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Zhang Z, Li M, Zhang L, Wang M, Liu D, Tang S, Li Y, Fang X, Ren S. Promising future of breast cancer vaccine asking for multidisciplinary collaboration: a literature review. Front Cell Dev Biol 2025; 13:1578883. [PMID: 40342927 PMCID: PMC12058682 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2025.1578883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2025] [Accepted: 04/10/2025] [Indexed: 05/11/2025] Open
Abstract
Despite improved efficacy of breast cancer vaccine (BCV) made by multidisciplinary collaboration from fields such as materials science and computer science, clinical translation is still far from satisfactory. Herein, we reviewed the evolution trajectory of BCV and summarized the frontier topics and challenges for achieving successful clinical translation. Our analysis suggests that multi-omics and immunoinformatics are increasingly being used to expand target repertoires, and dedicated vaccine platforms are facilitating precise spatiotemporal co-delivery of epitopes and immune modulators. BCV has evolved towards precise delivery, strong immune properties, and combined therapy. Clinical translation requires the joint efforts of experts in clinical oncology, immunology, pharmacology, materials, and computer science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanyi Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Mengyuan Li
- College of Chinese Medicinal Materials, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Maohua Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital Yunnan, Yunnan Cancer Hospital, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Dequan Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital Yunnan, Yunnan Cancer Hospital, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Shicong Tang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital Yunnan, Yunnan Cancer Hospital, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yuhua Li
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital Yunnan, Yunnan Cancer Hospital, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Xuedong Fang
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Colorectal and Anal Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shengnan Ren
- Department of Breast Surgery, Peking University Cancer Hospital Yunnan, Yunnan Cancer Hospital, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
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Zhong R, Guo X, Wu C, Guo Y, Kang Y, You J, Chen F, Chen Q, Chen L. Identification of new HLA-A*0201-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocyte epitopes from LDHC in lung adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2025; 16:1564731. [PMID: 40270965 PMCID: PMC12014551 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2025.1564731] [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: 01/22/2025] [Accepted: 03/19/2025] [Indexed: 04/25/2025] Open
Abstract
Background Lactate dehydrogenase C (LDHC) is a kind of cancer-testis antigen (CTA) that has been reported to be a biomarker for diagnosis, efficacy evaluation, and recurrence monitoring of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). This study aims to assess the value of LDHC in peptide-based vaccines for LUAD immunotherapy. Methods The LDHC recombinant protein was purified and its effect on PC9 cells was evaluated by wound healing assay, Transwell invasion, and migration assay. Ten HLA-A2-restricted LDHC-derived peptides were predicted and synthesized, and the affinity for the HLA-A2 molecule was analyzed by T2 binding assay and molecule docking. Enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISpot) and LDH cytotoxicity assay were performed to determine the interferon-γ (IFN-γ) release level and tumor cell lysis ability of peptide-induced specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Results The LDHC recombinant protein promoted invasion and migration of PC9 cells. Three HLA-A2-restricted LDHC-derived peptides P2 (LDHC170-180, FRYLIGEKLGV), P5 (LDHC116-124, IMKSIIPAI), and P6 (LDHC172-180, YLIGEKLGV) had high affinity for the HLA-A2 molecule at 50 μg/mL. P6 (LDHC172-180, YLIGEKLGV) elicited the strongest IFN-γ-secreting cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response and exhibited potent cytotoxicity against HLA-A2-positive cells with high LDHC expression. Conclusions LDHC may serve as a targetable biomarker for peptide-based immunotherapy of LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruifang Zhong
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaohong Guo
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Chuncai Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhangzhou Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Zhangzhou, China
| | - Yangyi Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Hospital Of LongYan, LongYan, China
| | - Yanli Kang
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fuzhou University Affiliated Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Jianbin You
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fuzhou University Affiliated Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Falin Chen
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fuzhou University Affiliated Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Qianshun Chen
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Fuzhou University Affiliated Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Liangyuan Chen
