Cancers

Editorial

4 pages, 192 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Corruptive Reprograming of Macrophages into Tumor-Associated Macrophages: The Transcriptional, Epigenetic and Metabolic Basis

by Aamir Ahmad

Cancers 2023, 15(17), 4291; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15174291 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1115

Abstract

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is an important place with regard to the growth and sustenance of tumor cells [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

Research

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20 pages, 4079 KiB

Open AccessArticle

KIR+ CD8+ T Lymphocytes in Cancer Immunosurveillance and Patient Survival: Gene Expression Profiling

by Lourdes Gimeno, Emilio M. Serrano-López, José A. Campillo, María A. Cánovas-Zapata, Omar S. Acuña, Francisco García-Cózar, María V. Martínez-Sánchez, María D. Martínez-Hernández, María F. Soto-Ramírez, Pedro López-Cubillana, Jorge Martínez-Escribano, Jerónimo Martínez-García, Senena Corbalan-García, María R. Álvarez-López and Alfredo Minguela

Cancers 2020, 12(10), 2991; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12102991 - 15 Oct 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4311

Abstract

Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) are expressed by natural killer (NK) and effector T cells. Although KIR+ T cells accumulate in oncologic patients, their role in cancer immune response remains elusive. This study explored the role of KIR+CD8+ T cells in cancer immunosurveillance by [...] Read more.

Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) are expressed by natural killer (NK) and effector T cells. Although KIR+ T cells accumulate in oncologic patients, their role in cancer immune response remains elusive. This study explored the role of KIR+CD8+ T cells in cancer immunosurveillance by analyzing their frequency at diagnosis in the blood of 249 patients (80 melanomas, 80 bladder cancers, and 89 ovarian cancers), their relationship with overall survival (OS) of patients, and their gene expression profiles. KIR2DL1+ CD8+ T cells expanded in the presence of HLA-C2-ligands in patients who survived, but it did not in patients who died. In contrast, presence of HLA-C1-ligands was associated with dose-dependent expansions of KIR2DL2/S2+ CD8+ T cells and with shorter OS. KIR interactions with their specific ligands profoundly impacted CD8+ T cell expression profiles, involving multiple signaling pathways, effector functions, the secretome, and consequently, the cellular microenvironment, which could impact their cancer immunosurveillance capacities. KIR2DL1/S1+ CD8+ T cells showed a gene expression signature related to efficient tumor immunosurveillance, whereas KIR2DL2/L3/S2+CD8+ T cells showed transcriptomic profiles related to suppressive anti-tumor responses. These results could be the basis for the discovery of new therapeutic targets so that the outcome of patients with cancer can be improved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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18 pages, 4659 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of the DNAM-1, TIGIT and TACTILE Axis on Circulating NK, NKT-Like and T Cell Subsets in Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia

by Isabel Valhondo, Fakhri Hassouneh, Nelson Lopez-Sejas, Alejandra Pera, Beatriz Sanchez-Correa, Beatriz Guerrero, Juan M. Bergua, Maria Jose Arcos, Helena Bañas, Ignacio Casas-Avilés, Joaquin Sanchez-Garcia, Josefina Serrano, Carmen Martin, Esther Duran, Corona Alonso, Rafael Solana and Raquel Tarazona

Cancers 2020, 12(8), 2171; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12082171 - 5 Aug 2020

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4386

Abstract

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains a major clinical challenge due to poor overall survival, which is even more dramatic in elderly patients. TIGIT, an inhibitory receptor that interacts with CD155 and CD112 molecules, is considered as a checkpoint in T and [...] Read more.

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains a major clinical challenge due to poor overall survival, which is even more dramatic in elderly patients. TIGIT, an inhibitory receptor that interacts with CD155 and CD112 molecules, is considered as a checkpoint in T and NK cell activation. This receptor shares ligands with the co-stimulatory receptor DNAM-1 and with TACTILE. The aim of this work was to analyze the expression of DNAM-1, TIGIT and TACTILE in NK cells and T cell subsets in AML patients. Methods: We have studied 36 patients at the time of diagnosis of AML and 20 healthy volunteers. The expression of DNAM-1, TIGIT and TACTILE in NK cells and T cells, according to the expression of CD3 and CD56, was performed by flow cytometry. Results: NK cells, CD56− T cells and CD56+ T (NKT-like) cells from AML patients presented a reduced expression of DNAM-1 compared with healthy volunteers. An increased expression of TIGIT was observed in mainstream CD56− T cells. No differences were observed in the expression of TACTILE. Simplified presentation of incredibly complex evaluations (SPICE) analysis of the co-expression of DNAM-1, TIGIT and TACTILE showed an increase in NK and T cells lacking DNAM-1 and co-expressing TIGIT and TACTILE. Low percentages of DNAM-1−TIGIT+TACTILE+ NK cells and DNAM-1− TIGIT+TACTILE+ CD56− T cells were associated with a better survival of AML patients. Conclusions: The expression of DNAM-1 is reduced in NK cells and in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from AML patients compared with those from healthy volunteers. An increased percentage of NK and T cells lacking DNAM-1 and co-expressing TIGIT and TACTILE is associated with patient survival, supporting the role of TIGIT as a novel candidate for checkpoint blockade. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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21 pages, 4193 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thioholgamide A, a New Anti-Proliferative Anti-Tumor Agent, Modulates Macrophage Polarization and Metabolism

