CD8+ T Cell Exhaustion in Cancer

LncRNA HOTAIR promotes aerobic glycolysis by recruiting Lin28 to induce inflammation and apoptosis in acute lung injury

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening condition with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Recently, there has been growing evidence suggesting a link between lncRNA HOTAIR and ALI. Nonetheless, the precise role and mechanism of lncRNA HOTAIR in ALI remain to be fully elucidated. siHOTAIR transfection, qPCR detection (HOTAIR), ELISA (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β), Lactate detection, Glucose uptake experiment, Cell Apoptosis Analysis, Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) assay. Through siHOTAIR transfection, we discovered that HOTAIR plays a role in the secretion of inflammatory factors in ALI and further regulates glucose uptake and metabolism in lung epithelial cells. Moreover, a comparison between HOTAIR knockdown cells and HOTAIR overexpression cells revealed that HOTAIR promotes cellular aerobic sugar metabolism, leading to increased secretion of inflammatory factors and cell apoptosis. Our in-depth research also identified an interaction between HOTAIR and the LIN28 protein. Knocking down HOTAIR resulted in the downregulation of LIN28 protein expression, which subsequently inhibited the expression of the glucose transporter GLUT1. This indicates that HOTAIR facilitates glucose uptake and boosts cellular aerobic glycolysis by modulating the LIN28 protein, thereby promoting inflammation and apoptosis in acute lung injury. The research findings presented in this article offer significant insights into the function of HOTAIR in ALI and suggest a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of this condition.

Overcoming immunotherapy resistance in colorectal cancer through nano-selenium probiotic complexes and IL-32 modulation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health burden, with immunotherapy often limited by immune tolerance and resistance. This study introduces an innovative approach using Selenium Nanoparticles-Loaded Extracellular Vesicles combined with Interleukin-32 and Engineered Probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (SeNVs@NE-IL32-EcN) to enhance CD8+ T cell-mediated immune responses and overcome immunotherapy resistance.

METHODS

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and transcriptomic analyses were performed to identify key immune cells and regulators involved in CRC immunotherapy resistance, focusing on CD8+ T cells and the regulatory factor IL32. A humanized xenograft mouse model was used to evaluate the impact of IL32 and SeNVs@NE-IL32-EcN on tumor growth and immune responses. The SeNVs@NE-IL32-EcN complex was synthesized through a reverse micelle method and functionalized using extracellular vesicles. Its morphology, size, antioxidant activity, and safety were characterized using electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and in vitro co-culture assays.

RESULTS

Single-cell analyses revealed a significant reduction in CD8+ T cell infiltration in immunotherapy-resistant CRC patients. IL32 was identified as a key regulator enhancing CD8+ T cell cytotoxic activity through granzyme B and IFN-γ secretion. Treatment with SeNVs@NE-IL32-EcN significantly improved the proliferation and activity of CD8+ T cells and reduced tumor progression in humanized mouse models. In vitro and in vivo results demonstrated the complex's biocompatibility, antioxidant properties, and ability to enhance CRC immunotherapy while mitigating immune tolerance.

CONCLUSION

SeNVs@NE-IL32-EcN offers a novel nano-biomaterial strategy that integrates nanotechnology and probiotic therapy to enhance CD8+ T cell-mediated immunity and overcome CRC immunotherapy resistance. This study lays the foundation for future therapeutic applications in cancer treatment by advancing immune-modulating biomaterials.

Immunity/metabolism dual-regulation via an acidity-triggered bioorthogonal assembly nanoplatform enhances glioblastoma immunotherapy by targeting CXCL12/CXCR4 and adenosine-A2AR pathways

Blocking the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand-12/C-X-C motif chemokine receptor-4 (CXCL12/CXCR4) signal offers the potential to induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) and enhance immunotherapy of glioblastoma (GBM). However, traditional intracellular targeted delivery strategies and adenosine-mediated tumor immunosuppression limit its therapeutic efficacy. Herein, we present an acidity-triggered self-assembly nanoplatform based on bioorthogonal reaction to potentiate GBM immunotherapy through dual regulation of metabolism and immune pathways. AMD3100 (CXCR4 antagonist) and CPI-444 (adenosine 2A receptor inhibitor) were formulated into micelles, denoted as AMD@iNPDBCO and CPI@iNPN3, respectively. Upon administration, the pH-sensitive poly(2-azepane ethyl methacrylate) group of AMD@iNPDBCO responds to the acidic tumor microenvironment, exposing the DBCO moiety, resulting in highly efficient bioorthogonal reaction with azide group on CPI@iNPN3 to form large-sized aggregates, ensuring extracellular drug release. The combination of AMD3100 and CPI-444 contributes to ICD induction, dendritic cell maturation, and immunosuppressive milieu alleviation by reducing tumor-associated macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and regulatory T cells, leading to a robust antitumor response, thereby significantly prolonging survival in orthotopic GBM-bearing mice. Furthermore, the nanoplatform remarkably amplifies immuno-radiotherapy by potently evoking cytotoxic CD8+ T cell priming, and synergized with immune checkpoint blockade by delaying CD8+ T cell exhaustion. Our work highlights the potential of the in situ assembly nanoplatform tailored for delivery of extracellular-targeted therapeutic agents for boosting GBM immunotherapy.

The landscape of malignant transition: Unraveling cancer cell-of-origin and heterogeneous tissue microenvironment

Understanding disease progression and sophisticated tumor ecosystems is imperative for investigating tumorigenesis mechanisms and developing novel prevention strategies. Here, we dissected heterogeneous microenvironments during malignant transitions by leveraging data from 1396 samples spanning 13 major tissues. Within transitional stem-like subpopulations highly enriched in precancers and cancers, we identified 30 recurring cellular states strongly linked to malignancy, including hypoxia and epithelial senescence, revealing a high degree of plasticity in epithelial stem cells. By characterizing dynamics in stem-cell crosstalk with the microenvironment along the pseudotime axis, we found differential roles of ANXA1 at different stages of tumor development. In precancerous stages, reduced ANXA1 levels promoted monocyte differentiation toward M1 macrophages and inflammatory responses, whereas during malignant progression, upregulated ANXA1 fostered M2 macrophage polarization and cancer-associated fibroblast transformation by increasing TGF-β production. Our spatiotemporal analysis further provided insights into mechanisms responsible for immunosuppression and a potential target to control evolution of precancer and mitigate the risk for cancer development.

Application and clinical translational value of a predictive model based on N7-methylguanosine-related long non-coding RNAs in cervical squamous cell carcinoma

Cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) is one of the most common gynecological malignancies affecting women globally. The present study aimed to develop a predictive model based on N7-methylguanosine-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) to evaluate risk stratification, analyze immune infiltration and guide the selection of sensitive drugs in CSCC. Pearson's correlation, univariate Cox and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression analyses of transcriptome data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Genotype-Tissue Expression database were conducted to construct a prognostic risk prediction model for CSCC. The stability of the model was tested before evaluating its prognostic value in CSCC. Further analysis of enrichment, immune infiltration and drug resistance provided directions for clinical translation. The lncRNAs used to construct the model were validated using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. The developed predictive model was stable and may hold notable clinical translational value for immunotherapy and drug selection in CSCC in the future.

The tetravalent, bispecific properties of FS118, an anti-LAG-3/PD-L1 antibody, mediate LAG-3 shedding from CD4 + and CD8 + tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) often have upregulated expression of immune checkpoint receptors, such as programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) and lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG-3). Patients treated with antibodies targeting PD-1 or its ligand (PD-L1) can develop resistance or relapse, with LAG-3 upregulation on T cells being one possible mechanism. FS118 is a tetravalent, bispecific antibody comprising a full-length IgG 1 anti-PD-L1 antibody with bivalent LAG-3-binding capability in the fragment crystallizable region. Here we demonstrate how the structure of FS118 is important for its function. We generated variants of FS118 and tested their ability to mediate LAG-3 shedding using staphylococcal enterotoxin B assays, antigen recall assays, and soluble LAG-3 ELISAs. Mediated by metalloproteases ADAM10 and ADAM17, FS118 induced shedding of LAG-3 from the surface of both CD4 + and CD8 + T cells. We also determined the effect of surrogate antibodies on immune cell LAG-3 expression and proliferation in syngeneic mouse models. In vivo , the bivalent LAG-3 binding sites of a mouse surrogate of FS118 and their location in the fragment crystallizable region were important for eliciting maximal reduction in LAG-3 levels on the surface of TILs, as variants with a single LAG-3 binding site in the fragment crystallizable region, or with reversed orientation of the LAG-3 and PD-L1 binding sites, were less efficient at inducing shedding. We also show that PD-L1, not PD-1, binding drives the LAG-3 reduction on TILs. We hypothesize that the LAG-3 bivalency in the fragment crystallizable region of FS118 allows LAG-3 clustering, which optimizes cleavage by ADAM10/ADAM17 and thus shedding.