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Fuzhou University Affiliated Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
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Knafler G, Ho AL, Moore KN, Pollack SM, Navenot JM, Sanderson JP. Melanoma-associated antigen A4: A cancer/testis antigen as a target for adoptive T-cell receptor T-cell therapy. Cancer Treat Rev 2025; 134:102891. [PMID: 39970827 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2025.102891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2024] [Revised: 01/24/2025] [Accepted: 01/25/2025] [Indexed: 02/21/2025]
Abstract
T-cell receptor (TCR) T-cell therapies are adoptive cell therapies in which patient cells are engineered to express TCRs targeting specific cancer antigens and infused back into the patient. Since TCR recognition depends on antigen presentation by the human leukocyte antigen system, TCRs can respond to intracellular antigens. Cancer/testis antigens (CTAs) are a large family of proteins, many of which are only expressed in cancerous tissue and immune-privileged germline sites. Melanoma-associated antigen A4 (MAGE-A4) is an intracellular CTA expressed in healthy testis and placenta, and in a range of cancers, including esophageal, head and neck, gastric, ovarian, colorectal, lung, endometrial, cervical, bladder, breast and prostate cancers; soft tissue sarcomas; urothelial and hepatocellular carcinomas; osteosarcoma; and melanoma. This expression pattern, along with the immunogenicity and potential role in tumorigenesis of MAGE-A4 make it a prime target for TCR T-cell therapy. We outline the preclinical and clinical development of TCR T-cell therapies targeting CTAs for treatment of solid tumors, highlighting the need for extensive preclinical characterization of putative off-target, and potential on-target but off-tumor, effects. We identified ten clinical trials assessing TCR T-cell therapies targeting MAGE-A4. Overall, manageable safety profiles and signals of efficacy have been observed, especially in patients with advanced synovial sarcoma, myxoid/round cell liposarcoma, ovarian, head and neck, and urothelial cancers, with one TCR T-cell therapy approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in August 2024. We also review the limitations, and strategies to enhance efficacy and improve safety, of these therapies, and summarize related immunotherapies targeting MAGE-A4.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alan L Ho
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Weill Medical College of Cornell University New York NY USA
| | - Kathleen N Moore
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center Oklahoma City OK USA
| | - Seth M Pollack
- Lurie Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago IL USA
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Muntiu A, Moresi F, Vincenzoni F, Rossetti DV, Iavarone F, Messana I, Castagnola M, La Rocca G, Mazzucchi E, Olivi A, Urbani A, Sabatino G, Desiderio C. Proteomic Profiling of Pre- and Post-Surgery Saliva of Glioblastoma Patients: A Pilot Investigation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:12984. [PMID: 39684695 DOI: 10.3390/ijms252312984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2024] [Revised: 11/18/2024] [Accepted: 11/27/2024] [Indexed: 12/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an extremely aggressive brain tumor characterized by a high infiltration capability and recurrence rate. Early diagnosis is crucial to improve the prognosis and to personalize the therapeutic approach. This research explored, by LC-MS proteomic analysis after proteolytic digestion, the molecular profile of pre- and post-operative saliva pools from newly diagnosed (ND) GBM patients by comparing different times of collection and tumor recurrence (R). CYCS, PRDX2, RAB1C, PSMB1, KLK6, TMOD3, PAI2, PLBD1, CAST, and AHNAK, all involved in processes of tumor invasiveness and chemo- and radio-resistance, were found to depict the pre-surgery saliva of both ND and R GBM. PADI4 and CRYAB proteins, identified among the most abundant proteins exclusive of ND GBM pre-surgery saliva and classified as proteins elevated in glioma, could have a potential role as disease biomarkers. Selected panels of S100 proteins were found to potentially differentiate ND from R GBM patient saliva. TPD52 and IGKV3, exclusively identified in R GBM saliva, could be additionally distinctive of tumor relapse. Among the proteins identified in all pools, label-free relative quantitation showed statistically significant different levels of TXN, SERPINB5, FABP5, and S100A11 proteins between the pools. All of these proteins showed higher levels in both ND_ and R_T0 pre-surgery saliva with respect to CTRL and different modulation after surgery or chemo-radiotherapy combined treatment, suggesting a role as a potential panel of GBM predictive and prognostic biomarkers. These results highlight and confirm that saliva, a biofluid featured for an easily accessible and low invasiveness collection, is a promising source of GBM biomarkers, showing new potential opportunities for the development of targeted therapies and diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Muntiu
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiana Moresi
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mater Olbia Hospital, 07026 Olbia, Italy
| | - Federica Vincenzoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Diana Valeria Rossetti
- Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche "Giulio Natta", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Iavarone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Messana
- Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche "Giulio Natta", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Castagnola
- Centro Europeo di Ricerca sul Cervello-IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe La Rocca
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Institute of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo Mazzucchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mater Olbia Hospital, 07026 Olbia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Olivi
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Institute of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Urbani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sabatino
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Institute of Neurosurgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Desiderio
- Istituto di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche "Giulio Natta", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 00168 Rome, Italy
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Wei W, Wang Y, Ouyang R, Wang T, Chen R, Yuan X, Wang F, Wu S, Hou H. Machine Learning for Early Discrimination Between Lung Cancer and Benign Nodules Using Routine Clinical and Laboratory Data. Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:7738-7749. [PMID: 39014163 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-024-15762-3] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer poses a global health threat necessitating early detection and precise staging for improved patient outcomes. This study focuses on developing and validating a machine learning-based risk model for early lung cancer screening and staging, using routine clinical data. METHODS Two medical center, observational, retrospective studies were conducted, involving 2312 lung cancer patients and 653 patients with benign nodules. Machine learning techniques, including differential analysis and feature selection, were employed to identify key factors for modeling. The study focused on variables such as nodule density, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), age, and lifestyle habits. The Logistic Regression model was utilized for early diagnoses, and the XGBoost model was utilized for staging based on selected features. RESULTS For early diagnoses, the Logistic Regression model achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.716 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.607-0.826), with 0.703 sensitivity and 0.654 specificity. The XGBoost model excelled in distinguishing late-stage from early-stage lung cancer, exhibiting an AUC of 0.913 (95% CI 0.862-0.963), with 0.909 sensitivity and 0.814 specificity. These findings highlight the model's potential for enhancing diagnostic accuracy and staging in lung cancer. CONCLUSION This study introduces a novel machine learning-based risk model for early lung cancer screening and staging, leveraging routine clinical information and laboratory data. The model shows promise in enhancing accuracy, mitigating overdiagnosis, and improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wei
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Renren Ouyang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Rujia Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xu Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Shiji Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Hongyan Hou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Malla R, Srilatha M, Muppala V, Farran B, Chauhan VS, Nagaraju GP. Neoantigens and cancer-testis antigens as promising vaccine candidates for triple-negative breast cancer: Delivery strategies and clinical trials. J Control Release 2024; 370:707-720. [PMID: 38744346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is gaining prominence as a promising strategy for treating triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Neoantigens (neoAgs) and cancer-testis antigens (CTAs) are tumor-specific targets originating from somatic mutations and epigenetic changes in cancer cells. These antigens hold great promise for personalized cancer vaccines, as supported by preclinical and early clinical evidence in TNBC. This review delves into the potential of neoAgs and CTAs as vaccine candidates, emphasizing diverse strategies and delivery approaches. It also highlights the current status of vaccination modalities undergoing clinical trials in TNBC therapy. A comprehensive understanding of neoAgs, CTAs, vaccination strategies, and innovative delivery methods is crucial for optimizing neoAg-based immunotherapies in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- RamaRao Malla
- Cancer Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, GITAM School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam 530045, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Mundla Srilatha
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati 517502, AP, India
| | - Veda Muppala
- Department of Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Batoul Farran
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Virander Singh Chauhan
- Molecular Medicine Group, Molecular Medicines International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, India
| | - Ganji Purnachandra Nagaraju
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA.
