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Teodori L, Ochoa SK, Omer M, Andersen VL, Bech P, Su J, Bridoux J, Nielsen JS, Bertelsen MB, Hernot S, Gothelf KV, Kjems J. Plug-and-play nucleic acid-mediated multimerization of biparatopic nanobodies for molecular imaging. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102305. [PMID: 39281705 PMCID: PMC11402398 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
In cancer molecular imaging, selecting binders with high specificity and affinity for biomarkers is paramount for achieving high-contrast imaging within clinical time frames. Nanobodies have emerged as potent candidates, surpassing antibodies in pre-clinical imaging due to their convenient production, rapid renal clearance, and deeper tissue penetration. Multimerization of nanobodies is a popular strategy to enhance their affinity and pharmacokinetics; however, traditional methods are laborious and may yield heterogeneous products. In this study, we employ a Holliday junction (HJ)-like nucleic acid-based scaffold to create homogeneous nanostructures with precise multivalent and multiparatopic nanobody displays. The plug-and-play assembly allowed the screening of several nanobody multimer configurations for the detection of the breast cancer biomarker, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). In vitro studies demonstrated significant improvements in binding avidity, particularly with the biparatopic construct exhibiting high sensitivity, surpassing that of traditional antibody-based cell binding. Furthermore, our HJ platform allowed for adaptation from fluorescence-based to nuclear imaging, as demonstrated in xenografted mice, thereby allowing for future in vivo applications. This work highlights the potential of nucleic acid-mediated multimerization to markedly enhance nanobody binding, by exploring synergistic combinations and offering versatility for both in vitro diagnostics and cancer molecular imaging with prospects for future theranostic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Teodori
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Sarah K Ochoa
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Marjan Omer
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Veronica L Andersen
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Pernille Bech
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Junyi Su
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Jessica Bridoux
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Laboratory (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Building K, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jesper S Nielsen
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Mathias B Bertelsen
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Sophie Hernot
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Laboratory (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Building K, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kurt V Gothelf
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Chemistry, Aarhus University, Langelandsgade 140, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Kjems
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Universitetsbyen 81, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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De Groof TWM, Lauwers Y, De Pauw T, Saxena M, Vincke C, Van Craenenbroeck J, Chapon C, Le Grand R, Raes G, Naninck T, Van Ginderachter JA, Devoogdt N. Specific imaging of CD8 + T-Cell dynamics with a nanobody radiotracer against human CD8β. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2024:10.1007/s00259-024-06896-3. [PMID: 39218831 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-024-06896-3] [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: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE While immunotherapy has revolutionized the oncology field, variations in therapy responsiveness limit the broad applicability of these therapies. Diagnostic imaging of immune cell, and specifically CD8+ T cell, dynamics could allow early patient stratification and result in improved therapy efficacy and safety. In this study, we report the development of a nanobody-based immunotracer for non-invasive SPECT and PET imaging of human CD8+ T-cell dynamics. METHODS Nanobodies targeting human CD8β were generated by llama immunizations and subsequent biopanning. The lead anti-human CD8β nanobody was characterized on binding, specificity, stability and toxicity. The lead nanobody was labeled with technetium-99m, gallium-68 and copper-64 for non-invasive imaging of human T-cell lymphomas and CD8+ T cells in human CD8 transgenic mice and non-human primates by SPECT/CT or PET/CT. Repeated imaging of CD8+ T cells in MC38 tumor-bearing mice allowed visualization of CD8+ T-cell dynamics. RESULTS The nanobody-based immunotracer showed high affinity and specific binding to human CD8 without unwanted immune activation. CD8+ T cells were non-invasively visualized by SPECT and PET imaging in naïve and tumor-bearing mice and in naïve non-human primates with high sensitivity. The nanobody-based immunotracer showed enhanced specificity for CD8+ T cells and/or faster in vivo pharmacokinetics compared to previous human CD8-targeting immunotracers, allowing us to follow human CD8+ T-cell dynamics already at early timepoints. CONCLUSION This study describes the development of a more specific human CD8+ T-cell-targeting immunotracer, allowing follow-up of immunotherapy responses by non-invasive imaging of human CD8+ T-cell dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timo W M De Groof
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Yoline Lauwers
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Tessa De Pauw
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mohit Saxena
- Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-immune, Hematological and Bacterial Diseases (IMVA-HB/IDMIT), Université Paris-Saclay, Fontenay-aux-Roses & Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, Inserm, Paris, CEA, France
| | - Cécile Vincke
- Laboratory of Myeloid Cell Immunology, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jolien Van Craenenbroeck
- Laboratory of Myeloid Cell Immunology, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Catherine Chapon
- Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-immune, Hematological and Bacterial Diseases (IMVA-HB/IDMIT), Université Paris-Saclay, Fontenay-aux-Roses & Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, Inserm, Paris, CEA, France
| | - Roger Le Grand
- Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-immune, Hematological and Bacterial Diseases (IMVA-HB/IDMIT), Université Paris-Saclay, Fontenay-aux-Roses & Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, Inserm, Paris, CEA, France
| | - Geert Raes
- Laboratory of Myeloid Cell Immunology, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thibaut Naninck
- Center for Immunology of Viral, Auto-immune, Hematological and Bacterial Diseases (IMVA-HB/IDMIT), Université Paris-Saclay, Fontenay-aux-Roses & Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, Inserm, Paris, CEA, France
| | - Jo A Van Ginderachter
- Laboratory of Myeloid Cell Immunology, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
- Brussels Center for Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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3
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Zeven K, Lauwers Y, De Mey L, Debacker JM, De Pauw T, De Groof TWM, Devoogdt N. Advancements in nuclear imaging using radiolabeled nanobody tracers to support cancer immunotherapy. IMMUNOTHERAPY ADVANCES 2024; 4:ltae006. [PMID: 39281708 PMCID: PMC11402390 DOI: 10.1093/immadv/ltae006] [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: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The evolving landscape of cancer immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment. However, the dynamic tumor microenvironment has led to variable clinical outcomes, indicating a need for predictive biomarkers. Noninvasive nuclear imaging, using radiolabeled modalities, has aided in patient selection and monitoring of their treatment response. This approach holds promise for improving diagnostic accuracy, providing a more personalized treatment regimen, and enhancing the clinical response. Nanobodies or single-domain antibodies, derived from camelid heavy-chain antibodies, allow early timepoint detection of targets with high target-to-background ratios. To date, a plethora of nanobodies have been developed for nuclear imaging of tumor-specific antigens, immune checkpoints, and immune cells, both at a preclinical and clinical level. This review comprehensively outlines the recent advancements in nanobody-based nuclear imaging, both on preclinical and clinical levels. Additionally, the impact and expected future advancements on the use of nanobody-based radiopharmaceuticals in supporting cancer diagnosis and treatment follow-up are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katty Zeven
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yoline Lauwers
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lynn De Mey
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
- Nuclear Medicine Department, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jens M Debacker
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
- Nuclear Medicine Department, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Tessa De Pauw
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Timo W M De Groof
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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Sebastiano J, Samuels ZV, Kao WS, Zeglis BM. Site-specific bioconjugation and nuclear imaging. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2024; 81:102471. [PMID: 38833913 PMCID: PMC11323144 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2024.102471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies and antibody fragments have proven to be highly effective vectors for the delivery of radionuclides to target tissues for positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). However, the stochastic methods that have traditionally been used to attach radioisotopes to these biomolecules inevitably produce poorly defined and heterogeneous probes and can impair the ability of the immunoglobulins to bind their molecular targets. In response to this challenge, an array of innovative site-specific and site-selective bioconjugation strategies have been developed, and these approaches have repeatedly been shown to yield better-defined and more homogeneous radioimmunoconjugates with superior in vivo performance than their randomly modified progenitors. In this Current Opinion in Chemical Biology review, we will examine recent advances in this field, including the development - and, in some cases, clinical translation - of nuclear imaging agents radiolabeled using strategies that target the heavy chain glycans, peptide tags, and unnatural amino acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joni Sebastiano
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA; Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zachary V Samuels
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA; Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wei-Siang Kao
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA; Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian M Zeglis
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA; Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, NY, USA; Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, NY, USA; Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
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5
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Wei Z, Li B, Wen X, Jakobsson V, Liu P, Chen X, Zhang J. Engineered Antibodies as Cancer Radiotheranostics. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2402361. [PMID: 38874523 PMCID: PMC11321656 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202402361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Radiotheranostics is a rapidly growing approach in personalized medicine, merging diagnostic imaging and targeted radiotherapy to allow for the precise detection and treatment of diseases, notably cancer. Radiolabeled antibodies have become indispensable tools in the field of cancer theranostics due to their high specificity and affinity for cancer-associated antigens, which allows for accurate targeting with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tissues, enhancing therapeutic efficacy while reducing side effects, immune-modulating ability, and versatility and flexibility in engineering and conjugation. However, there are inherent limitations in using antibodies as a platform for radiopharmaceuticals due to their natural activities within the immune system, large size preventing effective tumor penetration, and relatively long half-life with concerns for prolonged radioactivity exposure. Antibody engineering can solve these challenges while preserving the many advantages of the immunoglobulin framework. In this review, the goal is to give a general overview of antibody engineering and design for tumor radiotheranostics. Particularly, the four ways that antibody engineering is applied to enhance radioimmunoconjugates: pharmacokinetics optimization, site-specific bioconjugation, modulation of Fc interactions, and bispecific construct creation are discussed. The radionuclide choices for designed antibody radionuclide conjugates and conjugation techniques and future directions for antibody radionuclide conjugate innovation and advancement are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenni Wei
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore119074Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research ProgramNUS Center for NanomedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117597Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research CentreCentre for Translational MedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117599Singapore
- Theranostics Center of Excellence (TCE)Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of Singapore11 Biopolis Way, HeliosSingapore138667Singapore
| | - Bingyu Li
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore119074Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research ProgramNUS Center for NanomedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117597Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research CentreCentre for Translational MedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117599Singapore
- Theranostics Center of Excellence (TCE)Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of Singapore11 Biopolis Way, HeliosSingapore138667Singapore
| | - Xuejun Wen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore119074Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research ProgramNUS Center for NanomedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117597Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research CentreCentre for Translational MedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117599Singapore
- Theranostics Center of Excellence (TCE)Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of Singapore11 Biopolis Way, HeliosSingapore138667Singapore
| | - Vivianne Jakobsson
