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She S, Shi J, Zhu J, Yang F, Yu J, Dai K. Impact of inflammation and the immune system on hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after hepatectomy. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e7018. [PMID: 38457189 PMCID: PMC10922023 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.7018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Hepatectomy remains the first-line treatment for patients with resectable HCC. However, the reported recurrence rate of HCC at 5 years after surgery is between 50% and 70%. Tumor-related factors, including tumor size, number and differentiation, and underlying liver disease are well-known risk factors for recurrence after treatment. In addition to tumor-related factors, ever-increasing amounts of studies are finding that the tumor microenvironment also plays an important role in the recurrence of HCC, including systemic inflammatory response and immune regulation. Based on this, some inflammatory and immune markers were used in predicting postoperative cancer recurrence. These include neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, cytotoxic T cells, and regulatory T cells, among others. In this review, we summarized the inflammatory and immune markers that affect recurrence after HCC resection in order to provide direction for adjuvant therapy after HCC resection and ultimately achieve the goal of reducing recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha She
- Department of Infectious DiseasesRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanHubei ProvinceChina
| | - Jinzhi Shi
- Department of Infectious DiseasesRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanHubei ProvinceChina
| | - Jiling Zhu
- Department of Infectious DiseasesRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanHubei ProvinceChina
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Infectious DiseasesRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanHubei ProvinceChina
| | - Jia Yu
- Department of Hepatobiliary surgeryRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanHubei ProvinceChina
| | - Kai Dai
- Department of Infectious DiseasesRenmin Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanHubei ProvinceChina
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Devan AR, Nair B, Aryan MK, Liju VB, Koshy JJ, Mathew B, Valsan A, Kim H, Nath LR. Decoding Immune Signature to Detect the Risk for Early-Stage HCC Recurrence. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2729. [PMID: 37345066 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often recognized as an inflammation-linked cancer, which possesses an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Curative treatments such as surgical resection, liver transplantation, and percutaneous ablation are mainly applicable in the early stage and demonstrate significant improvement of survival rate in most patients. However, 70-80% of patients report HCC recurrence within 5 years of curative treatment, representing an important clinical issue. However, there is no effective recurrence marker after surgical and locoregional therapies, thus, tumor size, number, and histological features such as cancer cell differentiation are often considered as risk factors for HCC recurrence. Host immunity plays a critical role in regulating carcinogenesis, and the immune microenvironment characterized by its composition, functional status, and density undergoes significant alterations in each stage of cancer progression. Recent studies reported that analysis of immune contexture could yield valuable information regarding the treatment response, prognosis and recurrence. This review emphasizes the prognostic value of tumors associated with immune factors in HCC recurrence after curative treatment. In particular, we review the immune landscape and immunological factors contributing to early-stage HCC recurrence, and discuss the immunotherapeutic interventions to prevent tumor recurrence following curative treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aswathy R Devan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Bhagyalakshmi Nair
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | | | - Vijayastelar B Liju
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology-Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Joel Joy Koshy
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Bijo Mathew
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Arun Valsan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Epatology, Amrita Institute of Medical Science, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
| | - Hoon Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, and Research Institute of Life Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Republic of Korea
| | - Lekshmi R Nath
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Amrita School of Pharmacy, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIMS Health Science Campus, Kochi 682041, Kerala, India
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3
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Zhao Z, Wang C, Chu P, Lu X. Key Genes Associated with Tumor-Infiltrating Non-regulatory CD4- and CD8-Positive T Cells in Microenvironment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Biochem Genet 2022; 60:1762-1780. [PMID: 35092558 PMCID: PMC9470630 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-021-10175-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The immune microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), especially T-cell infiltration, plays a key role in the prognosis and drug sensitivity of HCC. Our study aimed to analyze genes related to non-regulatory CD4+ and CD8+ T cell in HCC. Data of HCC samples were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. According to stromal and immune score retrieved by Estimation of Stromal and Immune cells in Malignant Tumor tissues using Expression data (ESTIMATE) algorithm, differentiated expressed genes (DEGs) between high and low stromal/immune scoring groups were collected. Using Cibersort algorithm, abundance of immune cells was calculated and genes related with CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were selected. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and networks of microRNA (miRNA)-target gene interactions were illustrated, in which CD4+ and CD8+ T cell-related core genes were selected. Finally, Cox regression test and Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survival analysis were conducted. Totally, 1579 DEGs were identified, where 103 genes and 407 genes related with CD4+ and CD8+ T cell were selected, respectively. Each of 30 core genes related to CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells were selected by PPI network. Four genes each related with the two types of T cells had a significant impact on prognosis of HCC patients. Amongst, KLRB1 and IL18RAP were final two genes related to both two kinds of T cells and associated with overall survival of the HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Zhao
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Chaonan Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Peishan Chu
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Lu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Sucandy I, Shapera E, Syblis CC, Crespo K, Przetocki VA, Ross SB, Rosemurgy AS. Propensity score matched comparison of robotic and open major hepatectomy for malignant liver tumors. Surg Endosc 2022; 36:6724-6732. [PMID: 34981238 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-021-08948-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Outcome data on robotic major hepatectomy are lacking. This study was undertaken to compare robotic vs. 'open' major hepatectomy utilizing patient propensity score matching (PSM). METHODS With institutional review board approval, we prospectively followed 183 consecutive patients who underwent robotic or 'open' major hepatectomy, defined as removal of three or more Couinaud segments. 42 patients who underwent 'open' approach were matched with 42 patients who underwent robotic approach. The criteria for PSM were age, resection type, tumor size, tumor type, and BMI. Survival was individually stratified for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC), and colorectal liver metastases (CLM). The data are presented as: median (mean ± SD). RESULTS Operative duration for the robotic approach was 293 (302 ± 131.5) vs. 280 (300 ± 115.6) minutes for the 'open' approach (p = NS). Estimated Blood Loss (EBL) was 200 (239 ± 183.6) vs. 300 (491 ± 577.1) ml (p = 0.01). There were zero postoperative complications with a Clavien-Dindo classification ≥ III for the robotic approach and three for the 'open' approach (p = NS). ICU length of stay (LOS) was 1 (1 ± 0) vs. 2 (3 ± 2.0) days (p = 0.0001) and overall LOS was 4 (4 ± 3.3) vs. 6 (6 ± 2.7) days (p = 0.003). In terms of long-term oncological outcomes, overall survival was similar for patients with IHCC and CLM regardless of the approach. However, patients with HCC who underwent robotic resection lived significantly longer (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION Utilizing propensity score matched analysis, the robotic approach was associated with a lower EBL, shorter ICU LOS, and shorter overall LOS while maintaining similar operative duration and promoting survival in patients with HCC. We believe that the robotic approach is safe and efficacious and should be considered a preferred alternative approach for major hepatectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iswanto Sucandy
- Digestive Health Institute, AdventHealth Tampa, 3000 Medical Park Drive, Suite 500, Tampa, FL, 33613, USA.
| | - Emanuel Shapera
- Digestive Health Institute, AdventHealth Tampa, 3000 Medical Park Drive, Suite 500, Tampa, FL, 33613, USA
| | - Cameron C Syblis
- Digestive Health Institute, AdventHealth Tampa, 3000 Medical Park Drive, Suite 500, Tampa, FL, 33613, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Crespo
- Digestive Health Institute, AdventHealth Tampa, 3000 Medical Park Drive, Suite 500, Tampa, FL, 33613, USA
| | - Valerie A Przetocki
- Digestive Health Institute, AdventHealth Tampa, 3000 Medical Park Drive, Suite 500, Tampa, FL, 33613, USA
| | - Sharona B Ross
- Digestive Health Institute, AdventHealth Tampa, 3000 Medical Park Drive, Suite 500, Tampa, FL, 33613, USA
| | - Alexander S Rosemurgy
- Digestive Health Institute, AdventHealth Tampa, 3000 Medical Park Drive, Suite 500, Tampa, FL, 33613, USA
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Jia W, Zhang T, Yao Q, Li J, Nie Y, Lei X, Mao Z, Wang Y, Shi W, Song W. Tertiary Lymphatic Structures in Primary Hepatic Carcinoma: Controversy Cannot Overshadow Hope. Front Immunol 2022; 13:870458. [PMID: 35844587 PMCID: PMC9278517 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.870458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) are organized aggregates of immune cells found in the tumor microenvironment. TLS can influence primary hepatic carcinoma (PHC) occurrence and have an active role in cancer. TLS can promote or inhibit the growth of PHC depending on their location, and although available findings are controversial, they suggest that TLS have a protective role in PHC tissues and a non-protective role in paracancerous tissues. In addition, the cellular composition of TLS can also influence the outcome of PHC. As an immunity marker, TLS can act as a marker of immunotherapy to predict its effect and help to identify patients who will respond well to immunotherapy. Modulation of TLS formation through the use of chemokines/cytokines, immunotherapy, or induction of high endothelial vein to interfere with tumor growth has been studied extensively in PHC and other cancers. In addition, new tools such as genetic interventions, cellular crosstalk, preoperative radiotherapy, and advances in materials science have been shown to influence the prognosis of malignant tumors by modulating TLS production. These can also be used to develop PHC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weili Jia
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Tianchen Zhang
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Qianyun Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jianhui Li
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Ye Nie
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xinjun Lei
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Zhenzhen Mao
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yanfang Wang
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Wen Shi
- Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Wenjie Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Wenjie Song,
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Huang H, Nie C, Liu XF, Song B, Yue JH, Xu J, He J, Li K, Feng YL, Wan T, Zheng M, Zhang Y, Ye WJ, Li JD, Li YF, Li JY, Cao XP, Liu ZM, Zhang XS, Liu Q, Zhang X, Liu JH, Li J. Phase I study of adjuvant immunotherapy with autologous tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in locally advanced cervical cancer. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:157726. [PMID: 35727633 PMCID: PMC9337833 DOI: 10.1172/jci157726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) has achieved remarkable clinical efficacy in metastatic cancers such as melanoma and cervical cancer (CC). Here we explored the safety, feasibility and preliminary tumor response and performed translational investigations of adjuvant immunotherapy using infusion of autogenous (auto)-TILs following concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in CC patients with locally advanced disease. METHODS Twenty-seven CC patients with stage III to IV disease were recruited in this single-center, phase I study. TILs were isolated from lesions in the uterine cervix and generated under good manufacturing practices (GMP) conditions and then infused after CCRT plus intramuscular interleukin (IL)-2 injections. RESTULTS From 27 patients, TILs were successfully expanded from 20 patients, with a feasibility of 74.1%. Twelve patients received TILs following CCRT. Adverse events (AEs) were primarily attributable to CCRT. Only 1 (8.3%) patient experienced severe toxicity with a grade 3 hypersensitivity reaction after TIL infusion. No autoimmune AEs, such as pneumonitis, hepatitis, or myocarditis, occurred, and there was no treatment-related mortality. Nine of 12 patients (75.0%) attained complete response, with a disease control duration of 9 to 22 months. Translational investigation showed that the transcriptomic characteristics of the infused TIL products and some immune biomarkers in the tumor microenvironment and serum of CC patients at baseline were correlated with the clinical response. CONCULSION TIL-based ACT following CCRT was safe in an academic center setting, with potential effective responses in locally advanced CC patients. 'Hot' inflammatory immune environments are beneficial to the clinical efficacy of TIL-based ACT as adjuvant therapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION CLINICALTRIALS gov NCT04443296. FUNDING Natinoal Key R&D Program: Sci-Tech Key Program of the Guangzhou City Science Foundation; the Guangdong Provinve Sci-Tech International Key Program; the National Natural Science Foundation of China.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Huang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Caiping Nie
- Department of Biotherapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiu-Feng Liu
- Department of Biotherapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Song
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Hui Yue
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jingxiao Xu
- Department of Biotherapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia He
- Department of Biotherapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Ling Feng
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Wan
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Zheng
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanna Zhang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Jun Ye
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun-Dong Li
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Fang Li
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun-Yun Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin-Ping Cao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Min Liu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Shi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- BGI-Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Ther, BGI-Shenzhen, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji-Hong Liu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiang Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
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7
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Therapeutic Vaccines against Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Era: Time for Neoantigens? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042022. [PMID: 35216137 PMCID: PMC8875127 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have been used as immunotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with promising but still limited results. Identification of immune elements in the tumor microenvironment of individual HCC patients may help to understand the correlations of responses, as well as to design personalized therapies for non-responder patients. Immune-enhancing strategies, such as vaccination, would complement ICI in those individuals with poorly infiltrated tumors. The prominent role of responses against mutated tumor antigens (neoAgs) in ICI-based therapies suggests that boosting responses against these epitopes may specifically target tumor cells. In this review we summarize clinical vaccination trials carried out in HCC, the available information on potentially immunogenic neoAgs in HCC patients, and the most recent results of neoAg-based vaccines in other tumors. Despite the low/intermediate mutational burden observed in HCC, data obtained from neoAg-based vaccines in other tumors indicate that vaccines directed against these tumor-specific antigens would complement ICI in a subset of HCC patients.