by Charlotte Dahlem, Wei Xiong Siow, Maria Lopatniuk, William K. F. Tse, Sonja M. Kessler, Susanne H. Kirsch, Jessica Hoppstädter, Angelika M. Vollmar, Rolf Müller, Andriy Luzhetskyy, Karin Bartel and Alexandra K. Kiemer

Cancers 2020, 12(5), 1288; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12051288 - 19 May 2020

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 5657

Abstract

Natural products represent powerful tools searching for novel anticancer drugs. Thioholgamide A (thioA) is a ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide, which has been identified as a product of Streptomyces sp. MUSC 136T. In this study, we provide a comprehensive biological profile [...] Read more.

Natural products represent powerful tools searching for novel anticancer drugs. Thioholgamide A (thioA) is a ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide, which has been identified as a product of Streptomyces sp. MUSC 136T. In this study, we provide a comprehensive biological profile of thioA, elucidating its effects on different hallmarks of cancer in tumor cells as well as in macrophages as crucial players of the tumor microenvironment. In 2D and 3D in vitro cell culture models thioA showed potent anti-proliferative activities in cancer cells at nanomolar concentrations. Anti-proliferative actions were confirmed in vivo in zebrafish embryos. Cytotoxicity was only induced at several-fold higher concentrations, as assessed by live-cell microscopy and biochemical analyses. ThioA exhibited a potent modulation of cell metabolism by inhibiting oxidative phosphorylation, as determined in a live-cell metabolic assay platform. The metabolic modulation caused a repolarization of in vitro differentiated and polarized tumor-promoting human monocyte-derived macrophages: ThioA-treated macrophages showed an altered morphology and a modulated expression of genes and surface markers. Taken together, the metabolic regulator thioA revealed low activities in non-tumorigenic cells and an interesting anti-cancer profile by orchestrating different hallmarks of cancer, both in tumor cells as well as in macrophages as part of the tumor microenvironment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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18 pages, 4553 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Overexpression of Murine Rnaset2 in a Colon Syngeneic Mouse Carcinoma Model Leads to Rebalance of Intra-Tumor M1/M2 Macrophage Ratio, Activation of T Cells, Delayed Tumor Growth, and Rejection

by Annarosaria De Vito, Paola Orecchia, Enrica Balza, Daniele Reverberi, Debora Scaldaferri, Roberto Taramelli, Douglas M. Noonan, Francesco Acquati and Lorenzo Mortara

Cancers 2020, 12(3), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12030717 - 18 Mar 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4409

Abstract

Human RNASET2 acts as a powerful oncosuppressor protein in in vivo xenograft-based murine models of human cancer. Secretion of RNASET2 in the tumor microenvironment seems involved in tumor suppression, following recruitment of M1-polarized macrophages. Here, we report a murine Rnaset2-based syngeneic in [...] Read more.

Human RNASET2 acts as a powerful oncosuppressor protein in in vivo xenograft-based murine models of human cancer. Secretion of RNASET2 in the tumor microenvironment seems involved in tumor suppression, following recruitment of M1-polarized macrophages. Here, we report a murine Rnaset2-based syngeneic in vivo assay. BALB/c mice were injected with parental, empty vector-transfected or murine Rnaset2-overexpressing mouse C51 or TS/A syngeneic cells and tumor growth pattern and immune cells distribution in tumor mass were investigated. Compared to control cells, mouse Rnaset2-expressing C51 cells showed strong delayed tumor growth. CD86⁺ M1 macrophages were massively recruited in Rnaset2-expressing C51-derived tumors, with concomitant inhibition of MDSCs and CD206⁺ M2 macrophages recruitment. At later times, a relevant expansion of intra-tumor CD8⁺ T cells was also observed. After re-challenge with C51 parental cells, most mice previously injected with Rnaset2-expressing C51 cells still rejected C51 tumor cells, suggesting a Rnaset2-mediated T cell adaptive immune memory response. These results point at T2 RNases as evolutionary conserved oncosuppressors endowed with the ability to inhibit cancer growth in vivo through rebalance of intra-tumor M1/M2 macrophage ratio and concomitant recruitment of adaptive anti-tumor CD8⁺ T cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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16 pages, 1905 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Characterization of Human NK Cell-Derived Exosomes: Role of DNAM1 Receptor in Exosome-Mediated Cytotoxicity against Tumor

by Anna Laura Di Pace, Nicola Tumino, Francesca Besi, Claudia Alicata, Libenzio Adrian Conti, Enrico Munari, Enrico Maggi, Paola Vacca and Lorenzo Moretta

Cancers 2020, 12(3), 661; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12030661 - 12 Mar 2020

Cited by 125 | Viewed by 9426

Abstract

Despite the pivotal role of natural killer (NK) cells in defenses against tumors, their exploitation in cancer treatment is still limited due to their reduced ability to reaching tumor sites and the inhibitory effects of tumor microenvironment (TME) on their function. In this [...] Read more.