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore119074Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research ProgramNUS Center for NanomedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117597Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research CentreCentre for Translational MedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117599Singapore
| | - Peifei Liu
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore119074Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research ProgramNUS Center for NanomedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117597Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research CentreCentre for Translational MedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117599Singapore
- Theranostics Center of Excellence (TCE)Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of Singapore11 Biopolis Way, HeliosSingapore138667Singapore
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore119074Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research ProgramNUS Center for NanomedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117597Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research CentreCentre for Translational MedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117599Singapore
- Theranostics Center of Excellence (TCE)Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of Singapore11 Biopolis Way, HeliosSingapore138667Singapore
- Departments of SurgeryChemical and Biomolecular Engineeringand Biomedical EngineeringYong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and EngineeringNational University of SingaporeSingapore119074Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell BiologyAgency for ScienceTechnologyand Research (A*STAR)61 Biopolis Drive, ProteosSingapore138673Singapore
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore119074Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research ProgramNUS Center for NanomedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117597Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research CentreCentre for Translational MedicineYong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of SingaporeSingapore117599Singapore
- Theranostics Center of Excellence (TCE)Yong Loo Lin School of MedicineNational University of Singapore11 Biopolis Way, HeliosSingapore138667Singapore
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Badenhorst M, Windhorst AD, Beaino W. Navigating the landscape of PD-1/PD-L1 imaging tracers: from challenges to opportunities. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1401515. [PMID: 38915766 PMCID: PMC11195831 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1401515] [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: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy targeted to immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as the program cell death receptor (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1), has revolutionized cancer treatment. However, it is now well-known that PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy response is inconsistent among patients. The current challenge is to customize treatment regimens per patient, which could be possible if the PD-1/PD-L1 expression and dynamic landscape are known. With positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, it is possible to image these immune targets non-invasively and system-wide during therapy. A successful PET imaging tracer should meet specific criteria concerning target affinity, specificity, clearance rate and target-specific uptake, to name a few. The structural profile of such a tracer will define its properties and can be used to optimize tracers in development and design new ones. Currently, a range of PD-1/PD-L1-targeting PET tracers are available from different molecular categories that have shown impressive preclinical and clinical results, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. This review will provide an overview of current PET tracers targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. Antibody, peptide, and antibody fragment tracers will be discussed with respect to their molecular characteristics and binding properties and ways to optimize them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Badenhorst
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Albert D. Windhorst
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wissam Beaino
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, De Boelelaan, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Zhang Y, Cao M, Wu Y, Malih S, Xu D, Yang E, Younis MH, Lin W, Zhao H, Wang C, Liu Q, Engle JW, Rasaee MJ, Guan Y, Huang G, Liu J, Cai W, Xie F, Wei W. Preclinical development of novel PD-L1 tracers and first-in-human study of [ 68Ga]Ga-NOTA-RW102 in patients with lung cancers. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008794. [PMID: 38580333 PMCID: PMC11002357 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2024-008794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1)/programmed death receptor ligand 1 (PD-L1) axis critically facilitates cancer cells' immune evasion. Antibody therapeutics targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis have shown remarkable efficacy in various tumors. Immuno-positron emission tomography (ImmunoPET) imaging of PD-L1 expression may help reshape solid tumors' immunotherapy landscape. METHODS By immunizing an alpaca with recombinant human PD-L1, three clones of the variable domain of the heavy chain of heavy-chain only antibody (VHH) were screened, and RW102 with high binding affinity was selected for further studies. ABDRW102, a VHH derivative, was further engineered by fusing RW102 with the albumin binder ABD035. Based on the two targeting vectors, four PD-L1-specific tracers ([68Ga]Ga-NOTA-RW102, [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-ABDRW102, [64Cu]Cu-NOTA-ABDRW102, and [89Zr]Zr-DFO-ABDRW102) with different circulation times were developed. The diagnostic efficacies were thoroughly evaluated in preclinical solid tumor models, followed by a first-in-human translational investigation of [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-RW102 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). RESULTS While RW102 has a high binding affinity to PD-L1 with an excellent KD value of 15.29 pM, ABDRW102 simultaneously binds to human PD-L1 and human serum albumin with an excellent KD value of 3.71 pM and 3.38 pM, respectively. Radiotracers derived from RW102 and ABDRW102 have different in vivo circulation times. In preclinical studies, [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-RW102 immunoPET imaging allowed same-day annotation of differential PD-L1 expression with specificity, while [64Cu]Cu-NOTA-ABDRW102 and [89Zr]Zr-DFO-ABDRW102 enabled longitudinal visualization of PD-L1. More importantly, a pilot clinical trial shows the safety and diagnostic value of [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-RW102 immunoPET imaging in patients with NSCLCs and its potential to predict immune-related adverse effects following PD-L1-targeted immunotherapies. CONCLUSIONS We developed and validated a series of PD-L1-targeted tracers. Initial preclinical and clinical evidence indicates that immunoPET imaging with [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-RW102 holds promise in visualizing differential PD-L1 expression, selecting patients for PD-L1-targeted immunotherapies, and monitoring immune-related adverse effects in patients receiving PD-L1-targeted treatments. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT06165874.
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Affiliation(s)
- You Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Cao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery,Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanfei Wu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sara Malih
- Departments of Radiology and Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Dong Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Huashan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Erpeng Yang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Muhsin H Younis
- Departments of Radiology and Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Wilson Lin
- Departments of Radiology and Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Haitao Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiufang Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jonathan W Engle
- Departments of Radiology and Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Mohammad J Rasaee
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yihui Guan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Huang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weibo Cai
- Departments of Radiology and Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Fang Xie
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Center, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weijun Wei
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Heremans J, Maximilian Awad R, Bridoux J, Ertveldt T, Caveliers V, Madder A, Hoogenboom R, Devoogdt N, Ballet S, Hernot S, Breckpot K, Martin C. Sustained release of a human PD-L1 single-domain antibody using peptide-based hydrogels. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2024; 196:114183. [PMID: 38246566 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2024.114183] [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: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting the immune checkpoint axis, which contains the programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1, revolutionized the field of oncology. Unfortunately, the large size of mAbs and the presence of an Fc fraction limit their tumor penetrative capacities and support off-target effects, potentially resulting in unresponsive patients and immune-related adverse events (irAEs) respectively. Single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) are ten times smaller than conventional mAbs and represent an emerging antibody subclass that has been proposed as next generation immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapeutics. They demonstrate favorable characteristics, such as an excellent stability, high antigen-binding affinity and an enhanced tumor penetration. Because sdAbs have a short half-life, methods to prolong their presence in the circulation and at the target site might be necessary in some cases to unfold their full therapeutic potential. In this study, we investigated a peptide-based hydrogel as an injectable biomaterial depot formulation for the sustained release of the human PD-L1 sdAb K2. We showed that a hydrogel composed of the amphipathic hexapeptide hydrogelator H-FQFQFK-NH2 prolonged the in vivo release of K2 after subcutaneous (s.c.) injection, up to at least 72 h, as monitored by SPECT/CT and fluorescence imaging. Additionally, after encapsulation in the hydrogel and s.c. administration, a significantly extended systemic presence and tumor uptake of K2 was observed in mice bearing a melanoma tumor expressing human PD-L1. Altogether, this study describes how peptide hydrogels can be exploited to provide the sustained release of sdAbs, thereby potentially enhancing its clinical and therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Heremans
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin Maximilian Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jessica Bridoux
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vicky Caveliers
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Annemieke Madder
- Organic and Biomimetic Chemistry Research Group, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Richard Hoogenboom
- Supramolecular Chemistry Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Steven Ballet
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sophie Hernot
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Martin
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
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9
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Krutzek F, Donat CK, Stadlbauer S. Chelator impact: investigating the pharmacokinetic behavior of copper-64 labeled PD-L1 radioligands. EJNMMI Radiopharm Chem 2024; 9:14. [PMID: 38372838 PMCID: PMC10876507 DOI: 10.1186/s41181-024-00243-5] [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: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) plays a critical role in the tumor microenvironment and overexpression in several solid cancers has been reported. This was associated with a downregulation of the local immune response, specifically of T-cells. Immune checkpoint inhibitors showed a potential to break this localized immune paralysis, but only 30% of patients are considered responders. New diagnostic approaches are therefore needed to determine patient eligibility. Small molecule radiotracers targeting PD-L1, may serve as such diagnostic tools, addressing the heterogeneous PD-L1 expression between and within tumor lesions, thus aiding in therapy decisions. RESULTS Four biphenyl-based small-molecule PD-L1 ligands were synthesized using a convergent synthetic route with a linear sequence of up to eleven steps. As a chelator NODA-GA, CB-TE2A or DiAmSar was used to allow radiolabeling with copper-64 ([64Cu]Cu-14-[64Cu]Cu-16). In addition, a dimeric structure based on DiAmSar was synthesized ([64Cu]Cu-17). All four radioligands exhibited high proteolytic stability (> 95%) up to 48 h post-radiolabeling. Saturation binding yielded moderate affinities toward PD-L1, ranging from 100 to 265 nM. Real-time radioligand binding provided more promising KD values around 20 nM for [64Cu]Cu-14 and [64Cu]Cu-15. In vivo PET imaging in mice bearing both PC3 PD-L1 overexpressing and PD-L1-mock tumors was performed at 0-2, 4-5 and 24-25 h post injection (p.i.). This revealed considerably different pharmacokinetic profiles, depending on the substituted chelator. [64Cu]Cu-14, substituted with NODA-GA, showed renal clearance with low liver uptake, whereas substitution with the cross-bridged cyclam chelator CB-TE2A resulted in a primarily hepatobiliary clearance. Notably, the monomeric DiAmSar radioligand [64Cu]Cu-16 demonstrated a higher liver uptake than [64Cu]Cu-15, but was still renally cleared as evidenced by the lack of uptake in gall bladder and intestines. The dimeric structure [64Cu]Cu-17 showed extensive accumulation and trapping in the liver but was also cleared via the renal pathway. Of all tracer candidates and across all timepoints, [64Cu]Cu-17 showed the highest accumulation at 24 h p.i. in the PD-L1-overexpressing tumor of all timepoints and all radiotracers, indicating drastically increased circulation time upon dimerization of two PD-L1 binding motifs. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that chelator choice significantly influences the pharmacokinetic profile of biphenyl-based small molecule PD-L1 radioligands. The NODA-GA-conjugated radioligand [64Cu]Cu-14 exhibited favorable renal clearance; however, the limited uptake in tumors suggests the need for structural modifications to the binding motif for future PD-L1 radiotracers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Krutzek
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstrasse 400, 01328, Dresden, Germany
| | - Cornelius K Donat
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstrasse 400, 01328, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sven Stadlbauer
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstrasse 400, 01328, Dresden, Germany.
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technical University Dresden, 01069, Dresden, Germany.