MYO1F in neutrophils is required for the response to immune checkpoint blockade therapy

Tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) represent a significant barrier to the effectiveness of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. A comprehensive understanding of TANs' regulatory mechanisms is therefore essential for predicting ICB efficacy and improving immunotherapy strategies. Our study reveals that MYO1F is selectively downregulated in neutrophils within both human cancers and murine tumor models, showing a negative correlation with ICB response. Mechanistically, MYO1F normally inhibits neutrophil immunosuppression and proliferation by restraining STAT3 activity. However, during tumorigenesis, tumor-derived TGF-β1 disrupts the binding of SPI1 to intron 8 of Myo1f via DNA methylation, thereby suppressing Myo1f transcription. The resultant decrease in MYO1F reprograms neutrophils into an immunosuppressive state through the STAT3-dependent signaling pathways. This immunosuppressive state further contributes to tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling by inducing CTL exhaustion. These findings establish MYO1F as a critical regulator within TANs, highlighting its significant role in modulating ICB therapy efficacy.

Beyond Canonical Immune Checkpoints: Overexpression of TNFRSF Members 4-1BB and OX-40 Marks T Cells Exhibiting Phenotypic Features of Exhaustion in Cervical Carcinoma

T cells are pivotal in combating cancer; however, they can become exhausted during tumour progression, losing their cytotoxic capacity and upregulating inhibitory receptors including PD-1 and TIGIT. While checkpoint blockade has emerged as a potent treatment option for numerous cancers, patient selection, long-term efficacy, and adverse effects still remain an issue. For these reasons, it is important to investigate other pathways that might lead to selective reactivation of the immune system. Co-stimulatory TNFRSF receptors, including 4-1BB and OX-40, have emerged as promising targets for reactivating exhausted T cells. However, their expression on exhausted peripheral and tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) is not well characterised, particularly in cervical cancer (CC), which remains the leading cause of gynaecological cancer mortality in low- and middle-income countries. To investigate the expression of these receptors, PBMCs were collected from CC patients and healthy donors, along with TILs from tumour biopsies, and analysed using multiparametric flow cytometry. Our findings revealed an increased population of phenotypically exhausted (PD-1+TIGIT+) CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in TILs, and, to a lesser extent, in peripheral blood and from CC patients. These exhausted T cell subsets exhibited selective overexpression of 4-1BB and OX-40 compared to phenotypically non-exhausted cells (PD-1-TIGIT-). In TILs, 4-1BB was overexpressed 12.7-fold in CD8 cells with the exhausted phenotype, OX-40 was overexpressed 3.3-fold; in CD4 cells with the exhausted phenotype, the overexpression was 7.8× and 3.8× for 4-1BB and OX-40, respectively. CD8 and CD4 T cells that were PD-1 + TIGIT+ 4-1BB+ were 7.3× and 16× more likely to be found in the tumour versus peripheral blood. Additionally, subpopulations of PD-1high T cells were significantly elevated in the tumour-infiltrating T cells and TIGIT expression was positively associated with PD-1 levels in peripheral patient CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, potentially indicating an advanced state of exhaustion. These findings suggest that TNFRSF members, especially 4-1BB, may serve as potential immunotherapeutic targets for reinvigorating exhausted T cells in CC.

CircRNA GRAMD4 induces NBR1 expression to promote autophagy and immune escape in renal cell carcinoma

The tumor microenvironment (TME) in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) frequently exhibits significant immune cell infiltration. However, tumor cells often manage to evade immune surveillance. This study revealed the mechanism by which circular RNA circGRAMD4 regulates NBR1. CircGRAMD4 is markedly elevated in RCC, and its high levels are correlated with a poor prognosis. Notably, the absence of circGRAMD4 has been demonstrated to result in a significant inhibition of renal cancer cell growth. This inhibition has been attributed to an enhanced anti-tumor immunity mediated by CD8+ T cells. Mechanistically, circGRAMD4 interacts with the RBM4 protein, stabilizing the autophagic cargo receptor NBR1 mRNA. This interaction promotes NBR1 expression, which in turn leads to the degradation of MHC-I molecules through macroautophagy/autophagy pathways. Consequently, this process affects renal cancer cell antigen presentation, induces CD8+ T cell dysfunction, and contributes to tumor immune escape. Moreover, by inhibiting circGRAMD4 and using immune checkpoint blockers (ICB), the immunosuppressive TME is altered to prevent tumor immune evasion, ultimately increasing the effectiveness of ICB treatment. The discovery highlights the significant impact of circGRAMD4 on RCC immune escape and proposes that blocking circGRAMD4 could serve as a promising immunotherapy strategy when combined with ICB to enhance patient outcomes.

Bolstering CD8+ T Cells' Antitumor Immunity: A Promising Strategy to Improve the Response to Advanced Prostate Cancer Treatment

Prostate cancer is among the most frequently diagnosed and deadly cancers among men in the Western world. It is typically classified as an immune "cold" tumor due to its sparse immune cell presence and limited immunogenic response. Recent research has revealed the significant role of immune cells, especially CD8+ T cells, in both prostate cancer progression and treatment efficacy. This review integrates recent findings to provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of CD8+ T cell dynamics in prostate cancer and discusses emerging strategies to improve treatment outcomes. The ongoing exploration of new molecular targets and the development of innovative immunotherapeutic approaches hold promise for more effective management of prostate cancer, particularly in the context of advanced and resistant forms of the disease.

Research progress on monocyte/macrophage in the development of gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is diagnosed more than one million times each year and represents a major cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Although GC presents as a group of different types of disease, chronic inflammation has been strongly associated with tumorigenesis. Monocyte/macrophage play important roles in the development of inflammation and are vital components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Monocyte/macrophage exert protumor and/or antitumor effects through the release of angiogenic and lymphangiogenic factors. Furthermore, tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) are emerging as key players in GC development. It is necessary to review and elucidate the roles of TAM subsets in GC and their molecular features. In this study, we focused on GC-related subsets of monocytes/macrophages and analyzed signaling related to TAMs in GC as well as the potential roles of these cells as therapeutic targets.

DDX10 Exacerbates Exosomal PD-L1-Dependent T Cell Exhaustion via Phase Separation of Rab27b in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

DEAD-box ATPase 10 (DDX10), a prominent RNA-binding protein in the DDX family, has a critical function in cancer progression. Nevertheless, its well-defined mechanisms in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) are still not well understood. Here, we identify that DDX10 is substantially increased in OSCC, which is positively correlated with poor prognosis and malignant behavior. Mechanistically, we found that DDX10 had physical interaction with Rab27b by undergoing phase separation. Knockdown of DDX10 inhibited Rab27b-mediated exosome secretion and the expression of programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) within its contents. Furthermore, knocking down DDX10 could restore the function and infiltration of T cells, hence inhibiting the progression of OSCC. These findings highlight that the oncogenic role of DDX10 in promoting exosomal PD-L1 secretion via phase separation with Rab27b has been preliminarily validated in T cell exhaustion in OSCC. A potential strategy for improving OSCC immunotherapy may involve the inhibition of DDX10.

HIF-PH inhibitors induce pseudohypoxia in T cells and suppress the growth of microsatellite stable colorectal cancer by enhancing antitumor immune responses

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have revealed that CD8+ T cells can be activated via genetic upregulation of HIF-1α, thereby augmenting antitumor effector functions. HIF-1α upregulation can be attained by inhibiting HIF-prolyl hydroxylase (HIF-PH) under normoxic conditions, termed pseudohypoxia. This study investigated whether pseudohypoxia induced by HIF-PH inhibitors suppresses Microsatellite stable (MSS) colorectal cancer (CRC) by affecting tumor immune response.

METHODS

The HIF-PH inhibitors Roxadustat and Vadadustat were utilized in this study. In vitro, we assessed the effects of HIF-PH inhibitors on human and murine colon cancer cell lines (SW480, HT29, Colon26) and murine T cells. In vivo experiments were performed with mice bearing Colon26 tumors to evaluate the effect of these inhibitors on tumor immune responses. Tumor and spleen samples were analyzed using immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR, and flow cytometry to elucidate potential mechanisms.

