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Tavakoli Pirzaman A, Alishah A, Babajani B, Ebrahimi P, Sheikhi SA, Moosaei F, Salarfar A, Doostmohamadian S, Kazemi S. The Role of microRNAs in Hepatocellular Cancer: A Narrative Review Focused on Tumor Microenvironment and Drug Resistance. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2024; 23:15330338241239188. [PMID: 38634139 PMCID: PMC11025440 DOI: 10.1177/15330338241239188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, hepatic cancer ranks fourth in terms of cancer-related mortality and is the sixth most frequent kind of cancer. Around 80% of liver cancers are hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), which are the leading cause of cancer death. It is well known that HCC may develop resistance to the available chemotherapy treatments very fast. One of the biggest obstacles in providing cancer patients with appropriate care is drug resistance. According to reports, more than 90% of cancer-specific fatalities are caused by treatment resistance. By binding to the 3'-untranslated region of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), a group of noncoding RNAs which are around 17 to 25 nucleotides long, regulate target gene expression. Moreover, they play role in the control of signaling pathways, cell proliferation, and cell death. As a result, miRNAs play an important role in the microenvironment of HCC by changing immune phenotypes, hypoxic conditions, and acidification, as well as angiogenesis and extracellular matrix components. Moreover, changes in miRNA levels in HCC can effectively resist cancer cells to chemotherapy by affecting various cellular processes such as autophagy, apoptosis, and membrane transporter activity. In the current work, we narratively reviewed the role of miRNAs in HCC, with a special focus on tumor microenvironment and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Alishah
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Bahareh Babajani
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Pouyan Ebrahimi
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Seyyed Ali Sheikhi
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Farhad Moosaei
- Student Research Committee, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | | | | | - Sohrab Kazemi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Center, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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2
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Kitamura Y, Konya C. Attitudes, expectations, and lived experiences of cancer patients receiving dendritic cell vaccine therapy in Japan. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2023; 10:100317. [PMID: 38059207 PMCID: PMC10696395 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2023.100317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Immunotherapeutic approaches to cancer, such as dendritic cell vaccine therapy, promise to improve survival rate but may present unique challenges to patients. However, there is no research on the lived experiences of cancer patients receiving dendritic cell vaccine therapy. The aim of this study was to explore the attitudes, expectations, and experiences of cancer patients receiving dendritic cell vaccine therapy in Japan. Methods This was an exploratory qualitative study. A descriptive phenomenological approach was used to investigate the experiences of eight advanced-stage cancer patients (median age: 59.5 years). Data were collected between July 2018 and March 2020 using in-depth semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed according to Colaizzi's seven-step phenomenological strategy, and EQUATOR's Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines for qualitative studies were followed. Results Four themes emerged from the data analysis: strong concerns about chemotherapy, faith in dendritic cell vaccine therapy, motivation to succeed, and physical and mental changes. The first two themes related to pretreatment attitudes and expectations. The latter two themes expressed participants' experiences during and after therapy. Conclusions Dendritic cell vaccine therapy patients expressed fears about the effects of standard treatment, and hope and uncertainty regarding immunotherapy treatment decisions and efficacy. The findings suggest that such patients require nursing care that includes prevention and reduction of chemotherapy side effects, careful observation of patients' well-being, management of patients' expectations and uncertainty, formation of patient-health care practitioner partnerships, and team medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chizuko Konya
- School of Nursing, Ishikawa Prefectural Nursing University, Kahoku, Japan
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3
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Esperante D, Gutiérrez MIM, Issa ME, Schcolnik-Cabrera A, Mendlovic F. Similarities and divergences in the metabolism of immune cells in cancer and helminthic infections. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1251355. [PMID: 38044996 PMCID: PMC10690632 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1251355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Energetic and nutritional requirements play a crucial role in shaping the immune cells that infiltrate tumor and parasite infection sites. The dynamic interaction between immune cells and the microenvironment, whether in the context of tumor or helminth infection, is essential for understanding the mechanisms of immunological polarization and developing strategies to manipulate them in order to promote a functional and efficient immune response that could aid in the treatment of these conditions. In this review, we present an overview of the immune response triggered during tumorigenesis and establishment of helminth infections, highlighting the transition to chronicity in both cases. We discuss the energetic demands of immune cells under normal conditions and in the presence of tumors and helminths. Additionally, we compare the metabolic changes that occur in the tumor microenvironment and the infection site, emphasizing the alterations that are induced to redirect the immune response, thereby promoting the survival of cancer cells or helminths. This emerging discipline provides valuable insights into disease pathogenesis. We also provide examples of novel strategies to enhance immune activity by targeting metabolic pathways that shape immune phenotypes, with the aim of achieving positive outcomes in cancer and helminth infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Esperante
- Plan de Estudios Combinados en Medicina (PECEM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autonóma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mónica Itzel Martínez Gutiérrez
- Plan de Estudios Combinados en Medicina (PECEM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autonóma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mark E. Issa
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, United States
| | - Alejandro Schcolnik-Cabrera
- Département de Biochimie et Médicine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Immunology-Oncology, Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Fela Mendlovic
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac México Norte, Huixquilucan, Mexico
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4
