In cases technically amenable to such local interventions, several other clinical variables need to be taken into account also, including patient-related factors (general health status, patient preferences, socioeconomic background) and disease-related factors (primary tumor site, growth kinetics, synchronous or metachronous metastases). In head and neck cancer, patients presenting with late development of slowly progressive oligometastatic lesions in the lungs secondary to human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal cancer are the ideal candidates for metastasectomy or other local therapies. However, literature data are still limited to say whether there are other subgroups benefiting from this approach. One of the plausible explanations is that radiological follow-up after primary curative therapy is usually not recommended because its impact on survival has not been unequivocal, which is also due to the rarity of oligometastatic manifestations in this disease. At the same time, aggressive treatment of synchronous metastases early in the disease course should be weighed against the risk of futile interventions in a disease with already multimetastatic microscopic dissemination. Therefore, attentive treatment sequencing, meticulous appraisal of cancer extension, refinement of post-treatment surveillance, and understanding of tumor biology and kinetics are crucial in the management of oligometastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petr Szturz
- Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Daan Nevens
- Department of Radiation Oncology, IridiumNetwork, Wilrijk (Antwerp), Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jan B. Vermorken
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Medical Oncology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium
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17
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Oliveira TB, Mesía R, Falco A, Hsieh JCH, Yokota T, Saada-Bouzid E, Schmitz S, Elicin O, Giacomelli L, Bossi P. Defining the needs of patients with recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck cancer: An expert opinion. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 157:103200. [PMID: 33321152 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical and biological heterogeneity of head and neck cancer (HNC) is paralleled by a plethora of different symptoms that affect the patient's quality of life. These symptoms include, for instance, pain, fatigue, nutritional issues, airways obstruction, voice alterations and psychological distress. In addition, patients with HNC are prone to a high risk of infection, and may also suffer from acute complications, such as hypercalcemia, spine compression by bone metastasis or bleeding. Prolonging survival is also an inherent expectation for all patients. Addressing the above needs is crucial in all patients with HNC, and especially in those with recurrent and/or metastatic (RM) disease. However, research on how to address patients' needs in RM-HNC remains scarce. This paper defines patients' needs for RM HNC and presents an Expert Opinion on how to address them, proposing also some lines of research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ricard Mesía
- Medical Oncology Department, Catalan Institute of Oncology - Badalona, B-ARGO Group, IGTP, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Agustin Falco
- Medical Oncology Department, Instituto Alexander Fleming, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jason Chia-Hsun Hsieh
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou and Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 333, Taiwan
| | - Tomoya Yokota
- Division of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Shizuoka Cancer Center, 1007 Shimonagakubo, Nagaizumi, Sunto-gun, Shizuoka, 411-8777, Japan
| | - Esma Saada-Bouzid
- Medical Oncology Department, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, Nice, France
| | - Sandra Schmitz
- Departments of Medical Oncology and Head and Neck Surgery, Institut Roi Albert II, Institut de Recherche Clinique et Expérimentale (Pole MIRO), Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Catholic University of Louvain, Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Belgium
| | - Olgun Elicin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3010, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Luca Giacomelli
- Polistudium srl, Milan, Italy; Department of Surgical Sciences and Integrated Diangostics, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Paolo Bossi
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical & Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences & Public Health, University of Brescia, ASST Spedali Civili, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
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18
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Zhuang H. Abscopal effect of stereotactic radiotherapy combined with anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy: Mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and issues. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2020; 40:649-654. [PMID: 33169937 PMCID: PMC7743005 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hongqing Zhuang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, P. R. China
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19
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Griffin RJ, Prise KM, McMahon SJ, Zhang X, Penagaricano J, Butterworth KT. History and current perspectives on the biological effects of high-dose spatial fractionation and high dose-rate approaches: GRID, Microbeam & FLASH radiotherapy. Br J Radiol 2020; 93:20200217. [PMID: 32706989 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20200217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The effects of various forms of ionising radiation are known to be mediated by interactions with cellular and molecular targets in irradiated and in some cases non-targeted tissue volumes. Despite major advances in advanced conformal delivery techniques, the probability of normal tissue complication (NTCP) remains the major dose-limiting factor in escalating total dose delivered during treatment. Potential strategies that have shown promise as novel delivery methods in achieving effective tumour control whilst sparing organs at risk involve the modulation of critical dose delivery parameters. This has led to the development of techniques using high dose spatial fractionation (GRID) and ultra-high dose rate (FLASH) which have translated to the clinic. The current review discusses the historical development and biological basis of GRID, microbeam and FLASH radiotherapy as advanced delivery modalities that have major potential for widespread implementation in the clinic in future years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Griffin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Kevin M Prise
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Stephen J McMahon
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Boston University Medical Centre, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jose Penagaricano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Centre, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Karl T Butterworth
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
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20
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Zhou K, Guo S, Li F, Sun Q, Liang G. Exosomal PD-L1: New Insights Into Tumor Immune Escape Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:569219. [PMID: 33178688 PMCID: PMC7593554 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.569219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
As a classical immune checkpoint molecule, PD-L1 on the surface of tumor cells plays a pivotal role in tumor immunosuppression, primarily by inhibiting the antitumor activities of T cells by binding to its receptor PD-1. PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors have demonstrated unprecedented promise in treating various human cancers with impressive efficacy. However, a significant portion of cancer patients remains less responsive. Therefore, a better understanding of PD-L1-mediated immune escape is imperative. PD-L1 can be expressed on the surface of tumor cells, but it is also found to exist in extracellular forms, such as on exosomes. Recent studies have revealed the importance of exosomal PD-L1 (ExoPD-L1). As an alternative to membrane-bound PD-L1, ExoPD-L1 produced by tumor cells also plays an important regulatory role in the antitumor immune response. We review the recent remarkable findings on the biological functions of ExoPD-L1, including the inhibition of lymphocyte activities, migration to PD-L1-negative tumor cells and immune cells, induction of both local and systemic immunosuppression, and promotion of tumor growth. We also discuss the potential implications of ExoPD-L1 as a predictor for disease progression and treatment response, sensitive methods for detection of circulating ExoPD-L1, and the novel therapeutic strategies combining the inhibition of exosome biogenesis with PD-L1 blockade in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaijian Zhou
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shu Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- *Correspondence: Shu Guo,
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qiang Sun
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Guoxin Liang
- Cancer Therapy Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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