RESULTS

HIF-PH inhibitors demonstrated antitumor effects in vivo but not in vitro. These inhibitors enhanced the tumor immune response by increasing the infiltration of CD8+ and CD4+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). HIF-PH inhibitors induced IL-2 production in splenic and intratumoral CD4+ T cells, promoting T cell proliferation, differentiation, and immune responses. Roxadustat synergistically enhanced the efficacy of anti-PD-1 antibody for MSS cancer by increasing the recruitment of TILs and augmenting effector-like CD8+ T cells.

CONCLUSION

Pseudohypoxia induced by HIF-PH inhibitors activates antitumor immune responses, at least in part, through the induction of IL-2 secretion from CD4+ T cells in the spleen and tumor microenvironment, thereby enhancing immune efficacy against MSS CRC.

Vitamin D and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Lung Cancer: A Synergistic Approach to Enhancing Treatment Efficacy

Lung cancer, a malignant neoplasm that is globally prevalent and characterized by high incidence and mortality rates, has seen the rise of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as a crucial systemic treatment. However, a subset of patients exhibits suboptimal responses to ICIs. Recently, studies revealed the role of vitamin D in inflammation modulation, cell differentiation, and cancer prevention. Vitamin D precisely modulates immune responses and inflammatory states within the tumor microenvironment (TME) by targeting both innate and adaptive immunity. These effects may reduce immune tolerance to ICIs and synergistically enhance their therapeutic efficacy. Here, we review vitamin D metabolism in lung cancer patients, as well as its anti-tumor mechanisms, immune regulation, and the significant promise of vitamin D in lung cancer immunotherapy and adjuvant therapeutic strategies. Further research is imperative to surmount these challenges and fully realize vitamin D's potential in improving lung cancer immunotherapy outcomes.

Next-generation probiotics Alistipes onderdonkii enhances the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy in colorectal cancer

Despite significant breakthroughs of therapeutic antibodies targeting PD-1 in cancer treatment, most colorectal cancer (CRC) patients respond poorly to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. The combination therapy strategies are used to overcome the limitations mentioned above. Alistipes (A.) onderdonkii has anti-cancer effects. This study aimed to examine A. onderdonkii's effects and the related mechanisms in the anti-PD-1 treatment for CRC. In this study, anti-PD-1 therapy notably affected gut microbiota community composition in mice, particularly upregulating A. onderdonkii abundance. A. onderdonkii supplementation markedly promoted anti-PD-1 therapy's effectiveness on CRC treatment, as manifested by the elevated CD8+ T cell infiltration, promoted intestinal barrier integrity, and affected serum metabolomics. A. onderdonkii showed similar effects to the identified next-generation probiotics (NGP) Akkermansia (A.) muciniphila. Additionally, the combination therapy of anti-PD-1 and probiotics supplementation reduced PD-1 level and elevated IL-2 level, indicating that anti-PD-1 combined with A. onderdonkii efficiently restored T cell functions by inhibiting suppressive checkpoints. In conclusion, anti-PD-1 plus A. onderdonkii supplementation could account for a potential method for CRC therapy. These results provide strong evidence for A. onderdonkii as a potential NGP.

A coagulation-related long non-coding RNA signature to predict prognosis and immune features of breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) remains one of the most common malignancies among women worldwide, with persistently poor prognosis despite advancements in diagnostics and therapies. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and coagulation-related genes (CRGs) are increasingly recognized for their roles in prognosis and immune modulation. Using transcriptomic data from 1,045 BC patients in TCGA, we identified CRG-associated lncRNAs via coexpression analysis (Pearson |R|> 0.4, p < 0.001) and constructed a prognostic model through univariate Cox analysis, LASSO regression with tenfold cross-validation (λ = 0.05), and multivariate Cox analysis. The model stratified patients into high- and low-risk groups with distinct overall survival (HR = 3.21, p < 0.001) and demonstrated robust predictive accuracy (AUC = 0.795 at 1 year). Functional enrichment revealed immune-related pathways (e.g., cytokine signaling, PD-L1 regulation), and high-risk patients exhibited elevated tumor mutational burden (TMB) and PD-L1 expression, suggesting enhanced immunotherapy responsiveness. Drug sensitivity analysis identified 5 targeted agents (e.g., BIBW2992) with differential efficacy between risk groups. This CRG-lncRNA signature provides a novel tool for prognosis prediction and personalized immunotherapy in BC, illuminating crosstalk between coagulation and immune pathways.

Unveiling vitamin C: A new hope in the treatment of diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma (Review)

Lymphoma is a malignancy of the immune system, which originates from lymphatic tissues and lymph nodes. Diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a common type of non‑Hodgkin lymphoma, occurring in 30‑40% of all cases, which has persistent clinical challenges. The treatment of DLBCL is challenging due to its diverse genetic and biological characteristics and complex clinical physiology. Despite advancements in overall prognosis, 20‑25% of patients continue to experience relapse and 10‑15% of patients experience refractory disease. Vitamin C is a water‑soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties and notable pharmacological activity, with potential applications in cancer therapy. Pharmacological doses of vitamin C (1‑4 g/kg) can induce apoptosis in malignant cells by inhibiting and/or reversing gene mutations that are associated with hematological malignancies. For example, 10‑25% of patients with myeloid malignancies have tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 2 (TET2) gene mutations and vitamin C can regulate blood stem cell frequency and leukemia production by enhancing TET2 function. Consequently, pharmacological doses of vitamin C can inhibit the development and progression of hematological malignancies. Therefore, the present review aimed to investigate the role of vitamin C in the pathophysiology and treatment of DLBCL, whilst highlighting the potential challenges and future perspectives.

Integration of Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Data and Bulk Sequencing Data to Characterise the CD8+ T-Cell Exhaustion Mediated Immune Microenvironment in CRC

CD8+ T cells are crucial for the anti-tumour immune response, and their exhaustion contributes to poor prognosis and limited immunotherapy efficacy in colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we examined the immune microenvironment of CRC by integrating single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and bulk sequencing data. T-cell subtypes in tumour tissues were analysed using CellMarker 2.0 and scType, and an intercellular communication network was constructed through CellChat. Our analysis revealed that exhausted CD8+ T cells exhibit strong interactions with epithelial cells, primarily via the MIF-(CD74 + CXCR4), MIF-(CD74 + CD44) and CD99-CD99 pathways. Based on CD8+ T-cell exhaustion markers, we developed a prognostic model using XGBoost, which demonstrated promising predictive capabilities for CRC prognosis and immunotherapy response. Functional assays showed that MIF knock-down significantly inhibited CRC cell proliferation and invasion. Our findings suggest that MIF and CD99 are key regulators of CD8+ T-cell exhaustion in CRC. This study provides novel insights into the mechanisms underlying T-cell exhaustion in CRC and offers potential biomarkers for improving immunotherapy outcomes.

Effect of glioblastoma and brain radiotherapy on T-lymphocyte subpopulations in rodents

INTRODUCTION

Although lymphopenia is linked to immune suppression favoring tumor growth, the effect of different radiation types on specific T-lymphocyte subsets remains unclear. Among the T-lymphocyte subpopulations, CD8+-lymphocytes serve as key effectors in cancer immunity. This study aimed to examine the changes in T-lymphocyte subpopulations in both tumor-free and glioblastoma-bearing mice following brain-irradiation.

METHODS

The study was divided into two main phases. First, C57BL/6 mice, with or without glioblastoma (GL261 cells), received hemispheric brain-irradiation or no-treatment. T-lymphocyte subpopulations were analyzed using flow cytometry at various timepoint. The effect of tumor size and brain-irradiation on these cells was assessed using correlation analysis. Next, C57BL/6 mice were subjected to different brain-irradiation conditions. Blood samples were collected during and post-irradiation to analyze T-lymphocyte subpopulations, and tree-based modeling was used to determine radiation parameters impact on naïve CD8+-lymphocyte levels.

RESULTS

Glioblastoma reduced all T-lymphocyte subpopulations by day 15 post-inoculation. Radiotherapy decreased regulatory and effector CD4+-lymphocytes in both tumor-free and glioblastoma-bearing mice, but not naïve or memory CD4+-lymphocytes, in both tumor-free and glioblastoma-bearing mice. In tumor-free mice, radiotherapy had no effect on CD8+-lymphocytes, but reduced all CD8+-lymphocyte types in glioblastoma-bearing mice. Glioblastoma size negatively affected CD8+-lymphocytes. Brain-irradiation persistently reduced naïve and memory CD8+-lymphocytes, but effector and regulatory T-lymphocytes recovered. Exposure of lymph nodes to radiation worsened CD8+-lymphocyte reduction.