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Cai J, Zhao J, Liu D, Xie H, Qi H, Ma J, Sun Z, Zhao H. Efficacy and Safety of Central Memory T Cells Combined With Adjuvant Therapy to Prevent Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Microvascular Invasion: A Pilot Study. Front Oncol 2021; 11:781029. [PMID: 34926296 PMCID: PMC8679661 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.781029] [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: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Postoperative adjuvant transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) following curative hepatectomy has been reported to improve the clinical outcomes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with microvascular invasion (MVI), but more endeavors are required to achieve greater clinical benefit. Central memory T-cell (Tcm) self-transfusion has shown superior antitumor activity in several preclinical studies; however, clinical studies are rare. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical benefit and safety of combination treatment with Tcm self-transfusion and TACE as adjuvant treatment in HCC patients with MVI after curative hepatectomy. Methods From October 2016 to September 2018, primary HCC patients with histologically confirmed MVI who underwent curative hepatectomy at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences were recruited for this study. The patients were divided into a Tcm group (combined Tcm self-transfusion with TACE treatment) or a control group (TACE treatment alone) according to their willingness. The recurrence-free survival (RFS), quality-of-life (QOL) score, and adverse events of each patient were recorded within 2 years. Results A total of 52 patients were enrolled, and 48 were eligible for the final data analysis. The median follow-up time was 20.5 months (95% CI: 17.05–22.55 months). The median RFS time was 9.5 months in the control group; the cutoff date was not reached in the Tcm group (when the follow-up duration was 12 months, p = 0.049, HR = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.16–0.99). Compared with the control group, 1- and 2-year RFS rates were higher in the Tcm group (72.0% vs. 46.4% and 58.18% vs. 39.14%, respectively). Multivariate analysis did not indicate that Tcm treatment was an independent prognostic factor associated with HCC recurrence (p = 0.107, HR = 2.312; 95% CI: 0.835–6.400), which might be due to the small sample size of this study. Nevertheless, Tcm treatment effectively improved a reduced QOL due to HCC and liver function injury. Finally, the safety profile of Tcm treatment in this study was good, without any serious adverse events. Conclusions This pilot study showed that Tcm self-transfusion combined with TACE treatment might be a beneficial adjuvant therapy with good safety for primary HCC patients with MVI after curative hepatectomy. Trial registration number NCT03575806
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianqiang Cai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jianjun Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Defang Liu
- Department of New Drug Registration, Hebei Immune Cell Application Engineering Research Center/Baoding Newish Technology Co., LTD/Newish Technology (Beijing) Co., LTD, Beijing, China
| | - Huangfan Xie
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Hailong Qi
- Department of New Drug Registration, Hebei Immune Cell Application Engineering Research Center/Baoding Newish Technology Co., LTD/Newish Technology (Beijing) Co., LTD, Beijing, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Junfan Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongjie Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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9
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Huang J, Zhang L, Chen J, Wan D, Zhou L, Zheng S, Qiao Y. The Landscape of Immune Cells Indicates Prognosis and Applicability of Checkpoint Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:744951. [PMID: 34650926 PMCID: PMC8510566 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.744951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Tumor-infiltrating immune cells are important components of tumor microenvironment (TME), and their composition reflects the confrontation between host immune system and tumor cells. However, the relationship between the composition of infiltrating immune cells, prognosis, and the applicability of anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) needs systematic examination. Methods Cell-Type Identification by Estimating Relative Subsets of RNA Transcripts (CIBERSORT) was applied to evaluate the infiltration of immune cells based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) cohort. Diagnostic and prognostic models were constructed based on immune cells, and the models were validated by two external cohorts. The relationship between immune cells and PD-L1 was evaluated by Spearman correlation, and the finding was validated in our in-house HCC sample. Result Patients in TCGA LIHC cohort were classified into six subtypes with different prognosis based on the proportion of tumor-infiltrating immune cells simulated via CIBERSORT. Among 22 types of immune cells, intratumoral PD-L1 mRNA level exhibited linear relationship with the fraction of five types of immune cells (M1 macrophages, plasma cells, CD8+ T cells, resting mast cells, and regulatory T cells), and M1 macrophages showed the strongest relevance (R = 0.26, p < 0.001). Immunohistochemistry of our in-house HCC specimens verified this conclusion. Moreover, intratumoral mRNA levels of M1 macrophage-associated cytokines were positively correlated with PD-L1 level. Conclusions Our study demonstrated that the prognosis of HCC patients was associated with the pattern of infiltrating immune cells in TME, and macrophage-associated cytokines might be a potential non-invasive marker for predicting the PD-L1 level for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiacheng Huang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hangzhou, China.,Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lele Zhang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hangzhou, China.,Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianxiang Chen
- Pharmacy Institute and Department of Hepatology, Institute of Hepatology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Oncology, the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Elemene Class Anti-Cancer Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.,Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Chinese Medicine from Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Chinese Medicines from Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dalong Wan
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shusen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hangzhou, China.,Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiting Qiao
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,National Health Center (NHC) Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU019), Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Hangzhou, China
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10
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Borhani AA, Catania R, Velichko YS, Hectors S, Taouli B, Lewis S. Radiomics of hepatocellular carcinoma: promising roles in patient selection, prediction, and assessment of treatment response. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2021; 46:3674-3685. [PMID: 33891149 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-021-03085-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Radiomics refers to the process of conversion of conventional medical images into quantifiable data ("features") which can be further mined to reveal complex patterns and relationships between the voxels in the image. These high throughput features can potentially reflect the histology of biologic tissues at macroscopic and microscopic levels. Several studies have investigated radiomics of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) before and after treatment. HCC is a heterogeneous disease with diverse phenotypical and genotypical landscape. Due to this inherent heterogeneity, HCC lesions can manifest variable aggressiveness with different response to treatment options, including the newer targeted therapies. Hence, radiomics can be used as a potential tool to enable patient selection for therapies and to predict response to treatments and outcome. Additionally, radiomics may serve as a tool for earlier and more efficient assessment of response to treatment. Radiomics, radiogenomics, and radio-immunoprofiling and their potential roles in management of patients with HCC will be discussed and critically reviewed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir A Borhani
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 N. Saint Clair Street, Suite 800, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Roberta Catania
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 N. Saint Clair Street, Suite 800, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Yuri S Velichko
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 N. Saint Clair Street, Suite 800, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Stefanie Hectors
- BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine At Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine At Mount Sinai, 1Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 1470, USA
| | - Bachir Taouli
- BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine At Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine At Mount Sinai, 1Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 1470, USA
| | - Sara Lewis
- BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine At Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine At Mount Sinai, 1Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY, 1470, USA
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11
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Gao Y, Guo J, Bao X, Xiong F, Ma Y, Tan B, Yu L, Zhao Y, Lu J. Adoptive Transfer of Autologous Invariant Natural Killer T Cells as Immunotherapy for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Phase I Clinical Trial. Oncologist 2021; 26:e1919-e1930. [PMID: 34255901 PMCID: PMC8571770 DOI: 10.1002/onco.13899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Lessons Learned Administration of autologous invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells was safe and well‐tolerated in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage B/C). Expanded iNKT cells produced T‐helper 1–like responses with possible antitumor activity. No severe adverse events were observed in any of the enrolled patients, including one patient who received 1010 in vitro–expanded autologous iNKT cells as a single infusion.
Background Invariant natural killer T cells co‐express T‐cell antigen receptor and natural killer (NK) cell receptors. Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells exhibit antitumor activity, but their numbers and functions are impaired in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The adoptive transfer of iNKT cells might treat advanced HCC. Methods This phase I study (NCT03175679) enrolled 10 patients with HCC (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer [BCLC] stage B/C) at Beijing YouAn Hospital (April 2017 to May 2018). iNKT cells isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were expanded and alpha‐galactosylceramide (α‐GalCer)–pulsed. Dosage escalated from 3 × 107 to 6 × 107 to 9 × 107 cells/m2 (3+3 design). An exploratory dose trial (1 × 1010 cells/m2) was conducted in one patient. Results Expanded iNKT cells produced greater quantities of T‐helper 1 (Th1) cytokines (e.g., interferon‐gamma, perforin, and granzyme B) but less interleukin‐4 than nonexpanded iNKT cells. Circulating numbers of iNKT cells and activated NK cells were increased after iNKT cell infusion. Most treatment‐related adverse events were grade 1–2, and three grade 3 adverse events were reported; all resolved without treatment. Four patients were progression‐free at 5.5, 6, 7, and 11 months after therapy, and one patient was alive and without tumor recurrence at the last follow‐up. Five patients died at 1.5 to 11 months after treatment. Conclusion Autologous iNKT cell treatment is safe and well‐tolerated. Expanded iNKT cells produce Th1‐like responses with possible antitumor activity. The antitumor effects of iNKT cell infusion in patients with advanced HCC merit further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Gao
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Guo
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuli Bao
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Xiong
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanpin Ma
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingqin Tan
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lele Yu
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Zhao
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Lu
- Hepatology and Cancer Biotherapy Ward, Beijing YouAn Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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12
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Elpek GO. Molecular pathways in viral hepatitis-associated liver carcinogenesis: An update. World J Clin Cases 2021; 9:4890-4917. [PMID: 34307543 PMCID: PMC8283590 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i19.4890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of cancer among primary malignant tumors of the liver and is a consequential cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In recent years, uncovering the molecular mechanisms involved in the development and behavior of this tumor has led to the identification of multiple potential treatment targets. Despite the vast amount of data on this topic, HCC remains a challenging tumor to treat due to its aggressive behavior and complex molecular profile. Therefore, the number of studies aiming to elucidate the mechanisms involved in both carcinogenesis and tumor progression in HCC continues to increase. In this context, the close association of HCC with viral hepatitis has led to numerous studies focusing on the direct or indirect involvement of viruses in the mechanisms contributing to tumor development and behavior. In line with these efforts, this review was undertaken to highlight the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) participate in oncogenesis and tumor progression in HCC and summarize new findings. Cumulative evidence indicates that HBV DNA integration promotes genomic instability, resulting in the overexpression of genes related to cancer development, metastasis, and angiogenesis or inactivation of tumor suppressor genes. In addition, genetic variations in HBV itself, especially preS2 deletions, may play a role in malignant transformation. Epigenetic dysregulation caused by both viruses might also contribute to tumor formation and metastasis by modifying the methylation of DNA and histones or altering the expression of microRNAs. Similarly, viral proteins of both HBV and HCV can affect pathways that are important anticancer targets. The effects of these two viruses on the Hippo-Yap-Taz pathway in HCC development and behavior need to be investigated. Additional, comprehensive studies are also needed to determine these viruses' interaction with integrins, farnesoid X, and the apelin system in malignant transformation and tumor progression. Although the relationship of persistent inflammation caused by HBV and HCV hepatitis with carcinogenesis is well defined, further studies are warranted to decipher the relationship among inflammasomes and viruses in carcinogenesis and elucidate the role of virus-microbiota interactions in HCC development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulsum Ozlem Elpek
- Department of Pathology, Akdeniz University Medical School, Antalya 07070, Turkey
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13
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The TGF-β Pathway: A Pharmacological Target in Hepatocellular Carcinoma? Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13133248. [PMID: 34209646 PMCID: PMC8268320 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily members are essential for tissue homeostasis and consequently, dysregulation of their signaling pathways contributes to the development of human diseases. In the liver, TGF-β signaling participates in all the stages of disease progression from initial liver injury to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). During liver carcinogenesis, TGF-β plays a dual role on the malignant cell, behaving as a suppressor factor at early stages, but contributing to later tumor progression once cells escape from its cytostatic effects. Moreover, TGF-β can modulate the response of the cells forming the tumor microenvironment that may also contribute to HCC progression, and drive immune evasion of cancer cells. Thus, targeting the TGF-β pathway may constitute an effective therapeutic option for HCC treatment. However, it is crucial to identify biomarkers that allow to predict the response of the tumors and appropriately select the patients that could benefit from TGF-β inhibitory therapies. Here we review the functions of TGF-β on HCC malignant and tumor microenvironment cells, and the current strategies targeting TGF-β signaling for cancer therapy. We also summarize the clinical impact of TGF-β inhibitors in HCC patients and provide a perspective on its future use alone or in combinatorial strategies for HCC treatment.