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Zhao X, Zhang Z, Wen C, Huang J, Yang S, Liu J, Geng H, Peng B, Li Z, Zhang Y. The safety and anti-tumor effect of multiple peptides-pulsed dendritic cells combined with induced specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes for patients with solid tumors. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1284334. [PMID: 37942324 PMCID: PMC10628471 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1284334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to explore the safety and efficacy of multiple peptide-pulsed autologous dendritic cells (DCs) combined with cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) in patients with cancer. Methods Five patients diagnosed with cancer between November 2020 and June 2021 were enrolled and received DC-CTLs therapy. Peripheral blood was collected and antigenic peptides were analyzed. The phenotype and function of DC-CTLs and the immune status of patients were detected using flow cytometry or IFN-γ ELISPOT analysis. Results DCs acquired a mature phenotype and expressed high levels of CD80, CD86, CD83, and HLA-DR after co-culture with peptides, and the DC-CTLs also exhibited high levels of IFN-γ. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from post-treatment patients showed a stronger immune response to peptides than those prior to treatment. Importantly, four of five patients maintained a favorable immune status, of which one patient's disease-free survival lasted up to 28.2 months. No severe treatment-related adverse events were observed. Conclusion Our results show that multiple peptide-pulsed DCs combined with CTLs therapy has manageable safety and promising efficacy for cancer patients, which might provide a precise immunotherapeutic strategy for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhao
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chunli Wen
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jianmin Huang
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shuangning Yang
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jinyan Liu
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Huizhen Geng
- Hebei Bio-High Technology Development Co., LTD. Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Bing Peng
- Hebei Bio-High Technology Development Co., LTD. Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Zibo Li
- Hebei Bio-High Technology Development Co., LTD. Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Biotherapy Center & Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Tumor Immunology and Biotherapy, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Möller M, Schütte W, Turzer S, Seliger B, Riemann D. Blood Immune Cells as Biomarkers in Long-Term Surviving Patients with Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Undergoing a Combined Immune/Chemotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4873. [PMID: 37835567 PMCID: PMC10572005 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
An important challenge remains in identifying the baseline characteristics of cancer patients who will mostly benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies. Furthermore, biomarkers could help in the choice of an optimal therapy duration after a primary therapy response. In this pilot study, the time courses of four different immune cell parameters were followed in 12 patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) undergoing ICI therapy combined with chemotherapy and surviving at least 12 months. Blood was collected at the time point of the first and third antibody administration, as well as after 12 months of patients' survival. Using multi-color flow cytometry, two suppressive markers (neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the frequency of circulating HLA-DRlow monocytes), as well as two markers of an ongoing immune response (6-Sulfo LacNAc (slan)+ non-classical monocytes and dendritic cell (DC) subtypes), were determined. In most of those who survived > 12 months, a low NLR and a low number of HLA-DRlow monocytes combined with clearly detectable numbers of slan+ non-classical monocytes and of DC subtypes were seen. Two of the patients had an increase in the suppressive markers paired with a decrease in slan+ non-classical monocytes and in DC subtypes, which, in at least one patient, was the correlate of an ongoing clinical progression. Our results implicate that the NLR, specific subtypes of monocytes, and the number of blood DCs might be useful predictive biomarkers for cancer patients during long-term treatment with ICI/chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Möller
- Clinic of Internal Medicine, Hospital Martha-Maria Halle-Dölau, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Schütte
- Clinic of Internal Medicine, Hospital Martha-Maria Halle-Dölau, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Steffi Turzer
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06112 Halle, Germany
| | - Barbara Seliger
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06112 Halle, Germany
- Institute of Translational Immunology, Medical School "Theodor Fontane", 14770 Brandenburg, Germany
| | - Dagmar Riemann
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06112 Halle, Germany
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Pilz M, Cavelius P, Qoura F, Awad D, Brück T. Lipopeptides development in cosmetics and pharmaceutical applications: A comprehensive review. Biotechnol Adv 2023; 67:108210. [PMID: 37460047 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2023.108210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Lipopeptides are surface active, natural products of bacteria, fungi and green-blue algae origin, having diverse structures and functionalities. In analogy, a number of chemical synthesis techniques generated new designer lipopeptides with desirable features and functions. Lipopetides are self-assembly guided, supramolecular compounds which have the capacity of high-density presentation of the functional epitopes at the surface of the nanostructures. This feature contributes to their successful application in several industry sectors, including food, feed, personal care, and pharmaceutics. In this comprehensive review, the novel class of ribosomally synthesized lipopeptides is introduced alongside the more commonly occuring non-ribosomal lipopeptides. We highlight key representatives of the most researched as well as recently described lipopeptide families, with emphasis on structural features, self-assembly and associated functions. The common biological, chemical and hybrid production routes of lipopeptides, including prominent analogues and derivatives are also discussed. Furthermore, genetic engineering strategies aimed at increasing lipopeptide yields, diversity and biological activity are summarized and exemplified. With respect to application, this work mainly details the potential of lipopeptides in personal care and cosmetics industry as cleansing agents, moisturizer, anti-aging/anti-wrinkling, skin whitening and preservative agents as well as the pharmaceutical industry as anitimicrobial agents, vaccines, immunotherapy, and cancer drugs. Given that this review addresses human applications, we conclude on the topic of safety of lipopeptide formulations and their sustainable production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melania Pilz
- Werner Siemens-Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich (TUM), 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Philipp Cavelius
- Werner Siemens-Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich (TUM), 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Farah Qoura
- Werner Siemens-Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich (TUM), 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Dania Awad
- Werner Siemens-Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich (TUM), 85748 Garching, Germany.