CONCLUSION

These findings confirm that the presence of glioblastoma and brain-irradiation affect T-lymphocyte subpopulations in mice. The inclusion of lymph nodes in the irradiated area led to a long-term decrease in naïve CD8+-lymphocytes. Further mechanistic studies are needed to understand the molecular basis of radiation impact on T-lymphocyte subpopulations.

Progressive accumulation of circulating CD27-CD28- effector/memory CD8+ T cells in patients with lung cancer blunts responses to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy

Suppression of tumor-reactive CD8+ T cells is common within the tumor microenvironment. However, little is known about how tumors systemically affect the overall CD8+ T cell compartment. Here we demonstrate that peripheral blood CD8+ T cells from patients with lung cancer showed altered compositions particularly within CD45RA-CCR7- effector memory subpopulation. Specifically, patients with lung cancer exhibited increased frequency of more differentiated effector memory cells, which are less susceptible to T cell-receptor-induced proliferation. Further analysis using single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that these alterations were correlated with reduced quiescence and increased spontaneous activation at a systemic level, indicative of homeostatic dysregulation of the entire CD8+ T cell population. This phenomenon was found to be correlated with a poor clinical response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy across four independent cohorts, consisting of a total of 224 patients with lung cancer. These findings suggest that lung cancers continue to counteract potentially tumor-reactive CD8+ T cells by inducing homeostatic dysregulation of the entire CD8+ T cell compartment systematically.

Cochlear T cells and their role in health and disease: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The role of T cells in health and disease has already been studied extensively in many organs, yet their activity in the cochlea and involvement in hearing loss remains less explored. This review aims to summarize current existing literature on the presence and activity of T cells in the cochlea and the link between T-cell activity and the development of hearing loss.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed on PubMed and Web of Science on the 4th of December 2024 using the following search term: ("T-cell" OR "T cells" OR "T-lymphocyte*") AND ("cochlea*" OR "spiral ligament" OR "spiral limbus").

RESULTS

The literature search revealed 20 studies that explored the presence and activity of T cells in the cochlea, as well as associations between T cells and hearing loss. The presence of cochlear T cells was compared between steady-state conditions and stimulated environments, which suggested an increase in cochlear T cells post-stimulation. Additionally, the role of T cells in hearing loss, both causal as protective, are described in 12 studies. Finally, three studies introduce cochlin as an inner ear-specific antigen triggering autoimmunity.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the critical role of the immune balance in maintaining cochlear homeostasis. Both protective and detrimental T-cell functions have been linked to hearing, reflecting the dual role of T cells in cochlear health. Future therapies for hearing loss should aim to restore the immune balance to support normal hearing functions.

T cell subgroup analysis and T cell exhaustion after autologous stem cell transplantation in lymphoma patients

BACKGROUND

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is a common treatment option for relapsed/refractory (R/R) lymphomas and it is considered standard of care as primary consolidation therapy for some types of Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas (NHL). Although ASCT benefits patients by allowing cytoreduction with intensive chemotherapy and reconstituting with stem cells, the effects of immunological changes in T cell subgroups after ASCT are still poorly understood.

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated changes in frequencies of T cell subsets and T cells expressing some of the exhaustion markers (such as LAG-3 and PD-1) from peripheral blood samples before and after ASCT to investigate bone marrow reconstruction and whether exhaustion predicts relapse.

STUDY DESIGN

Blood samples were collected on the day before conditioning and at the 1st, 3rd, and 6th months post-ASCT. Flow cytometry analysis was conducted to examine T cell subgroup composition and exhaustion markers, including PD-1 and LAG-3. Additionally, functional analysis was performed using assays for IFN-g and TNF-a production. Furthermore, a CSFE proliferation assay was utilized to assess proliferation capacity.

RESULTS

In our data set, dominant cells post-transplantation were memory cells, as the naïve cell population did not recover for 6 months. Both single and combined expressions of LAG-3 and PD-1 were found to be high before transplantation, and decreased after transplantation. However, LAG-3 and PD-1 expression increased in the 3rd and 6th month after transplantation respectively. These changes were more evident for the relapsed patients when compared to non-relapsed patients within 3 months follow-up time. Notably, the expression of inhibitory receptors in the relapsed patients was significantly higher at the first month post-transplantation. CD107a+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), IFN-g+, TNF-a.+ CTL and T helper lymphocyte (THL) populations significantly decreased in relapsed patients 3rd month after transplantation. Decreased proliferation capacities of CTLs and THLs were also observed in these patients.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that increased surface PD-1 and LAG-3 expressions along with functional decline after 3 months of ASCT can be used as prognostic data about the relapse status of transplant patients.

Adverse drug reaction assessment of pembrolizumab in cervical cancer treatment: a real-world pharmacovigilance study using the FAERS database

Objective

Advanced cervical cancer remains associated with high mortality rates. While pembrolizumab has improved clinical outcomes in cervical cancer, the therapeutic efficacy in advanced stages is often compromised by immune-related adverse events (irAEs). This study aimed to systematically analyze pembrolizumab-associated adverse events (AEs) in cervical cancer using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database, providing new insights for optimizing clinical practice.

Methods

AE reports related to pembrolizumab in cervical cancer were extracted from the FAERS database (Q1 2016 to Q4 2024). Disproportionality analyses were performed using multiple algorithms, including the reporting odds ratio (ROR), proportional reporting ratio (PRR), Bayesian confidence propagation neural network (BCPNN), and multi-item gamma Poisson shrinker (MGPS). AEs were classified by system organ class (SOC) and preferred term (PT) based on the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA), then ranked by frequency and signal strength.

Results

A total of 646 pembrolizumab-related AE reports in cervical cancer were identified. Age distribution peaked at 45-65 years cohort (32.75%), followed by 18-44 years (12.85%), 66-75 years (11.76%), and >75 years (4.64%). Among 270 AE reports with documented onset timelines, events predominantly occurred 3-6 months after pembrolizumab initiation (n=114, 41.36%). Clinical outcomes were categorized as other (52.80%), hospitalization (27.00%), death (10.25%), unknown (6.06%), life-threatening (2.77%), and disability (1.12%). Predominant AEs involved hematologic, endocrine, dermatologic, neurologic, gastrointestinal, urinary, and reproductive systems.

Conclusion

This real-world pharmacovigilance study systematically characterizes pembrolizumab-associated AEs in cervical cancer, identifying high-signal events such as hematologic disorders, endocrine dysfunction, and dermatologic toxicities. These findings provide critical evidence for risk stratification and safety monitoring in clinical practice, emphasizing the need for organ-specific vigilance during the 3-6 months treatment window.

Reprogramming of Glucose Metabolism by Nanocarriers to Improve Cancer Immunotherapy: Recent Advances and Applications

Although immunotherapy has made significant progress in cancer treatment, its limited responsiveness has greatly hindered widespread clinical application. The Warburg effect in tumor cells creates a tumor microenvironment (TME) characterized by hypoxia, low glucose levels, and high lactate levels, which severely inhibits the antitumor immune response. Consequently, targeting glucose metabolism to reprogram the TME is considered an effective strategy for reversing immunosuppression and immune evasion. Numerous studies have been conducted on enhancing cancer immunotherapy efficacy through the delivery of glucose metabolism modulators via nanocarriers. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the glucose metabolic characteristics of tumors and their impacts on the immune system, as well as nanodelivery strategies targeting glucose metabolism to enhance immunotherapy. These strategies include inhibiting key glycolytic enzymes, blocking glucose and lactate transporters, and utilizing glucose oxidase and lactate oxidase. Furthermore, this article reviews recent advancements in synergistic antitumor therapy involving glucose metabolism-targeted therapy combined with other treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy (RT), phototherapy, and immunotherapy. Finally, we discuss the limitations and future prospects of nanotechnology targeting glucose metabolism therapy, hoping to provide new directions and ideas to improve cancer immunotherapy.

Impact of tumor-infiltrating immune cells expressing PD-1 and those expressing PD-L1 on recurrence and prognosis in pathological T1b clear cell renal cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The numbers of tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) expressing programmed death (PD)-1 or PD-ligand 1 (PD-L1) reportedly predict prognosis and resistance to targeted drugs in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). The impact of local tumor microenvironment based on immunosuppressive TIICs on recurrence and prognosis has not been fully investigated in localized ccRCC.

METHODS

A total of 105 patients with pT1b ccRCC were included. Immunostaining for PD-1 and PD-L1 were performed. PD-1-positive TIICs and PD-L1-positive TIICs were counted in the tumor periphery (TP) and the tumor nest (TN).