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14
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Schoenberg MB, Li X, Li X, Han Y, Hao J, Miksch RC, Koch D, Börner N, Beger NT, Bucher JN, Schiergens TS, Guba MO, Werner J, Bazhin AV. The predictive value of tumor infiltrating leukocytes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Surg Oncol 2021; 47:2561-2570. [PMID: 33966947 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2021.04.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surgery either through resection or transplantation often provides the only chance for cure. Since hepatocarcinogenesis and postsurgical prognosis is not only dependent on cirrhosis but also on immune activation and exhaustion, many studies have investigated tumor infiltrating leukocyte (TIL) subsets. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims at describing the cell groups and their predictive power regarding overall (OS), disease free (DFS) and recurrence free survival (RFS). MATERIAL AND METHODS A systematic search of the PubMed database was conducted (PROSPERO 172324). Data on CD3+, CD8+, Treg, B cells, macrophages, neutrophil and NK-cells were collected from Pubmed and related references up to December 2018. Overall (OS), disease-free (DFS) and recurrence free survival (RFS) in dependence of high vs. low infiltration rates were compared using a random effects meta-analysis. RESULTS Altogether data from 3541 patients enrolled in 20 publications were included. Except for Tregs and Neutrophils, heterogeneity analysis was found to be moderate to high across the studies. High CD3+, CD8+, NK-cell infiltration predicted better survival (OS, DFS and RFS; p < 0.05). Higher Treg and Neutrophil infiltration predicted lower OS and DFS. For Macrophages and B cells no difference in survival could be found. DISCUSSION As with other solid tumors immune infiltration has a great influence on survival after resection. However, a considerable publication bias cannot be ruled out in mostly retrospective analyses. Nevertheless, in light of novel immune modulatory treatments this opens a new avenue towards effective and well-tolerated adjuvant treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Bo Schoenberg
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Xiaokang Li
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Yongsheng Han
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jingcheng Hao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, PR China
| | - Rainer Christoph Miksch
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Dominik Koch
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Börner
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nicola Theresa Beger
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Julian Nikolaus Bucher
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Simon Schiergens
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Otto Guba
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jens Werner
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Alexandr V Bazhin
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany.
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15
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Liu X, Lu Y, Qin S. Atezolizumab and bevacizumab for hepatocellular carcinoma: mechanism, pharmacokinetics and future treatment strategies. Future Oncol 2021; 17:2243-2256. [PMID: 33663220 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2020-1290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common cancer globally and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Although early-stage disease may be curable by resection, liver transplantation or ablation, many patients present with unresectable disease and have a poor prognosis. Combination treatment with atezolizumab (targeting PD-L1) and bevacizumab (targeting VEGF) in the recent IMbrave150 study was shown to be effective with an acceptable safety profile in patients with unresectable HCC. Herein, we discuss this novel combination in the context of the liver immune environment, summarize the mechanism and pharmacokinetics of atezolizumab and bevacizumab, and examine recent data on other immune checkpoint inhibitor combination strategies as well as future directions in the treatment of patients with advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiufeng Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Bayi Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Chinese Medical University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Yi Lu
- Shanghai Roche Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shukui Qin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Bayi Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Chinese Medical University, Nanjing, 210002, China
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16
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Senovilla L, Vacchelli E, Galon J, Adjemian S, Eggermont A, Fridman WH, Sautès-Fridman C, Ma Y, Tartour E, Zitvogel L, Kroemer G, Galluzzi L. Trial watch: Prognostic and predictive value of the immune infiltrate in cancer. Oncoimmunology 2021; 1:1323-1343. [PMID: 23243596 PMCID: PMC3518505 DOI: 10.4161/onci.22009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Solid tumors are constituted of a variety of cellular components, including bona fide malignant cells as well as endothelial, structural and immune cells. On one hand, the tumor stroma exerts major pro-tumorigenic and immunosuppressive functions, reflecting the capacity of cancer cells to shape the microenvironment to satisfy their own metabolic and immunological needs. On the other hand, there is a component of tumor-infiltrating leucocytes (TILs) that has been specifically recruited in the attempt to control tumor growth. Along with the recognition of the critical role played by the immune system in oncogenesis, tumor progression and response to therapy, increasing attention has been attracted by the potential prognostic and/or predictive role of the immune infiltrate in this setting. Data from large clinical studies demonstrate indeed that a robust infiltration of neoplastic lesions by specific immune cell populations, including (but not limited to) CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, Th1 and Th17 CD4+ T cells, natural killer cells, dendritic cells, and M1 macrophages constitutes an independent prognostic indicator in several types of cancer. Conversely, high levels of intratumoral CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells, Th2 CD4+ T cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, M2 macrophages and neutrophils have frequently been associated with dismal prognosis. So far, only a few studies have addressed the true predictive potential of TILs in cancer patients, generally comforting the notion that—at least in some clinical settings—the immune infiltrate can reliably predict if a specific patient will respond to therapy or not. In this Trial Watch, we will summarize the results of clinical trials that have evaluated/are evaluating the prognostic and predictive value of the immune infiltrate in the context of solid malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Senovilla
- Institut Gustave Roussy; Villejuif, France ; Université Paris-Sud/Paris XI; Orsay, France ; INSERM, U848; Villejuif, France
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Abstract
The diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma relies largely on non-invasive imaging, and is well suited for radiomics analysis. Radiomics is an emerging method for quantification of tumor heterogeneity by mathematically analyzing the spatial distribution and relationships of gray levels in medical images. The published studies on radiomics analysis of HCC provide encouraging data demonstrating potential utility for prediction of tumor biology, molecular profiles, post-therapy response, and outcome. The combination of radiomics data and clinical/laboratory information provides added value in many studies. Radiomics is a multi-step process that requires optimization and standardization, the development of semi-automated or automated segmentation methods, robust data quality control, and refinement of algorithms and modeling approaches for high-throughput data analysis. While radiomics remains largely in the research setting, the strong associations of predictive models and nomograms with certain pathologic, molecular, and immune markers with tumor aggressiveness and patient outcomes, provide great potential for clinical applications to inform optimized treatment strategies and patient prognosis.
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Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors as Monotherapy or Within a Combinatorial Strategy in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176302. [PMID: 32878115 PMCID: PMC7504231 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In advanced-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), systemic treatment represents the standard therapy. Target therapy has marked a new era based on a greater knowledge of molecular disease signaling. Nonetheless, survival outcomes and long-term response remain unsatisfactory, mostly because of the onset of primary or acquired resistance. More recently, results from clinical trials with immune targeting agents, such as the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), have shown a promising role for these drugs in the treatment of advanced HCC. In the context of an intrinsic tolerogenic liver environment, since HCC-induced immune tolerance, it is supported by multiple immunosuppressive mechanisms and several clinical trials are now underway to evaluate ICI-based combinations, including their associations with antiangiogenic agents or multikinase kinase inhibitors and multiple ICIs combinations. In this review, we will first discuss the basic principles of hepatic immunogenic tolerance and the evasive mechanism of antitumor immunity in HCC; furthermore we will elucidate the consistent biological rationale for immunotherapy in HCC even in the presence of an intrinsic tolerogenic environment. Subsequently, we will critically report and discuss current literature on ICIs in the treatment of advanced HCC, including a focus on the currently explored combinatorial strategies and their rationales. Finally, we will consider both challenges and future directions in this field.
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Upregulation of CEP55 Predicts Dismal Prognosis in Patients with Liver Cancer. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:4139320. [PMID: 32337246 PMCID: PMC7153005 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4139320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Purpose This study was performed to investigate the association of CEP55 expression with liver cancer and explore potential underlying mechanisms. Materials and Methods. Data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was used to investigate CEP55 expression, its prognostic value, the potential mechanisms of its upregulation, CEP55-related pathways, and its biological functions in liver cancer. Data from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) was used to validate survival analysis. The correlation between CEP55 and tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) in liver cancer was determined by using Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER). Results CEP55 was significantly overexpressed in the liver tumor sample compared to the adjacent normal liver sample. High CEP55 expression was significantly associated with histological grade, advanced stages, histological type, high T classification, and survival status. High CEP55 expression was significantly related to dismal prognosis compared with low CEP55 expression, which was validated by the GSE54236 dataset and ICGC database. Meanwhile, CEP55 was identified as the risk factor to independently predict overall survival (OS) for patients with liver cancer upon multivariate analysis. Enrichment analysis indicated that cell cycle, DNA replication, pathways in cancer, mTOR signaling pathway, and VEGF signaling pathway were significantly enriched in the high CEP55 expression group. In addition, the CEP55 expression was significantly related to the infiltration level of B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). CEP55 methylation level was negatively correlated to its mRNA expression. And patients with CEP55 hypermethylation and low expression can achieve a better prognosis than those with CEP55 hypomethylation and high expression. Conclusion CEP55 may serve as a candidate treatment target for it is a determinant of prognosis and immune infiltration in liver cancer patients. DNA hypomethylation might contribute to the overexpression of CEP55 in liver cancer.
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20
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Cariani E, Missale G. Immune landscape of hepatocellular carcinoma microenvironment: Implications for prognosis and therapeutic applications. Liver Int 2019; 39:1608-1621. [PMID: 31314948 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The development of immunotherapy for solid tumours has boosted interest in the contexture of tumour immune microenvironment (TIME). Several lines of evidence indicate that the interplay between tumour cells and TIME components is a key factor for the evolution of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and for the likelihood of response to immunotherapeutics. The availability of high-resolution methods will be instrumental for a better definition of the complexity and diversity of TIME with the aim of predicting disease outcome, treatment response and possibly new therapeutic targets. Here, we review current knowledge about the immunological mechanisms involved in shaping the clinical course of HCC. Effector cells, regulatory cells and soluble mediators are discussed for their role defining TIME and as targets for immune modulation, together with possible immune signatures for optimization of immunotherapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Cariani
- Toxicology and Advanced Diagnostics, Ospedale S. Agostino-Estense, Modena, Italy
| | - Gabriele Missale
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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21
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Circulating levels of PD-L1 and Galectin-9 are associated with patient survival in surgically treated Hepatocellular Carcinoma independent of their intra-tumoral expression levels. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10677. [PMID: 31337865 PMCID: PMC6650499 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47235-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor expression of immune co-inhibitory ligands, such as PD-L1 and Galectin-9, have potential prognostic value in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). Circulating levels of these molecules, however, have hardly been studied. This study aims to assess the prognostic significance of circulating PD-L1 and circulating Galectin-9 in patients with resected HCC, and to compare their prognostic significance to the intra-tumoral expression of these same molecules. Archived tissues and stored peripheral blood samples from 81 patients who underwent HCC resection or liver transplantation, with curative intent, were used. Immunohistochemistry was performed to determine intra-tumoral expression of PD-L1 and Galectin-9, while ELISA was used to quantify their respective circulating levels. High circulating PD-L1 (HR 0.12, 95%CI 0.16-0.86, p = 0.011) and high circulating Galectin-9 (HR 0.11, 95%CI 0.15-0.85, p = 0.010) levels were both associated with improved HCC-specific survival. Surprisingly, there was no correlation between circulating levels of PD-L1 and Galectin-9 and their intra-tumoral expression levels. In fact, circulating levels of PD-L1 and Galectin-9 were predictive of HCC-specific survival independently of intra-tumoral levels and baseline clinicopathologic characteristics. Combined analysis of circulating levels and intra-tumoral expression of PD-L1 (HR 0.33, 95%CI 0.16-0.68, p = 0.002) and Galectin-9 (HR 0.27, 95%CI 0.13-0.57, p = 0.001) resulted in more confident prediction of survival. In conclusion, circulating PD-L1 and Galectin-9 levels prognostically differentiate resected HCC patients, independently of their intra-tumoral expression. Combining circulating and intra-tumoral expression levels of PD-L1 or Galectin-9 further improves the prognostic values of these immune biomarkers.