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10
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Pouw JEE, Hashemi SMS, Huisman MC, Wijngaarden JE, Slebe M, Oprea-Lager DE, Zwezerijnen GJC, Vugts D, Ulas EB, de Gruijl TD, Radonic T, Senan S, Menke-van der Houven van Oordt CW, Bahce I. First exploration of the on-treatment changes in tumor and organ uptake of a radiolabeled anti PD-L1 antibody during chemoradiotherapy in patients with non-small cell lung cancer using whole body PET. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e007659. [PMID: 38302416 PMCID: PMC10836378 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with locally advanced unresectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), durvalumab, an anti-programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) antibody, has shown improved overall survival when used as consolidation therapy following concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT). However, it is unclear whether CRT itself upregulates PD-L1 expression. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the changes in the uptake of the anti PD-L1 antibody [89Zr]Zr-durvalumab in tumors and healthy organs during CRT in patients with NSCLC. METHODS Patients with NSCLC scheduled to undergo CRT were scanned 7±1 days after administration of 37±1 MBq [89Zr]Zr-durvalumab at baseline, 1-week on-treatment and 1 week after finishing 6 weeks of CRT. First, [89Zr]Zr-durvalumab uptake was visually assessed in a low dose cohort with a mass dose of 2 mg durvalumab (0.13% of therapeutic dose) and subsequently, quantification was done in a high dose cohort with a mass dose of 22.5 mg durvalumab (1.5% of therapeutic dose). Tracer pharmacokinetics between injections were compared using venous blood samples drawn in the 22.5 mg cohort. Visual assessment included suspected lesion detectability. Positron emission tomography (PET) uptake in tumoral and healthy tissues was quantified using tumor to plasma ratio (TPR) and organ to plasma ratio, respectively. RESULTS In the 2 mg dose cohort, 88% of the 17 identified tumor lesions were positive at baseline, compared with 69% (9/13) for the 22.5 mg cohort. Although the absolute plasma concentrations between patients varied, the intrapatient variability was low. The ten quantitatively assessed lesions in the 22.5 mg cohort had a median TPR at baseline of 1.3 (IQR 0.7-1.5), on-treatment of 1.0 (IQR 0.7-1.4) and at the end of treatment of 0.7 (IQR 0.6-0.7). On-treatment, an increased uptake in bone marrow was seen in three out of five patients together with a decreased uptake in the spleen in four out of five patients. CONCLUSIONS This study successfully imaged patients with NSCLC with [89Zr]Zr-durvalumab PET before and during CRT. Our data did not show any increase in [89Zr]Zr-durvalumab uptake in the tumor 1-week on-treatment and at the end of treatment. The changes observed in bone marrow and spleen may be due to an CRT-induced effect on immune cells. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER EudraCT number: 2019-004284-51.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna E E Pouw
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sayed M S Hashemi
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marc C Huisman
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jessica E Wijngaarden
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maarten Slebe
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Daniela E Oprea-Lager
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gerben J C Zwezerijnen
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Danielle Vugts
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ezgi B Ulas
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Immunology, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Tanja D de Gruijl
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Teodora Radonic
- Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Suresh Senan
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Idris Bahce
- Imaging and Biomarkers, Cancer Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Kong S, Liu Q, Chen Y, Liang B, Zhou Y, Lin J, Xie M, Qiu L. Multifunctional Probe Based on "Chemical Antibody-Aptamer" for Noninvasive Detection of PD-L1 Expression in Cancer. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:255-266. [PMID: 38093483 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c00818] [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] [Indexed: 01/02/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) therapy based on programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) has shown significant development in treating several carcinomas, but not all patients respond to this therapy due to the heterogeneity of PD-L1 expression. The sensitive and accurate quantitative analysis of in vivo PD-L1 expression is critical for treatment decisions and monitoring therapy. In the present study, an aptamer-based dual-modality positron emission tomography/near-infrared fluorescence (PET/NIRF) imaging probe was developed, and its specificity and sensitivity to PD-L1 were assessed in vitro and in vivo. The probe precursor NOTA-Cy5-R1 was prepared by using automated solid-phase oligonucleotide synthesis. PET/NIRF dual-modality probe [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-Cy5-R1 was successfully synthesized and radiolabeled. The binding specificity of [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-Cy5-R1 to PD-L1 was evaluated by flow cytometry, fluorescence imaging, and cellular uptake in A375-hPD-L1 and A375 cells, and it showed good fluorescence properties and stability in vitro. In vivo PET/NIRF imaging studies illustrated that [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-Cy5-R1 can sensitively and specifically bind to PD-L1 positive tumors. Meanwhile, the rapid clearance of probes from nontarget tissues achieved a high signal-to-noise ratio. In addition, changes of PD-L1 expression in NCI-H1299 xenografts treated with cisplatin (CDDP) were sensitivity monitored by [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-Cy5-R1 PET imaging, and ex vivo autoradiography and western blot analyses correlated well with the change of PD-L1 expression in vivo. Overall, [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-Cy5-R1 showed notable potency as a dual-modality PET/NIRF imaging probe for visualizing tumors and monitoring the dynamic changes of PD-L1 expression, which can help to direct and promote the clinical practice of ICIs therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudong Kong
- School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, PR China
| | - Qingzhu Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, PR China
| | - Yinfei Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, PR China
| | - Beibei Liang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, PR China
| | - Yuxuan Zhou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, PR China
| | - Jianguo Lin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, PR China
| | - Minhao Xie
- School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, PR China
| | - Ling Qiu
- School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Jiangsu Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Wuxi 214063, PR China
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12
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Krutzek F, Donat CK, Ullrich M, Stadlbauer S. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Small-Molecule-Based Radioligands with Improved Pharmacokinetic Properties for Imaging of Programmed Death Ligand 1. J Med Chem 2023; 66:15894-15915. [PMID: 38038981 PMCID: PMC10726354 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Small molecules offer some advantages for developing positron emission tomography (PET) tracers and are therefore a promising approach for imaging and therapy monitoring of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) positive tumors. Here, we report six biphenyl PD-L1 radioligands using the NODA-GA-chelator for efficient copper-64 complexation. These radioligands contain varying numbers of sulfonic and/or phosphonic acid groups, serving as hydrophilizing units to lower the log D7.4 value down to -4.28. The binding affinities of compounds were evaluated using saturation binding and a real-time binding assay, with a highest binding affinity of 21 nM. Small-animal PET imaging revealed vastly different pharmacokinetic profiles depending on the quantity and type of hydrophilizing units. Of the investigated radioligands, [64Cu]Cu-3 showed the most favorable kinetics in vitro. This was also found in vivo, with a predominantly renal clearance and a specific uptake in the PD-L1-overexpressing tumor. With further modifications, this compound could be a promising candidate for the imaging of PD-L1 in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Krutzek
- Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical
Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Cornelius K. Donat
- Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical
Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Ullrich
- Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical
Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Sven Stadlbauer
- Helmholtz-Zentrum
Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical
Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- Faculty
of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, School of Science, Technische Universität Dresden, Mommsenstraße 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
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13
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Krutzek F, Donat CK, Stadlbauer S. Exploring Hydrophilic PD-L1 Radiotracers Utilizing Phosphonic Acids: Insights into Unforeseen Pharmacokinetics. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15088. [PMID: 37894769 PMCID: PMC10606431 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis in cancer patients, is a promising oncological treatment. However, the number of non-responders remains high, causing a burden for the patient and the healthcare system. Consequently, a diagnostic tool to predict treatment outcomes would help with patient stratification. Molecular imaging provides said diagnostic tool by offering a whole-body quantitative assessment of PD-L1 expression, hence supporting therapy decisions. Four PD-L1 radioligand candidates containing a linker-chelator system for radiometalation, along with three hydrophilizing units-one sulfonic and two phosphonic acids-were synthesized. After labeling with 64Cu, log D7.4 values of less than -3.03 were determined and proteolytic stability confirmed over 94% intact compound after 48 h. Binding affinity was determined using two different assays, revealing high affinities up to 13 nM. µPET/CT imaging was performed in tumor-bearing mice to investigate PD-L1-specific tumor uptake and the pharmacokinetic profile of radioligands. These results yielded an unexpected in vivo distribution, such as low tumor uptake in PD-L1 positive tumors, high liver uptake, and accumulation in bone/bone marrow and potentially synovial spaces. These effects are likely caused by Ca2+-affinity and/or binding to macrophages. Despite phosphonic acids providing high water solubility, their incorporation must be carefully considered to avoid compromising the pharmacokinetic behavior of radioligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Krutzek
- Helmholtz Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Medicinal Radiochemistry, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (C.K.D.)
| | - Cornelius K. Donat
- Helmholtz Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Medicinal Radiochemistry, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (C.K.D.)
| | - Sven Stadlbauer
- Helmholtz Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Medicinal Radiochemistry, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (C.K.D.)