| | - Thomas Brück
- Werner Siemens-Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich (TUM), 85748 Garching, Germany.
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7
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Silva AJD, de Moura IA, da Gama MATM, Leal LRS, de Pinho SS, Espinoza BCF, dos Santos DL, Santos VEP, Sena MGAMD, Invenção MDCV, de Macêdo LS, de França Neto PL, de Freitas AC. Advancing Immunotherapies for HPV-Related Cancers: Exploring Novel Vaccine Strategies and the Influence of Tumor Microenvironment. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1354. [PMID: 37631922 PMCID: PMC10458729 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11081354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The understanding of the relationship between immunological responses and cancers, especially those related to HPV, has allowed for the study and development of therapeutic vaccines against these neoplasias. There is a growing number of studies about the composition and influence of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the progression or establishment of the most varied types of cancer. Hence, it has been possible to structure immunotherapy approaches based on therapeutic vaccines that are even more specific and directed to components of TME and the immune response associated with tumors. Among these components are dendritic cells (DCs), which are the main professional antigen-presenting cells (APCs) already studied in therapy strategies for HPV-related cancers. On the other hand, tumor-associated macrophages are also potential targets since the profile present in tumor infiltrates, M1 or M2, influences the prognosis of some types of cancer. These two cell types can be targets for therapy or immunomodulation. In this context, our review aims to provide an overview of immunotherapy strategies for HPV-positive tumors, such as cervical and head and neck cancers, pointing to TME immune cells as promising targets for these approaches. This review also explores the potential of immunotherapy in cancer treatment, including checkpoint inhibitors, cytokine immunotherapies, immunotherapy vaccines, and cell therapies. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of understanding the TME and its effect on the design and achievement of immunotherapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Antonio Carlos de Freitas
- Laboratory of Molecular Studies and Experimental Therapy—LEMTE, Department of Genetics, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, Brazil; (A.J.D.S.); (I.A.d.M.); (M.A.T.M.d.G.); (L.R.S.L.); (S.S.d.P.); (B.C.F.E.); (D.L.d.S.); (V.E.P.S.); (M.G.A.M.D.S.); (M.D.C.V.I.); (L.S.d.M.); (P.L.d.F.N.)
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8
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Marques AC, Costa PC, Velho S, Amaral MH. Injectable Poloxamer Hydrogels for Local Cancer Therapy. Gels 2023; 9:593. [PMID: 37504472 PMCID: PMC10379388 DOI: 10.3390/gels9070593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The widespread push to invest in local cancer therapies comes from the need to overcome the limitations of systemic treatment options. In contrast to intravenous administration, local treatments using intratumoral or peritumoral injections are independent of tumor vasculature and allow high concentrations of therapeutic agents to reach the tumor site with minimal systemic toxicity. Injectable biodegradable hydrogels offer a clear advantage over other delivery systems because the former requires no surgical procedures and promotes drug retention at the tumor site. More precisely, in situ gelling systems based on poloxamers have garnered considerable attention due to their thermoresponsive behavior, biocompatibility, ease of preparation, and possible incorporation of different anticancer agents. Therefore, this review focuses on the use of injectable thermoresponsive hydrogels based on poloxamers and their physicochemical and biological characterization. It also includes a summary of these hydrogel applications in local cancer therapies using chemotherapy, phototherapy, immunotherapy, and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Camila Marques
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, MEDTECH, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, R. Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, R. Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paulo Cardoso Costa
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, MEDTECH, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, R. Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, R. Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sérgia Velho
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, R. Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- IPATIMUP—Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto, R. Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Helena Amaral
- UCIBIO—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, MEDTECH, Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, R. Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB—Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, R. Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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Chehelgerdi M, Chehelgerdi M. The use of RNA-based treatments in the field of cancer immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:106. [PMID: 37420174 PMCID: PMC10401791 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01807-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past several decades, mRNA vaccines have evolved from a theoretical concept to a clinical reality. These vaccines offer several advantages over traditional vaccine techniques, including their high potency, rapid development, low-cost manufacturing, and safe administration. However, until recently, concerns over the instability and inefficient distribution of mRNA in vivo have limited their utility. Fortunately, recent technological advancements have mostly resolved these concerns, resulting in the development of numerous mRNA vaccination platforms for infectious diseases and various types of cancer. These platforms have shown promising outcomes in both animal models and humans. This study highlights the potential of mRNA vaccines as a promising alternative approach to conventional vaccine techniques and cancer treatment. This review article aims to provide a thorough and detailed examination of mRNA vaccines, including their mechanisms of action and potential applications in cancer immunotherapy. Additionally, the article will analyze the current state of mRNA vaccine technology and highlight future directions for the development and implementation of this promising vaccine platform as a mainstream therapeutic option. The review will also discuss potential challenges and limitations of mRNA vaccines, such as their stability and in vivo distribution, and suggest ways to overcome these issues. By providing a comprehensive overview and critical analysis of mRNA vaccines, this review aims to contribute to the advancement of this innovative approach to cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Chehelgerdi
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran.
