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Kennedy PT, Saulters EL, Duckworth AD, Lim YJ, Woolley JF, Slupsky JR, Cragg MS, Ward FJ, Dahal LN. Soluble CTLA-4 attenuates T cell activation and modulates anti-tumor immunity. Mol Ther 2024; 32:457-468. [PMID: 38053333 PMCID: PMC10861965 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.11.028] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
CTLA-4 is a crucial immune checkpoint receptor involved in the maintenance of immune homeostasis, tolerance, and tumor control. Antibodies targeting CTLA-4 have been promising treatments for numerous cancers, but the mechanistic basis of their anti-tumoral immune-boosting effects is poorly understood. Although the ctla4 gene also encodes an alternatively spliced soluble variant (sCTLA-4), preclinical/clinical evaluation of anti-CTLA-4-based immunotherapies have not considered the contribution of this isoform. Here, we explore the functional properties of sCTLA-4 and evaluate the efficacy of isoform-specific anti-sCTLA-4 antibody targeting in a murine cancer model. We show that expression of sCTLA-4 by tumor cells suppresses CD8+ T cells in vitro and accelerates growth and experimental metastasis of murine tumors in vivo. These effects were accompanied by modification of the immune infiltrate, notably restraining CD8+ T cells in a non-cytotoxic state. sCTLA-4 blockade with isoform-specific antibody reversed this restraint, enhancing intratumoral CD8+ T cell activation and cytolytic potential, correlating with therapeutic efficacy and tumor control. This previously unappreciated role of sCTLA-4 suggests that the biology and function of multi-gene products of immune checkpoint receptors need to be fully elucidated for improved mechanistic understanding of cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul T Kennedy
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, L69 3GE Liverpool, UK
| | - Emma L Saulters
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, L69 3GE Liverpool, UK
| | - Andrew D Duckworth
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, L69 3GE Liverpool, UK
| | - Yeong Jer Lim
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, L69 3GE Liverpool, UK
| | - John F Woolley
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, L69 3GE Liverpool, UK
| | - Joseph R Slupsky
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, L69 3GE Liverpool, UK
| | - Mark S Cragg
- Centre for Cancer Immunology, University of Southampton, SO16 6YD Southampton, UK
| | - Frank J Ward
- Department of Immunology, University of Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD Aberdeen, UK
| | - Lekh N Dahal
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, L69 3GE Liverpool, UK.
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2
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da Rosa LC, Scales HE, Benson RA, Brewer JM, McInnes IB, Garside P. The effect of abatacept on T-cell activation is not long-lived in vivo. DISCOVERY IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 3:kyad029. [PMID: 38567291 PMCID: PMC10917171 DOI: 10.1093/discim/kyad029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Abatacept, a co-stimulatory blocker comprising the extracellular portion of human CTLA-4 linked to the Fc region of IgG1, is approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. By impairing the interaction between CD28 on T cells and CD80/CD86 on APCs, its mechanisms of action include the suppression of follicular T helper cells (preventing the breach of self-tolerance in B cells), inhibition of cell cycle progression holding T cells in a state described as 'induced naïve' and reduction in DC conditioning. However, less is known about how long these inhibitory effects might last, which is a critical question for therapeutic use in patients. Herein, employing a murine model of OVA-induced DTH, we demonstrate that the effect of abatacept is short-lived in vivo and that the inhibitory effects diminish markedly when treatment is ceased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa C da Rosa
- School of Infection & Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Hannah E Scales
- School of Infection & Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Robert A Benson
- School of Infection & Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - James M Brewer
- School of Infection & Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Iain B McInnes
- School of Infection & Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Paul Garside
- School of Infection & Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
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3