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technical University Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
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14
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Ertveldt T, Meulewaeter S, De Vlaeminck Y, Olarte O, Broos K, Van Calenbergh S, Bourgeois S, Deprez J, Heremans Y, Goyvaerts C, Staels W, De Smedt S, Dewitte H, Devoogdt N, Keyaerts M, Verbeke R, Barbé K, Lentacker I, Breckpot K. Nanobody-mediated SPECT/CT imaging reveals the spatiotemporal expression of programmed death-ligand 1 in response to a CD8 + T cell and iNKT cell activating mRNA vaccine. Theranostics 2023; 13:5483-5500. [PMID: 37908728 PMCID: PMC10614673 DOI: 10.7150/thno.85106] [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: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Although promising responses are obtained in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and its receptor programmed death-1 (PD-1), only a fraction of patients benefits from this immunotherapy. Cancer vaccination may be an effective approach to improve the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors anti-PD-L1/PD-1 therapy. However, there is a lack of research on the dynamics of PD-L1 expression in response to cancer vaccination. Methods: We performed non-invasive whole-body imaging to visualize PD-L1 expression at different timepoints after vaccination of melanoma-bearing mice. Mice bearing ovalbumin (OVA) expressing B16 tumors were i.v. injected with the Galsome mRNA vaccine: OVA encoding mRNA lipoplexes co-encapsulating a low or a high dose of the atypical adjuvant α-galactosylceramide (αGC) to activate invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells. Serial non-invasive whole-body immune imaging was performed using a technetium-99m (99mTc)-labeled anti-PD-L1 nanobody, single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) and X-ray computed tomography (CT) images were quantified. Additionally, cellular expression of PD-L1 was evaluated with flow cytometry. Results: SPECT/CT-imaging showed a rapid and systemic upregulation of PD-L1 after vaccination. PD-L1 expression could not be correlated to the αGC-dose, although we observed a dose-dependent iNKT cell activation. Dynamics of PD-L1 expression were organ-dependent and most pronounced in lungs and liver, organs to which the vaccine was distributed. PD-L1 expression in lungs increased immediately after vaccination and gradually decreased over time, whereas in liver, vaccination-induced PD-L1 upregulation was short-lived. Flow cytometric analysis of these organs further showed myeloid cells as well as non-immune cells with elevated PD-L1 expression in response to vaccination. SPECT/CT imaging of the tumor demonstrated that the expression of PD-L1 remained stable over time and was overall not affected by vaccination although flow cytometric analysis at the cellular level demonstrated changes in PD-L1 expression in various immune cell populations following vaccination. Conclusion: Repeated non-invasive whole-body imaging using 99mTc-labeled anti-PD-L1 nanobodies allows to document the dynamic nature of PD-L1 expression upon vaccination. Galsome vaccination rapidly induced systemic upregulation of PD-L1 expression with the most pronounced upregulation in lungs and liver while flow cytometry analysis showed upregulation of PD-L1 in the tumor microenvironment. This study shows that imaging using nanobodies may be useful for monitoring vaccine-mediated PD-L1 modulation in patients and could provide a rationale for combination therapy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report that visualizes PD-L1 expression upon cancer vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sofie Meulewaeter
- Ghent research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of Physical Pharmacy and General Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Yannick De Vlaeminck
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Oscar Olarte
- Biostatistics and Medical Informatics Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katrijn Broos
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Serge Van Calenbergh
- Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B-9000, Belgium
| | - Stephanie Bourgeois
- Beta Cell Neogenesis (BENE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joke Deprez
- Ghent research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of Physical Pharmacy and General Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Yves Heremans
- Visual and Spatial Tissue Analysis (VSTA) Core Facility, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cleo Goyvaerts
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Willem Staels
- Beta Cell Neogenesis (BENE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
- Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stefaan De Smedt
- Ghent research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of Physical Pharmacy and General Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Heleen Dewitte
- Ghent research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of Physical Pharmacy and General Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Medical Imaging department, In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marleen Keyaerts
- Medical Imaging department, In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Nuclear Medicine Department, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Rein Verbeke
- Ghent research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of Physical Pharmacy and General Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Kurt Barbé
- Biostatistics and Medical Informatics Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ine Lentacker
- Ghent research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of Physical Pharmacy and General Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
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15
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Zeven K, De Groof TW, Ceuppens H, Awad RM, Ertveldt T, de Mey W, Meeus F, Raes G, Breckpot K, Devoogdt N. Development and evaluation of nanobody tracers for noninvasive nuclear imaging of the immune-checkpoint TIGIT. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1268900. [PMID: 37799715 PMCID: PMC10548220 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1268900] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction T cell Ig and ITIM domain receptor (TIGIT) is a next-generation immune checkpoint predominantly expressed on activated T cells and NK cells, exhibiting an unfavorable prognostic association with various malignancies. Despite the emergence of multiple TIGIT-blocking agents entering clinical trials, only a fraction of patients responded positively to anti-TIGIT therapy. Consequently, an urgent demand arises for noninvasive techniques to quantify and monitor TIGIT expression, facilitating patient stratification and enhancing therapeutic outcomes. Small antigen binding moieties such as nanobodies, are promising candidates for such tracer development. Methods We generated a panel of anti-human or anti-mouse TIGIT nanobodies from immunized llamas. In addition, we designed a single-chain variable fragment derived from the clinically tested monoclonal antibody Vibostolimab targeting TIGIT, and assessed its performance alongside the nanobodies. In vitro characterization studies were performed, including binding ability and affinity to cell expressed or recombinant TIGIT. After Technetium-99m labeling, the nanobodies and the single-chain variable fragment were evaluated in vivo for their ability to detect TIGIT expression using SPECT/CT imaging, followed by ex vivo biodistribution analysis. Results Nine nanobodies were selected for binding to recombinant and cell expressed TIGIT with low sub-nanomolar affinities and are thermostable. A six-fold higher uptake in TIGIT-overexpressing tumor was demonstrated one hour post- injection with Technetium-99m labeled nanobodies compared to an irrelevant control nanobody. Though the single-chain variable fragment exhibited superior binding to TIGIT-expressing peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro, its in vivo behavior yielded lower tumor-to-background ratios at one hour post- injection, indicating that nanobodies are better suited for in vivo imaging than the single-chain variable fragment. Despite the good affinity, high specificity and on-target uptake in mice in this setting, imaging of TIGIT expression on tumor- infiltrating lymphocytes within MC38 tumors remained elusive. This is likely due to the low expression levels of TIGIT in this model. Discussion The excellent affinity, high specificity and rapid on-target uptake in mice bearing TIGIT- overexpressing tumors showed the promising diagnostic potential of nanobodies to noninvasively image high TIGIT expression within the tumor. These findings hold promise for clinical translation to aid patient selection and improve therapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katty Zeven
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Therapy (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Timo W.M. De Groof
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Therapy (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hannelore Ceuppens
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin Maximilian Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wout de Mey
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fien Meeus
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Geert Raes
- Laboratory for Cellular and Molecular Immunology (CMIM), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Lab, Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Therapy (MITH), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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16
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Massicano AVF, Song PN, Mansur A, White SL, Sorace AG, Lapi SE. [ 89Zr]-Atezolizumab-PET Imaging Reveals Longitudinal Alterations in PDL1 during Therapy in TNBC Preclinical Models. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2708. [PMID: 37345044 PMCID: PMC10216761 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) currently have limited treatment options; however, PD-L1 is an indicator of susceptibility to immunotherapy. Currently, assessment of PD-L1 is limited to biopsy samples. These limitations may be overcome with molecular imaging. In this work, we describe chemistry development and optimization, in vitro, in vivo, and dosimetry of [89Zr]-Atezolizumab for PD-L1 imaging. Atezolizumab was conjugated to DFO and radiolabeled with 89Zr. Tumor uptake and heterogeneity in TNBC xenograft and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mouse models were quantified following [89Zr]-Atezolizumab-PET imaging. PD-L1 expression in TNBC PDX models undergoing therapy and immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to validate imaging. SUV from PET imaging was quantified and used to identify heterogeneity. PET/CT imaging using [89Zr]-Atezolizumab identified a significant increase in tumor:muscle SUVmean 1 and 4 days after niraparib therapy and revealed an increased trend in PD-L1 expression following other cytotoxic therapies. A preliminary dosimetry study indicated the organs that will receive a higher dose are the spleen, adrenals, kidneys, and liver. [89Zr]-Atezolizumab PET/CT imaging reveals potential for the noninvasive detection of PD-L1-positive TNBC tumors and allows for quantitative and longitudinal assessment. This has potential significance for understanding tumor heterogeneity and monitoring early expression changes in PD-L1 induced by therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick N. Song
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
- Department of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Ameer Mansur
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Sharon L. White
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Anna G. Sorace
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Suzanne E. Lapi
- Department of Radiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
- O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
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17
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Krutzek F, Donat CK, Ullrich M, Zarschler K, Ludik MC, Feldmann A, Loureiro LR, Kopka K, Stadlbauer S. Design and Biological Evaluation of Small-Molecule PET-Tracers for Imaging of Programmed Death Ligand 1. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092638. [PMID: 37174103 PMCID: PMC10177516 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Noninvasive molecular imaging of the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint is of high clinical relevance for patient stratification and therapy monitoring in cancer patients. Here we report nine small-molecule PD-L1 radiotracers with solubilizing sulfonic acids and a linker-chelator system, designed by molecular docking experiments and synthesized according to a new, convergent synthetic strategy. Binding affinities were determined both in cellular saturation and real-time binding assay (LigandTracer), revealing dissociation constants in the single digit nanomolar range. Incubation in human serum and liver microsomes proved in vitro stability of these compounds. Small animal PET/CT imaging, in mice bearing PD-L1 overexpressing and PD-L1 negative tumors, showed moderate to low uptake. All compounds were cleared primarily through the hepatobiliary excretion route and showed a long circulation time. The latter was attributed to strong blood albumin binding effects, discovered during our binding experiments. Taken together, these compounds are a promising starting point for further development of a new class of PD-L1 targeting radiotracers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Krutzek
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Cornelius K Donat
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Ullrich
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kristof Zarschler
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Marie-Charlotte Ludik
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Anja Feldmann
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Liliana R Loureiro
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - Klaus Kopka
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Mommsenstraße 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Dresden, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Sven Stadlbauer
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Mommsenstraße 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
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18
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Dewulf J, Flieswasser T, Delahaye T, Vangestel C, Miranda A, de Haard H, Jacobs J, Smits E, Van den Wyngaert T, Elvas F. Site-specific 68Ga-labeled nanobody for PET imaging of CD70 expression in preclinical tumor models. EJNMMI Radiopharm Chem 2023; 8:8. [PMID: 37093350 PMCID: PMC10126183 DOI: 10.1186/s41181-023-00194-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CD70-CD27 is a costimulatory ligand-receptor pair in the tumor necrosis factor receptor family. With only limited expression in normal tissues, CD70 is constitutively expressed in a variety of solid tumors and hematologic malignancies, facilitating immunosuppression through CD27 signaling in the tumor microenvironment by enhanced survival of regulatory T cells, induction of T cell apoptosis, and T cell exhaustion. Consequently, CD70 is an increasingly recognized target for developing antibody-based therapies, but its expression patterns vary among different tumor types in spatial distribution, magnitude of expression and percentage of positive cells. In that regard, individual confirmation of CD70 expression at screening and during treatment could enhance the successful implementation of anti-CD70 therapies. Here, we developed a gallium-68 (68Ga) radiolabeled single-domain antibody-fragment targeting CD70 for in vivo positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. RESULTS An anti-CD70 VHH construct containing a C-direct-tag with a free thiol was developed to enable site-specific conjugation to a NOTA bifunctional chelator for 68Ga radiolabeling. [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-anti-CD70 VHH was obtained in good radiochemical yield of 30.4 ± 1.7% and high radiochemical purity (> 94%). The radiolabeled VHH showed excellent in vitro and in vivo stability. Specific binding of [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-anti-CD70 VHH was observed on CD70high 786-O cells, showing significantly higher cell-associated activity when compared to the blocking condition (p < 0.0001) and CD70low NCl-H1975 cells (p < 0.0001). PET imaging showed specific radiotracer accumulation in CD70 expressing human tumor xenografts, which was efficiently blocked by prior injection of unlabeled anti-CD70 VHH (p = 0.0029). In addition, radiotracer uptake in CD70high tumors was significantly higher when compared with CD70low tumors (p < 0.0001). The distribution of the radioactivity in the tumors using autoradiography was spatially matched with immunohistochemistry analysis of CD70 expression. CONCLUSION [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-anti-CD70 VHH showed excellent in vivo targeting of CD70 in human cancer xenografts. PET imaging using this radioimmunoconjugate holds promise as a non-invasive method to identify and longitudinally follow-up patients who will benefit most from anti-CD70 therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonatan Dewulf
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Tal Flieswasser
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, IPPON, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Tim Delahaye
- argenx BV, Industriepark 7, Zwijnaarde, 9052, Gent, Belgium
| | - Christel Vangestel
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Antwerp University Hospital, Drie Eikenstraat 655, 2650, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Alan Miranda
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Hans de Haard
- argenx BV, Industriepark 7, Zwijnaarde, 9052, Gent, Belgium
| | - Julie Jacobs
- argenx BV, Industriepark 7, Zwijnaarde, 9052, Gent, Belgium
| | - Evelien Smits
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, IPPON, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Tim Van den Wyngaert
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Antwerp University Hospital, Drie Eikenstraat 655, 2650, Edegem, Belgium
| | - Filipe Elvas
- Molecular Imaging Center Antwerp (MICA), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium.