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Matin Chehelgerdi
- Novin Genome (NG) Lab, Research and Development Center for Biotechnology, Shahrekord, Iran
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran
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10
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Jiang Z, Zhou J, Deng J, Li L, Wang R, Han Y, Zhou J, Tao R, Peng L, Wang D, Huang T, Yu Y, Zhou Z, Li J, Ousmane D, Wang J. Emerging roles of ferroptosis-related miRNAs in tumor metastasis. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:193. [PMID: 37369681 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01486-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis, a novel mode of cell death dependent on iron and reactive oxygen species, has been extensively explored during malignant tumors metastasis. Ferroptosis can interact with multiple components of the tumor microenvironment to regulate metastasis. These interactions generally include the following aspects: (1) Epithelial-mesenchymal transformation, which can help cancer cells increase their sensitivity to ferroptosis while they have multiple mechanisms to fight against it; (2) Disorder of iron metabolism in cancer stem cells which maintains their stem characteristics; (3) Polarization of M0 macrophages to M2. (4) The paradoxical effects of iron metabolism and CD8 + T cells induced by ferroptosis (5) Regulation of angiogenesis. In addition, ferroptosis can be regulated by miRNAs through the reprogramming of various intracellular metabolism processes, including the regulation of the glutathione- glutathione peroxidase 4 pathway, glutamic acid/cystine transport, iron metabolism, lipid metabolism, and oxidative stress. Therefore, there are many potential interactions between ferroptosis-related miRNAs and tumor metastasis, including interaction with cancer cells and immune cells, regulating cytokines, and angiogenesis. This review focuses on the role of ferroptosis-related miRNA in tumor metastasis, aiming to help readers understand their relationship and provide a new perspective on the potential treatment strategies of malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyi Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Ultrapathology (Biomedical electron microscopy) Center, Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Ultrapathology (Biomedical electron microscopy) Center, Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Junqi Deng
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Luohong Li
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Ruifeng Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yingying Han
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Junyu Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Rui Tao
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Lushan Peng
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yupei Yu
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zongjiang Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jinghe Li
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Diabate Ousmane
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China
| | - Junpu Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China.
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China.
- Ultrapathology (Biomedical electron microscopy) Center, Department of Pathology, Xiang-ya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, Hunan Province, China.