Despite the pivotal role of natural killer (NK) cells in defenses against tumors, their exploitation in cancer treatment is still limited due to their reduced ability to reaching tumor sites and the inhibitory effects of tumor microenvironment (TME) on their function. In this study, we have characterized the exosomes from IL2- or IL15-cultured human NK cells. Both cytokines induced comparable amounts of exosomes with similar cargo composition. Analysis of molecules contained within or exposed at the exosome surface, allowed the identification of molecules playing important roles in the NK cell function including IFN-γ, Lymphocyte Function-Associated Antigen (LFA-1), DNAX Accessory Molecule-1 (DNAM1) and Programmed Cell Death Protein (PD-1). Importantly, we show that DNAM1 is involved in exosome-mediated cytotoxicity as revealed by experiments using blocking antibodies to DNAM1 or DNAM1 ligands. In addition, antibody-mediated inhibition of exosome cytotoxicity results in a delay in target cell apoptosis. We also provide evidence that NK-exosomes may exert their cytolytic activity after short time interval and even at low concentrations. Regarding their possible use in immunotherapy, NK exosomes, detectable in peripheral blood, can diffuse into tissues and exert their cytolytic effect at tumor sites. This property offers a clue to integrate cancer treatments with NK exosomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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14 pages, 4293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Depletion of Bone Marrow Resident B-ALL after Systemic Administration of Endosomal TLR Agonists

by Sumin Jo, Abbas Fotovati, Jesus Duque-Afonso, Michael L. Cleary, Peter van den Elzen, Alix E. Seif and Gregor S.D. Reid

Cancers 2020, 12(1), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12010169 - 10 Jan 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3508

Abstract

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric malignancy. While frontline chemotherapy regimens are generally very effective, the prognosis for patients whose leukemia returns remains poor. The presence of measurable residual disease (MRD) in bone marrow at the completion of induction therapy [...] Read more.

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric malignancy. While frontline chemotherapy regimens are generally very effective, the prognosis for patients whose leukemia returns remains poor. The presence of measurable residual disease (MRD) in bone marrow at the completion of induction therapy is the strongest predictor of relapse, suggesting that strategies to eliminate the residual leukemic blasts from this niche could reduce the incidence of recurrence. We have previously reported that toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists achieve durable T cell-mediated protection in transplantable cell line-based models of B cell precursor leukemia (B-ALL). However, the successful application of TLR agonist therapy in an MRD setting would require the induction of anti-leukemic immune activity specifically in the bone marrow, a site of the chemotherapy-resistant leukemic blasts. In this study, we compare the organ-specific depletion of human and mouse primary B-ALL cells after systemic administration of endosomal TLR agonists. Despite comparable splenic responses, only the TLR9 agonist induced strong innate immune responses in the bone marrow and achieved a near-complete elimination of B-ALL cells. This pattern of response was associated with the most significantly prolonged disease-free survival. Overall, our findings identify innate immune activity in the bone marrow that is associated with durable TLR-induced protection against B-ALL outgrowth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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20 pages, 4388 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In the Absence of a TCR Signal IL-2/IL-12/18-Stimulated γδ T Cells Demonstrate Potent Anti-Tumoral Function Through Direct Killing and Senescence Induction in Cancer Cells

by Karin Schilbach, Christian Welker, Naomi Krickeberg, Carlotta Kaißer, Sabine Schleicher and Hisayoshi Hashimoto

Cancers 2020, 12(1), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12010130 - 4 Jan 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5406

Abstract

Abundant IFN-γ secretion, potent cytotoxicity, and major histocompatibility complex-independent targeting of a large spectrum of tumors make γδ T cells attractive candidates for cancer immunotherapy. Upon tumor recognition through the T-cell receptor (TCR), NK-receptors, or NKG2D, γδ T cells generate the pro-inflammatory cytokines [...] Read more.