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Hossen MM, Ma Y, Yin Z, Xia Y, Du J, Huang JY, Huang JJ, Zou L, Ye Z, Huang Z. Current understanding of CTLA-4: from mechanism to autoimmune diseases. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1198365. [PMID: 37497212 PMCID: PMC10367421 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1198365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune diseases (ADs) are characterized by the production of autoreactive lymphocytes, immune responses to self-antigens, and inflammation in related tissues and organs. Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) is majorly expressed in activated T cells and works as a critical regulator in the inflammatory response. In this review, we first describe the structure, expression, and how the signaling pathways of CTLA-4 participate in reducing effector T-cell activity and enhancing the immunomodulatory ability of regulatory T (Treg) cells to reduce immune response, maintain immune homeostasis, and maintain autoimmune silence. We then focused on the correlation between CTLA-4 and different ADs and how this molecule regulates the immune activity of the diseases and inhibits the onset, progression, and pathology of various ADs. Finally, we summarized the current progress of CTLA-4 as a therapeutic target for various ADs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Munnaf Hossen
- Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Immunology, Biological Therapy Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Joint Research Laboratory for Rheumatology of Shenzhen University Health Science Center and Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanmei Ma
- Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Immunology, Biological Therapy Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Joint Research Laboratory for Rheumatology of Shenzhen University Health Science Center and Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhihua Yin
- Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
- Joint Research Laboratory for Rheumatology of Shenzhen University Health Science Center and Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuhao Xia
- Department of Immunology, Biological Therapy Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Du
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jim Yi Huang
- Department of Psychology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Jennifer Jin Huang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Linghua Zou
- Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhizhong Ye
- Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
- Joint Research Laboratory for Rheumatology of Shenzhen University Health Science Center and Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhong Huang
- Department of Immunology, Biological Therapy Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- Joint Research Laboratory for Rheumatology of Shenzhen University Health Science Center and Shenzhen Futian Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, Shenzhen, China
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4
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Haraya K, Tachibana T. Translational Approach for Predicting Human Pharmacokinetics of Engineered Therapeutic Monoclonal Antibodies with Increased FcRn-Binding Mutations. BioDrugs 2023; 37:99-108. [PMID: 36449140 PMCID: PMC9709760 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-022-00566-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recently, increasing FcRn binding by Fc engineering has become a promising approach for prolonging the half-life of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). This study is the first to investigate the optimization of an allometric scaling approach for engineered mAbs based on cynomolgus monkey data to predict human pharmacokinetics. METHODS Linear two-compartmental model parameters (clearance [CL]; volume of distribution in the central compartment [Vc]; inter-compartmental clearance [Q]; volume of distribution in the peripheral compartment [Vp]) after the intravenous (IV) injection of engineered mAbs (M252Y/S254T/T256E or M428L/N434S mutations) in cynomolgus monkeys and humans were collected from published data. We explored the optimal exponent for allometric scaling to predict parameters in humans based on cynomolgus monkey data. Moreover, the plasma concentration-time profile of engineered mAbs after IV injection in humans was predicted using parameters estimated based on an optimized exponent. RESULTS For engineered mAbs, a significant positive correlation between cynomolgus monkeys and humans was observed for CL, but not for other parameters. Whereas conventional exponents (CL: 0.8, Q: 0.75, Vc: 1.0, Vp: 0.95) previously established for normal mAbs showed poor prediction accuracy for CL and Q of engineered mAbs, the newly optimized exponents (CL: 0.55, Q: 0.6, Vc: 0.95, Vp: 0.95) achieved superior predictability for engineered mAbs. Moreover, the optimized exponents accurately predicted plasma mAb concentration-time profiles after IV injection of engineered mAbs in humans. CONCLUSIONS We found that engineered mAbs require specially optimized exponents to accurately predict pharmacokinetic parameters and plasma concentration-time profiles after IV injections in humans based on cynomolgus monkey data. This optimized approach can contribute to a more accurate prediction of human pharmacokinetics in the development of engineered mAbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Haraya
- Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 1-135 Komakado, Gotemba, Shizuoka, 412-8513, Japan.