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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11
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Zheng P, Dou Y, Wang Q. Immune response and treatment targets of chronic hepatitis B virus infection: innate and adaptive immunity. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1206720. [PMID: 37424786 PMCID: PMC10324618 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1206720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major global public health risk that threatens human life and health, although the number of vaccinated people has increased. The clinical outcome of HBV infection depends on the complex interplay between viral replication and the host immune response. Innate immunity plays an important role in the early stages of the disease but retains no long-term immune memory. However, HBV evades detection by the host innate immune system through stealth. Therefore, adaptive immunity involving T and B cells is crucial for controlling and clearing HBV infections that lead to liver inflammation and damage. The persistence of HBV leads to immune tolerance owing to immune cell dysfunction, T cell exhaustion, and an increase in suppressor cells and cytokines. Although significant progress has been made in HBV treatment in recent years, the balance between immune tolerance, immune activation, inflammation, and fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B remains unknown, making a functional cure difficult to achieve. Therefore, this review focuses on the important cells involved in the innate and adaptive immunity of chronic hepatitis B that target the host immune system and identifies treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiyu Zheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- Graduate School of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yongqing Dou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Qinying Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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12
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Desai N, Hasan U, K J, Mani R, Chauhan M, Basu SM, Giri J. Biomaterial-based platforms for modulating immune components against cancer and cancer stem cells. Acta Biomater 2023; 161:1-36. [PMID: 36907233 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy involves the therapeutic alteration of the patient's immune system to identify, target, and eliminate cancer cells. Dendritic cells, macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and regulatory T cells make up the tumor microenvironment. In cancer, these immune components (in association with some non-immune cell populations like cancer-associated fibroblasts) are directly altered at a cellular level. By dominating immune cells with molecular cross-talk, cancer cells can proliferate unchecked. Current clinical immunotherapy strategies are limited to conventional adoptive cell therapy or immune checkpoint blockade. Targeting and modulating key immune components presents an effective opportunity. Immunostimulatory drugs are a research hotspot, but their poor pharmacokinetics, low tumor accumulation, and non-specific systemic toxicity limit their use. This review describes the cutting-edge research undertaken in the field of nanotechnology and material science to develop biomaterials-based platforms as effective immunotherapeutics. Various biomaterial types (polymer-based, lipid-based, carbon-based, cell-derived, etc.) and functionalization methodologies for modulating tumor-associated immune/non-immune cells are explored. Additionally, emphasis has been laid on discussing how these platforms can be used against cancer stem cells, a fundamental contributor to chemoresistance, tumor relapse/metastasis, and failure of immunotherapy. Overall, this comprehensive review strives to provide up-to-date information to an audience working at the juncture of biomaterials and cancer immunotherapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Cancer immunotherapy possesses incredible potential and has successfully transitioned into a clinically lucrative alternative to conventional anti-cancer therapies. With new immunotherapeutics getting rapid clinical approval, fundamental problems associated with the dynamic nature of the immune system (like limited clinical response rates and autoimmunity-related adverse effects) have remained unanswered. In this context, treatment approaches that focus on modulating the compromised immune components within the tumor microenvironment have garnered significant attention amongst the scientific community. This review aims to provide a critical discussion on how various biomaterials (polymer-based, lipid-based, carbon-based, cell-derived, etc.) can be employed along with immunostimulatory agents to design innovative platforms for selective immunotherapy directed against cancer and cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimeet Desai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Uzma Hasan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India; Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Jeyashree K
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Rajesh Mani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Meenakshi Chauhan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Suparna Mercy Basu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India
| | - Jyotsnendu Giri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Telangana, India.
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13
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Goswami S, Anandhan S, Raychaudhuri D, Sharma P. Myeloid cell-targeted therapies for solid tumours. Nat Rev Immunol 2023; 23:106-120. [PMID: 35697799 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-022-00737-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid cells are the most abundant immune components of the tumour microenvironment, where they have a variety of functions, ranging from immunosuppressive to immunostimulatory roles. The myeloid cell compartment comprises many different cell types, including monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and granulocytes, that are highly plastic and can differentiate into diverse phenotypes depending on cues received from their microenvironment. In the past few decades, we have gained a better appreciation of the complexity of myeloid cell subsets and how they are involved in tumour progression and resistance to cancer therapies, including immunotherapy. In this Review, we highlight key features of monocyte and macrophage biology that are being explored as potential targets for cancer therapies and what aspects of myeloid cells need a deeper understanding to identify rational combinatorial strategies to improve clinical outcomes of patients with cancer. We discuss therapies that aim to modulate the functional activities of myeloid cell populations, impacting their recruitment, survival and activity in the tumour microenvironment, acting at the level of cell surface receptors, signalling pathways, epigenetic machinery and metabolic regulators. We also describe advances in the development of genetically engineered myeloid cells for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangeeta Goswami
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Swetha Anandhan
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.,MD Anderson UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Deblina Raychaudhuri
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Padmanee Sharma