Abundant IFN-γ secretion, potent cytotoxicity, and major histocompatibility complex-independent targeting of a large spectrum of tumors make γδ T cells attractive candidates for cancer immunotherapy. Upon tumor recognition through the T-cell receptor (TCR), NK-receptors, or NKG2D, γδ T cells generate the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ, or granzymes and perforin that mediate cellular apoptosis. Despite these favorable potentials, most clinical trials testing the adoptive transfer of pharmacologically TCR-targeted and expanded γδ T cells resulted in a limited response. Recently, the TCR-independent activation of γδ T cells was identified. However, the modulation of γδ T cell’s effector functions solely by cytokines remains to be elucidated. In the present study, we systematically analyzed the impact of IL-2, IL-12, and IL-18 in parallel with TCR stimulation on proliferation, cytokine production, and anti-tumor activity of γδ T cells. Our results demonstrate that IL-12 and IL-18, when combined, constitute the most potent stimulus to enhance anti-tumor activity and induce proliferation and IFN-γ production by γδ T cells in the absence of TCR signaling. Intriguingly, stimulation with IL-12 and IL-18 without TCR stimulus induces a comparable degree of anti-tumor activity in γδ T cells to TCR crosslinking by killing tumor cells and driving cancer cells into senescence. These findings approve the use of IL-12/IL-18-stimulated γδ T cells for adoptive cell therapy to boost anti-tumor activity by γδ T cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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15 pages, 1432 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Induction of NK Cell Reactivity against B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia by an Fc-Optimized FLT3 Antibody

by Bastian J. Schmied, Martina S. Lutz, Fabian Riegg, Latifa Zekri, Jonas S. Heitmann, Hans-Jörg Bühring, Gundram Jung and Helmut R. Salih

Cancers 2019, 11(12), 1966; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11121966 - 6 Dec 2019

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3976

Abstract

Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) is a major mechanism by which antitumor antibodies mediate therapeutic efficacy. At present, we evaluate an Fc-optimized (amino acid substitutions S239D/I332E) FLT3 antibody termed 4G8-SDIEM (FLYSYN) in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (NCT02789254). Here we studied the possibility to [...] Read more.

Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) is a major mechanism by which antitumor antibodies mediate therapeutic efficacy. At present, we evaluate an Fc-optimized (amino acid substitutions S239D/I332E) FLT3 antibody termed 4G8-SDIEM (FLYSYN) in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (NCT02789254). Here we studied the possibility to induce NK cell ADCC against B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) by Fc-optimized FLT3 antibody treatment. Flow cytometric analysis confirmed that FLT3 is widely expressed on B-ALL cell lines and leukemic cells of B-ALL patients. FLT3 expression did not correlate with that of CD20, which is targeted by Rituximab, a therapeutic monoclonal antibody (mAb) employed in B-ALL treatment regimens. Our FLT3 mAb with enhanced affinity to the Fc receptor CD16a termed 4G8-SDIE potently induced NK cell reactivity against FLT3-transfectants, the B-ALL cell line SEM and primary leukemic cells of adult B-ALL patients in a target-antigen dependent manner as revealed by analyses of NK cell activation and degranulation. This was mirrored by potent 4G8-SDIE mediated NK cell ADCC in experiments with FLT3-transfectants, the cell line SEM and primary cells as target cells. Taken together, the findings presented in this study provide evidence that 4G8-SDIE may be a promising agent for the treatment of B-ALL, particularly in CD20-negative cases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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19 pages, 4438 KiB

Open AccessArticle

IL-33 Promotes CD11b/CD18-Mediated Adhesion of Eosinophils to Cancer Cells and Synapse-Polarized Degranulation Leading to Tumor Cell Killing

by Sara Andreone, Francesca Spadaro, Carla Buccione, Jacopo Mancini, Antonella Tinari, Paola Sestili, Adriana Rosa Gambardella, Valeria Lucarini, Giovanna Ziccheddu, Isabella Parolini, Cristiana Zanetti, Maria Teresa D’Urso, Adele De Ninno, Luca Businaro, Claudia Afferni, Fabrizio Mattei and Giovanna Schiavoni

Cancers 2019, 11(11), 1664; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11111664 - 26 Oct 2019

Cited by 61 | Viewed by 6061

Abstract

Eosinophils are major effectors of Th2-related pathologies, frequently found infiltrating several human cancers. We recently showed that eosinophils play an essential role in anti-tumor responses mediated by immunotherapy with the ‘alarmin’ intereukin-33 (IL-33) in melanoma mouse models. Here, we analyzed the mechanisms by [...] Read more.