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19
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García Melián MF, Moreno M, Cerecetto H, Calzada V. Aptamer-Based Immunotheranostic Strategies. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2023; 38:246-255. [PMID: 36603108 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2022.0064] [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: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The escape from immune surveillance is a hallmark of cancer progression. The classic immune checkpoint molecules PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA-4, LAG-3, TIM-3 novel ones are part of a sophisticated system of up- and downmodulation of the immune system, which is unregulated in cancer. In recent years, there have been remarkable advances in the development of targeting strategies, focused principally on immunotherapies aiming at blocking those molecules involved in the evasion of the immune system. However, there are still challenges to predicting their efficacy due to the wide heterogeneity of clinical responses. Thus, there is a need to develop new strategies, and theranostics has much to contribute in this field. Besides that, aptamers have emerged as promising molecules with the potential to generate a huge impact in the immunotheranostic field. They are single-stranded oligonucleotides with a unique self-folding tridimensional structure, with high affinity and specificity for the target. In particular, their small size and physicochemical characteristics make them a versatile tool for designing theranostic strategies. Here, we review the progress in theranostic strategies based on aptamers against immune checkpoints, and highlight the potential of those approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Fernanda García Melián
- Área de Radiofarmacia, Centro de Investigaciones Nucleares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - María Moreno
- Departamento de Desarrollo Biotecnológico, Instituto de Higiene, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Hugo Cerecetto
- Área de Radiofarmacia, Centro de Investigaciones Nucleares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Victoria Calzada
- Área de Radiofarmacia, Centro de Investigaciones Nucleares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
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20
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Zhang Y, Ding Y, Li N, Wang S, Zhou S, Li R, Yang H, Li W, Qu J. Noninvasive Imaging of Tumor PD-L1 Expression Using [ 99mTc]Tc-Labeled KN035 with SPECT/CT. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:690-700. [PMID: 36541699 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Programmed cell death protein-1/ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1) checkpoint blockade is a major breakthrough in cancer therapy, but identifying patients likely to benefit from this therapy remains challenging. Immunohistochemistry is not informative about PD-L1 expression heterogeneity because of the limitations of invasive tissue collection. Noninvasive SPECT imaging is an approach to patient selection and therapeutic monitoring by assessing the PD-L1 status throughout the whole body. Here, we radiolabeled a single-domain PD-L1 antibody with technetium-99m (99mTc) for immune-SPECT imaging to evaluate its feasibility of detecting PD-L1 expression. The radiochemical purity of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-KN035 was 99.40 ± 0.11% with a specific activity of 2.68 MBq/μg. [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-KN035 displayed a high PD-L1 specificity both in vitro and in vivo and showed a high specific affinity for PD-L1 with an equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) of 31.04 nM. The binding of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-KN035 to H1975 cells (high expression of PD-L1) was much higher than to A549 cells (low expression of PD-L1). SPECT/CT imaging showed that H1975 tumors were visualized at 4 h post-injection and became clearer with time. However, mild tumor uptake was observed in A549 tumors and H1975 tumors of the blocking group at all time points. The uptake value of [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-KN035 in H1975 tumors was increased continuously from 9.68 ± 0.91% ID/g at 4 h to 13.31 ± 2.23% ID/g at 24 h post-injection, which was higher than in A549 tumors with %ID/g of 4.59 ± 0.76 and 5.54 ± 0.28 at 4 and 24 h post-injection, respectively. These specific bindings were confirmed by blocking studies. [99mTc]Tc-HYNIC-KN035 can be synthesized easily and specifically targeted to PD-L1 in the tumor environment, allowing PD-L1 expression assessment noninvasively and dynamically with SPECT/CT imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Ying Ding
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China.,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan 430022, China.,Key Laboratory of Biological Targeted Therapy, The Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Ning Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Sen Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Si Zhou
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Ruping Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Wenliang Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
| | - Jinrong Qu
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou 450008, China
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21
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Mulero F, Oteo M, Garaulet G, Magro N, Rebollo L, Medrano G, Santiveri C, Romero E, Sellek RE, Margolles Y, Campos-Olivas R, Arroyo AG, Fernández LA, Morcillo MA, Martínez-Torrecuadrada JL. Development of anti-membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase nanobodies as immunoPET probes for triple negative breast cancer imaging. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1058455. [PMID: 36507540 PMCID: PMC9729729 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1058455] [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: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by aggressiveness and high rates of metastasis. The identification of relevant biomarkers is crucial to improve outcomes for TNBC patients. Membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) could be a good candidate because its expression has been reported to correlate with tumor malignancy, progression and metastasis. Moreover, single-domain variable regions (VHHs or Nanobodies) derived from camelid heavy-chain-only antibodies have demonstrated improvements in tissue penetration and blood clearance, important characteristics for cancer imaging. Here, we have developed a nanobody-based PET imaging strategy for TNBC detection that targets MT1-MMP. A llama-derived library was screened against the catalytic domain of MT1-MMP and a panel of specific nanobodies were identified. After a deep characterization, two nanobodies were selected to be labeled with gallium-68 (68Ga). ImmunoPET imaging with both ([68Ga]Ga-NOTA-3TPA14 and [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-3CMP75) in a TNBC mouse model showed precise tumor-targeting capacity in vivo with high signal-to-background ratios. (68Ga)Ga-NOTA-3CMP75 exhibited higher tumor uptake compared to (68Ga)Ga-NOTA-3TPA14. Furthermore, imaging data correlated perfectly with the immunohistochemistry staining results. In conclusion, we found a promising candidate for nanobody-based PET imaging to be further investigated as a diagnostic tool in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Mulero
- Molecular Imaging Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Oteo
- Medical Applications of Ionizing Radiations Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Madrid, Spain
| | - Guillermo Garaulet
- Molecular Imaging Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Natalia Magro
- Medical Applications of Ionizing Radiations Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Madrid, Spain
| | - Lluvia Rebollo
- Protein Production Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Guillermo Medrano
- Molecular Imaging Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Clara Santiveri
- Spectroscopy and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Romero
- Medical Applications of Ionizing Radiations Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricela E. Sellek
- Medical Applications of Ionizing Radiations Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Madrid, Spain
| | - Yago Margolles
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, (CNB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ramón Campos-Olivas
- Spectroscopy and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alicia G. Arroyo
- Department of Molecular Biomedicine, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Angel Fernández
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, (CNB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Angel Morcillo
- Medical Applications of Ionizing Radiations Unit, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Madrid, Spain,*Correspondence: Miguel Angel Morcillo,
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22
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Liang Z, Hu X, Hu H, Wang P, Cai J. Novel small 99mTc-labeled affibody molecular probe for PD-L1 receptor imaging. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1017737. [PMID: 36387113 PMCID: PMC9643847 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1017737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The in vivo imaging of programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) can monitor changes in PD-L1 expression and guide programmed death 1 (PD-1) or PD-L1-targeted immune checkpoint therapy. A 99mTc-labeled affibody molecular probe targeting the PD-L1 receptor was prepared and evaluated its tracing effect in PD-L1-overexpressing colon cancer. METHODS The PD-L1 affibody was prepared by genetic recombineering. The 99mTc labeling of the affibody was achieved by sodium glucoheptonate and an SnCl2 labeling system. The labeling rate, radiochemical purity, and stability in vitro were determined by instant thin-layer chromatography; MC38-B7H1 (PD-L1-positive) and MC38 (PD-L1-negative) colon cancer cells were used to evaluate its affinity to PD-L1 by cell-binding experiments. The biodistribution of the 99mTc-labeled affibody molecular probe was then determined in C57BL/6J mice bearing MC38-B7H1 tumors, and tumor targeting was assessed in C57BL/6J mice with MC38-B7H1, MC38 double xenografts. RESULT The nondecayed corrected yield of the 99mTc-PD-L1 affibody molecular probe was 95.95% ± 1.26%, and showed good stability both in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and fetal bovine serum within 6 h. The affinity of the 99mTc-PD-L1 affibody molecular probe for cell-binding assays was 10.02 nmol/L. Single photon emission-computed tomography imaging showed a rapid uptake of the tracer in PD-L1-positive tumors and very little tracer retention in PD-L1-negative control tumors. The tracer was significantly retained in the kidneys and bladder, suggesting that it is mainly excreted through the urinary system. Heart, liver, lung, and muscle tissue showed no significant radioactive retention. The biodistribution in vitro also showed significant renal retention, a small amount of uptake in the thyroid and gastrointestinal tract, and rapid blood clearance, and the tumor-to-blood radioactivity uptake ratio peaked 120 min after drug injection. CONCLUSION The 99mTc-PD-L1 affibody molecular probe that we prepared can effectively target to PD-L1-positive tumors imaging in vivo, and clear in blood quickly, with no obvious toxic side effects, which is expected to become a new type of tracer for detecting PD-L1 expression in tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pan Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Jiong Cai
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
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Positron Emission Tomography Probes for Imaging Cytotoxic Immune Cells. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14102040. [PMID: 36297474 PMCID: PMC9610635 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14102040] [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: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of immune cells is a powerful approach for monitoring the dynamics of immune cells in response to immunotherapy. Despite the clinical success of many immunotherapeutic agents, their clinical efficacy is limited to a subgroup of patients. Conventional imaging, as well as analysis of tissue biopsies and blood samples do not reflect the complex interaction between tumour and immune cells. Consequently, PET probes are being developed to capture the dynamics of such interactions, which may improve patient stratification and treatment evaluation. The clinical efficacy of cancer immunotherapy relies on both the infiltration and function of cytotoxic immune cells at the tumour site. Thus, various immune biomarkers have been investigated as potential targets for PET imaging of immune response. Herein, we provide an overview of the most recent developments in PET imaging of immune response, including the radiosynthesis approaches employed in their development.