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Song J, Zhang Y, Zhou C, Zhan J, Cheng X, Huang H, Mao S, Zong Z. The dawn of a new Era: mRNA vaccines in colorectal cancer immunotherapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:112037. [PMID: 38599100 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112037] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a typical cancer that accounts for 10% of all new cancer cases annually and nearly 10% of all cancer deaths. Despite significant progress in current classical interventions for CRC, these traditional strategies could be invasive and with numerous adverse effects. The poor prognosis of CRC patients highlights the evident and pressing need for more efficient and targeted treatment. Novel strategies regarding mRNA vaccines for anti-tumor therapy have also been well-developed since the successful application for the prevention of COVID-19. mRNA vaccine technology won the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, signaling a new direction in human anti-cancer treatment: mRNA medicine. As a promising new immunotherapy in CRC and other multiple cancer treatments, the mRNA vaccine has higher specificity, better efficacy, and fewer side effects than traditional strategies. The present review outlines the basics of mRNA vaccines and their advantages over other vaccines and informs an available strategy for developing efficient mRNA vaccines for CRC precise treatment. In the future, more exploration of mRNA vaccines for CRC shall be attached, fostering innovation to address existing limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Song
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yujun Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; Huankui Academy, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chulin Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; The Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jianhao Zhan
- Huankui Academy, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xifu Cheng
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Haoyu Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shengxun Mao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Zhen Zong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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Naik A, Lattab B, Qasem H, Decock J. Cancer testis antigens: Emerging therapeutic targets leveraging genomic instability in cancer. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200768. [PMID: 38596293 PMCID: PMC10876628 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Cancer care has witnessed remarkable progress in recent decades, with a wide array of targeted therapies and immune-based interventions being added to the traditional treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. However, despite these advancements, the challenge of achieving high tumor specificity while minimizing adverse side effects continues to dictate the benefit-risk balance of cancer therapy, guiding clinical decision making. As such, the targeting of cancer testis antigens (CTAs) offers exciting new opportunities for therapeutic intervention of cancer since they display highly tumor specific expression patterns, natural immunogenicity and play pivotal roles in various biological processes that are critical for tumor cellular fitness. In this review, we delve deeper into how CTAs contribute to the regulation and maintenance of genomic integrity in cancer, and how these mechanisms can be exploited to specifically target and eradicate tumor cells. We review the current clinical trials targeting aforementioned CTAs, highlight promising pre-clinical data and discuss current challenges and future perspectives for future development of CTA-based strategies that exploit tumor genomic instability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adviti Naik
- Cancer Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Boucif Lattab
- Cancer Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hanan Qasem
- Cancer Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences (CHLS), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, Qatar
| | - Julie Decock
- Cancer Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences (CHLS), Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, Qatar
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Brišar N, Šuster K, Brezar SK, Vidmar R, Fonović M, Cör A. An Engineered M13 Filamentous Nanoparticle as an Antigen Carrier for a Malignant Melanoma Immunotherapeutic Strategy. Viruses 2024; 16:232. [PMID: 38400008 PMCID: PMC10893169 DOI: 10.3390/v16020232] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophages, prokaryotic viruses, hold great potential in genetic engineering to open up new avenues for vaccine development. Our study aimed to establish engineered M13 bacteriophages expressing MAGE-A1 tumor peptides as a vaccine for melanoma treatment. Through in vivo experiments, we sought to assess their ability to induce robust immune responses. Using phage display technology, we engineered two M13 bacteriophages expressing MAGE-A1 peptides as fusion proteins with either pVIII or pIIII coat proteins. Mice were intraperitoneally vaccinated three times, two weeks apart, using two different engineered bacteriophages; control groups received a wild-type bacteriophage. Serum samples taken seven days after each vaccination were analyzed by ELISA assay, while splenocytes harvested seven days following the second boost were evaluated by ex vivo cytotoxicity assay. Fusion proteins were confirmed by Western blot and nano-LC-MS/MS. The application of bacteriophages was safe, with no adverse effects on mice. Engineered bacteriophages effectively triggered immune responses, leading to increased levels of anti-MAGE-A1 antibodies in proportion to the administered bacteriophage dosage. Anti-MAGE-A1 antibodies also exhibited a binding capability to B16F10 tumor cells in vitro, as opposed to control samples. Splenocytes demonstrated enhanced CTL cytotoxicity against B16F10 cells. We have demonstrated the immunogenic capabilities of engineered M13 bacteriophages, emphasizing their potential for melanoma immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuša Brišar
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, 6310 Izola, Slovenia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Katja Šuster
- Valdoltra Orthopaedic Hospital, 6280 Ankaran, Slovenia;
| | - Simona Kranjc Brezar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Robert Vidmar
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular and Structural Biology, Jozef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.V.); (M.F.)