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Zhongqi F, Xiaodong S, Yuguo C, Guoyue L. Can Combined Therapy Benefit Immune Checkpoint Blockade Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma? Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2019; 19:222-228. [PMID: 30426903 DOI: 10.2174/1871520618666181114112431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers with high mortality
rate. The effects of most therapies are limited. The Immune Checkpoint Blockade (ICB) improves the prognosis
in multiple malignancies. The application of immune checkpoint blockade to hepatocellular carcinoma
patients has recently started. Early phase clinical trials have shown some benefits to cancer patients.
Methods/Results:
This review focuses on the immune system of liver and clinical trials of ICB. In particular, we
analyze the mechanisms by which immune checkpoint blockade therapies can be used for the treatment of hepatocellular
carcinoma patients, then examine the factors in cancer resistance to the therapies and finally suggest
possible combination therapies for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma patients.
Conclusion:
ICB is a promising therapy for advanced HCC patients. Combined therapy exhibits a great potential
to enhance ICB response in these patients. The better understanding of the factors influencing the sensitivity
of ICB and more clinical trials will consolidate the efficiency and minimize the adverse effects of ICB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhongqi
- First Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreas Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Sun Xiaodong
- First Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreas Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Chen Yuguo
- First Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreas Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
| | - Lv Guoyue
- First Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreas Surgery, The First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, China
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23
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Ponziani FR, Nicoletti A, Gasbarrini A, Pompili M. Diagnostic and therapeutic potential of the gut microbiota in patients with early hepatocellular carcinoma. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2019; 11:1758835919848184. [PMID: 31205505 PMCID: PMC6535703 DOI: 10.1177/1758835919848184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiota is involved in the maintenance of the homeostasis of the human body and its alterations are associated with the development of different pathological conditions. The liver is the organ most exposed to the influence of the gut microbiota, and recently important connections between the intestinal flora and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been described. In fact, HCC is commonly associated with liver cirrhosis and develops in a microenvironment where inflammation, immunological alterations, and cellular aberrations are dramatically evident. Prevention and diagnosis in the earliest stages are still the most effective weapons in fighting this tumor. Animal models show that the gut microbiota can be involved in the promotion and progression of HCC directly or through different pathogenic mechanisms. Recent data in humans have confirmed these preclinical findings, shedding new light on HCC pathogenesis. Limitations due to the different experimental design, the ethnic and hepatological setting make it difficult to compare the results and draw definitive conclusions, but these studies lay the foundations for a pathogenetic redefinition of HCC. Therefore, it is evident that the characterization of the gut microbiota and its modulation can have an enormous diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic potential, especially in patients with early stage HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Romana Ponziani
- Division of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 8, Rome, 00168, Italy
| | - Alberto Nicoletti
- Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Pompili
- Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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24
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Schoenberg MB, Hao J, Bucher JN, Miksch RC, Anger HJW, Mayer B, Mayerle J, Neumann J, Guba MO, Werner J, Bazhin AV. Perivascular Tumor-Infiltrating Leukocyte Scoring for Prognosis of Resected Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 10:cancers10100389. [PMID: 30340430 PMCID: PMC6210365 DOI: 10.3390/cancers10100389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver resection is a curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Tumor-infiltrating leukocytes (TILs) are important players in predicting HCC recurrence. However, the invasive margin could not be confirmed as relevant for HCC. The migration of immune cells into HCC may originate from intratumoral vessels. No previous study has examined perivascular (PV) infiltration. Tumors from 60 patients were examined. Immunohistochemistry was performed against CD3, CD8, CD20, and CD66b. TILs were counted in the PV regions using an algorithm for quantification of the tumor immune stroma (QTiS). The results were correlated with overall (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS), clinical parameters, and laboratory values. PV infiltration of TILs was predominant in resected HCC. Higher PV infiltration of CD3⁺ (p = 0.016) and CD8⁺ (p = 0.028) independently predicted better OS and DFS, respectively. CD20⁺ showed a trend towards better DFS (p = 0.076). Scoring of CD3⁺, CD8⁺, and CD20⁺ independently predicted OS and DFS (p < 0.01). The amount of perivascular-infiltrating CD3⁺ cells is an independent predictor of better OS, and CD8⁺ cells independently predict prolonged DFS. Our novel perivascular infiltration scoring (PVIS) can independently predict both DFS and OS in resected HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Bo Schoenberg
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Jingcheng Hao
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu 610513, China.
| | - Julian Nikolaus Bucher
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Rainer Christoph Miksch
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Hubertus Johann Wolfgang Anger
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Barbara Mayer
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Julia Mayerle
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Jens Neumann
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Markus Otto Guba
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
- Transplantation Center Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| | - Jens Werner
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Pettenkoferstraße 8a, 80336 Munich, Germany.
| | - Alexandr V Bazhin
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Marchioninistraße 15, 81377 Munich, Germany.
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Pettenkoferstraße 8a, 80336 Munich, Germany.
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25
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Carone C, Olivani A, Dalla Valle R, Manuguerra R, Silini EM, Trenti T, Missale G, Cariani E. Immune Gene Expression Profile in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Surrounding Tissue Predicts Time to Tumor Recurrence. Liver Cancer 2018; 7:277-294. [PMID: 30319985 PMCID: PMC6167723 DOI: 10.1159/000486764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The antitumor immune response may play a major role in the clinical outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We characterized the liver immune microenvironment by direct hybridization of RNA extracted from HCC and nontumorous tissues. METHODS RNA was extracted from frozen liver tissue samples of HCC (T; n = 30) and nontumorous tissues (NT; n = 33) obtained from 38 patients. Matched samples were available for 25 patients. The immune gene expression profile was analyzed with the nCounter GX Human Immunology v2 system (NanoString Technologies), which detects the expression levels of 579 immune response-related genes simultaneously. RESULTS Since the immune gene expression profile of T and NT tissues was significantly different, the prognostic relevance of the liver immune microenvironment was evaluated in the T and NT samples separately. Unsupervised clustering detected two main clusters of immune gene expression both in T and in NT liver samples. In both cases, the expression clusters identified groups of patients with a significantly different median time to HCC recurrence (TTR) but similar overall survival. Based on T tissue, two groups with median TTR of 19 and 127 months, respectively, were detected (p < 0.005). Expression of genes related to T-cell activation was associated with longer TTR. The analysis of NT tissue discriminated subsets of patients with median TTR of 22 and 68 months (p < 0.05). In contrast to T tissue, a predominant inflammatory immune environment was associated with shorter TTR. CONCLUSIONS Immune gene expression profiles predictive of TTR could be identified both in HCC and in adjacent cirrhotic tissues. Longer TTR was associated with overexpression in T tissue and downregulation in NT tissue of the immune response and of inflammation-related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Carone
- Toxicology and Advanced Diagnostics, Ospedale S. Agostino-Estense, Modena, Italy
| | - Andrea Olivani
- U.O. Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Manuguerra
- Pathology Section, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Enrico Maria Silini
- Pathology Section, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Tommaso Trenti
- Toxicology and Advanced Diagnostics, Ospedale S. Agostino-Estense, Modena, Italy
| | - Gabriele Missale
- U.O. Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Cariani
- Toxicology and Advanced Diagnostics, Ospedale S. Agostino-Estense, Modena, Italy,*Elisabetta Cariani, Toxicology and Advanced Diagnostics, Ospedale S. Agostino-Estense, via Giardini 1355, IT-41126 Modena (Italy), E-Mail
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26
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Weng Q, Chen M, Li M, Zheng YF, Shao G, Fan W, Xu XM, Ji J. Global microarray profiling identified hsa_circ_0064428 as a potential immune-associated prognosis biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma. J Med Genet 2018; 56:32-38. [PMID: 30120213 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2018-105440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing evidence has shown that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved tumourigenesis and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, progression about its function in HCC is relatively slow. Here, we aimed to investigate whether plasma circRNAs could reflect the tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in HCC tumour tissues and serve as prognosis biomarker for HCC. METHODS Tissue samples of patients with HCC were subjected to immunohistochemistry staining against CD8 to examine the TILs. Then, we investigated the expression profile of circRNAs by microarray between plasma of patients with HCC with high TILs and low TILs, and the differentially expressed circRNAs were validated with qRT-PCR. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS software and GraphPad Prism. RESULTS We have demonstrated that patients with HCC with high TILs exhibit a significant better overall survival, suggesting clinical outcome could be predicted by TILs. Global circRNA microarray between plasma of patients with HCC with high TILs and low TILs successfully identified six differentially expressed novel circRNAs. Among them, the expression of hsa_circ_0064428 was significantly reduced in patients with HCC with high TILs but increased in patients with low TILs. Moreover, hsa_circ_0064428 was negatively correlated with patient's survival, tumour size and metastasis. CONCLUSION These findings together imply that hsa_circ_0064428 could be considered as a potential HCC prognosis biomarker. Future in-depth research is required to further illustrate the involvement of hsa_circ_0064428 in HCC tumourigenesis and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyou Weng
- Key Laboratory of Imaging Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Intervention Research, Affiliated Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University/The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University/The Central Hospital of Zhejiang Lishui, Lishui, China
| | - Minjiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Imaging Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Intervention Research, Affiliated Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University/The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University/The Central Hospital of Zhejiang Lishui, Lishui, China
| | - Maoquan Li
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, The Tenth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong-Fa Zheng
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guoliang Shao
- Department of Radiology, The Cancer Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weijun Fan
- Medical Imaging Center, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi-Ming Xu
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiansong Ji
- Key Laboratory of Imaging Diagnosis and Minimally Invasive Intervention Research, Affiliated Lishui Hospital of Zhejiang University/The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University/The Central Hospital of Zhejiang Lishui, Lishui, China
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27
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Wu MY, Yiang GT, Cheng PW, Chu PY, Li CJ. Molecular Targets in Hepatocarcinogenesis and Implications for Therapy. J Clin Med 2018; 7:jcm7080213. [PMID: 30104473 PMCID: PMC6112027 DOI: 10.3390/jcm7080213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocarcinogenesis comprises of multiple, complex steps that occur after liver injury and usually involve several pathways, including telomere dysfunction, cell cycle, WNT/β-catenin signaling, oxidative stress and mitochondria dysfunction, autophagy, apoptosis, and AKT/mTOR signaling. Following liver injury, gene mutations, accumulation of oxidative stress, and local inflammation lead to cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and necrosis. The persistence of this vicious cycle in turn leads to further gene mutation and dysregulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, IL-18, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, resulting in immune escape by means of the NF-κB and inflammasome signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize studies focusing on the roles of hepatocarcinogenesis and the immune system in liver cancer. In addition, we furnish an overview of recent basic and clinical studies to provide a strong foundation to develop novel anti-carcinogenesis targets for further treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Yu Wu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City 231, Taiwan.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan.
| | - Giuo-Teng Yiang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City 231, Taiwan.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan.
| | - Pei-Wen Cheng
- Yuh-Ing Junior College of Health Care & Management, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Education and Research, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813, Taiwan.
| | - Pei-Yi Chu
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 231, Taiwan.
- Department of Pathology, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan.
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 704, Taiwan.
| | - Chia-Jung Li
- Research Assistant Center, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan.