Eosinophils are major effectors of Th2-related pathologies, frequently found infiltrating several human cancers. We recently showed that eosinophils play an essential role in anti-tumor responses mediated by immunotherapy with the ‘alarmin’ intereukin-33 (IL-33) in melanoma mouse models. Here, we analyzed the mechanisms by which IL-33 mediates tumor infiltration and antitumor activities of eosinophils. We show that IL-33 recruits eosinophils indirectly, via stimulation of tumor cell-derived chemokines, while it activates eosinophils directly, up-regulating CD69, the adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and CD11b/CD18, and the degranulation marker CD63. In co-culture experiments with four different tumor cell lines, IL-33-activated eosinophils established large numbers of stable cell conjugates with target tumor cells, with the polarization of eosinophil effector proteins (ECP, EPX, and granzyme-B) and CD11b/CD18 to immune synapses, resulting in efficient contact-dependent degranulation and tumor cell killing. In tumor-bearing mice, IL-33 induced substantial accumulation of degranulating eosinophils within tumor necrotic areas, indicating cytotoxic activity in vivo. Blocking of CD11b/CD18 signaling significantly reduced IL-33-activated eosinophils’ binding and subsequent killing of tumor cells, indicating a crucial role for this integrin in triggering degranulation. Our findings provide novel mechanistic insights for eosinophil-mediated anti-tumoral function driven by IL-33. Treatments enabling tumor infiltration and proper activation of eosinophils may improve therapeutic response in cancer patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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16 pages, 2205 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extracellular Vesicles from Human Advanced-Stage Prostate Cancer Cells Modify the Inflammatory Response of Microenvironment-Residing Cells

by Letizia Mezzasoma, Egidia Costanzi, Paolo Scarpelli, Vincenzo Nicola Talesa and Ilaria Bellezza

Cancers 2019, 11(9), 1276; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11091276 - 30 Aug 2019

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4063

Abstract

Prostate cancer (PCa) progression is strictly associated with microenvironmental conditions, which can be modified by cancer-released extracellular vesicles (EVs), important mediators of cell-cell communication. However, the role of EVs in the inflammatory cross-talk between cancer cells and microenvironment-residing cells remains largely unknown. To [...] Read more.

Prostate cancer (PCa) progression is strictly associated with microenvironmental conditions, which can be modified by cancer-released extracellular vesicles (EVs), important mediators of cell-cell communication. However, the role of EVs in the inflammatory cross-talk between cancer cells and microenvironment-residing cells remains largely unknown. To evaluate the role of EVs in the tumour microenvironment, we treated the non-cancerous prostate cell line PNT2 with EVs isolated from advanced-stage prostate cancer PC3 (PC3-EVs). Caspase-1-mediated IL-1β maturation was evaluated after 24 h incubation with EVs. Moreover, the effect of PC3-EVs on differentiated macrophagic THP-1 cells was assessed by analyzing cytokine expression and PC3 cells migration and proliferation profiles. We illustrated that PC3 cells contain active NLRP3-inflammasome cascade and secrete IL-1β. PC3-EVs affect the PNT2 inflammatory response, inducing caspase-1-mediated IL-1β maturation via ERK1/2-mediated lysosomal destabilization and cathepsin B activation. We also verified that PC3-EVs induce a functional TAM-like polarization in differentiated THP-1 cells. Our results demonstrated that cancer-derived EVs induce an inflammatory response in non-cancerous prostate cells, while inducing an immunomodulatory phenotype in immune cells. These apparently contradictory effects are both committed to strengthening the tumour-promoting microenvironment Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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20 pages, 2673 KiB

Open AccessArticle

CD56 Homodimerization and Participation in Anti-Tumor Immune Effector Cell Functioning: A Role for Interleukin-15

by Heleen H. Van Acker, Zoë P. Van Acker, Maarten Versteven, Peter Ponsaerts, Daniela Pende, Zwi N. Berneman, Sébastien Anguille, Viggo F. Van Tendeloo and Evelien L. Smits

Cancers 2019, 11(7), 1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11071029 - 22 Jul 2019

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5338

Abstract

A particularly interesting marker to identify anti-tumor immune cells is the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), also known as cluster of differentiation (CD)56. Namely, hematopoietic expression of CD56 seems to be confined to powerful effector immune cells. Here, we sought to elucidate its [...] Read more.

A particularly interesting marker to identify anti-tumor immune cells is the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), also known as cluster of differentiation (CD)56. Namely, hematopoietic expression of CD56 seems to be confined to powerful effector immune cells. Here, we sought to elucidate its role on various killer immune cells. First, we identified the high motility NCAM-120 molecule to be the main isoform expressed by immune cells. Next, through neutralization of surface CD56, we were able to (1) demonstrate the direct involvement of CD56 in tumor cell lysis exerted by CD56-expressing killer cells, such as natural killer cells, gamma delta (γδ) T cells, and interleukin (IL)-15-cultured dendritic cells (DCs), and (2) reveal a putative crosstalk mechanism between IL-15 DCs and CD8 T cells, suggesting CD56 as a co-stimulatory molecule in their cell-to-cell contact. Moreover, by means of a proximity ligation assay, we visualized the CD56 homophilic interaction among cancer cells and between immune cells and cancer cells. Finally, by blocking the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)–Akt pathway, we showed that IL-15 stimulation directly led to CD56 upregulation. In conclusion, these results underscore the previously neglected importance of CD56 expression on immune cells, benefiting current and future immune therapeutic options. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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20 pages, 12062 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cryopreserved Human Natural Killer Cells Exhibit Potent Antitumor Efficacy against Orthotopic Pancreatic Cancer through Efficient Tumor-Homing and Cytolytic Ability

by Eonju Oh, Bokyung Min, Yan Li, ChunYing Lian, JinWoo Hong, Gyeong-min Park, Bitna Yang, Sung Yoo Cho, Yu Kyeong Hwang and Chae-Ok Yun