| | - Marko Fonović
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular and Structural Biology, Jozef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.V.); (M.F.)
| | - Andrej Cör
- Valdoltra Orthopaedic Hospital, 6280 Ankaran, Slovenia;
- Faculty of Education, University of Primorska, 6310 Izola, Slovenia
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Chen Y, Zheng L, Hua W, Wang J, Chen L, Huang A, Zhang W. Fusion of NY-ESO-1 epitope with heat shock protein 70 enhances its induced immune responses and antitumor activity against glioma in vitro. Transl Cancer Res 2024; 13:191-201. [PMID: 38410235 PMCID: PMC10894325 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-23-1476] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Background Glioma is the most common tumor originating in the brain and is difficult to cure. New York esophageal squamous cell carcinoma 1 (NY-ESO-1) is a promising cancer testis antigen (CTA) for tumor immunotherapy, and heat shock proteins (HSPs) can promote the antigen presentation of chaperoned peptides. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of HSP70 and NY-ESO-1 epitope fusion protein for glioma. Methods Recombinant HSP70 protein was purified and fused to NY-ESO-1 epitope to generate HSP70/NY-ESO-1 p86-94. NY-ESO-1 expression was induced in U251 glioma cells via 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-CdR) treatment. Dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with HSP70/NY-ESO-1 p86-94 or NY-ESO-1 protein stimulated NY-ESO-1-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). The killing effect of NY-ESO-1 specific CTLs on U251 cells was detected by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Results 5-Aza-CdR successfully induced NY-ESO-1 expression in U251 cells. NY-ESO-1-stimulated CTLs lysed more significantly with NY-ESO-1-positive U251 cells than with NY-ESO-1-negative cells. The immune response stimulated by a DC-based vaccine of HSP70/NY-ESO-1 p86-94 fusion protein was significantly enhanced compared with that induced by NY-ESO-1 alone. Conclusions These findings indicate that the HSP70/NY-ESO-1 p86-94 may significantly enhance CTLs-mediated cytotoxicity and targeting ability against NY-ESO-1-expressing tumors in vitro. 5-Aza-CdR treatment with HSP70 binding to tumor antigen is a new strategy for immunotherapy of the tumors with poor CTA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Chen
- Department of Pathology and Institute of Oncology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Diagnostical Pathology Center, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lin Zheng
- Department of Pathology and Institute of Oncology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Diagnostical Pathology Center, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Wenxi Hua
- Department of Pathology and Institute of Oncology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Diagnostical Pathology Center, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Pathology and Institute of Oncology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Diagnostical Pathology Center, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lihong Chen
- Department of Pathology and Institute of Oncology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Diagnostical Pathology Center, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Aimin Huang
- Department of Pathology and Institute of Oncology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Diagnostical Pathology Center, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Wenmin Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Institute of Oncology, School of Basic Medical Science, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Diagnostical Pathology Center, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
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11
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Verma S, Swain D, Kushwaha PP, Brahmbhatt S, Gupta K, Sundi D, Gupta S. Melanoma Antigen Family A (MAGE A) as Promising Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets in Bladder Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:246. [PMID: 38254738 PMCID: PMC10813664 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020246] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The Melanoma Antigen Gene (MAGE) is a large family of highly conserved proteins that share a common MAGE homology domain. Interestingly, many MAGE family members exhibit restricted expression in reproductive tissues but are abnormally expressed in various human malignancies, including bladder cancer, which is a common urinary malignancy associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. The recent literature suggests a more prominent role for MAGEA family members in driving bladder tumorigenesis. This review highlights the role of MAGEA proteins, the potential for them to serve as diagnostic or prognostic biomarker(s), and as therapeutic targets for bladder cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiv Verma
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (S.V.); (P.P.K.); (K.G.)