RESULTS

Patients with elevated PD-1-positive TIIC scores and those with elevated PD-L1-positive TIIC scores had significantly lower recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates than their counterparts (3-year RFS rates; patients with high vs. low PD-1-positive TIIC score of TN = 73.9% vs. 95.0%, those with high vs. low PD-1-positive TIIC score of TP = 73.8% vs. 93.8%, those with high vs. low PD-L1-positive TIIC score of TN = 70.9% vs. 93.0%, and those with high vs. low PD-L1-positive TIIC score of TP = 80.3% vs. 92.6%). Univariate analysis showed that high PD-1-positive scores, high PD-L1-positive scores, high PD-L1-positive tumor cell score, high-grade tumor, tumor necrosis, and lymphovascular invasion were significantly associated with RFS. Multivariate analysis revealed that tumor necrosis [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.841, P = .0269] and PD-1-positive TIIC score of TN (HR = 6.135, P = .0023) were independent risk factors for RFS. Risk stratification using the two factors efficiently predicts recurrence (3-year RFS rates: 96.4% with 0 factor, 83.8% with 1 factor, and 61.4% with 2 factors).

CONCLUSION

PD-1-positive TIIC score of TN and tumor necrosis may efficiently predict recurrence in pT1b ccRCC.

The Impact of T-cell Exhaustion Dynamics on Tumour-Immune Interactions and Tumour Growth

Tumours evade immune surveillance through a number of different immunosuppressive mechanisms. One such mechanism causes cytotoxic T-cells, a major driving force of the immune system, to differentiate to a state of 'exhaustion', rendering them less effective at killing tumour cells. We present a structured mathematical model that focuses on T-cell exhaustion and its effect on tumour growth. We compartmentalise cytotoxic T-cells into discrete subgroups based on their exhaustion level, which affects their ability to kill tumour cells. We show that the model reduces to a simpler system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) that describes the time evolution of the total number of T-cells, their mean exhaustion level and the total number of tumour cells. Numerical simulations of the model equations reveal how the exhaustion distribution of T-cells changes over time and how it influences the tumour's growth dynamics. Complementary bifurcation analysis shows how altering key parameters significantly reduces the tumour burden, highlighting exhaustion as a promising target for immunotherapy. Finally, we derive a continuum approximation of the discrete ODE model, which admits analytical solutions that provide complementary insight into T-cell exhaustion dynamics and their effect on tumour growth.

MYCN/MNX1 Axis Drives NSCLC Progression by Inducing Macrophage M2 Polarization and CD8+ T Cell Apoptosis via the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway

Enhanced macrophage M2 polarization and CD8+ T cell dysfunction contribute to the pathophysiology of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Motor neuron and pancreatic homeobox 1 (MNX1) has emerged as a potential tumor-promoting player. Here, we clarified the activity of MNX1 in NSCLC. PMA-induced THP-1 M0-like macrophages or CD8+ T cells were co-cultured with NSCLC cells. Cell colony formation, migration, proliferation, apoptosis, and invasiveness were assessed by colony formation, wound healing, CCK-8, flow cytometry, and transwell assays, respectively. The ratio of CD206+ macrophages was analyzed by flow cytometry. Ki-67 expression was tested by immunofluorescence. ChIP and luciferase assays were used to evaluate the relationship between MYCN and MNX1. MNX1 was highly expressed in NSCLC, and its loss-of-function suppressed cell growth, motility, and invasiveness in NSCLC cells. MNX1 depletion also diminished macrophage M2 polarization and CD8+ T cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, MYCN increased MNX1 expression at the transcriptional level. MNX1 increase reversed the impact of MYCN depletion on NSCLC cell malignant behaviors, macrophage M2 polarization, and CD8+ T cell viability. MYCN depletion diminished the in vivo growth of A549 subcutaneous xenografts. Additionally, MNX1 increase counteracted the impact of MYCN depletion on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Our findings elucidate the oncogenic role of the MYCN/MNX1/Wnt/β-catenin pathway in NSCLC by driving macrophage M2 polarization and diminishing CD8+ T cell viability. Our study thus uncovers a novel mechanism underlying NSCLC development and highlights potential targets for combating NSCLC.

The role of TIGIT-CD226-PVR axis in mediating T cell exhaustion and apoptosis in NSCLC

The treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a critical challenge in oncology, primarily due to the dysfunction and exhaustion of T cells within the tumor microenvironment, which greatly limits the effectiveness of immunotherapy. This study investigates the regulatory role of the T cell immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT)-CD226-PVR signaling axis in the exhaustion and apoptosis of cluster of differentiation (CD)27+/CD127+T cells in NSCLC. Utilizing single-cell sequencing technology, we conducted a comprehensive gene expression analysis of T cells in a mouse model of NSCLC. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the TIGIT-CD226-PVR signaling axis is highly active in the CD27+/CD127+T cell subset and is closely associated with their functional decline and exhaustion. In vitro experiments further demonstrated that inhibiting the TIGIT-PVR pathway while activating the CD226-PVR pathway significantly restored T cell proliferation and effector function. Importantly, in vivo studies showed that targeting this axis can significantly alleviate T cell exhaustion, enhance their cytotoxicity against NSCLC cells, and promote apoptosis, thereby improving the efficacy of immunotherapy.

Exploring neuroblastoma's cellular microenvironment: A novel approach using cellular automata to model Celyvir treatment

Neuroblastoma is a significant health concern in children, as it is one of the most common types of cancer among this age group and is associated with poor survival rates. Currently, there are no effective therapies that significantly improve outcomes for these patients. This study explores the efficacy of Celyvir - an advanced therapy comprising mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) carrying the oncolytic virus ICOVIR 5 - against neuroblastoma, by means of an individual-based model. A probabilistic cellular automaton was developed to implement the dynamic interactions between neuroblastoma cells, T lymphocytes, and the therapeutic agent Celyvir. The model examines various sizes, shapes, and positions of the tumour within a lattice, along with different infection probabilities associated with the action of Celyvir and various treatment schedules. This analysis identifies the most influential infection probabilities according to the cellular automaton model, and demonstrates that different treatment regimens can effectively eradicate the tumour, in contrast to standard clinical approaches. Additionally, Kaplan-Meier curves have been generated to assess different treatment schedules under specific tumour scenarios, highlighting the importance of precise treatment scheduling to optimise therapeutic outcomes. This study provides insights into the potential of Celyvir in neuroblastoma treatment, emphasising the need to understand tumour dynamics and strategically implement treatment schemes to improve clinical outcomes.

NAD+ Metabolism Reprogramming Drives SIRT1-Dependent Deacetylation Inducing PD-L1 Nuclear Localization in Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer (CC) is a major health threat to women, with immunotherapies targeting the programmed death receptor 1/programmed death ligand 1(PD-1/PD-L1) axis showing promise but encountering resistance in a significant patient population. This resistance has driven a critical quest to uncover the underlying mechanisms. This study uncovers a novel metabolic axis involving the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) salvage pathway enzyme nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) and the deacetylase Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), which regulates PD-L1 expression and nuclear localization in CC. This axis may be a key factor contributing to the resistance observed in immunotherapy. This study reveals that PD-L1 overexpression in cancers is regulated by both transcriptional and post-transcriptional processes. Acetyl-proteomic analysis pinpoints SIRT1 as a central regulator in the deacetylation of histone H3 at lysines 27, which may influence PD-L1 subcellular distribution. This finding reveals the epigenetic control of immune checkpoint proteins by metabolic pathways, offering a new perspective on the regulation of PD-L1. The identification of the NAMPT/SIRT1 metabolic axis as a critical factor suggests that targeting this axis may enhance therapeutic responses.

Nomogram based on CT imaging and clinical data to predict the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors combined with chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer

Background

PD-1 inhibitors, in combination with chemotherapy, have become the first-line treatment option for patients with advanced metastatic gastric cancer. However, some patients still do not benefit from this treatment, highlighting an urgent need for simple and reliable markers to predict the efficacy of immunotherapy.

Methods

Immunotherapy efficacy was evaluated using RECIST 1.1 and categorized into complete remission (CR), partial remission (PR), stable disease (SD), and disease progression (PD). Patients with CR, PR, and SD were classified as non-PD responders, while PD patients were categorized as PD responders. Clinical characteristics and CT imaging features of gastric cancer patients from two centers, before receiving PD-1 inhibitor combination chemotherapy, were retrospectively analyzed. A univariate logistic regression analysis was performed for each variable, and separate models for clinical and imaging characteristics, as well as a nomogram, were developed. Area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate all models.