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28
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Xie Q, Chen Z, Xia L, Zhao Q, Yu H, Yang Z. Correlations of PD-L1 gene polymorphisms with susceptibility and prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma in a Chinese Han population. Gene 2018; 674:188-194. [PMID: 29940275 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.06.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study was performed to investigate the effect of PD-L1 polymorphisms on the susceptibility and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a Chinese Han population. METHODS Four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the PD-L1 gene, including rs2297136 (C > T), rs4143815 (C > G), rs2890658 (A > C) and rs17718883 (C > G) were examined in 225 HCC patients and 200 healthy controls using polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. RESULTS Data revealed that the rs2297136 (C > T) SNP TT (p = 0.03) and rs4143815 (C > G) SNP GG genotypes (p < 0.001) were associated with significantly increased risks of HCC. No association was found between rs2890658 (A > C) SNP and HCC risk and this risk was significantly decreased in individuals with the rs17718883 SNP CG + GG genotype (p < 0.001). The rs2297136 (C > T) SNP CC + CT genotypes, the rs4143815 (C > G) CC genotype and the rs2890658 (A > C) AA genotype were associated with increased overall survival compared to their counterpart allelic genotypes (p < 0.001). The rs2890658 (A > C) SNP had no impact on the risk and prognosis of HCC (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated that three functional polymorphisms (rs2297136, rs4143815 and rs17718883) of the PD-L1 gene were associated with HCC risk and prognosis, suggesting that genetic variants of PD-L1 polymorphisms might be a possible prognostic marker for the prediction of HCC risk and development. Validation by a larger prospective study from a more diverse ethnic population is needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qigui Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Zhanlei Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Liang Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Qiufeng Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Haitao Yu
- Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Zhuying Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, PR China.
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29
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Relationship Between PD-L1 Expression and CD8+ T-cell Immune Responses in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Immunother 2018; 40:323-333. [PMID: 29028787 DOI: 10.1097/cji.0000000000000187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
As PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors exhibited promising clinical outcomes in various types of solid tumors, PD-1/PD-L1 blockades have been explored for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the association of PD-L1 with antitumor immunoregulation is not clearly defined in HCC. Here, we evaluated the characteristics of PD-L1 expression, CD8 T-cell infiltration and their relationship in HCC. A total of 411 resected tumor specimens from HCC patients were immunostained for PD-L1 and CD8. Only 78 (19%) cases showed ≥5% membranous PD-L1 expression on tumor cells, although a significantly positive correlation was found between PD-L1 expression and CD8 T-cell densities. Moreover, patients with higher tumor PD-L1 expression also showed a higher hepatitis B virus load, which was also related to increased CD8 infiltration. Survival analysis suggested that both tumor and stroma PD-L1 status did not significantly affect overall survival or recurrence-free survival in patients. Although high CD8 T-cell density was overall associated with better overall survival and recurrence-free survival, its favorable prognostic value was eliminated by high tumor PD-L1 expression. Further flow cytometric and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) results from the coculture of HCC cell lines with specific CD8 cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) demonstrated that CD8 CTLs remarkably upregulated PD-L1 expression on tumor cell lines by HLA class-I specificity, and the overexpression of tumor PD-L1 impaired interferon-γ secretion by CD8 CTLs in a negative feedback regulation mechanism. In conclusion, our findings reveal an interaction between PD-L1 expression and CD8 T-cell immunity in HCC, although PD-L1 is not a prognostic factor for the patients.
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30
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Castven D, Fischer M, Becker D, Heinrich S, Andersen JB, Strand D, Sprinzl MF, Strand S, Czauderna C, Heilmann-Heimbach S, Roessler S, Weinmann A, Wörns MA, Thorgeirsson SS, Galle PR, Matter MS, Lang H, Marquardt JU. Adverse genomic alterations and stemness features are induced by field cancerization in the microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinomas. Oncotarget 2018; 8:48688-48700. [PMID: 28415775 PMCID: PMC5564717 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.16231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) commonly develops in chronically damaged liver tissues. The resulting regenerative and inflammatory processes create an adverse milieu that promotes tumor-initiation and progression. A better understanding of the hepatic tumor-microenvironment interaction might infer profound therapeutic implications. Integrative whole genome and transcriptome analyses of different tumor regions, the invasive tumor border and tumor-surrounding liver (SL) were performed to identify associated molecular alterations and integrated with our existing HCC database. Expression levels and localization of established CSC markers were assessed in pre-neoplastic lesions and confirmed in two independent patient cohorts using qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Our results indicate that genomic and transcriptomic profiles between SL and different tumor regions are quite distinct. Progressive increase in genetic alterations and activation of pathways related to proliferation as well as apoptosis were observed in the tumor tissue, while activation of stemness markers was present in cirrhotic SL and continuously decreased from pre-neoplastic lesions to HCC. Interestingly, the invasive tumor border was characterized by inflammatory and EMT-related gene sets as well as activation of pro-survival signaling. Consistently, integration of gene expression signatures with two independent HCC databases containing 300 HCCs revealed that border signatures are predictive of HCC patient survival. Prognostic significance of the permissive liver microenvironment might be a consequence of a pro-oncogenic field effect that is caused by chronic regenerative processes. Activation of key oncogenic features and immune-response signaling indicates that the cross-talk between tumor and microenvironment might be a promising therapeutic and/or preventive target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darko Castven
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael Fischer
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Diana Becker
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefan Heinrich
- Department of Surgery, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jesper B Andersen
- Department of Health and Medical Science, Biotech Research and Innovation Centre, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dennis Strand
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Martin F Sprinzl
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Susanne Strand
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Carolin Czauderna
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefanie Heilmann-Heimbach
- Department of Genomics, Institute of Human Genetics, Life & Brain Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Stephanie Roessler
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Arndt Weinmann
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Marcus A Wörns
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Snorri S Thorgeirsson
- Laboratory of Experimental Carcinogenesis, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Peter R Galle
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Hauke Lang
- Department of Surgery, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jens U Marquardt
- Department of Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
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Breyer J, Wirtz RM, Otto W, Erben P, Worst TS, Stoehr R, Eckstein M, Denzinger S, Burger M, Hartmann A. High PDL1 mRNA expression predicts better survival of stage pT1 non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) patients. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2018; 67:403-412. [PMID: 29150702 PMCID: PMC11028240 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-017-2093-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Checkpoint inhibition has emerged as new therapeutic option in muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the prognostic role of PD1 and PDL1 expression in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and establish an objective measuring method using RNA quantification. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively analyzed clinical data and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues (FFPE) of patients with stage pT1 NMIBC who underwent transurethral resection of the bladder. mRNA expression of PD1, PDL1 and CD3 was measured by single step RT-qPCR and correlated to clinicopathological parameters, recurrence-free survival (RFS), progression-free survival (PFS) and carcinoma-specific survival (CSS). RESULTS We have analyzed 334 patients with NMIBC at stage pT1 for mRNA analysis. Data from 296 patients (79% male, median age: 72 years) could be used. Spearman correlation revealed significant associations between mRNA expressions of PD1/PDL1 (ρ: 0.6024, p < 0.0001), CD3/PDL1 (ρ: 0.5728, p < 0.0001) and CD3/PD1 (ρ: 0.7005, p < 0.0001). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that high PDL1 mRNA expression (≥ 33.83) is a favorable prognostic factor with regard to better RFS (p = 0.0018), PFS (p = 0.021) and CSS (p = 0.012). Multivariate Cox-regression analysis proved PDL1 expression to be an independent prognosticator for RFS [HR 0.48 (0.31-0.72), p = 0.0005], PFS [HR 0.45 (0.24-0.80), p = 0.0059] and CSS [HR 0.31 (0.13-0.67), p = 0.0021]. CONCLUSION High mRNA expression of PDL1 predicts improved RFS, PFS and CSS of pT1 NMIBC. Following prospective validation, this objective measurement of PD-L1 might help stratify patients with NMIBC for immunotherapy and identify patients who might benefit from early cystectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Breyer
- Department of Urology, Caritas St. Josef Medical Center, University of Regensburg, Landshuter Str. 65, 93053, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Ralph M Wirtz
- STRATIFYER Molecular Pathology GmbH, Cologne, Germany
- Institute of Pathology, St Elisabeth Hospital Köln-Hohenlind, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Otto
- Department of Urology, Caritas St. Josef Medical Center, University of Regensburg, Landshuter Str. 65, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Erben
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Thomas S Worst
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Robert Stoehr
- Institute of Pathology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus Eckstein
- Institute of Pathology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stefan Denzinger
- Department of Urology, Caritas St. Josef Medical Center, University of Regensburg, Landshuter Str. 65, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Maximilian Burger
- Department of Urology, Caritas St. Josef Medical Center, University of Regensburg, Landshuter Str. 65, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Arndt Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Role of nonresolving inflammation in hepatocellular carcinoma development and progression. NPJ Precis Oncol 2018; 2:6. [PMID: 29872724 PMCID: PMC5871907 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-018-0048-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has become a leading cause of cancer-related death, making the elucidation of its underlying mechanisms an urgent priority. Inflammation is an adaptive response to infection and tissue injury under strict regulations. When the host regulatory machine runs out of control, nonresolving inflammation occurs. Nonresolving inflammation is a recognized hallmark of cancer that substantially contributes to the development and progression of HCC. The HCC-associated inflammation can be initiated and propagated by extrinsic pathways through activation of pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) by pathogen-associated molecule patterns (PAMPs) derived from gut microflora or damage-associated molecule patterns (DAMPs) released from dying liver cells. The inflammation can also be orchestrated by the tumor itself through secreting factors that recruit inflammatory cells to the tumor favoring the buildup of a microenvironment. Accumulating datas from human and mouse models showed that inflammation promotes HCC development by promoting proliferative and survival signaling, inducing angiogenesis, evading immune surveillance, supporting cancer stem cells, activating invasion and metastasis as well as inducing genomic instability. Targeting inflammation may represent a promising avenue for the HCC treatment. Some inhibitors targeting inflammatory pathways have been developed and under different stages of clinical trials, and one (sorafenib) have been approved by FDA. However, as most of the data were obtained from animal models, and there is a big difference between human HCC and mouse HCC models, it is challenging on successful translation from bench to bedside.