- The Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Diya Swain
- College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (D.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Prem Prakash Kushwaha
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (S.V.); (P.P.K.); (K.G.)
- The Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Smit Brahmbhatt
- College of Arts and Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (D.S.); (S.B.)
| | - Karishma Gupta
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (S.V.); (P.P.K.); (K.G.)
- The Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Debasish Sundi
- Department of Urology, Division of Urologic Oncology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, James Cancer Hospital & Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Sanjay Gupta
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (S.V.); (P.P.K.); (K.G.)
- The Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Nutrition, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Division of General Medical Sciences, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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12
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Zeng X, Nong WX, Zou XQ, Li F, Ge YY, Zhang QM, Luo B, Huang W, Zou JX, Fan R, Xie XX. Prediction and identification of HLA-A*0201-restricted epitopes from cancer testis antigen CT23. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2293299. [PMID: 38100550 PMCID: PMC10730135 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2293299] [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: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-testis antigen CT23 is a class of tumor-associated antigens (TAA) characterized by restricted expression in male germ cells and a variety of tumor tissues. Numerous studies have shown that CT23 is closely related to tumor cell viability, proliferation, metastasis and invasion. CT23 is immunogenic and can cause specific immune response in tumor patients. Therefore, it is considered to be one of the best target antigens for designing therapeutic tumor vaccines and T-cell-mediated tumor immunotherapy. In this study, we initially obtained seven HLA-A*0201-restricted CT23 epitope candidate peptides through the T cell epitope prediction program. Subsequently, a T2 cell binding assay revealed the potential binding of all candidate peptides with HLA-A2 molecules. Notably, peptide P7 (ALLVLCYSI) exhibited the highest affinity, as evidenced by a fluorescence index (FI) of 2.19. Dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with CT23 candidate peptide can stimulate CD8+T cell activation and proliferation, and compared with other candidate peptides, candidate peptide P7 is superior. The cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) stimulated by the peptide P7 had killing effect on tumor cells (HLA-A*0201+, CT23+), but no killing effect on tumor cells (HLA-A*0201-, CT23+). The CTLs induced by the peptide P7 also had a specific killing effect on T2 cells bearing the peptide P7. In summary, our findings suggest that the CT23 peptide P7 (ALLVLCYSI) can induce immune responses and holds potential for tumor-specific CTL therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zeng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Wei-Xia Nong
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Qiong Zou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Ying-Ying Ge
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Qing-Mei Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
- Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Key Laboratory of Basic Research on Regional Diseases (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, P. R. China
| | - Bin Luo
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
- Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Key Laboratory of Basic Research on Regional Diseases (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, P. R. China
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Xia Zou
- Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Rong Fan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Xun Xie
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, P. R. China
- Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Key Laboratory of Basic Research on Regional Diseases (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, P. R. China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment of Regional High Frequency Tumor (Guangxi Medical University), Nanning, P. R. China
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