| | - Tatsuhiko Tachibana
- Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 1-135 Komakado, Gotemba, Shizuoka, 412-8513, Japan
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5
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Wang CJ, Petersone L, Edner NM, Heuts F, Ovcinnikovs V, Ntavli E, Kogimtzis A, Fabri A, Elfaki Y, Houghton LP, Hosse RJ, Schubert DA, Frei AP, Ross EM, Walker LSK. Costimulation blockade in combination with IL-2 permits regulatory T cell sparing immunomodulation that inhibits autoimmunity. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6757. [PMID: 36347877 PMCID: PMC9643453 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34477-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Blockade of CD28 costimulation with CTLA-4-Ig/Abatacept is used to dampen effector T cell responses in autoimmune and transplantation settings. However, a significant drawback of this approach is impaired regulatory T cell homeostasis that requires CD28 signaling. Therefore, strategies that restrict the effects of costimulation blockade to effector T cells would be advantageous. Here we probe the relative roles of CD28 and IL-2 in maintaining Treg. We find provision of IL-2 counteracts the regulatory T cell loss induced by costimulation blockade while minimally affecting the conventional T cell compartment. These data suggest that combining costimulation blockade with IL-2 treatment may selectively impair effector T cell responses while maintaining regulatory T cells. Using a mouse model of autoimmune diabetes, we show combined therapy supports regulatory T cell homeostasis and protects from disease. These findings are recapitulated in humanised mice using clinically relevant reagents and provide an exemplar for rational use of a second immunotherapy to offset known limitations of the first.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Jing Wang
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Lina Petersone
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Natalie M Edner
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Frank Heuts
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Vitalijs Ovcinnikovs
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Elisavet Ntavli
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Alexandros Kogimtzis
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Astrid Fabri
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Yassin Elfaki
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Luke P Houghton
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Ralf J Hosse
- Roche Innovation Center Zurich, Roche Pharma Research & Early Development (pRED), Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - David A Schubert
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, Roche Pharma Research & Early Development (pRED), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas P Frei
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, Roche Pharma Research & Early Development (pRED), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ellen M Ross
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK
| | - Lucy S K Walker
- Institute of Immunity & Transplantation, Pears Building, University College London Division of Infection & Immunity, London, UK.
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6
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Jung SM, Kim WU. Targeted Immunotherapy for Autoimmune Disease. Immune Netw 2022; 22:e9. [PMID: 35291650 PMCID: PMC8901705 DOI: 10.4110/in.2022.22.e9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past few decades, biological drugs and small molecule inhibitors targeting inflammatory cytokines, immune cells, and intracellular kinases have become the standard-of-care to treat autoimmune diseases. Inhibition of TNF, IL-6, IL-17, and IL-23 has revolutionized the treatment of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriasis. B cell depletion therapy using anti-CD20 mAbs has shown promising results in patients with neuroinflammatory diseases, and inhibition of B cell survival factors is approved for treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus. Targeting co-stimulatory molecules expressed on Ag-presenting cells and T cells is also expected to have therapeutic potential in autoimmune diseases by modulating T cell function. Recently, small molecule kinase inhibitors targeting the JAK family, which is responsible for signal transduction from multiple receptors, have garnered great interest in the field of autoimmune and hematologic diseases. However, there are still unmet medical needs in terms of therapeutic efficacy and safety profiles. Emerging therapies aim to induce immune tolerance without compromising immune function, using advanced molecular engineering techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Min Jung
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Wan-Uk Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea
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7