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. .,Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. .,The Immunotherapy Platform, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer, Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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14
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Maruszewska-Cheruiyot M, Machcińska M, Kierasińska M, Donskow-Lysoniewska K. Heterogeneity of adherent and non‑adherent JAWS II dendritic cells. Oncol Lett 2023; 25:93. [PMID: 36817038 PMCID: PMC9932576 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2023.13680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are crucial in the development of immune responses. DC JAWS II is a murine cell line frequently used in DC studies. These cells are grown in two cell fractions: Adherent and non-adherent. The present study aimed to compare these two fractions in both immature and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated JAWS II cells. The present study analysed the condition, phenotype, antigen uptake capability, signalling properties and the influence on the activity of T cells using flow cytometry, mixed cell reaction and ELISA methods. Adherent immature JAWS II cells exhibited increased endocytosis and decreased activation of the Pi3K signalling pathway. After LPS activation, adherent JAWS II cells exhibited increased expression levels of CD80 and CD86 costimulatory molecules, increased endocytosis and an elevated ability to induce T cell proliferation, compared with non-adherent cells. These results demonstrated that the two fractions of JAWS II adherent and non-adherent cells exhibited different properties and this should be taken into account in the planning of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Maruszewska-Cheruiyot
- Department of Experimental Immunotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Lazarski University, 02-662 Warsaw, Poland,Correspondence to: Dr Marta Maruszewska-Cheruiyot, Department of Experimental Immunotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Lazarski University, 43 Świeradowska Street, 02-662 Warsaw, Poland, E-mail:
| | - Maja Machcińska
- Department of Experimental Immunotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Lazarski University, 02-662 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kierasińska
- Laboratory of Parasitology, General Karol Kaczkowski Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, 01-163 Warsaw, Poland
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15
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Wei W, Zhang Y, Lin Z, Wu X, Fan W, Chen J. Advances, challenge and prospects in cell-mediated nanodrug delivery for cancer therapy: a review. J Drug Target 2023; 31:1-13. [PMID: 35857432 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2022.2104299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Nanomedicine offers considerable opportunities to improve drugability and reduce toxicity for tumour therapy. However, the application of nanomedicine has achieved little success in clinical trials due to multiple physiological barriers to drug delivery. Circulating cells are expected to improve the physical distribution of drugs and enhance the therapeutic effect by overcoming various biological barriers in collaboration with nano-drug delivery systems owing to excellent biocompatibility, low immunogenicity and a long-circulation time and strong binding specificity. Nonetheless, we have noticed some limitations in implementing tthe strategy. In this article, we intend to introduce the latest progress in research and application of circulating cell-mediated nano-drug delivery systems, describe the main cell-related drug delivery modes, sum up the relevant points of the transport systems in the process of loading, transport and release, and lastly discuss the advantages, challenges and future development trends in cell-mediated nano-drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wuhao Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | | | | | - Xin Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Fuzhou, Fujian, China.,Shanghai Wei Er Lab, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Fan
- Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianming Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Fuzhou, Fujian, China
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16
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Szczygieł A, Węgierek-Ciura K, Wróblewska A, Mierzejewska J, Rossowska J, Szermer-Olearnik B, Świtalska M, Anger-Góra N, Goszczyński TM, Pajtasz-Piasecka E. Combined therapy with methotrexate nanoconjugate and dendritic cells with downregulated IL-10R expression modulates the tumor microenvironment and enhances the systemic anti-tumor immune response in MC38 murine colon carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1155377. [PMID: 37033926 PMCID: PMC10078943 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1155377] [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: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Understanding the negative impact of the tumor microenvironment on the creation of an effective immune response has contributed to the development of new therapeutic anti-cancer strategies. One such solution is combined therapy consisting of chemotherapeutic administration followed by dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines. The use of cytostatic leads to the elimination of cancer cells, but can also modulate the tumor milieu. Moreover, great efforts are being made to increase the therapeutic outcome of immunotherapy, e.g. by enhancing the ability of DCs to generate an efficient immune response, even in the presence of immunosuppressive cytokines such as IL-10. The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of combined therapy with chemotherapeutic with immunomodulatory potential - HES-MTX nanoconjugate (composed of methotrexate (MTX) and hydroxyethyl starch (HES)) and DCs with downregulated expression of IL-10 receptor stimulated with tumor antigens (DC/shIL-10R/TAg) applied in MC38 murine colon carcinoma model. Methods With the use of lentiviral vectors the DCs with decreased expression of IL-10R were obtained and characterized. During in vivo studies MC38-tumor bearing mice received MTX or HES-MTX nanoconjugate as a sole treatment or combined with DC-based immunotherapy containing unmodified DCs or DCs transduced with shRNA against IL-10R (or control shRNA sequence). Tumor volume was monitored during the experiment. One week after the last injection of DC-based vaccines, tumor nodules and spleens were dissected for ex vivo analysis. The changes in the local and systemic anti-tumor immune response were estimated with the use of flow cytometry and ELISA methods. Results and conclusions In vitro studies showed that the downregulation of IL-10R expression in DCs enhances their ability to activate the specific anti-tumor immune response. The use of HES-MTX nanoconjugate and DC/shIL-10R/TAg in the therapy of MC38-tumor bearing mice resulted in the greatest tumor growth inhibition. At the local anti-tumor immune response level a decrease in the infiltration of cells with suppressor activity and an increase in the influx of effector cells into MC38 tumor tissue was observed. These changes were crucial to enhance the effective specific immune response at the systemic level, which was revealed in the greatest cytotoxic activity of spleen cells against MC38 cells.