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Nakagawa S, Umezaki N, Yamao T, Kaida T, Okabe H, Mima K, Imai K, Hashimoto D, Yamashita YI, Ishiko T, Chikamoto A, Baba H. Survival impact of lymphocyte infiltration into the tumor of hepatocellular carcinoma in hepatitis B virus-positive or non-B non-C patients who underwent curative resection. Hepatol Res 2018; 48:E126-E132. [PMID: 28696046 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2017] [Revised: 06/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM The prognostic value of lymphocyte infiltration into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still controversial, and it has not been reported in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-positive or non-B non-C (NBNC) HCC. The aim of this study is to assess the prognostic significance of lymphocyte infiltrate in tumor for HBV-positive and NBNC HCC patients. METHODS This study investigated 145 HBV-positive or NBNC patients who underwent hepatectomy for HCC between January 2001 and May 2009. Cumulative recurrence rate, overall survival (OS), and clinicopathological parameters were analyzed according to lymphocyte infiltration in tumor. RESULTS In patients with low lymphocyte infiltration, the 5-year recurrence rate was higher and OS was poor (86.4 and 44.1%, respectively) than that of the patients with high lymphocyte infiltration (55.3 and 83.7%, respectively). Multivariate analyses revealed that independent risk factors for recurrence were low albumin value (hazard ratio [HR] 2.33, P = 0.009), high American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) T stage (HR 2.31, P < 0.0001), high α-fetoprotein (AFP) value (HR 2.06, P = 0.005), and low lymphocyte infiltration (HR 2.50, P = 0.0001). The independent risk factors for OS were low albumin value (HR 3.69, P = 0.003), high AJCC T stage (HR 2.10, P = 0.049), high AFP value (HR 3.98, P < 0.001), and low lymphocyte infiltration (HR 3.47, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Lymphocyte infiltrate in tumor is significantly associated high recurrence rate and poor overall survival. Evaluation of the infiltrating lymphocyte could improve the prediction of prognosis in HCC patients after curative resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeki Nakagawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Naoki Umezaki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Takanobu Yamao
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Takayoshi Kaida
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Hirohisa Okabe
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Kosuke Mima
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Katsunori Imai
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Daisuke Hashimoto
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yo-Ichi Yamashita
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Takatoshi Ishiko
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Akira Chikamoto
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Hideo Baba
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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Brown ZJ, Heinrich B, Steinberg SM, Yu SJ, Greten TF. Safety in treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with immune checkpoint inhibitors as compared to melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2017; 5:93. [PMID: 29157287 PMCID: PMC5697069 DOI: 10.1186/s40425-017-0298-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health problem worldwide with increasing incidence rates. As HCC traditionally occurs in chronically inflamed livers, this inflammation aids to drive oncogenesis and often renders these lesions to be immunogenic and therefore potential targets for immunotherapy. As patients with HCC generally have underlying liver dysfunction, we sought to determine if immune checkpoint inhibitors were safe to use in patients with HCC as compared to melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in terms of the gastrointestinal side effects of elevation of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and diarrhea as well as patients who drop out of the study due to drug toxicity and death secondary to drug toxicity. Methods A literature review was performed for clinical trials that have been completed with single agent immune checkpoint inhibitors for patients with HCC, melanoma, and NSCLC. Gastrointestinal related adverse events including elevation of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and diarrhea were analyzed as well as those patients who were taken off therapy secondary to drug related toxicity and patients who died as a result of therapy. Results We found that although patients with HCC treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors have a substantial increase in AST/ALT as compared to patients with melanoma and NSCLC, this does not cause the patients to come off therapy or cause death secondary to drug toxicity. Conclusions We propose immune checkpoint inhibitors are safe to pursue in the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary J Brown
- Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Bernd Heinrich
- Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Seth M Steinberg
- Biostatistics and Data Management Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Su Jong Yu
- Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Tim F Greten
- Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
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Long J, Lin J, Wang A, Wu L, Zheng Y, Yang X, Wan X, Xu H, Chen S, Zhao H. PD-1/PD-L blockade in gastrointestinal cancers: lessons learned and the road toward precision immunotherapy. J Hematol Oncol 2017; 10:146. [PMID: 28774337 PMCID: PMC5543600 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-017-0511-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies are the most prevalent tumors worldwide, with increasing incidence and mortality. Although surgical resection, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and molecular targeted therapy have led to significant advances in the treatment of GI cancer patients, overall survival is still low. Therefore, alternative strategies must be identified to improve patient outcomes. In the tumor microenvironment, tumor cells can escape the host immune response through the interaction of PD-1 and PD-L, which inhibits the function of T cells and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes while increasing the function of immunosuppressive T regulatory cells. The use of an anti-PD-1/PD-L blockade enables reprogramming of the immune system to efficiently identify and kill tumor cells. In recent years, the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L blockade has been demonstrated in many tumors, and this treatment is expected to be a pan-immunotherapy for tumors. Here, we review the signaling pathway underlying the dysregulation of PD-1/PD-L in tumors, summarize the current clinical data for PD-1/PD-L inhibitors in GI malignancies, and discuss road toward precision immunotherapy in relation to PD-1/PD-L blockade. The preliminary data for PD-1/PD-L inhibitors are encouraging, and the precision immunotherapy of PD-1/PD-L inhibitors will be a viable and pivotal clinical strategy for GI cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyu Long
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jianzhen Lin
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Anqiang Wang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Liangcai Wu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongchang Zheng
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaobo Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xueshuai Wan
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Haifeng Xu
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shuguang Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Haitao Zhao
- Department of Liver Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Neuzillet C, de Mestier L, Rousseau B, Mir O, Hebbar M, Kocher HM, Ruszniewski P, Tournigand C. Unravelling the pharmacologic opportunities and future directions for targeted therapies in gastro-intestinal cancers part 2: Neuroendocrine tumours, hepatocellular carcinoma, and gastro-intestinal stromal tumours. Pharmacol Ther 2017; 181:49-75. [PMID: 28723416 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2017.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Until the 1990s, cytotoxic chemotherapy has been the cornerstone of medical therapy for gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. Better understanding of the cancer cell molecular biology has led to the therapeutic revolution of targeted therapies, i.e. monoclonal antibodies or small molecule inhibitors directed against proteins that are specifically overexpressed or mutated in cancer cells. These agents, being more specific to cancer cells, were expected to be less toxic than conventional cytotoxic agents. However, their effects have sometimes been disappointing, due to intrinsic or acquired resistance mechanisms, or to an activity restricted to some tumour settings, illustrating the importance of patient selection and early identification of predictive biomarkers of response to these therapies. Targeted agents have provided clinical benefit in many GI cancer types. Particularly, some GI tumours are considered chemoresistant and targeted therapies have offered a new therapeutic base for their management. Hence, somatostatin receptor-directed strategies, sorafenib, and imatinib have revolutioned the management of neuroendocrine tumours (NET), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST), respectively, and are now used as first-line treatment in many patients affected by these tumours. However, these agents face problems of resistances and identification of predictive biomarkers from imaging and/or biology. We propose a comprehensive two-part review providing a panoramic approach of the successes and failures of targeted agents in GI cancers to unravel the pharmacologic opportunities and future directions for these agents in GI oncology. In this second part, we will focus on NET, HCC, and GIST, whose treatment relies primarily on targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Neuzillet
- INSERM UMR1149, Beaujon University Hospital (Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP), Paris 7 Diderot University, 100 Boulevard du Général Leclerc, 92110 Clichy, France; Department of Medical Oncology, Henri Mondor University Hospital (AP-HP), Paris Est Créteil University (UPEC), 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94010 Créteil, France; Tumour Biology Laboratory, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom; Barts and The London HPB Centre, The Royal London Hospital, Whitechapel, London E1 1BB, United Kingdom.
| | - Louis de Mestier
- INSERM UMR1149, Beaujon University Hospital (Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP), Paris 7 Diderot University, 100 Boulevard du Général Leclerc, 92110 Clichy, France; Department of Gastroenterology and Pancreatology, Beaujon University Hospital (AP-HP), Paris 7 Diderot University, 100 Boulevard du Général Leclerc, 92110 Clichy, France
| | - Benoît Rousseau
- Department of Medical Oncology, Henri Mondor University Hospital (AP-HP), Paris Est Créteil University (UPEC), 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94010 Créteil, France; Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale, INSERM UMR955 Team 18, Paris Est Créteil University (UPEC), 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94010 Créteil, France
| | - Olivier Mir
- Department of Cancer Medicine - Sarcoma Group, Department of Early Drug Development (DITEP) - Phase 1 Unit, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, University of Paris Sud, 114, Rue Edouard Vaillant, 94800 Villejuif, France
| | - Mohamed Hebbar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lille University Hospital, 1, Rue Polonovski, 59037 Lille, France
| | - Hemant M Kocher
- Tumour Biology Laboratory, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, United Kingdom; Barts and The London HPB Centre, The Royal London Hospital, Whitechapel, London E1 1BB, United Kingdom
| | - Philippe Ruszniewski
- INSERM UMR1149, Beaujon University Hospital (Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP), Paris 7 Diderot University, 100 Boulevard du Général Leclerc, 92110 Clichy, France
| | - Christophe Tournigand
- Department of Medical Oncology, Henri Mondor University Hospital (AP-HP), Paris Est Créteil University (UPEC), 51 Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94010 Créteil, France
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Sideras K, Biermann K, Verheij J, Takkenberg BR, Mancham S, Hansen BE, Schutz HM, de Man RA, Sprengers D, Buschow SI, Verseput MCM, Boor PPC, Pan Q, van Gulik TM, Terkivatan T, Ijzermans JNM, Beuers UHW, Sleijfer S, Bruno MJ, Kwekkeboom J. PD-L1, Galectin-9 and CD8 + tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes are associated with survival in hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncoimmunology 2017; 6:e1273309. [PMID: 28344887 PMCID: PMC5353918 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2016.1273309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel systemic treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are strongly needed. Immunotherapy is a promising strategy that can induce specific antitumor immune responses. Understanding the mechanisms of immune resistance by HCC is crucial for development of suitable immunotherapeutics. We used immunohistochemistry on tissue-microarrays to examine the co-expression of the immune inhibiting molecules PD-L1, Galectin-9, HVEM and IDO, as well as tumor CD8+ lymphocyte infiltration in HCC, in two independent cohorts of patients. We found that at least some expression in tumor cells was seen in 97% of cases for HVEM, 83% for PD-L1, 79% for Gal-9 and 66% for IDO. In the discovery cohort (n = 94), we found that lack of, or low, tumor expression of PD-L1 (p < 0.001), Galectin-9 (p < 0.001) and HVEM (p < 0.001), and low CD8+TIL count (p = 0.016), were associated with poor HCC-specific survival. PD-L1, Galectin-9 and CD8+TIL count were predictive of HCC-specific survival independent of baseline clinicopathologic characteristics and the combination of these markers was a powerful predictor of HCC-specific survival (HR 0.29; p <0.001). These results were confirmed in the validation cohort (n = 60). We show that low expression levels of PD-L1 and Gal-9 in combination with low CD8+TIL count predict extremely poor HCC-specific survival and it requires a change in two of these parameters to significantly improve prognosis. In conclusion, intra-tumoral expression of these immune inhibiting molecules was observed in the majority of HCC patients. Low expression of PD-L1 and Galectin-9 and low CD8+TIL count are associated with poor HCC-specific survival. Combining immune biomarkers leads to superior predictors of HCC mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kostandinos Sideras
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Katharina Biermann
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joanne Verheij
- Department of Pathology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bart R Takkenberg
- Academic Medical Center, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Shanta Mancham
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bettina E Hansen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hannah M Schutz
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robert A de Man
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dave Sprengers
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sonja I Buschow
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maddy C M Verseput
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Patrick P C Boor
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Qiuwei Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas M van Gulik
- Department of Experimental Surgery, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Turkan Terkivatan
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jan N M Ijzermans
- Department of Surgery, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ulrich H W Beuers
- Academic Medical Center, Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Stefan Sleijfer
- Department of Oncology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marco J Bruno
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jaap Kwekkeboom