Cancers 2019, 11(7), 966; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11070966 - 9 Jul 2019

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 7828

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer is known to be highly aggressive, and desmoplasia-induced accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), which is a hallmark of many pancreatic cancers, severely restricts the therapeutic efficacy of both immunotherapeutics and conventional chemotherapeutics due to the ECM functioning as a major physical [...] Read more.

Pancreatic cancer is known to be highly aggressive, and desmoplasia-induced accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), which is a hallmark of many pancreatic cancers, severely restricts the therapeutic efficacy of both immunotherapeutics and conventional chemotherapeutics due to the ECM functioning as a major physical barrier against permeation and penetration. In the case of cell-based immunotherapeutics, there are several other bottlenecks preventing translation into clinical use due to their biological nature; for example, poor availability of cell therapeutic in a readily usable form due to difficulties in production, handling, shipping, and storage. To address these challenges, we have isolated allogeneic natural killer (NK) cells from healthy donors and expanded them in vitro to generate cryopreserved stocks. These cryopreserved NK cells were thawed to evaluate their therapeutic efficacy against desmoplastic pancreatic tumors, ultimately aiming to develop a readily accessible and mass-producible off-the-shelf cell-based immunotherapeutic. The cultured NK cells post-thawing retained highly pure populations of activated NK cells that expressed various activating receptors and a chemokine receptor. Furthermore, systemic administration of NK cells induced greater in vivo tumor growth suppression when compared with gemcitabine, which is the standard chemotherapeutic used for pancreatic cancer treatment. The potent antitumor effect of NK cells was mediated by efficient tumor-homing ability and infiltration into desmoplastic tumor tissues. Moreover, the infiltration of NK cells led to strong induction of apoptosis, elevated expression of the antitumor cytokine interferon (IFN)-γ, and inhibited expression of the immunosuppressive transforming growth factor (TGF)-β in tumor tissues. Expanded and cryopreserved NK cells are strong candidates for future cell-mediated systemic immunotherapy against pancreatic cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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18 pages, 1813 KiB

Open AccessArticle

BCG Therapy of Bladder Cancer Stimulates a Prolonged Release of the Chemoattractant CXCL10 (IP10) in Patient Urine

by Omodele Ashiru, Gloria Esteso, Eva M. García‐Cuesta, Eva Castellano, Celia Samba, Eva Escudero-López, Sheila López‐Cobo, Mario Álvarez-Maestro, Ana Linares, Mei M. Ho, Asier Leibar, Luis Martínez‐Piñeiro and Mar Valés‐Gómez

Cancers 2019, 11(7), 940; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11070940 - 4 Jul 2019

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5669

Abstract

Background: Intra-vesical instillation of Bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG), an attenuated strain of Mycobacterium bovis, is an effective therapy for high-grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), which provokes a local immune response resulting in 70% of patients free of relapse after three years. Because [...] Read more.

Background: Intra-vesical instillation of Bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG), an attenuated strain of Mycobacterium bovis, is an effective therapy for high-grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), which provokes a local immune response resulting in 70% of patients free of relapse after three years. Because non-responder patients usually have a bad prognosis, the early identification of treatment failure is crucial. We hypothesized that, if an effective immune response was taking place in the bladder, soluble factors would be released to the urine many days after BCG instillations. Methods: An extensive panel of cytokines and chemokines released into the urine seven days after every BCG instillation was screened in a cohort of NMIBC patients over three years. Results: The determinations of the urinary concentrations of cytokines, chemokines, and creatinine showed that increasing concentrations of C-X-C motif chemokine 10 (CXCL10) also known as interferon-inducible protein 10 (IP10) could be detected during the six-week induction cycle of BCG-treated patients released into the urine by CD14⁺ cells. In vitro, CXCL10 facilitated the recruitment of effector immune cells after the BCG-mediated upregulation of CXCR3 in both T- and natural killer (NK)-cells. Conclusions: The high concentrations of chemokine detected one week after the encounter with mycobacteria suggest that the CXCL10 axis might be related to the intensity of the immune anti-tumor response. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

24 pages, 1444 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Innate Immune Signalling Pathways: Turning RIG-I Sensor Activation against Cancer

by Sandra Iurescia, Daniela Fioretti and Monica Rinaldi

Cancers 2020, 12(11), 3158; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12113158 - 27 Oct 2020

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 7511

Abstract

Over the last 15 years, the ability to harness a patient’s own immune system has led to significant progress in cancer therapy. For instance, immunotherapeutic strategies, including checkpoint inhibitors or adoptive cell therapy using chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T), are specifically aimed at [...] Read more.