Results

Data from 272 patients (non-PD responders = 206, PD responders = 66) from Center 1 were collected for this study. Data from 76 patients (non-PD responders = 54, PD responders = 22) from Center 2 were used as an external validation cohort to verify the robustness of the models. We developed a clinical model, an imaging features model, and a nomogram. The nomogram, combining clinical and imaging features, demonstrated superior performance with an AUC of 0.904 (95% CI: 0.862-0.947) in the training set and an AUC of 0.801 (95% CI: 0.683-0.918) in the validation set, with sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 0.889, 0.682, and 0.829, respectively. Calibration curves further confirmed the agreement between actual results and predictions.

Conclusions

A nomogram combining clinical features and CT imaging features before treatment was developed, which can effectively and simply predict the efficacy response of advanced gastric cancer patients treated with PD-1 inhibitors combined with chemotherapy. This tool can aid in optimizing treatment strategies in clinical practice.

Key immune cells and their crosstalk in the tumor microenvironment of bladder cancer: insights for innovative therapies

Bladder cancer (BC) is a heterogeneous disease associated with high mortality if not diagnosed early. BC is classified into non-muscle-invasive BC (NMIBC) and muscle-invasive BC (MIBC), with MIBC linked to poor systemic therapy response and high recurrence rates. Current treatments include transurethral resection with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy for NMIBC and radical cystectomy with chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy for MIBC. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in cancer progression, metastasis, and therapeutic efficacy. A comprehensive understanding of the TME's complex interactions holds substantial translational significance for developing innovative treatments. The TME can contribute to therapeutic resistance, particularly in immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies, where resistance arises from tumor-intrinsic changes or extrinsic TME factors. Recent advancements in immunotherapy highlight the importance of translational research to address these challenges. Strategies to overcome resistance focus on remodeling the TME to transform immunologically "cold" tumors, which lack immune cell infiltration, into "hot" tumors that respond better to immunotherapy. These strategies involve disrupting cancer-microenvironment interactions, inhibiting angiogenesis, and modulating immune components to enhance anti-tumor responses. Key mechanisms include cytokine involvement [e.g., interleukin-6 (IL-6)], phenotypic alterations in macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells, and the plasticity of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Identifying potential therapeutic targets within the TME can improve outcomes for MIBC patients. This review emphasizes the TME's complexity and its impact on guiding novel therapeutic approaches, offering hope for better survival in MIBC.

Integrative analysis of bulk and single-cell sequencing reveals TNFSF9 as a potential regulator in microsatellite instability stomach adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) with microsatellite instability (MSI) is associated with a better prognosis compared to Non-MSI. This study aims to elucidate the differences in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of MSI and explore its underlying mechanisms in STAD.

METHODS

TME differences between MSI and Non-MSI were analyzed using single-cell RNA sequencing (MSI = 7, Non-MSI = 19) and bulk RNA sequencing (MSI = 39, Non-MSI = 198). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were used to identify enriched pathways and hub genes. TNFSF9 expression was validated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) on 23 STAD sections (MSI = 13, Non-MSI = 10) and confirmed in tumor epithelial cells using SNU-1 (MSI) and AGS (Non-MSI) cell lines through quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blot (WB).

RESULTS

The results showed MSI was significantly associated with a better prognosis (P < 0.05). Within the TME, MSI was associated with a higher abundance of antigen-presenting cells, including M1 macrophages (40.1% vs. 27.9%) and activated dendritic cells (22.1% vs. 10.5%), as well as pro-inflammatory Th1-like CD4⁺ T cells (15% vs. 11%). However, MSI also showed an increase in exhausted T cells, indicating a complex immune landscape. Signaling pathway and cell communication analyses revealed an enrichment of cytokine-related pathways in MSI. Hub gene analysis revealed that TNFSF9 was predominantly expressed in stromal cells and partially in tumor epithelial cells in MSI, with its upregulation further confirmed through IHC, qPCR, and WB. Correlation analysis demonstrated a positive relationship between TNFSF9 expression and the abundance of M1 macrophages.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide new insights into the TME of MSI in STAD, emphasizing the significant role of TNFSF9 in shaping MSI-specific TME, enhancing immunotherapy efficacy, and improving patient survival.

T Cell Exhaustion in Allergic Diseases and Allergen Immunotherapy: A Novel Biomarker?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review explores the emerging role of T cell exhaustion in allergic diseases and allergen immunotherapy (AIT). It aims to synthesize current knowledge on the mechanisms of T cell exhaustion, evaluate its potential involvement in allergic inflammation, and assess its implications as a novel biomarker for predicting and monitoring AIT efficacy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies highlight that T cell exhaustion, characterized by co-expression of inhibitory receptors (e.g., PD-1, CTLA-4, TIM-3), diminished cytokine production, and altered transcriptional profiles, may suppress type 2 inflammation in allergic diseases. In allergic asthma, exhausted CD4 + T cells exhibit upregulated inhibitory receptors, correlating with reduced IgE levels and airway hyperreactivity. During AIT, prolonged high-dose allergen exposure drives allergen-specific Th2 and T follicular helper (Tfh) cell exhaustion, potentially contributing to immune tolerance. Notably, clinical improvements in AIT correlate with depletion of allergen-specific Th2 cells and persistent expression of exhaustion markers (e.g., PD-1, CTLA-4) during maintenance phases. Blockade of inhibitory receptors (e.g., PD-1) enhances T cell activation, underscoring their dual regulatory role in allergy. T cell exhaustion represents a double-edged sword in allergy: it may dampen pathological inflammation in allergic diseases while serving as a mechanism for AIT-induced tolerance. The co-expression of inhibitory receptors on allergen-specific T cells emerges as a promising biomarker for AIT efficacy. Future research should clarify the transcriptional and metabolic drivers of exhaustion in allergy, validate its role across diverse allergic conditions, and optimize strategies to harness T cell exhaustion for durable immune tolerance. These insights could revolutionize therapeutic approaches and biomarker development in allergy management.

Harnessing the power of traceable system C-GAP: homologous-targeting to fire up T-cell immune responses with low-dose irradiation

While radiotherapy-induced immunogenic cell death (ICD) holds potential for enhancing cancer immunotherapy, the conventional high-dose irradiation often leads to an immunosuppressive microenvironment and systemic toxicity. Therefore, a biomimetic nanoplatform cell membrane coated-nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots combined with Au nanoparticles (C-GAP) was developed in this study. Firstly, homologous and traceable targeting features of C-GAP enables tumor-selective accumulation, providing reference for the selection of the timing of radiotherapy. Secondly, radiosensitization by C-GAP with Low-dose irradiation (LDI) amplifies reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation to trigger potent ICD. Thirdly, remarkable immune remodeling induced by C-GAP enhances CD8+ T cell infiltration and effector function. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that C-GAP-LDI combination upregulates TNF and CCL signaling pathway expression in tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells which potentiates tumor eradication. Our findings present a novel approach for safe and effective radioimmunotherapy, where C-GAP sensitized LDI achieves therapeutic enhancement through precise ICD induction and systemic immune activation.

Single-cell transcriptomics of melanoma sentinel lymph nodes identifies immune cell signatures associated with metastasis

The sentinel lymph node (SLN) is the first lymph node encountered by a metastatic cancer cell and serves as a predictor of poor prognosis, as cases with clinically occult SLN metastases are classified as stage III with elevated rates of recurrence and diminished overall survival. However, the dynamics of immune infiltrates in SLNs remain poorly characterized. Here, using an unbiased cellular indexing of transcriptomes and epitopes by sequencing technique, we profiled 97,777 cells from SLN tissues obtained from patients with stages I/II and III cutaneous melanoma. We described the transcriptional programs of a multitude of T, B, and myeloid cell subtypes in SLNs. Based on the proportions of cell types, we determined that SLN subtypes stratified along a naive → activated axis; patients with a "high activated" signature score appeared to be undergoing a robust melanoma antigen-driven adaptive immune response and, thus, could be responsive to immunotherapy. Additionally, we identified transcriptomic signatures of SLN-infiltrating dendritic cell subsets that compromise antitumor immune responses. Our analyses provide valuable insights into tumor-driven immune changes in the SLN tissue, offering a powerful tool for the informed design of immune therapies for patients with high-risk melanoma.