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17
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Stakheev D, Taborska P, Kalkusova K, Bartunkova J, Smrz D. LL-37 as a Powerful Molecular Tool for Boosting the Performance of Ex Vivo-Produced Human Dendritic Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122747. [PMID: 36559241 PMCID: PMC9780902 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ex vivo-produced dendritic cells (DCs) constitute the core of active cellular immunotherapy (ACI) for cancer treatment. After many disappointments in clinical trials, the current protocols for their preparation are attempting to boost their therapeutic efficacy by enhancing their functionality towards Th1 response and capability to induce the expansion of cytotoxic tumor-specific CD8+ T cells. LL-37 is an antimicrobial peptide with strong immunomodulatory potential. This potential was previously found to either enhance or suppress the desired anti-tumor DC functionality when used at different phases of their ex vivo production. In this work, we show that LL-37 can be implemented during the whole process of DC production in a way that allows LL-37 to enhance the anti-tumor functionality of produced DCs. We found that the supplementation of LL-37 during the differentiation of monocyte-derived DCs showed only a tendency to enhance their in vitro-induced lymphocyte enrichment with CD8+ T cells. The supplementation of LL-37 also during the process of DC antigen loading (pulsation) and maturation significantly enhanced the cell culture enrichment with CD8+ T cells. Moreover, this enrichment was also associated with the downregulated expression of PD-1 in CD8+ T cells, significantly higher frequency of tumor cell-reactive CD8+ T cells, and superior in vitro cytotoxicity against tumor cells. These data showed that LL-37 implementation into the whole process of the ex vivo production of DCs could significantly boost their anti-tumor performance in ACI.
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18
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Flosdorf N, Zenke M. Dendritic cells generated from induced pluripotent stem cells and by direct reprogramming of somatic cells. Eur J Immunol 2022; 52:1880-1888. [PMID: 36045608 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202149550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Novel and exciting avenues allow generating dendritic cells (DC) by reprogramming of somatic cells. DC are obtained from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells), referred to as ipDC, and by direct reprogramming of cells toward DC, referred to as induced DC (iDC). iPS cells represent pluripotent stem cells generated by reprogramming of somatic cells and can differentiate into all cell types of the body, including DC. This makes iPS cells and ipDC derived thereof useful for studying various DC subsets, acquiring high cell numbers for research and clinical use, or applying genome editing to generate DC with wanted properties. Thereby, ipDC overcome limitations in specific DC subsets, which are only found in low abundance in blood or lymphoid organs. iDC are generated by direct reprogramming of somatic cells with a specific set of transcription factors and offer an avenue to obtain DC without a pluripotent cell intermediate. ipDC and iDC retain patient and disease-specific mutations and this opens new perspectives for studying DC in disease. This review summarizes the current techniques used to generate ipDC and iDC, and the types and functionality of the DC generated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niclas Flosdorf
- Department of Cell and Tumor Biology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany.,Department of Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology and Stem Cell Transplantation, RWTH Aachen University Medical Center, Aachen, Germany
| | - Martin Zenke
- Department of Hematology, Oncology, Hemostaseology and Stem Cell Transplantation, RWTH Aachen University Medical Center, Aachen, Germany.,Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Düsseldorf (CIO ABCD), Aachen, Germany.,Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University Medical School, Aachen, Germany.,Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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19
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Ding J, Zheng Y, Wang G, Zheng J, Chai D. The performance and perspectives of dendritic cell vaccines modified by immune checkpoint inhibitors or stimulants. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188763. [PMID: 35872287 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic dendritic cell (DC) vaccines stimulate the elimination of tumor cells by the immune system. However, while antigen-specific T cell responses induced by DC vaccines are commonly observed, the clinical response rate is relatively poor, necessitating vaccine optimization. There is evidence that the suppression of DC function by immune checkpoints hinders the anti-tumor immune responses mediated by DC vaccines, ultimately leading to the immune escape of the tumor cells. The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and immune checkpoint activators (ICAs) has extended the immunotherapeutic range. It is known that both inhibitory and stimulatory checkpoint molecules are expressed by most DC subsets and can thus be used to manipulate the effectiveness of DC vaccines. Such manipulation has been investigated using strategies such as chemotherapy, agonistic or antagonistic antibodies, siRNA, shRNA, CRISPR-Cas9, soluble antibodies, lentiviruses, and adenoviruses to maximize the efficacy of DC vaccines. Thus, a deeper understanding of immune checkpoints may assist in the development of improved DC vaccines. Here, we review the actions of various ICIs or ICAs shown by preclinical studies, as well as their potential application in DC vaccines. New therapeutic interventional strategies for blocking and stimulating immune checkpoint molecules in DCs are also described in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiage Ding
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China
| | - Yanyan Zheng
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China
| | - Gang Wang
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China.
| | - Junnian Zheng
- Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China.
| | - Dafei Chai
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China; Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221002, PR China.