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Rodriguez C, Delaney S, Sarrett SM, Keinänen OM, Zeglis BM. Antibody Engineering for Nuclear Imaging and Radioimmunotherapy. J Nucl Med 2022; 63:1316-1322. [PMID: 35863894 PMCID: PMC9454464 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.122.263861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiolabeled antibodies have become indispensable tools in nuclear medicine. However, the natural roles of antibodies within the immune system mean that they have several intrinsic limitations as a platform for radiopharmaceuticals. In recent years, the field has increasingly turned to antibody engineering to circumvent these issues while retaining the manifold benefits of the immunoglobulin framework. In this "Focus on Molecular Imaging" review, we cover recent advances in the application of antibody engineering to immunoPET, immunoSPECT, and radioimmunotherapy. Specifically, we address how antibody engineering has been used to improve radioimmunoconjugates on four fronts: optimizing pharmacokinetics, facilitating site-specific bioconjugation, modulating Fc interactions, and creating bispecific constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Rodriguez
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York
- Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Samantha Delaney
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, New York
| | - Samantha M Sarrett
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, New York
| | - Outi M Keinänen
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Department of Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; and
| | - Brian M Zeglis
- Department of Chemistry, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, New York;
- Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, Graduate Center of City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
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Uccelli L, Martini P, Urso L, Ghirardi T, Marvelli L, Cittanti C, Carnevale A, Giganti M, Bartolomei M, Boschi A. Rhenium Radioisotopes for Medicine, a Focus on Production and Applications. Molecules 2022; 27:5283. [PMID: 36014521 PMCID: PMC9412410 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27165283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, the use of alpha; pure beta; or beta/gamma emitters in oncology, endocrinology, and interventional cardiology rheumatology, has proved to be an important alternative to the most common therapeutic regimens. Among radionuclides used for therapy in nuclear medicine, two rhenium radioisotopes are of particular relevance: rhenium-186 and rhenium-188. The first is routinely produced in nuclear reactors by direct neutron activation of rhenium-186 via 185Re(n,γ)186Re nuclear reaction. Rhenium-188 is produced by the decay of the parent tungsten-188. Separation of rhenium-188 is mainly performed using a chromatographic 188W/188Re generator in which tungsten-188 is adsorbed on the alumina column, similar to the 99Mo/99mTc generator system, and the radionuclide eluted in saline solution. The application of rhenium-186 and rhenium-188 depends on their specific activity. Rhenium-186 is produced in low specific activity and is mainly used for labeling particles or diphosphonates for bone pain palliation. Whereas, rhenium-188 of high specific activity can be used for labeling peptides or bioactive molecules. One of the advantages of rhenium is its chemical similarity with technetium. So, diagnostic technetium analogs labeled with radiorhenium can be developed for therapeutic applications. Clinical trials promoting the use of 186/188Re-radiopharmaceuticals is, in particular, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Licia Uccelli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Petra Martini
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Urso
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Teresa Ghirardi
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Lorenza Marvelli
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Corrado Cittanti
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Aldo Carnevale
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Radiology Unit, University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Melchiore Giganti
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Radiology Unit, University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mirco Bartolomei
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, University Hospital, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Boschi
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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Liu WL, Zhang YQ, Li LT, Zhu YY, Ming ZH, Chen WL, Yang RQ, Li RH, Chen M, Zhang GJ. Application of molecular imaging in immune checkpoints therapy: From response assessment to prognosis prediction. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2022; 176:103746. [PMID: 35752425 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103746] [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: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, immune checkpoint therapy (ICT) represented by programmed cell death1 (PD-1) and its major ligands, programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), has achieved significant success. Detection of PD-L1 by immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a classic method to guide the treatment of ICT patients. However, PD-L1 expression in the tumor microenvironment is highly complex. Thus, PD-L1 IHC is inadequate to fully understand the relevance of PD-L1 levels in the whole body and their dynamics to improve therapeutic outcomes. Intriguingly, numerous studies have revealed that molecular imaging technologies could potentially meet this need. Therefore, the purpose of this narrative review is to summarize the preclinical and clinical application of ICT guided by molecular imaging technology, and to explore the future opportunities and practical difficulties of these innovations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Ling Liu
- Department of Breast-Thyroid-Surgery and Cancer Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment in Breast Cancer (Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University), 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory for Endocrine Related Cancer Precision Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Research Center of Clinical Medicine in Breast & Thyroid Cancers, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China
| | - Yong-Qu Zhang
- Department of Breast-Thyroid-Surgery and Cancer Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment in Breast Cancer (Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University), 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory for Endocrine Related Cancer Precision Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Research Center of Clinical Medicine in Breast & Thyroid Cancers, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China
| | - Liang-Tao Li
- Department of Breast-Thyroid-Surgery and Cancer Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment in Breast Cancer (Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University), 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory for Endocrine Related Cancer Precision Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Research Center of Clinical Medicine in Breast & Thyroid Cancers, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Zhu
- Department of Breast-Thyroid-Surgery and Cancer Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment in Breast Cancer (Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University), 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory for Endocrine Related Cancer Precision Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Research Center of Clinical Medicine in Breast & Thyroid Cancers, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China
| | - Zi-He Ming
- Department of Breast-Thyroid-Surgery and Cancer Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment in Breast Cancer (Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University), 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory for Endocrine Related Cancer Precision Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Research Center of Clinical Medicine in Breast & Thyroid Cancers, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China
| | - Wei-Ling Chen
- Department of Breast-Thyroid-Surgery and Cancer Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment in Breast Cancer (Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University), 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory for Endocrine Related Cancer Precision Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Research Center of Clinical Medicine in Breast & Thyroid Cancers, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China
| | - Rui-Qin Yang
- Department of Breast-Thyroid-Surgery and Cancer Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment in Breast Cancer (Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University), 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory for Endocrine Related Cancer Precision Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Research Center of Clinical Medicine in Breast & Thyroid Cancers, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China
| | - Rong-Hui Li
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment in Breast Cancer (Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University), 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Department of Medical Oncology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China
| | - Min Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment in Breast Cancer (Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University), 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory for Endocrine Related Cancer Precision Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China.
| | - Guo-Jun Zhang
- Department of Breast-Thyroid-Surgery and Cancer Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment in Breast Cancer (Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University), 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Key Laboratory for Endocrine Related Cancer Precision Medicine, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Xiamen Research Center of Clinical Medicine in Breast & Thyroid Cancers, 2000 East Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China; Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, 4221 South Xiang'an Road, Xiamen, China.
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Krutzek F, Kopka K, Stadlbauer S. Development of Radiotracers for Imaging of the PD-1/PD-L1 Axis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060747. [PMID: 35745666 PMCID: PMC9228425 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has emerged as a major treatment option for a variety of cancers. Among the immune checkpoints addressed, the programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1 are the key targets for an ICI. PD-L1 has especially been proven to be a reproducible biomarker allowing for therapy decisions and monitoring therapy success. However, the expression of PD-L1 is not only heterogeneous among and within tumor lesions, but the expression is very dynamic and changes over time. Immunohistochemistry, which is the standard diagnostic tool, can only inadequately address these challenges. On the other hand, molecular imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) provide the advantage of a whole-body scan and therefore fully address the issue of the heterogeneous expression of checkpoints over time. Here, we provide an overview of existing PET, SPECT, and optical imaging (OI) (radio)tracers for the imaging of the upregulation levels of PD-1 and PD-L1. We summarize the preclinical and clinical data of the different molecule classes of radiotracers and discuss their respective advantages and disadvantages. At the end, we show possible future directions for developing new radiotracers for the imaging of PD-1/PD-L1 status in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Krutzek
- Department of Translational TME Ligands, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz Center Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (K.K.)
| | - Klaus Kopka
- Department of Translational TME Ligands, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz Center Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (K.K.)
- School of Science, Faculty of Chemistry and Food Chemistry, Technical University Dresden, 01069 Dresden, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Partner Site Dresden, University Cancer Cancer (UCC), 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Sven Stadlbauer
- Department of Translational TME Ligands, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Helmholtz Center Dresden-Rossendorf, 01328 Dresden, Germany; (F.K.); (K.K.)
- Correspondence:
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Chen W, Huang Y, Pan W, Xu M, Chen L. Strategies for developing PD-1 inhibitors and future directions. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 202:115113. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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29
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Yao Y, Zhou X, Zhang A, Ma X, Zhu H, Yang Z, Li N. The role of PET molecular imaging in immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in lung cancer: Precision medicine and visual monitoring. Eur J Radiol 2022; 149:110200. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2022.110200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Wu AM, Pandit-Taskar N. ImmunoPET: harnessing antibodies for imaging immune cells. Mol Imaging Biol 2022; 24:181-197. [PMID: 34550529 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-021-01652-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Dramatic, but uneven, progress in the development of immunotherapies for cancer has created a need for better diagnostic technologies including innovative non-invasive imaging approaches. This review discusses challenges and opportunities for molecular imaging in immuno-oncology and focuses on the unique role that antibodies can fill. ImmunoPET has been implemented for detection of immune cell subsets, activation and inhibitory biomarkers, tracking adoptively transferred cellular therapeutics, and many additional applications in preclinical models. Parallel progress in radionuclide availability and infrastructure supporting biopharmaceutical manufacturing has accelerated clinical translation. ImmunoPET is poised to provide key information on prognosis, patient selection, and monitoring immune responses to therapy in cancer and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Wu
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Center for Theranostics Studies, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Rd., Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, City of Hope, 1500 E. Duarte Road, Duarte, CA, 91010, USA.