Over the last 15 years, the ability to harness a patient’s own immune system has led to significant progress in cancer therapy. For instance, immunotherapeutic strategies, including checkpoint inhibitors or adoptive cell therapy using chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T), are specifically aimed at enhancing adaptive anti-tumour immunity. Several research groups demonstrated that adaptive anti-tumour immunity is highly sustained by innate immune responses. Host innate immunity provides the first line of defence and mediates recognition of danger signals through pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), such as cytosolic sensors of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) signals. The retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) is a cytosolic RNA helicase, which detects viral double-strand RNA and, once activated, triggers signalling pathways, converging on the production of type I interferons, proinflammatory cytokines, and programmed cell death. Approaches aimed at activating RIG-I within cancers are being explored as novel therapeutic treatments to generate an inflammatory tumour microenvironment and to facilitate cytotoxic T-cell cross-priming and infiltration. Here, we provide an overview of studies regarding the role of RIG-I signalling in the tumour microenvironment, and the most recent preclinical studies that employ RIG-I agonists. Lastly, we present a selection of clinical trials designed to prove the antitumour role of RIG I and that may result in improved therapeutic outcomes for cancer patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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25 pages, 675 KiB

Open AccessReview

Tumor-Associated Macrophage Status in Cancer Treatment

by Anna Maria Malfitano, Simona Pisanti, Fabiana Napolitano, Sarah Di Somma, Rosanna Martinelli and Giuseppe Portella

Cancers 2020, 12(7), 1987; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12071987 - 21 Jul 2020

Cited by 125 | Viewed by 9949

Abstract

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) represent the most abundant innate immune cells in tumors. TAMs, exhibiting anti-inflammatory phenotype, are key players in cancer progression, metastasis and resistance to therapy. A high TAM infiltration is generally associated with poor prognosis, but macrophages are highly plastic cells [...] Read more.

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) represent the most abundant innate immune cells in tumors. TAMs, exhibiting anti-inflammatory phenotype, are key players in cancer progression, metastasis and resistance to therapy. A high TAM infiltration is generally associated with poor prognosis, but macrophages are highly plastic cells that can adopt either proinflammatory/antitumor or anti-inflammatory/protumor features in response to tumor microenvironment stimuli. In the context of cancer therapy, many anticancer therapeutics, apart from their direct effect on tumor cells, display different effects on TAM activation status and density. In this review, we aim to evaluate the indirect effects of anticancer therapies in the modulation of TAM phenotypes and pro/antitumor activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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15 pages, 887 KiB

Open AccessReview

Roles of NK Cell Receptors 2B4 (CD244), CS1 (CD319), and LLT1 (CLEC2D) in Cancer

by Casey W. Buller, Porunelloor A. Mathew and Stephen O. Mathew

Cancers 2020, 12(7), 1755; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12071755 - 1 Jul 2020

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 9948

Abstract

Natural killer (NK) cells play a pivotal role in the immune system, especially in the recognition and clearance of cancer cells and infected cells. Their effector function is controlled by a delicate balance between the activating and inhibitory signals. We have identified 2B4 [...] Read more.

Natural killer (NK) cells play a pivotal role in the immune system, especially in the recognition and clearance of cancer cells and infected cells. Their effector function is controlled by a delicate balance between the activating and inhibitory signals. We have identified 2B4 (CD244, SLAMF4) and CS1 (CD319, SLAMF7) as NK cell receptors regulating NK cell cytotoxicity. Lectin-like transcript 1 (LLT1), a member of the C-type lectin-like domain family 2 (CLEC2D), induced IFN-γ production but did not directly regulate cytolytic activity. Interestingly, LLT1 expressed on other cells acts as a ligand for an NK cell inhibitory receptor NKRP1A (CD161) and inhibits NK cytolytic function. Extensive research has been done on novel therapies that target these receptors to increase the effector function of NK cells. The 2B4 receptor is involved in the rejection of melanoma cells in mice. Empliciti, an FDA-approved monoclonal antibody, explicitly targets the CS1 receptor and enhances the NK cell cytotoxicity against multiple myeloma cells. Our studies revealed that LLT1 is expressed on prostate cancer and triple-negative breast cancer cells and allows them to evade NK-cell-mediated killing. In this review, we describe NK cell receptors 2B4, CS1, and LLT1 and their potential in targeting cancer cells for NK-cell-mediated immunotherapy. New cancer immunotherapies like chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) and NK (CAR-NK) cells are showing great promise in the treatment of cancer, and CAR cells specific to these receptors would be an attractive therapeutic option. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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40 pages, 1752 KiB

Open AccessReview

Transcriptional, Epigenetic and Metabolic Programming of Tumor-Associated Macrophages

by Irina Larionova, Elena Kazakova, Marina Patysheva and Julia Kzhyshkowska

Cancers 2020, 12(6), 1411; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12061411 - 29 May 2020

Cited by 79 | Viewed by 12509

Abstract

Macrophages are key innate immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that regulate primary tumor growth, vascularization, metastatic spread and tumor response to various types of therapies. The present review highlights the mechanisms of macrophage programming in tumor microenvironments that act on the [...] Read more.