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Frank B, Guo H, Lebrec H, Wang X. Application of a newly-developed cynomolgus macaque BiTE-mediated cytotoxic T-lymphocyte activity assay to various immunomodulatory agents in vitro. J Immunotoxicol 2021; 18:154-162. [PMID: 34714999 DOI: 10.1080/1547691x.2021.1992687] [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: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunotoxic potential of drug candidates is assessed through the examination of results from a variety of in vitro and in vivo immunophenotyping and functional study endpoints in pre-clinical studies. CD8+ cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) activity impairment by immunosuppressive agents is recognized to be a potentiating factor for decreased antiviral defense and increased cancer risk. A bi-specific T-cell engager (BiTE®)-mediated CTL activity assay that applies to ex vivo experimentation in non-human primates in the context of toxicology studies was successfully developed and applied in cynomolgus monkey regulatory studies. While an ex vivo analysis conducted in the context of repeat-dose toxicology studies focuses on the long-term impact on CTL function, an in vitro assay with the same experimental design captures acute effects in the presence of the test article. Here, the in vitro assay was applied to a list of drugs with known clinical immunomodulatory impact to understand the applicability of the assay. The results showed this assay was sensitive to a wide range of immunosuppressants directly targeting cell-intrinsic signaling pathways in activated CTL. However, agents executing immuno-modulation through inhibiting cytokines/cytokine receptors, co-stimulatory molecules, and cell adhesion and migration pathways did not impair the CTL activity in this short-term in vitro culture. In addition, anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint blockers enhanced the CTL activity. Taken together, the results here demonstrate that in concordance with their mechanism of action, the in vitro BiTE®-mediated CTL assay is applicable and sensitive to immunomodulatory agents acting via a variety of mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendon Frank
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hao Guo
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hervé Lebrec
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Xiaoting Wang
- Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen Research, Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
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8
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Goenka R, Xu Z, Samayoa J, Banach D, Beam C, Bose S, Dooner G, Forsyth CM, Lu X, Medina L, Sadhukhan R, Sielaff B, Sousa S, Tao Q, Touw D, Wu F, Kingsbury GA, Akamatsu Y. CTLA4-Ig-Based Bifunctional Costimulation Inhibitor Blocks CD28 and ICOS Signaling to Prevent T Cell Priming and Effector Function. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 206:1102-1113. [PMID: 33495237 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2001100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CTLA4-Ig/abatacept dampens activation of naive T cells by blocking costimulation via CD28. It is an approved drug for rheumatoid arthritis but failed to deliver efficacy in a number of other autoimmune diseases. One explanation is that activated T cells rely less on CD28 signaling and use alternate coreceptors for effector function. ICOS is critical for activation of T-dependent humoral immune responses, which drives pathophysiology of IgG-mediated autoimmune diseases. In this study, we asked whether CD28 and ICOS play nonredundant roles for maintenance of T-dependent responses in mouse models. Using a hapten-protein immunization model, we show that during an ongoing germinal center response, combination treatment with CTLA4-Ig and ICOS ligand (ICOSL) blocking Ab completely dissolves ongoing germinal center responses, whereas single agents show only partial activity. Next, we took two approaches to engineer a therapeutic molecule that blocks both pathways. First, we engineered CTLA4-Ig to enhance binding to ICOSL while retaining affinity to CD80/CD86. Using a library approach, binding affinity of CTLA4-Ig to human ICOSL was increased significantly from undetectable to 15-42 nM; however, the affinity was still insufficient to completely block binding of ICOSL to ICOS. Second, we designed a bispecific costimulation inhibitor with high-affinity CTLA4 extracellular domains fused to anti-ICOSL Ab termed bifunctional costimulation inhibitor. With this bispecific approach, we achieved complete inhibition of CD80 and CD86 binding to CD28 as well as ICOS binding to ICOSL. Such bispecific molecules may provide greater therapeutic benefit in IgG-mediated inflammatory diseases compared with CTLA4-Ig alone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhenghai Xu
- AbbVie Redwood City, Redwood City, CA 94306; and
| | | | | | | | - Sahana Bose
- AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605
| | | | | | - Xiaoqing Lu
- AbbVie Cambridge Research Center, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | | | | | | | | | - Qingfeng Tao
- AbbVie Cambridge Research Center, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Debra Touw
- AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605
| | - Fei Wu
- AbbVie Bioresearch Center, Worcester, MA 01605