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center , Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Yamagiwa S, Ishikawa T, Waguri N, Sugitani S, Kamimura K, Tsuchiya A, Takamura M, Kawai H, Terai S. Increase of Soluble Programmed Cell Death Ligand 1 in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C. Int J Med Sci 2017; 14:403-411. [PMID: 28539815 PMCID: PMC5441031 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.18784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To determine whether the soluble programmed cell death ligand 1 (sPD-L1) levels in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) are associated with the clinical features of the disease and the efficacy of treatment, including interferon (IFN)-α. Methods: We investigated the sPD-L1 levels in the sera of 80 genotype 1b Japanese patients with CHC who underwent 12 weeks of telaprevir (TVR)- or simeprevir (SMV)-based triple therapy followed by 12 weeks of dual therapy with pegylated IFN-α plus ribavirin. Serum was also obtained from 22 patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and from 10 healthy donors (HC). The sPD-L1 levels were measured using an ELISA kit. In addition, we examined the PD-L1 expression on the cell surface of immortalized hepatocytes (HPT1) after incubation with cytokines, including IFN-γ. Results: The pretreatment serum sPD-L1 levels were significantly increased in patients with CHC (median 109.3 pg/ml, range 23.1-402.3) compared with patients with CHB (69.2 pg/ml, 15.5-144.8; P <0.001) and HC (100.3 pg/ml, 40.1-166.6; P = 0.039). No significant differences in the sustained virological response (SVR) rates were found between the TVR- (85.0%, n=40) and SMV-treated (80.0%, n=40) groups, and the pretreatment levels of serum sPD-L1 were not significantly different between patients who achieved SVR (105.0 pg/ml, 23.1-402.3) and non-SVR patients (133.5 pg/ml, 39.9-187.2; P = 0.391). The pretreatment level of sPD-L1 was positively correlated with the alanine aminotransferase and alpha-fetoprotein levels (R2 = 0.082, P = 0.016, and R2 = 0.149, P = 0.002, respectively). Although immortalized hepatocytes do not express PD-L1, we confirmed that PD-L1 expression was induced after stimulation with IFN-γ. Conclusions: In this study, we first found that sPD-L1 was increased in patients with CHC. Our results indicate that the level of serum sPD-L1 might be associated with the progression of CHC and the generation of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Yamagiwa
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Toru Ishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Saiseikai Niigata Daini Hospital, Niigata 950-1104, Japan
| | - Nobuo Waguri
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata City General Hospital, Niigata 950-1197, Japan
| | - Soichi Sugitani
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tachikawa General Hospital, Nagaoka 940-8621, Japan
| | - Kenya Kamimura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Atsunori Tsuchiya
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Masaaki Takamura
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kawai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Shuji Terai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
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Kalathil SG, Lugade AA, Miller A, Iyer R, Thanavala Y. PD-1 + and Foxp3 + T cell reduction correlates with survival of HCC patients after sorafenib therapy. JCI Insight 2016; 1. [PMID: 27540594 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.86182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sorafenib is an oral antiangiogenic agent administered in advanced-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Based on preclinical and human studies, we hypothesized that, in addition to its antiangiogenic properties, sorafenib may beneficially reduce the extent of the immunosuppressive network in HCC patients. To test this hypothesis, we examined whether alterations in the immunosuppressive burden of advanced-stage HCC patients correlated with clinical outcome. METHODS In before and after sorafenib treatment, blood samples collected from 19 patients with advanced HCC, the frequency of PD-1+ T cells, Tregs, and myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSC) were quantified by multiparameter FACS. Cytokine levels in plasma were determined by ELISA. RESULTS Overall survival (OS) was significantly impacted by the reduction in the absolute number of both CD4+PD-1+ T cells and CD8+PD-1+ T cells following sorafenib treatment. Significant decreases in the frequency and absolute number of Foxp3+ Tregs were also observed, and a statistically significant improvement in OS was noted in patients exhibiting a greater decrease in the number of Foxp3+ Tregs. The ratio of CD4+CD127+PD-1- T effector cells to CD4+Foxp3+PD-1+ Tregs was significantly increased following treatment with sorafenib. Increased frequency of CD4+CD127+ T effector cells in the posttreatment samples significantly correlated with OS. CONCLUSION This study is the first to our knowledge to demonstrate the potent immunomodulatory effects of sorafenib therapy on PD-1+ T cells and Tregs and the ensuing correlation with survival. These phenotypes could serve as predictive biomarkers to identify HCC patients who are likely to benefit from sorafenib treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION Registration is not required for observational studies. FUNDING This study was supported by NCI Core Grant to RPCI (NIH P30 CA016056) and discretionary funds to Y. Thanavala.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Gopi Kalathil
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI), Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Amit Anand Lugade
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI), Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Austin Miller
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI), Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Renuka Iyer
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI), Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Yasmin Thanavala
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI), Buffalo, New York, USA
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Zhang QF, Yin WW, Xia Y, Yi YY, He QF, Wang X, Ren H, Zhang DZ. Liver-infiltrating CD11b -CD27 - NK subsets account for NK-cell dysfunction in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and are associated with tumor progression. Cell Mol Immunol 2016; 14:819-829. [PMID: 27321064 PMCID: PMC5649104 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2016.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells have a vital role in killing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells; however, the mechanism underlying tumor-infiltrating NK (TINK)-cell dysfunction remains poorly understood. Using flow cytometry staining, we precisely characterized the frequency, phenotype and function of NK subsets distinguished by CD27 and CD11b in 30 patients with HCC in comparison to 30 healthy controls. Interestingly, we found a substantial proportion of liver-infiltrating CD11b−CD27− (DN) NK subsets in tumor tissue from HCC patients. Remarkably, these relatively expanded DN NK subsets exhibited an inactive and immature phenotype. By detecting the expression of CD107a and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) on NK subsets and NK cells, we demonstrated that DN NK subsets exhibited a poor cytotoxic capacity and deficient potential to produce IFN-γ in comparison to the other three subsets, which contributed to the dysfunction of TINK cells in HCC patients. In addition, we found that the presence of DN NK cells was closely associated with the clinical outcomes of HCC patients, as the frequency of DN NK cells among TINK cells was positively correlated with tumor stage and size. A large percentage of DN NK cells among TINK cells was an independent prognostic factor for lower survival in the 60-month follow-up period. In conclusion, a substantial proportion of CD11b−CD27−NK subsets among TINK cells accounts for NK-cell dysfunction in patients with HCC and is associated with tumor progression. Our study may provide a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong-Fang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Wen-Wei Yin
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Yang Xia
- Department of Urinary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Ya-Yang Yi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Qiu-Feng He
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Xing Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, PR China
| | - Hong Ren
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Da-Zhi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
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41
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Tian G, Courtney AN, Jena B, Heczey A, Liu D, Marinova E, Guo L, Xu X, Torikai H, Mo Q, Dotti G, Cooper LJ, Metelitsa LS. CD62L+ NKT cells have prolonged persistence and antitumor activity in vivo. J Clin Invest 2016; 126:2341-55. [PMID: 27183388 DOI: 10.1172/jci83476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Vα24-invariant natural killer T cells (NKTs) localize to tumors and have inherent antitumor properties, making them attractive chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) carriers for redirected cancer immunotherapy. However, clinical application of CAR-NKTs has been impeded, as mechanisms responsible for NKT expansion and the in vivo persistence of these cells are unknown. Here, we demonstrated that antigen-induced expansion of primary NKTs in vitro associates with the accumulation of a CD62L+ subset and exhaustion of CD62L- cells. Only CD62L+ NKTs survived and proliferated in response to secondary stimulation. When transferred to immune-deficient NSG mice, CD62L+ NKTs persisted 5 times longer than CD62L- NKTs. Moreover, CD62L+ cells transduced with a CD19-specific CAR achieved sustained tumor regression in a B cell lymphoma model. Proliferating CD62L+ cells downregulated or maintained CD62L expression when activated via T cell receptor alone or in combination with costimulatory receptors. We generated HLAnull K562 cell clones that were engineered to express CD1d and costimulatory ligands. Clone B-8-2 (HLAnullCD1dmedCD86high4-1BBLmedOX40Lhigh) induced the highest rates of NKT expansion and CD62L expression. B-8-2-expanded CAR-NKTs exhibited prolonged in vivo persistence and superior therapeutic activities in models of lymphoma and neuroblastoma. Therefore, we have identified CD62L as a marker of a distinct NKT subset endowed with high proliferative potential and have developed artificial antigen-presenting cells that generate CD62L-enriched NKTs for effective cancer immunotherapy.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigen-Presenting Cells/immunology
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Proliferation
- Cell Survival
- Cells, Cultured
- Cytokines/biosynthesis
- Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
- Humans
- Immunotherapy, Adoptive
- L-Selectin/metabolism
- Lymphocyte Activation
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/immunology
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/therapy
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred NOD
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, SCID
- Natural Killer T-Cells/classification
- Natural Killer T-Cells/immunology
- Neuroblastoma/immunology
- Neuroblastoma/therapy
- Receptors, Antigen/immunology
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/immunology
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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42
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Finkelmeier F, Canli Ö, Tal A, Pleli T, Trojan J, Schmidt M, Kronenberger B, Zeuzem S, Piiper A, Greten FR, Waidmann O. High levels of the soluble programmed death-ligand (sPD-L1) identify hepatocellular carcinoma patients with a poor prognosis. Eur J Cancer 2016; 59:152-159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2016.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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43
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van der Burg SH, Arens R, Ossendorp F, van Hall T, Melief CJM. Vaccines for established cancer: overcoming the challenges posed by immune evasion. Nat Rev Cancer 2016; 16:219-33. [PMID: 26965076 DOI: 10.1038/nrc.2016.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 494] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic vaccines preferentially stimulate T cells against tumour-specific epitopes that are created by DNA mutations or oncogenic viruses. In the setting of premalignant disease, carcinoma in situ or minimal residual disease, therapeutic vaccination can be clinically successful as monotherapy; however, in established cancers, therapeutic vaccines will require co-treatments to overcome immune evasion and to become fully effective. In this Review, we discuss the progress that has been made in overcoming immune evasion controlled by tumour cell-intrinsic factors and the tumour microenvironment. We summarize how therapeutic benefit can be maximized in patients with established cancers by improving vaccine design and by using vaccines to increase the effects of standard chemotherapies, to establish and/or maintain tumour-specific T cells that are re-energized by checkpoint blockade and other therapies, and to sustain the antitumour response of adoptively transferred T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ramon Arens
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ferry Ossendorp
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Cornelis J M Melief
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
- ISA Pharmaceuticals, J. H. Oortweg 19, 2333 CH, Leiden, The Netherlands
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44
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Contreras A, Sen S, Tatar AJ, Mahvi DA, Meyers JV, Srinand P, Suresh M, Cho CS. Enhanced local and systemic anti-melanoma CD8+ T cell responses after memory T cell-based adoptive immunotherapy in mice. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2016; 65:601-11. [PMID: 27011014 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-016-1823-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Adoptive cell transfer (ACT) melanoma immunotherapy typically employs acutely activated effector CD8+ T cells for their ability to rapidly recognize and clear antigen. We have previously observed that effector CD8+ T cells are highly susceptible to melanoma-induced suppression, whereas memory CD8+ T cells are not. Although memory T cells have been presumed to be potentially advantageous for ACT, the kinetics of local and systemic T cell responses after effector and memory ACT have not been compared. B16F10 melanoma cells stably transfected to express very low levels of the lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) peptide GP33 (B16GP33) were inoculated into syngeneic C57BL/6 mice. Equal numbers of bona fide naïve, effector, or memory phenotype GP33-specific CD8+ T cells were adoptively transferred into mice 1 day after B16GP33 inoculation. The efficacy of ACT immunotherapy was kinetically assessed using serial tumor measurements and flow cytometric analyses of local and systemic CD8+ T cell responses. Control of B16GP33 tumor growth, persistence of adoptively transferred CD8+ cells, intratumoral infiltration of CD8+ T cells, and systemic CD8+ T cell responsiveness to GP33 were strongest after ACT of memory CD8+ T cells. Following surgical tumor resection and melanoma tumor challenge, only mice receiving memory T cell-based ACT immunotherapy exhibited durable tumor-specific immunity. These findings demonstrate how the use of non-expanded memory CD8+ T cells may enhance ACT immunotherapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Contreras
- Section of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, J4/703 Clinical Sciences Center, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53792-7375, USA
| | - Siddhartha Sen
- Section of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, J4/703 Clinical Sciences Center, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53792-7375, USA.,Surgical Service, William S. Middleton Memorial VA Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Andrew J Tatar
- Section of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, J4/703 Clinical Sciences Center, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53792-7375, USA.,Surgical Service, William S. Middleton Memorial VA Hospital, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David A Mahvi
- Section of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, J4/703 Clinical Sciences Center, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53792-7375, USA
| | - Justin V Meyers
- Section of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, J4/703 Clinical Sciences Center, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53792-7375, USA
| | - Prakrithi Srinand
- Section of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, J4/703 Clinical Sciences Center, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53792-7375, USA
| | - Marulasiddappa Suresh
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Clifford S Cho
- Section of Surgical Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, J4/703 Clinical Sciences Center, 600 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53792-7375, USA. .,Surgical Service, William S. Middleton Memorial VA Hospital, Madison, WI, USA.