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20
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Hung YH, Chen LT, Hung WC. The Trinity: Interplay among Cancer Cells, Fibroblasts, and Immune Cells in Pancreatic Cancer and Implication of CD8 + T Cell-Orientated Therapy. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040926. [PMID: 35453676 PMCID: PMC9026398 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040926] [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: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The microenvironment in tumors is complicated and is constituted by different cell types and stromal proteins. Among the cell types, the abundance of cancer cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells is high and these cells work as the “Trinity” in promoting tumorigenesis. Although unidirectional or bidirectional crosstalk between two independent cell types has been well characterized, the multi-directional interplays between cancer cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells in vitro and in vivo are still unclear. We summarize recent studies in addressing the interaction of the “Trinity” members in the tumor microenvironment and propose a functional network for how these members communicate with each other. In addition, we discuss the underlying mechanisms mediating the interplay. Moreover, correlations of the alterations in the distribution and functionality of cancer cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells under different circumstances are reviewed. Finally, we point out the future application of CD8+ T cell-oriented therapy in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hsuan Hung
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 704, Taiwan;
| | - Li-Tzong Chen
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 704, Taiwan;
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (L.-T.C.); (W.-C.H.)
| | - Wen-Chun Hung
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Tainan 704, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: (L.-T.C.); (W.-C.H.)
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21
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Huff AL, Jaffee EM, Zaidi N. Messenger RNA vaccines for cancer immunotherapy: progress promotes promise. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e156211. [PMID: 35289317 PMCID: PMC8920340 DOI: 10.1172/jci156211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has elevated mRNA vaccines to global recognition due to their unprecedented success rate in protecting against a deadly virus. This international success is underscored by the remarkable versatility, favorable immunogenicity, and overall safety of the mRNA platform in diverse populations. Although mRNA vaccines have been studied in preclinical models and patients with cancer for almost three decades, development has been slow. The recent technological advances responsible for the COVID-19 vaccines have potential implications for successfully adapting this vaccine platform for cancer therapeutics. Here we discuss the lessons learned along with the chemical, biologic, and immunologic adaptations needed to optimize mRNA technology to successfully treat cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L. Huff
- Department of Oncology
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center
- The Skip Viragh Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Clinical Care
- The Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, and
- The Cancer Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Elizabeth M. Jaffee
- Department of Oncology
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center
- The Skip Viragh Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Clinical Care
- The Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, and
- The Cancer Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Neeha Zaidi
- Department of Oncology
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center
- The Skip Viragh Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Clinical Care
- The Bloomberg-Kimmel Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, and
- The Cancer Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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22
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Smith PL, Piadel K, Dalgleish AG. Directing T-Cell Immune Responses for Cancer Vaccination and Immunotherapy. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:1392. [PMID: 34960140 PMCID: PMC8708201 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9121392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer vaccination and immunotherapy revolutionised the treatment of cancer, a result of decades of research into the immune system in health and disease. However, despite recent breakthroughs in treating otherwise terminal cancer, only a minority of patients respond to cancer immunotherapy and some cancers are largely refractive to immunotherapy treatment. This is due to numerous issues intrinsic to the tumour, its microenvironment, or the immune system. CD4+ and CD8+ αβ T-cells emerged as the primary effector cells of the anti-tumour immune response but their function in cancer patients is often compromised. This review details the mechanisms by which T-cell responses are hindered in the setting of cancer and refractive to immunotherapy, and details many of the approaches under investigation to direct T-cell function and improve the efficacy of cancer vaccination and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Lawrence Smith
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. Georges University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (K.P.); (A.G.D.)
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23
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BRAF and MEK Inhibitors Affect Dendritic-Cell Maturation and T-Cell Stimulation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111951. [PMID: 34769379 PMCID: PMC8585071 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BRAF and MEK inhibitor (BRAFi/MEKi) combinations are currently the standard treatment for patients with BRAFV600 mutant metastatic melanoma. Since the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK-pathway is crucial for the function of different immune cells, we postulated an effect on their function and thus interference with anti-tumor immunity. Therefore, we examined the influence of BRAFi/MEKi, either as single agent or in combination, on the maturation of monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs) and their interaction with T cells. DCs matured in the presence of vemurafenib or vemurafenib/cobimetinib altered their cytokine secretion and surface marker expression profile. Upon the antigen-specific stimulation of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells with these DCs or with T2.A1 cells in the presence of BRAFi/MEKi, we detected a lower expression of activation markers on and a lower cytokine secretion by these T cells. However, treatment with any of the inhibitors alone or in combination did not change the avidity of CD8+ T cells in peptide titration assays with T2.A1 cells. T-helper cell/DC interaction is a bi-directional process that normally results in DC activation. Vemurafenib and vemurafenib/cobimetinib completely abolished the helper T-cell-mediated upregulation of CD70, CD80, and CD86 but not CD25 on the DCs. The combination of dabrafenib/trametinib affected DC maturation and activation as well as T-cell activation less than combined vemurafenib/cobimetinib did. Hence, for a potential combination with immunotherapy, our data indicate the superiority of dabrafenib/trametinib treatment.
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