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Nishimura CD, Pulanco MC, Cui W, Lu L, Zang X. PD-L1 and B7-1 Cis-Interaction: New Mechanisms in Immune Checkpoints and Immunotherapies. Trends Mol Med 2021; 27:207-219. [PMID: 33199209 PMCID: PMC7914151 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Immune checkpoints negatively regulate immune cell responses. Programmed cell death protein 1:programmed death ligand 1 (PD-1:PD-L1) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4):B7-1 are among the most important immune checkpoint pathways, and are key targets for immunotherapies that seek to modulate the balance between stimulatory and inhibitory signals to lead to favorable therapeutic outcomes. The current dogma of these two immune checkpoint pathways has regarded them as independent with no interactions. However, the newly characterized PD-L1:B7-1 ligand-ligand cis-interaction and its ability to bind CTLA-4 and CD28, but not PD-1, suggests that these pathways have significant crosstalk. Here, we propose that the PD-L1:B7-1 cis-interaction brings novel mechanistic understanding of these pathways, new insights into mechanisms of current immunotherapies, and fresh ideas to develop better treatments in a variety of therapeutic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Nishimura
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Marc C Pulanco
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA
| | - Wei Cui
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Liming Lu
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xingxing Zang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA; Department of Urology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA.
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10
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Negron A, Stüve O, Forsthuber TG. Ectopic Lymphoid Follicles in Multiple Sclerosis: Centers for Disease Control? Front Neurol 2020; 11:607766. [PMID: 33363512 PMCID: PMC7753025 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.607766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
While the contribution of autoreactive CD4+ T cells to the pathogenesis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is widely accepted, the advent of B cell-depleting monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapies has shed new light on the complex cellular mechanisms underlying MS pathogenesis. Evidence supports the involvement of B cells in both antibody-dependent and -independent capacities. T cell-dependent B cell responses originate and take shape in germinal centers (GCs), specialized microenvironments that regulate B cell activation and subsequent differentiation into antibody-secreting cells (ASCs) or memory B cells, a process for which CD4+ T cells, namely follicular T helper (TFH) cells, are indispensable. ASCs carry out their effector function primarily via secreted Ig but also through the secretion of both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Memory B cells, in addition to being capable of rapidly differentiating into ASCs, can function as potent antigen-presenting cells (APCs) to cognate memory CD4+ T cells. Aberrant B cell responses are prevented, at least in part, by follicular regulatory T (TFR) cells, which are key suppressors of GC-derived autoreactive B cell responses through the expression of inhibitory receptors and cytokines, such as CTLA4 and IL-10, respectively. Therefore, GCs represent a critical site of peripheral B cell tolerance, and their dysregulation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases. In MS patients, the presence of GC-like leptomeningeal ectopic lymphoid follicles (eLFs) has prompted their investigation as potential sources of pathogenic B and T cell responses. This hypothesis is supported by elevated levels of CXCL13 and circulating TFH cells in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of MS patients, both of which are required to initiate and maintain GC reactions. Additionally, eLFs in post-mortem MS patient samples are notably devoid of TFR cells. The ability of GCs to generate and perpetuate, but also regulate autoreactive B and T cell responses driving MS pathology makes them an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. In this review, we will summarize the evidence from both humans and animal models supporting B cells as drivers of MS, the role of GC-like eLFs in the pathogenesis of MS, and mechanisms controlling GC-derived autoreactive B cell responses in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Negron
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Olaf Stüve
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.,Neurology Section, Veterans Affairs North Texas Health Care System, Medical Service, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Thomas G Forsthuber
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
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11
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Abstract
Therapeutic targeting of immune checkpoints has garnered significant attention in the area of cancer immunotherapy, in which efforts have focused in particular on cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA4) and PD1, both of which are members of the CD28 family. In autoimmunity, these same pathways can be targeted to opposite effect: to curb the over-exuberant immune response. The CTLA4 checkpoint serves as an exemplar, whereby CTLA4 activity is blocked by antibodies in cancer immunotherapy and augmented by the provision of soluble CTLA4 in autoimmunity. Here, we review the targeting of co-stimulatory molecules in autoimmune diseases, focusing in particular on agents directed at members of the CD28 or tumour necrosis factor receptor families. We present the state of the art in co-stimulatory blockade approaches, including rational combinations of immune inhibitory agents, and discuss the future opportunities and challenges in this field.