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45
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Ramzan M, Sturm N, Decaens T, Bioulac-Sage P, Bancel B, Merle P, Tran Van Nhieu J, Slama R, Letoublon C, Zarski JP, Jouvin-Marche E, Marche PN, Leroy V. Liver-infiltrating CD8(+) lymphocytes as prognostic factor for tumour recurrence in hepatitis C virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver Int 2016. [PMID: 26215124 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic liver inflammation and immune/inflammatory response promote hepatocellular carcinoma. The aim of this study was to characterize the immune status of HCV-related cirrhosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCV-HCC) as compared to HCV patients without hepatocellular carcinoma. METHOD Immune markers (CD3, CD4, CD8, CD20, CD56, TCRγδ, FoxP3) and gene expression profiles (CD8α, CD8β, FoxP3, IL-6, IFN-γ, perforin, RANTES) were analysed in a test cohort by immunohistochemistry and quantitative RT-PCR analysis on serial non-tumorous and tumorous tissues. RESULTS Immune micro-environment was more inflammatory in HCV-HCC than HCV cirrhotic livers. The number of CD3(+) , CD4(+) , CD8(+) and CD20(+) liver-infiltrating lymphocytes was significantly higher, whereas the number of CD56(+) cells was significantly lower in HCV-HCC compared to HCV cirrhotic parenchyma. These differences were restricted to fibrous septa for CD4(+) and CD20(+) cells and to nodular parenchyma for CD8(+) cells. Gene expressions of CD8α, FoxP3 and RANTES were also significantly higher in HCV-HCC than in HCV cirrhosis. Interestingly, in a large cohort of 63 HCV-HCC patients. The number of CD8(+) cells ≥100/field was associated with significant higher tumour recurrence (P = 0.003) and lower overall survival (P = 0.05) at 5 years. CONCLUSION High densities of liver-infiltrating lymphocytes in HCV-HCC cirrhotic parenchyma prevail inflammatory conditions and could contribute to tumorigenesis and tumour recurrence. These results could contribute towards better clinical evaluation of patients susceptible for HCC recurrence after curative surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ramzan
- INSERM, Unité 823, Grenoble, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, Faculté de Médecine, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
| | - Nathalie Sturm
- INSERM, Unité 823, Grenoble, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, Faculté de Médecine, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France.,Département d'Anatomie et de Cytologie Pathologiques, CHU de Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Thomas Decaens
- INSERM, Unité 823, Grenoble, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, Faculté de Médecine, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France.,Clinique d' Hépatogastroentérologie, pôle DigiDune, CHU de Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Paulette Bioulac-Sage
- Service d'Anatomie et de Cytologie Pathologiques, Hôpital Pellegrin, Bordeaux, France
| | - Brigitte Bancel
- Service de Pathologie, Hôpital de la Croix Rousse, Lyon, France.,Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM UMR-S1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Philippe Merle
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM UMR-S1052, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France.,Service d'Hépatologie, Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France
| | - Jeanne Tran Van Nhieu
- Département de Pathologie, APHP, Groupe Hospitalier Henri Mondor, Val de Marne, Université Paris Est-Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Rémy Slama
- INSERM, Unité 823, Grenoble, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, Faculté de Médecine, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
| | - Christian Letoublon
- INSERM, Unité 823, Grenoble, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, Faculté de Médecine, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France.,Clinique de Chirurgie Digestive, pôle DIGIDUNE, CHU de Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Zarski
- INSERM, Unité 823, Grenoble, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, Faculté de Médecine, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France.,Clinique d' Hépatogastroentérologie, pôle DigiDune, CHU de Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Evelyne Jouvin-Marche
- INSERM, Unité 823, Grenoble, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, Faculté de Médecine, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France
| | - Patrice N Marche
- INSERM, Unité 823, Grenoble, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, Faculté de Médecine, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France.,Clinique d' Hépatogastroentérologie, pôle DigiDune, CHU de Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Vincent Leroy
- INSERM, Unité 823, Grenoble, France.,Université Grenoble-Alpes, Faculté de Médecine, UMR-S823, Grenoble, France.,Clinique d' Hépatogastroentérologie, pôle DigiDune, CHU de Grenoble, Grenoble, France
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46
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Dhanasekaran R, Venkatesh SK, Torbenson M, Roberts LR. Clinical implications of basic research in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Hepatol 2016; 64:736-45. [PMID: 26450813 PMCID: PMC5039166 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
A 58-year old Caucasian female has compensated hepatitis C related cirrhosis. Her surveillance ultrasound showed hypodense liver nodules and subsequent triple phase CT scan showed five tumor nodules with diameters ranging from 3-5cms involving both hepatic lobes. The nodules showed characteristic radiologic findings on the CT scan and she was diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) based on non-invasive criteria. There was also associated right portal vein tumor thrombosis. Her functional capacity at diagnosis was slightly limited, but she was capable of performing all activities of daily living and self-care. Her laboratory tests at diagnosis were as follows: sodium 129mmol/L, potassium 3.6mmol/L, blood urea nitrogen 22mg/dL, creatinine 1.0mg/dL, albumin 2.9g/dl, bilirubin 1.8mg/dl, alanine aminotransferase 87U/L, aspartate aminotransferase 68U/L, alkaline phosphatase 139U/L, white blood cell 3.5x10(9)/L, hemoglobin 10.4, platelet count 73x10(9)/L, international normalized ratio 1.9 and alpha-fetoprotein 5200ng/ml. An upper endoscopy was negative for esophageal or gastric varices. Based on the tumor burden, presence of macrovascular invasion, ECOG performance status of 1 and Child-Pugh class A she was classified to have BCLC stage C HCC. She was started on sorafenib therapy at 400mg oral twice daily but unfortunately this had to be discontinued since she experienced severe diarrhea and skin rash. She now returns for follow-up and requests information on the available therapeutic options. This particular case scenario is not uncommon and does raise several clinically relevant questions: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of HCC management and also examines the clinical implications of recent basic research in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renumathy Dhanasekaran
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Michael Torbenson
- Division of Anatomic Pathology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Lewis R. Roberts
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
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47
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Becht E, Giraldo NA, Germain C, de Reyniès A, Laurent-Puig P, Zucman-Rossi J, Dieu-Nosjean MC, Sautès-Fridman C, Fridman WH. Immune Contexture, Immunoscore, and Malignant Cell Molecular Subgroups for Prognostic and Theranostic Classifications of Cancers. Adv Immunol 2016; 130:95-190. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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48
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Harding JJ, El Dika I, Abou-Alfa GK. Immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma: Primed to make a difference? Cancer 2015; 122:367-77. [PMID: 26540029 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.29769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Revised: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) carries a dismal prognosis and the current treatment is limited to sorafenib, an agent with modest benefit. Preclinical data have indicated that several immunologic mechanisms are at play to promote HCC development and growth while impairing effective antitumor immune surveillance. Several novel approaches geared toward manipulating the immune response to HCC have suggested a therapeutic benefit in early-stage clinical trials, indicating a real potential to augment tumor-specific immunity and improve outcomes in patients with this disease. In the current study, the authors reviewed the barriers to an effective immune response against HCC and contemporary clinical investigations that may be "primed" to alter the natural history of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- James J Harding
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Imane El Dika
- Internal Medicine/Hematology and Oncology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ghassan K Abou-Alfa
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
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49
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Makarova-Rusher OV, Medina-Echeverz J, Duffy AG, Greten TF. The yin and yang of evasion and immune activation in HCC. J Hepatol 2015; 62:1420-9. [PMID: 25733155 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.02.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 233] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2015] [Revised: 02/19/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Current systemic treatment options for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are limited to sorafenib. With the recent FDA approval of the second PD1-PD-L1 pathway inhibitor, immunotherapy has gained even more interest as a potential novel treatment option for patients with HCC. This is due not only because of the failure of other treatment approaches in the past, but also because immunological mechanisms have been shown to play an important role during tumor development, growth, and treatment. Here we present a review of immunological mechanisms in the liver relevant for tumor progression and treatment. We summarize our current knowledge on immune activating and immune suppressing mechanisms during tumor initiation, development, and treatment. We try to explain the paradox of how inflammatory responses in a setting of chronic infection promote tumor development, while the primary aim of immunotherapy is to activate immunity. Finally we summarize recent advances in addition to providing an outlook for the immunotherapy of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oxana V Makarova-Rusher
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - José Medina-Echeverz
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Austin G Duffy
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tim F Greten
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy Section, Thoracic and Gastrointestinal Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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50
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Kim BY, Choi DW, Woo SR, Park ER, Lee JG, Kim SH, Koo I, Park SH, Han CJ, Kim SB, Yeom YI, Yang SJ, Yu A, Lee JW, Jang JJ, Cho MH, Jeon WK, Park YN, Suh KS, Lee KH. Recurrence-associated pathways in hepatitis B virus-positive hepatocellular carcinoma. BMC Genomics 2015; 16:279. [PMID: 25888140 PMCID: PMC4448317 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-015-1472-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the recent identification of several prognostic gene signatures, the lack of common genes among experimental cohorts has posed a considerable challenge in uncovering the molecular basis underlying hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence for application in clinical purposes. To overcome the limitations of individual gene-based analysis, we applied a pathway-based approach for analysis of HCC recurrence. Results By implementing a permutation-based semi-supervised principal component analysis algorithm using the optimal principal component, we selected sixty-four pathways associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-positive HCC recurrence (p < 0.01), from our microarray dataset composed of 142 HBV-positive HCCs. In relation to the public HBV- and public hepatitis C virus (HCV)-positive HCC datasets, we detected 46 (71.9%) and 18 (28.1%) common recurrence-associated pathways, respectively. However, overlap of recurrence-associated genes between datasets was rare, further supporting the utility of the pathway-based approach for recurrence analysis between different HCC datasets. Non-supervised clustering of the 64 recurrence-associated pathways facilitated the classification of HCC patients into high- and low-risk subgroups, based on risk of recurrence (p < 0.0001). The pathways identified were additionally successfully applied to discriminate subgroups depending on recurrence risk within the public HCC datasets. Through multivariate analysis, these recurrence-associated pathways were identified as an independent prognostic factor (p < 0.0001) along with tumor number, tumor size and Edmondson’s grade. Moreover, the pathway-based approach had a clinical advantage in terms of discriminating the high-risk subgroup (N = 12) among patients (N = 26) with small HCC (<3 cm). Conclusions Using pathway-based analysis, we successfully identified the pathways involved in recurrence of HBV-positive HCC that may be effectively used as prognostic markers. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-015-1472-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bu-Yeo Kim
- Herbal Medicine Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Korea.
| | - Dong Wook Choi
- Division of Radiation Cancer Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 215-4 Gongneung-dong, Nowon-ku, Seoul, 139-706, Korea. .,Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Seon Rang Woo
- Division of Radiation Cancer Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 215-4 Gongneung-dong, Nowon-ku, Seoul, 139-706, Korea.
| | - Eun-Ran Park
- Division of Radiation Cancer Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 215-4 Gongneung-dong, Nowon-ku, Seoul, 139-706, Korea. .,Department of Pathology and BK 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Je-Geun Lee
- Division of Radiation Cancer Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 215-4 Gongneung-dong, Nowon-ku, Seoul, 139-706, Korea.
| | - Su-Hyeon Kim
- Division of Radiation Cancer Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 215-4 Gongneung-dong, Nowon-ku, Seoul, 139-706, Korea.
| | - Imhoi Koo
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, University of Louisville, Louisville, USA.
| | - Sun-Hoo Park
- Department of Pathology, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Chul Ju Han
- Division of Radiation Cancer Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 215-4 Gongneung-dong, Nowon-ku, Seoul, 139-706, Korea. .,Department of Internal Medicine, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Sang Bum Kim
- Division of Radiation Cancer Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 215-4 Gongneung-dong, Nowon-ku, Seoul, 139-706, Korea. .,Department of Surgery, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Young Il Yeom
- Medical Genomics Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Korea.
| | - Suk-Jin Yang
- Medical Genomics Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Korea.
| | - Ami Yu
- Department of Statistics, Korea University, Seoul, Korea. .,Korean Medicine Clinical Trial Center, Kyung Hee University Oriental Medicine Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Jae Won Lee
- Department of Statistics, Korea University, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Ja June Jang
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Myung-Haing Cho
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Won Kyung Jeon
- Herbal Medicine Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Korea.
| | - Young Nyun Park
- Department of Pathology and BK 21 PLUS Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Kyung-Suk Suh
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Kee-Ho Lee
- Division of Radiation Cancer Research, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, 215-4 Gongneung-dong, Nowon-ku, Seoul, 139-706, Korea. .,Herbal Medicine Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Korea.
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