A functional single-cell metabolic survey identifies Elovl1 as a target to enhance CD8+ T cell fitness in solid tumours

Reprogramming T cell metabolism can improve intratumoural fitness. By performing a CRISPR/Cas9 metabolic survey in CD8+ T cells, we identified 83 targets and we applied single-cell RNA sequencing to disclose transcriptome changes associated with each metabolic perturbation in the context of pancreatic cancer. This revealed elongation of very long-chain fatty acids protein 1 (Elovl1) as a metabolic target to sustain effector functions and memory phenotypes in CD8+ T cells. Accordingly, Elovl1 inactivation in adoptively transferred T cells combined with anti-PD-1 showed therapeutic efficacy in resistant pancreatic and melanoma tumours. The accumulation of saturated long-chain fatty acids in Elovl1-deficient T cells destabilized INSIG1, leading to SREBP2 activation, increased plasma membrane cholesterol and stronger T cell receptor signalling. Elovl1-deficient T cells increased mitochondrial fitness and fatty acid oxidation, thus withstanding the metabolic stress imposed by the tumour microenvironment. Finally, ELOVL1 in CD8+ T cells correlated with anti-PD-1 response in patients with melanoma. Altogether, Elovl1 targeting synergizes with anti-PD-1 to promote effective T cell responses.

Research progress of T cells in cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a malignant tumor, is typically challenging to detect early and often results in a poor prognosis. In recent years, research interest has grown in the potential application of immunotherapy for CCA treatment. T cells, as a crucial component of the immune system, play a significant role in immune surveillance and therapy for cholangiocarcinoma. This article provides a review of the research advancements concerning T cells in cholangiocarcinoma patients, including their distribution, functional status, and correlation with patient prognosis within the tumor microenvironment. It further discusses the potential applications and challenges of immunotherapy strategies targeting T cells in CCA treatment and anticipates future research directions. A more profound understanding of T cells' role in cholangiocarcinoma can guide the development of clinical treatment strategies, thereby enhancing patient survival rates and quality of life. Finally, we explored the potential risks and side effects of immunotherapy for T-cell cholangiocarcinoma.

[FCN3 Can Serve as A Potential Biomarker for Prognosis and Immunotherapy of Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma]

BACKGROUND

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is an important pathological subtype of NSCLC. The complex immune escape mechanism limits the effectiveness of immunotherapy. Ficolin-3 (FCN3) is a crucial immunomodulatory molecule that regulates immune escape by remodeling the tumor microenvironment. However, the role of FCN3 in LUSC remains unclear. This study employed bioinformatics methods to analyze LUSC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The aim of this study was to explore the potential biological functions and prognostic significance of FCN3 in LUSC.

METHODS

A pan-cancer analysis characterized the expression patterns and prognostic value of FCN3 across various cancer types. Simultaneously, the expression patterns of FCN3 in LUSC samples from the TCGA database and its relationship with prognosis were analyzed. The Nomogram model and somatic mutation analysis, differential expression analysis, correlation analysis, as well as Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) were constructed to explore the potential mechanisms of FCN3. Additionally, immune infiltration analysis, immune escape score (TIDE), and correlation analysis of immune-related molecules were used to reveal the regulatory role of high FCN3 levels on immunity in LUSC. Furthermore, the correlation between FCN3 expression characteristics and drug sensitivity was evaluated. Finally, in vitro experiments verified the expression characteristics of FCN3 in LUSC.

RESULTS

The expression level of FCN3 in LUSC tissues was significantly lower than that in normal tissues. Patients with high FCN3 expression in LUSC had a poorer prognosis compared to those with low expression. Different expression levels of FCN3 were associated with the abundance of immune cell infiltration and immune cell dysfunction. It was also linked to the expression of immune checkpoints, immune stimulatory molecules, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class molecules, and chemotherapy drug sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

High expression of FCN3 in LUSC is associated with poor prognosis and is linked to immune cell infiltration, immune-related pathways, and immune-related molecules. FCN3 may be a potential prognostic marker and a new target for immunotherapy in LUSC.

Engineered mesenchymal stem/stromal cells against cancer

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have garnered attention for their potential in cancer therapy due to their ability to home to tumor sites. Engineered MSCs have been developed to deliver therapeutic proteins, microRNAs, prodrugs, chemotherapy drugs, and oncolytic viruses directly to the tumor microenvironment, with the goal of enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing off-target effects. Despite promising results in preclinical studies and clinical trials, challenges such as variability in delivery efficiency and safety concerns persist. Ongoing research aims to optimize MSC-based cancer eradication and immunotherapy, enhancing their specificity and efficacy in cancer treatment. This review focuses on advancements in engineering MSCs for tumor-targeted therapy.

Analysis of tumor-infiltrating exhausted T cells highlights IL-6 and PD1 blockade as a combined immunotherapy strategy for non-small cell lung cancer

Objective

Given the limitations of immunotherapy for treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), we investigated the phenotype and function of exhausted CD8+T cells and analyzed a novel combination immunotherapy to restore the effector killing function of tumor-infiltrating CD8+T lymphocyte (TIL).

Methods

We examined the expression and function of immunosuppressive molecules on CD8+T cells of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and TILs by using prospectively collected peripheral blood, pleural effusions, and tumor tissues from patients with NSCLC and correlated the results with clinical data. We then evaluated the effect of interleukin 6 (IL-6) stimulation on CD8+T cells. Finally, we assessed the effects of combined blockade of PD1 and IL-6 on macrophage recruitment in a zebrafish macrophage model and CD8+ T cell function and tumor growth in PBMC humanized mouse model.

Results

The expression of exhaustion markers on CD8+ T cells was found to be notably higher in both tumor and paraneoplastic tissues compared to peripheral blood. Furthermore, the degree of CD8+ T cell exhaustion exhibited a progressive increase with proximity to the tumor. When CD8+ T cells from peripheral blood and tumor tissues of NSCLC patients were stimulated with IL-6, the expression level of exhaustion markers, especially PD1, was further elevated. In the in vitro experiment, the combined inhibition of IL-6 and PD1 substantially enhanced the effector killing function of CD8+ T cells in NSCLC pleural effusion samples. In a macrophage-labeled zebrafish model, combined blockade of IL-6 and PD1 enhanced the recruitment of macrophages. In PBMC humanized mouse model, combined blockade of IL-6 and PD1 enhanced the inhibition of tumor growth.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that CD8+ T cells in NSCLC patients were in a state of exhaustion and combined blockade of IL-6 and PD1 to restore CD8+ T cell function to inhibit tumor growth may be an effective clinical strategy for the treatment of NSCLC.

Reinforcing cancer immunotherapy with engineered porous hollow mycobacterium tuberculosis loaded with tumor neoantigens

BACKGROUND

Enhancing antigen cross-presentation is essential for the development of a tumor neoantigen vaccine. One approach is to stimulate antigen-presenting cells (APCs) to uptake neoantigens. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTb) contains pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) recognized by APCs and adhesion molecules that facilitate MTb invasion of APCs. Therefore, we suggest using MTb as a carrier to enhance APC phagocytosis of neoantigens, thereby promoting antigen cross-presentation.

METHODS

The successful preparation of the MTb carrier (phMTb) was confirmed through electron and confocal microscopy. Fluorescence microscopy was used to detect PAMPs and adhesion molecules on phMTb as well as to observe its role in aiding dendritic cells (DCs) in antigen uptake into endosomes or lysosomes. Flow cytometry was used to assess the retention of PAMPs and adhesion molecules on phMTb, investigate antigen uptake by DCs, evaluate their activation and maturation status, examine the presentation of tumor neoantigens, and analyze immune cells in draining lymph nodes and tumor tissues. The efficacy of phMTb vaccine formulations in combination with anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) antibody therapy was assessed using the MC38 mouse tumor models. Adverse effects were evaluated through H&E staining of major organs, assessment of reproductive capability and detection of biochemical indices.

RESULTS

The engineered porous hollow phMTb carrier successfully encapsulated model tumor neoantigens, with or without the adjuvant CpG. The phMTb retained PAMPs and adhesion molecules on its surface, similar to the parental MTb, thereby enhancing DC uptake of phMTb and its formulations containing tumor neoantigens and CpG. Vaccines formulated with phMTb facilitated DC maturation, activation, cross-presentation of tumor neoantigens, and promoted migration of phMTb-laden DCs to lymph nodes, enhancing effector and memory CD8+ T lymphocyte function. In murine tumor models, immunization with phMTb-formulated neoantigen vaccines elicited a robust tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte immune response with minimal adverse effects. Additionally, vaccination with phMTb-formulated neoantigen vaccines effectively reversed the tumor's immune-suppressive microenvironment. Concurrent administration of the PD-1 antibody with the phMTb-formulated neoantigen vaccine exhibited significant synergistic therapeutic effects.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study highlight the potential clinical translation of personalized tumor neoantigen vaccines using the phMTb carrier.