| | - Neeta Pandit-Taskar
- Molecular Imaging &Therapy Svc, Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Center for Targeted Radioimmunotherapy and Theranostics, Ludwig Center for Cancer Immunotherapy, MSK, 1275 York Ave, New York, NY, 10065, USA
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31
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Wu AM. Imaging the host response to cancer. Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-822960-6.00114-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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32
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Liu S, Li G, Ding L, Ding J, Zhang Q, Li D, Hou X, Kong X, Zou J, Zhang S, Han H, Wan Y, Yang Z, Zhu H. Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2-Neutralizing Nanobody Using Virus Receptor Binding Domain-Administered Model Mice. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2022; 2022:9864089. [PMID: 35958110 PMCID: PMC9343077 DOI: 10.34133/2022/9864089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Due to the rapid spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there is an urgent requirement for the development of additional diagnostic tools for further analysis of the disease. The isolated nanobody Nb11-59 binds to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) receptor-binding domain (RBD) with high affinity to neutralize the virus and block the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2- (ACE2-) RBD interaction. Here, we introduce a novel nanobody-based radiotracer named 68Ga-Nb1159. The radiotracer retained high affinity for the RBD and showed reliable radiochemical characteristics both in vitro and in vivo. Preclinical positron emission tomography (PET) studies of 68Ga-Nb1159 in mice revealed its rapid clearance from circulation and robust uptake into the renal and urinary systems. Fortunately, 68Ga-Nb1159 could specifically reveal the distribution of the RBD in mice. This study also helped to evaluate the pharmacodynamic effects of the neutralizing nanobody. Moreover, 68Ga-Nb1159 may be a promising tool to explore the distribution of the RBD and improve the understanding of the virus. In particular, this study identified a novel molecular radioagent and established a reliable evaluation method for specifically investigating the RBD through noninvasive and visual PET technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Liu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Guanghui Li
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Ding
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Department of Anesthesiology, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Jin Ding
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Dan Li
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Xingguo Hou
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Xiangxing Kong
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Jing Zou
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Devices and Technology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shiming Zhang
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Devices and Technology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hongbin Han
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Devices and Technology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
- Department of Radiology, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yakun Wan
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hua Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
- Institute of Medical Technology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
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Decristoforo C, Pfister J. In vitro studies with radiopharmaceuticals. Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-822960-6.00012-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Diagnosis of Glioblastoma by Immuno-Positron Emission Tomography. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010074. [PMID: 35008238 PMCID: PMC8750680 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Neuroimaging has transformed the way brain tumors are diagnosed and treated. Although different non-invasive modalities provide very helpful information, in some situations, they present a limited value. By merging the specificity of antibodies with the resolution, sensitivity, and quantitative capabilities of positron emission tomography (PET), “Immuno-PET” allows us to conduct the non-invasive diagnosis and monitoring of patients over time using antibody-based probes as an in vivo, integrated, quantifiable, 3D, full-body “immunohistochemistry”, like a “virtual biopsy”. This review provides and focuses on immuno-PET applications and future perspectives of this promising imaging approach for glioblastoma. Abstract Neuroimaging has transformed neuro-oncology and the way that glioblastoma is diagnosed and treated. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the most widely used non-invasive technique in the primary diagnosis of glioblastoma. Although MRI provides very powerful anatomical information, it has proven to be of limited value for diagnosing glioblastomas in some situations. The final diagnosis requires a brain biopsy that may not depict the high intratumoral heterogeneity present in this tumor type. The revolution in “cancer-omics” is transforming the molecular classification of gliomas. However, many of the clinically relevant alterations revealed by these studies have not yet been integrated into the clinical management of patients, in part due to the lack of non-invasive biomarker-based imaging tools. An innovative option for biomarker identification in vivo is termed “immunotargeted imaging”. By merging the high target specificity of antibodies with the high spatial resolution, sensitivity, and quantitative capabilities of positron emission tomography (PET), “Immuno-PET” allows us to conduct the non-invasive diagnosis and monitoring of patients over time using antibody-based probes as an in vivo, integrated, quantifiable, 3D, full-body “immunohistochemistry” in patients. This review provides the state of the art of immuno-PET applications and future perspectives on this imaging approach for glioblastoma.
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Lecocq Q, Debie P, Puttemans J, Awad RM, De Beck L, Ertveldt T, De Vlaeminck Y, Goyvaerts C, Raes G, Keyaerts M, Breckpot K, Devoogdt N. Evaluation of single domain antibodies as nuclear tracers for imaging of the immune checkpoint receptor human lymphocyte activation gene-3 in cancer. EJNMMI Res 2021; 11:115. [PMID: 34727262 PMCID: PMC8563901 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-021-00857-9] [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: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in the field of immune-oncology have led to a significant increase in life expectancy of patients with diverse forms of cancer, such as hematologic malignancies, melanoma and lung cancer. Unfortunately, these encouraging results are not observed in the majority of patients, who remain unresponsive and/or encounter adverse events. Currently, researchers are collecting more insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie these variable responses. As an example, the human lymphocyte activation gene-3 (huLAG-3), an inhibitory immune checkpoint receptor, is increasingly studied as a therapeutic target in immune-oncology. Noninvasive molecular imaging of the immune checkpoint programmed death protein-1 (PD-1) or its ligand PD-L1 has shown its value as a strategy to guide and monitor PD-1/PD-L1-targeted immune checkpoint therapy. Yet, radiotracers that allow dynamic, whole body imaging of huLAG-3 expression are not yet described. We here developed single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) that bind huLAG-3 and showed that these sdAbs can image huLAG-3 in tumors, therefore representing promising tools for further development into clinically applicable radiotracers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Lecocq
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - P Debie
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/K, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Puttemans
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/K, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - R M Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - L De Beck
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - T Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Y De Vlaeminck
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Goyvaerts
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - G Raes
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium.,Cellular and Molecular Immunology Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Keyaerts
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/K, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.,Nuclear Medicine Department, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/E, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - N Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Medical Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103/K, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
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Lecocq Q, Awad RM, De Vlaeminck Y, de Mey W, Ertveldt T, Goyvaerts C, Raes G, Thielemans K, Keyaerts M, Devoogdt N, Breckpot K. Single-Domain Antibody Nuclear Imaging Allows Noninvasive Quantification of LAG-3 Expression by Tumor-Infiltrating Leukocytes and Predicts Response of Immune Checkpoint Blockade. J Nucl Med 2021; 62:1638-1644. [PMID: 33712537 PMCID: PMC8612328 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.120.258871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in the field of immune-oncology led to the discovery of next-generation immune checkpoints (ICPs). Lymphocyte activation gene-3 (LAG-3), being the most widely studied among them, is being explored as a target for the treatment of cancer patients. Several antagonistic anti-LAG-3 antibodies are being developed and are prime candidates for clinical application. Furthermore, validated therapies targeting cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein-4, programmed cell-death protein-1, or programmed cell-death ligand-1 showed that only subsets of patients respond. This finding highlights the need for better tools for patient selection and monitoring. The potential of molecular imaging to detect ICPs noninvasively in cancer is supported by several preclinical and clinical studies. Here, we report on a single-domain antibody to evaluate whole-body LAG-3 expression in various syngeneic mouse cancer models using nuclear imaging. Methods: SPECT/CT scans of tumor-bearing mice were performed 1 h after injection with radiolabeled single-domain antibody. Organs and tumors of mice were isolated and evaluated for the presence of the radiolabeled tracer and LAG-3-expressing immune cells using a γ-counter and flow cytometry respectively. PD-1/LAG-3-blocking antibodies were injected in MC38-bearing mice. Results: The radiolabeled single-domain antibody detected LAG-3 expression on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) as soon as 1 h after injection in MC38, MO4, and TC-1 cancer models. The single-domain antibody tracer visualized a compensatory upregulation of LAG-3 on TILs in MC38 tumors of mice treated with PD-1-blocking antibodies. When PD-1 blockade was combined with LAG-3 blockade, a synergistic effect on tumor growth delay was observed. Conclusion: These findings consolidate LAG-3 as a next-generation ICP and support the use of single-domain antibodies as tools to noninvasively monitor the dynamic evolution of LAG-3 expression by TILs, which could be exploited to predict therapy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin Lecocq
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Robin Maximilian Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yannick De Vlaeminck
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wout de Mey
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Ertveldt
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cleo Goyvaerts
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Geert Raes
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Lab, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kris Thielemans
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marleen Keyaerts
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; and
- Nuclear Medicine Department, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; and
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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Küppers J, Kürpig S, Bundschuh RA, Essler M, Lütje S. Radiolabeling Strategies of Nanobodies for Imaging Applications. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:1530. [PMID: 34573872 PMCID: PMC8471529 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11091530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanobodies are small recombinant antigen-binding fragments derived from camelid heavy-chain only antibodies. Due to their compact structure, pharmacokinetics of nanobodies are favorable compared to full-size antibodies, allowing rapid accumulation to their targets after intravenous administration, while unbound molecules are quickly cleared from the circulation. In consequence, high signal-to-background ratios can be achieved, rendering radiolabeled nanobodies high-potential candidates for imaging applications in oncology, immunology and specific diseases, for instance in the cardiovascular system. In this review, a comprehensive overview of central aspects of nanobody functionalization and radiolabeling strategies is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim Küppers
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany; (S.K.); (R.A.B.); (M.E.); (S.L.)