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12
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Arkadash V, Radisky ES, Papo N. Combinatorial engineering of N-TIMP2 variants that selectively inhibit MMP9 and MMP14 function in the cell. Oncotarget 2018; 9:32036-32053. [PMID: 30174795 PMCID: PMC6112833 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing selective inhibitors for proteolytic enzymes that share high sequence homology and structural similarity is important for achieving high target affinity and functional specificity. Here, we used a combination of yeast surface display and dual-color selective library screening to obtain selective inhibitors for each of the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) MMP14 and MMP9 by modifying the non-specific N-terminal domain of the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (N-TIMP2). We generated inhibitor variants with 30- to 1175-fold improved specificity to each of the proteases, respectively, relative to wild type N-TIMP2. These biochemical results accurately predicted the selectivity and specificity obtained in cell-based assays. In U87MG cells, the activation of MMP2 by MMP14 was inhibited by MMP14-selective blockers but not MMP9-specific inhibitors. Target specificity was also demonstrated in MCF-7 cells stably expressing either MMP14 or MMP9, with only the MMP14-specific inhibitors preventing the mobility of MMP14-expressing cells. Similarly, the mobility of MMP9-expressing cells was inhibited by the MMP9-specific inhibitors, yet was not altered by the MMP14-specific inhibitors. The strategy developed in this study for improving the specificity of an otherwise broad-spectrum inhibitor will likely enhance our understanding of the basis for target specificity of inhibitors to proteolytic enzymes, in general, and to MMPs, in particular. We, moreover, envision that this study could serve as a platform for the development of next-generation, target-specific therapeutic agents. Finally, our methodology can be extended to other classes of proteolytic enzymes and other important target proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Arkadash
- Department of Biotechnology Engineering and the National Institute of Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Evette S Radisky
- Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Niv Papo
- Department of Biotechnology Engineering and the National Institute of Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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Schwarz C, Mahr B, Muckenhuber M, Wekerle T. Belatacept/CTLA4Ig: an update and critical appraisal of preclinical and clinical results. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2018; 14:583-592. [PMID: 29874474 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2018.1485489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The B7/CD28/CTLA4 signaling cascade is the most thoroughly studied costimulatory pathway and blockade with CTLA4Ig (abatacept) or its derivative belatacept has emerged as a valuable option for pharmacologic immune modulation. Several clinical studies have ultimately led to the approval of belatacept for immunosuppression in kidney transplant recipients. Areas covered: This review will discuss the immunological background of costimulation blockade and recent preclinical data and clinical results of CTLA4Ig/belatacept. Expert commentary: The development of belatacept is a major advance in clinical transplantation. However, in spite of promising results in preclinical and clinical trials, clinical use remains limited at present, in part due to increased rates of acute rejection. Recent efforts showing encouraging progress in refining such protocols might be a step toward harnessing the full potential of costimulation blockade-based immunosuppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Schwarz
- a Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery , Medical University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria.,b Section of Transplantation Immunology, Department of Surgery , Medical University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Benedikt Mahr
- b Section of Transplantation Immunology, Department of Surgery , Medical University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Moritz Muckenhuber
- b Section of Transplantation Immunology, Department of Surgery , Medical University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Thomas Wekerle
- b Section of Transplantation Immunology, Department of Surgery , Medical University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria
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