A combination treatment with a water extract from Euglena gracilis and anti-PD-1 antibody strongly inhibits growth of lung cancer in mice through stimulating tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes

Here, we investigated the relationship between the attenuation of lung cancer growth due to oral administration of Euglena gracilis water extract (EWE) and T cell stimulation. Orally administered EWE was revealed to increase PD-1 and PD-L1 mRNA and proteins primarily in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), which was correlated with a significant decrease in the tumor weights in mice. A combination treatment with EWE and anti-PD-1 antibody significantly decreased the growth of murine lung tumors more than treatment with either alone by increasing the number of TILs and attenuating T cell exhaustion. Short-chain fatty acids, which were previously shown to be increased in intestines of mice treated with oral EWE, increased both PD-1 and PD-L1 expression in splenocytes, but not in lung cancer cells in cell culture. These results suggest there is a close relationship between the EWE-induced increase of short-chain fatty acids, the increase of PD-1 expression in TILs, and the attenuation of lung tumor growth. Furthermore, EWE enhances the efficacy of anti-PD-1 antibody-based immune checkpoint blockade therapy against non-small cell lung cancer.

A minimal gene set characterizes TIL specific for diverse tumor antigens across different cancer types

Identifying tumor-specific T cell clones that mediate immunotherapy responses remains challenging. Mutation-associated neoantigen (MANA) -specific CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) have been shown to express high levels of CXCL13 and CD39 (ENTPD1), and low IL-7 receptor (IL7R) levels in many cancer types, but their collective relevance to T cell functionality has not been established. Here we present an integrative tool to identify MANA-specific TIL using weighted expression levels of these three genes in lung cancer and melanoma single-cell RNAseq datasets. Our three-gene "MANAscore" algorithm outperforms other RNAseq-based algorithms in identifying validated neoantigen-specific CD8+ clones, and accurately identifies TILs that recognize other classes of tumor antigens, including cancer testis antigens, endogenous retroviruses and viral oncogenes. Most of these TIL are characterized by a tissue resident memory gene expression program. Putative tumor-reactive cells (pTRC) identified via MANAscore in anti-PD-1-treated lung tumors had higher expression of checkpoint and cytotoxicity-related genes relative to putative non-tumor-reactive cells. pTRC in pathologically responding tumors showed distinguished gene expression patterns and trajectories. Collectively, we show that MANAscore is a robust tool that can greatly enrich candidate tumor-specific T cells and be used to understand the functional programming of tumor-reactive TIL.

Targeting glutamine metabolism crosstalk with tumor immune response

Glutamine, akin to glucose, is a fundamental nutrient for human physiology. Tumor progression is often accompanied by elevated glutamine consumption, resulting in a disrupted nutritional balance and metabolic reprogramming within the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, immune cells, which depend on glutamine for metabolic support, may experience functional impairments and dysregulation. Although the role of glutamine in tumors has been extensively studied, the specific impact of glutamine competition on immune responses, as well as the precise cellular alterations within immune cells, remains incompletely understood. In this review, we summarize the consequences of glutamine deprivation induced by tumor-driven glutamine uptake on immune cells, assessing the underlying mechanisms from the perspective of various components of the immune microenvironment. Additionally, we discuss the potential synergistic effects of glutamine supplementation and immunotherapy, offering insights into future research directions. This review provides compelling evidence for the integration of glutamine metabolism and immunotherapy as a promising strategy in cancer therapy.

Breakthroughs in nanoparticle-based strategies for pancreatic cancer therapy

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide, mainly due to its high heterogeneity, resistance to therapy and late diagnosis, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 10%. This dismal prognosis has promoted strategies to develop more effective treatments. Nanoparticle-based strategies have emerged, in the last decades, as a great opportunity because they can enhance drug delivery and promote controlled release, presenting lower side effects than conventional therapeutic regimens. Moreover, nanoparticles can often be modified to target specific cells or to achieve a sustained release of the drugs into the tumor. However, very few nanoparticle-based therapies are clinically approved. Concretely for pancreatic cancer treatment only two nanoformulations have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) so far. Clinical translation of nanoparticles remains a challenge for modern medicine, and in particular for pancreatic cancer therapy, because of the complexity of the disease, and a lack of studies been performed in clinically relevant in vitro and in vivo models. In this review, we have summarized the most recent clinical trials using nanoparticle-based formulations in PDAC, giving a small context of the diverse types of nanoparticles employed and the most recent advancements in the field.

Microenvironmental β-TrCP negates amino acid transport to trigger CD8+ T cell exhaustion in human non-small cell lung cancer

CD8+ T cell exhaustion (Tex) has been widely acknowledged in human cancer, while the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that reduced amino acid (aa) metabolism and mTOR inactivation are accountable for Tex in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). NSCLC cells impede the T cell-intrinsic transcription of SLC7A5 and SLC38A1, disrupting aa transport and consequently leading to mTOR inactivation. Further, the ubiquitination of YAP1 protein is the basis for NSCLC-mediated transcriptional inhibition of aa transporters. Mechanistically, NSCLC cells transfer β-TrCP-containing exosomes into T cells, inducing YAP1 ubiquitination and Tex. Consequently, inhibiting cancer-associated β-TrCP effectively restores the anti-tumor immune response of CD8+ T cells and curtails tumor growth in NSCLC patient-derived organoids. Together, our findings highlight a β-TrCP-dependent mechanism in steering intrinsic metabolic adaptation and CD8+ Tex, emphasizing microenvironmental β-TrCP as an immune checkpoint for therapeutic exploration against human NSCLC.

Noncanonical role of Golgi-associated macrophage TAZ in chronic inflammation and tumorigenesis

Until now, Hippo pathway-mediated nucleocytoplasmic translocation has been considered the primary mechanism by which yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) transcriptional coactivators regulate cell proliferation and differentiation via transcriptional enhanced associate domain (TEAD)-mediated target gene expression. In this study, however, we found that TAZ, but not YAP, is associated with the Golgi apparatus in macrophages activated via Toll-like receptor ligands during the resolution phase of inflammation. Golgi-associated TAZ enhanced vesicle trafficking and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines in M1 macrophage independent of the Hippo pathway. Depletion of TAZ in tumor-associated macrophages promoted tumor growth by suppressing the recruitment of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. Moreover, in a diet-induced metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis model, macrophage-specific deletion of TAZ ameliorated liver inflammation and hepatic fibrosis. Thus, targeted therapies being developed against YAP/TAZ-TEAD are ineffective in macrophages. Together, our results introduce Golgi-associated TAZ as a potential molecular target for therapeutic intervention to treat tumor progression and chronic inflammatory diseases.

Immunotherapy of osteosarcoma based on immune microenvironment modulation

Osteosarcoma is a highly malignant tumor with unsatisfactory therapeutic outcomes achieved by chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. As an emerging oncological treatment, immunotherapy has shown potential in the clinical management of many tumors but has a poor response rate in osteosarcoma. The immunosuppressive microenvironment in osteosarcoma is the main reason for the ineffectiveness of immunotherapy, in which the low immune response rate of immune effector cells and the high activation of immunosuppressive cells contribute to this outcome. Therefore, modulating the function of the immune microenvironment in osteosarcoma is expected to remodel the immunosuppressive microenvironment of osteosarcoma and enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. This article reviews the role of immune cells in the progression of osteosarcoma, describes the corresponding regulatory tools for the characteristics of different cells to enhance the efficacy of osteosarcoma immunotherapy, and concludes the prospects and future challenges of osteosarcoma immunotherapy.

Mechanistic PKPD modeling to describe cytokine release associated with CD3 T-cell engager therapies

Introduction

T-cell engagers (TCE), a therapeutic class of cancer immunotherapy (CIT), offer a novel approach to cancer treatment by harnessing and reactivating the patient's immune system to eradicate tumor cells. However, the use of TCE in the clinic can lead to severe side effects, including cytokine release syndrome (CRS). Therefore, innovative dosing strategies need to be implemented to mitigate the risk of developing CRS.

Method

In the presented work, a mechanistic pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PKPD) model describing cytokine release following TCE therapy has been developed combining literature knowledge and preclinical data. The model was developed to explore and test hypotheses regarding the mechanisms behind the decrease of cytokine release following two repeated TCE administrations.

Results

The model is able to successfully reproduce the observed dynamics of cytokine levels associated with the initial and subsequent TCE doses, accounting for different dosing intervals. In addition, the model suggests a mechanism of action that uncouples cytokine release from tumor cell killing.

Discussion

This model provides an initial mechanistic framework to support the design of experiments and paves the way for the application of mathematical modeling to support clinical dosing regimen selection of any TCE.