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Zhao L, Liu C, Xing Y, He J, O'Doherty J, Huang W, Zhao J. Development of a 99mTc-Labeled Single-Domain Antibody for SPECT/CT Assessment of HER2 Expression in Breast Cancer. Mol Pharm 2021; 18:3616-3622. [PMID: 34328338 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.1c00569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Accurate determination of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression is essential for HER2-targeted therapy in patients with cancer. HER2 expression in a complex environment, such as in a heterogeneous tumor, makes the precise assessment of the HER2 status difficult using current methods. In this study, we developed a novel 99mTc-labeled anti-HER2 single-domain antibody (99mTc-NM-02) as a molecular imaging tracer for the noninvasive detection of HER2 expression and investigated its safety, radiation dosimetry, biodistribution, and tumor-targeting potential in 10 patients with breast cancer. Our data showed that no drug-related adverse reactions occurred. The tracer mainly accumulated in the kidneys and liver with mild uptake in the spleen, intestines, and thyroid; however, only background tracer levels were observed in other organs where primary tumors and metastases typically occurred. The mean effective dose was 6.56 × 10-3 mSv/MBq, and tracer uptake was visually observed in the primary tumors and metastases. A maximal standard uptake value of 1.5 was determined as a reasonable cutoff for identifying HER2 positivity using SPECT/CT imaging. Our 99mTc-NM-02 tracer is safe for use in breast cancer imaging, with reasonable radiation doses, favorable biodistribution, and imaging characteristics. 99mTc-NM-02 SPECT imaging may be an accurate and noninvasive method to detect the HER2 status in patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingzhou Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Changcun Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Yan Xing
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jin He
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jim O'Doherty
- Siemens Healthineers, Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355, United States
| | - Wenhua Huang
- Nanomab Technology Limited, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jinhua Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 100 Haining Road, Shanghai 200080, China
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ImmunoPET of CD38 with a radiolabeled nanobody: promising for clinical translation. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2021; 48:2683-2686. [PMID: 33942140 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-021-05329-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Baudhuin H, Van Bockstal PJ, De Beer T, Vaneycken I, Bridoux J, Raes G, Caveliers V, Keyaerts M, Devoogdt N, Lahoutte T, Xavier C. Lyophilization of NOTA-sdAbs: First step towards a cold diagnostic kit for 68Ga-labeling. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2021; 166:194-204. [PMID: 34186190 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2021.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Lyophilization is commonly used in the production of pharmaceutical compounds to increase the stability of the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) by removing solvents. This study investigates the possibility to lyophilize an anti-HER2 and an anti-MMR single-domain antibody fragment (sdAb)-based precursor as a first step in the development of a diagnostic kit for PET imaging. METHODS NOTA-sdAb precursors have been lyophilized with the following formulation: 100 µg NOTA-sdAb in 0.1 M NaOAc (NaOAc), 5% (w/v%) mannitol-sucrose mix at a 2:1 ratio and 0.1 mg/mL polysorbate 80. During development of the formulation and drying cycle, factors such as cake appearance, glass transition temperature and residual moisture were analyzed to ensure qualitative and stable lyophilized samples. Stability studies of lyophilized precursor were conducted up to 18 months after storage at 2-8 °C by evaluating the precursor integrity, aggregation, functionality and 68Ga-labeling efficiency. A comparative biodistribution study (lyophilized vs non-lyophilized precursor) was conducted in wild type mice (n = 3) and in tumor bearing mice (n = 6). RESULTS The lyophilized NOTA-anti-HER2 precursor shows consistent stability data in vitro for up to 12 months at 2-8 °C in three separate batches, with results indicating stability even for up to T18m. No aggregation, degradation or activity loss was observed. Radiochemical purity after 68Ga-labeling is consistent over a period of 12 months (RCP ≥ 95% at T12m). In vivo biodistribution analyses show a typical [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-anti-HER2 sdAb distribution profile and a comparable tumor uptake for the lyophilized compound vs non-lyophilized (5.5% vs 5.7 %IA/g, respectively). In vitro results of lyophilized NOTA-anti-MMR precursor indicates stability for up to 18 months, while in vivo data show a comparable tumor uptake (2.5% vs 2.8 %IA/g, respectively) and no significant difference in kidney retention (49.4% vs 47.5 %IA/g, respectively). CONCLUSION A formulation and specific freeze-drying cycle were successfully developed to lyophilize NOTA-sdAb precursors for long-term storage at 2-8 °C. In vivo data show no negative impact of the lyophilization process on the in vivo behavior or functionality of the lyophilized precursor. These results highlight the potential to develop a kit for the preparation of 68Ga-sdAb-based radiopharmaceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henri Baudhuin
- Department of Medical Imaging (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Pieter-Jan Van Bockstal
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Process Analytical Technology (LPPAT), Universiteit Gent, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Thomas De Beer
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Process Analytical Technology (LPPAT), Universiteit Gent, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Ilse Vaneycken
- Department of Medical Imaging (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; Nuclear Medicine Department (NUCG), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jessica Bridoux
- Department of Medical Imaging (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Geert Raes
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; Myeloid Cell Immunology Laboratory, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Vicky Caveliers
- Department of Medical Imaging (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; Nuclear Medicine Department (NUCG), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Marleen Keyaerts
- Department of Medical Imaging (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; Nuclear Medicine Department (NUCG), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Department of Medical Imaging (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Tony Lahoutte
- Department of Medical Imaging (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium; Nuclear Medicine Department (NUCG), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Catarina Xavier
- Department of Medical Imaging (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
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Chigoho DM, Lecocq Q, Awad RM, Breckpot K, Devoogdt N, Keyaerts M, Caveliers V, Xavier C, Bridoux J. Site-Specific Radiolabeling of a Human PD-L1 Nanobody via Maleimide-Cysteine Chemistry. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14060550. [PMID: 34201323 PMCID: PMC8228271 DOI: 10.3390/ph14060550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and its ligand PD-L1 have proven to be efficient cancer therapies in a subset of patients. From all the patients with various cancer types, only 20% have a positive response. Being able to distinguish patients that do express PD-1/PD-L1 from patients that do not allows patients to benefit from a more personalized and efficient treatment of tumor lesion(s). Expression of PD-1 and PD-L1 is typically assessed via immunohistochemical detection in a tumor biopsy. However, this method does not take in account the expression heterogeneity within the lesion, nor the possible metastasis. To visualize whole-body PD-L1 expression by PET imaging, we developed a nanobody-based radio-immunotracer targeting PD-L1 site-specifically labeled with gallium-68. The cysteine-tagged nanobody was site-specifically conjugated with a maleimide (mal)-NOTA chelator and radiolabeling was tested at different nanobody concentrations and temperatures. Affinity and specificity of the tracer, referred to as [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-mal-hPD-L1 Nb, were assayed by surface plasmon resonance and on PD-L1POS or PD-L1NEG 624-MEL cells. Xenografted athymic nude mice bearing 624-MEL PD-L1POS or PD-L1NEG tumors were injected with the tracer and ex vivo biodistribution was performed 1 h 20 min post-injection. Ideal 68Ga-labeling conditions were found at 50 °C for 15 min. [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-mal-hPD-L1 Nb was obtained in 80 ± 5% DC-RCY with a RCP > 99%, and was stable in injection buffer and human serum up to 3 h (>99% RCP). The in vitro characterization showed that the NOTA-functionalized Nb retained its affinity and specificity. Ex vivo biodistribution revealed a tracer uptake of 1.86 ± 0.67% IA/g in the positive tumors compared with 0.42 ± 0.04% IA/g in the negative tumors. Low background uptake was measured in the other organs and tissues, except for the kidneys and bladder, due to the expected excretion route of Nbs. The data obtained show that the site-specific 68Ga-labeled NOTA-mal-hPD-L1 Nb is a promising PET radio-immunotracer due to its ease of production, stability and specificity for PD-L1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora Mugoli Chigoho
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory (ICMI), Medical Imaging Department (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (D.M.C.); (N.D.); (M.K.); (V.C.); (C.X.)
| | - Quentin Lecocq
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (Q.L.); (R.M.A.); (K.B.)
| | - Robin Maximilian Awad
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (Q.L.); (R.M.A.); (K.B.)
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy (LMCT), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (Q.L.); (R.M.A.); (K.B.)
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory (ICMI), Medical Imaging Department (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (D.M.C.); (N.D.); (M.K.); (V.C.); (C.X.)
| | - Marleen Keyaerts
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory (ICMI), Medical Imaging Department (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (D.M.C.); (N.D.); (M.K.); (V.C.); (C.X.)
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vicky Caveliers
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory (ICMI), Medical Imaging Department (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (D.M.C.); (N.D.); (M.K.); (V.C.); (C.X.)
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Catarina Xavier
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory (ICMI), Medical Imaging Department (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (D.M.C.); (N.D.); (M.K.); (V.C.); (C.X.)
| | - Jessica Bridoux
- In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging Laboratory (ICMI), Medical Imaging Department (MIMA), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (D.M.C.); (N.D.); (M.K.); (V.C.); (C.X.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +32-24774991
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Bolzati C, Spolaore B. Enzymatic Methods for the Site-Specific Radiolabeling of Targeting Proteins. Molecules 2021; 26:3492. [PMID: 34201280 PMCID: PMC8229434 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26123492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Site-specific conjugation of proteins is currently required to produce homogenous derivatives for medicine applications. Proteins derivatized at specific positions of the polypeptide chain can actually show higher stability, superior pharmacokinetics, and activity in vivo, as compared with conjugates modified at heterogeneous sites. Moreover, they can be better characterized regarding the composition of the derivatization sites as well as the conformational and activity properties. To this aim, several site-specific derivatization approaches have been developed. Among these, enzymes are powerful tools that efficiently allow the generation of homogenous protein-drug conjugates under physiological conditions, thus preserving their native structure and activity. This review will summarize the progress made over the last decade on the use of enzymatic-based methodologies for the production of site-specific labeled immunoconjugates of interest for nuclear medicine. Enzymes used in this field, including microbial transglutaminase, sortase, galactosyltransferase, and lipoic acid ligase, will be overviewed and their recent applications in the radiopharmaceutical field will be described. Since nuclear medicine can benefit greatly from the production of homogenous derivatives, we hope that this review will aid the use of enzymes for the development of better radio-conjugates for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Bolzati
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti, 4, I-35127 Padova, Italy
| | - Barbara Spolaore
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo, 5, I-35131 Padova, Italy
- CRIBI Biotechnology Center, University of Padua, Viale G. Colombo, 3, I-35131 Padova, Italy
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Berland L, Kim L, Abousaway O, Mines A, Mishra S, Clark L, Hofman P, Rashidian M. Nanobodies for Medical Imaging: About Ready for Prime Time? Biomolecules 2021; 11:637. [PMID: 33925941 PMCID: PMC8146371 DOI: 10.3390/biom11050637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in medical treatments have been revolutionary in shaping the management and treatment landscape of patients, notably cancer patients. Over the last decade, patients with diverse forms of locally advanced or metastatic cancer, such as melanoma, lung cancers, and many blood-borne malignancies, have seen their life expectancies increasing significantly. Notwithstanding these encouraging results, the present-day struggle with these treatments concerns patients who remain largely unresponsive, as well as those who experience severely toxic side effects. Gaining deeper insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these variable responses will bring us closer to developing more effective therapeutics. To assess these mechanisms, non-invasive imaging techniques provide valuable whole-body information with precise targeting. An example of such is immuno-PET (Positron Emission Tomography), which employs radiolabeled antibodies to detect specific molecules of interest. Nanobodies, as the smallest derived antibody fragments, boast ideal characteristics for this purpose and have thus been used extensively in preclinical models and, more recently, in clinical early-stage studies as well. Their merit stems from their high affinity and specificity towards a target, among other factors. Furthermore, their small size (~14 kDa) allows them to easily disperse through the bloodstream and reach tissues in a reliable and uniform manner. In this review, we will discuss the powerful imaging potential of nanobodies, primarily through the lens of imaging malignant tumors but also touching upon their capability to image a broader variety of nonmalignant diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léa Berland
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, 06100 Nice, France;
| | - Lauren Kim
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
- Department of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Omar Abousaway
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Andrea Mines
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Shruti Mishra
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Louise Clark
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Paul Hofman
- Université Côte d’Azur, CNRS, INSERM, IRCAN, 06100 Nice, France;
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology, FHU OncoAge, Nice Center Hospital, 06100 Nice, France
| | - Mohammad Rashidian
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; (L.B.); (L.K.); (O.A.); (A.M.); (S.M.); (L.C.)
- Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Nanobodies as Versatile Tool for Multiscale Imaging Modalities. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121695. [PMID: 33353213 PMCID: PMC7767244 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular imaging is constantly growing in different areas of preclinical biomedical research. Several imaging methods have been developed and are continuously updated for both in vivo and in vitro applications, in order to increase the information about the structure, localization and function of molecules involved in physiology and disease. Along with these progresses, there is a continuous need for improving labeling strategies. In the last decades, the single domain antigen-binding fragments nanobodies (Nbs) emerged as important molecular imaging probes. Indeed, their small size (~15 kDa), high stability, affinity and modularity represent desirable features for imaging applications, providing higher tissue penetration, rapid targeting, increased spatial resolution and fast clearance. Accordingly, several Nb-based probes have been generated and applied to a variety of imaging modalities, ranging from in vivo and in vitro preclinical imaging to super-resolution microscopy. In this review, we will provide an overview of the state-of-the-art regarding the use of Nbs in several imaging modalities, underlining their extreme versatility and their enormous potential in targeting molecules and cells of interest in both preclinical and clinical studies.
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