Macrophages are key innate immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that regulate primary tumor growth, vascularization, metastatic spread and tumor response to various types of therapies. The present review highlights the mechanisms of macrophage programming in tumor microenvironments that act on the transcriptional, epigenetic and metabolic levels. We summarize the latest knowledge on the types of transcriptional factors and epigenetic enzymes that control the direction of macrophage functional polarization and their pro- and anti-tumor activities. We also focus on the major types of metabolic programs of macrophages (glycolysis and fatty acid oxidation), and their interaction with cancer cells and complex TME. We have discussed how the regulation of macrophage polarization on the transcriptional, epigenetic and metabolic levels can be used for the efficient therapeutic manipulation of macrophage functions in cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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19 pages, 1023 KiB

Open AccessReview

Natural Killer Cell Responses in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Implications for Novel Immunotherapeutic Approaches

by Stefania Mantovani, Barbara Oliviero, Stefania Varchetta, Dalila Mele and Mario U. Mondelli

Cancers 2020, 12(4), 926; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12040926 - 9 Apr 2020

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 7477

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) still represents a significant complication of chronic liver disease, particularly when cirrhosis ensues. Current treatment options include surgery, loco-regional procedures and chemotherapy, according to specific clinical practice guidelines. Immunotherapy with check-point inhibitors, aimed at rescuing T-cells from exhaustion, has been [...] Read more.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) still represents a significant complication of chronic liver disease, particularly when cirrhosis ensues. Current treatment options include surgery, loco-regional procedures and chemotherapy, according to specific clinical practice guidelines. Immunotherapy with check-point inhibitors, aimed at rescuing T-cells from exhaustion, has been applied as second-line therapy with limited and variable success. Natural killer (NK) cells are an essential component of innate immunity against cancer and changes in phenotype and function have been described in patients with HCC, who also show perturbations of NK activating receptor/ligand axes. Here we discuss the current status of NK cell treatment of HCC on the basis of existing evidence and ongoing clinical trials on adoptive transfer of autologous or allogeneic NK cells ex vivo or after activation with cytokines such as IL-15 and use of antibodies to target cell-expressed molecules to promote antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). To this end, bi-, tri- and tetra-specific killer cell engagers are being devised to improve NK cell recognition of tumor cells, circumventing tumor immune escape and efficiently targeting NK cells to tumors. Moreover, the exciting technique of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered NK cells offers unique opportunities to create CAR-NK with multiple specificities along the experience gained with CAR-T cells with potentially less adverse effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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21 pages, 1544 KiB

Open AccessReview

Innate and Adaptive Immunity Linked to Recognition of Antigens Shared by Neural Crest-Derived Tumors

by Giuseppe Donato, Ivan Presta, Biagio Arcidiacono, Marco F.M. Vismara, Annalidia Donato, Nastassia C. Garo and Natalia Malara

Cancers 2020, 12(4), 840; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12040840 - 31 Mar 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4937

Abstract

In the adult, many embryologic processes can be co-opted by during cancer progression. The mechanisms of divisions, migration, and the ability to escape immunity recognition linked to specific embryo antigens are also expressed by malignant cells. In particular, cells derived from neural crests [...] Read more.

In the adult, many embryologic processes can be co-opted by during cancer progression. The mechanisms of divisions, migration, and the ability to escape immunity recognition linked to specific embryo antigens are also expressed by malignant cells. In particular, cells derived from neural crests (NC) contribute to the development of multiple cell types including melanocytes, craniofacial cartilage, glia, neurons, peripheral and enteric nervous systems, and the adrenal medulla. This plastic performance is due to an accurate program of gene expression orchestrated with cellular/extracellular signals finalized to regulate long-distance migration, proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and survival. During neurulation, prior to initiating their migration, NC cells must undergo an epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in which they alter their actin cytoskeleton, lose their cell–cell junctions, apicobasal polarity, and acquire a motile phenotype. Similarly, during the development of the tumors derived from neural crests, comprising a heterogeneous group of neoplasms (Neural crest-derived tumors (NCDTs)), a group of genes responsible for the EMT pathway is activated. Here, retracing the molecular pathways performed by pluripotent cells at the boundary between neural and non-neural ectoderm in relation to the natural history of NCDT, points of contact or interposition are highlighted to better explain the intricate interplay between cancer cells and the innate and adaptive immune response. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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19 pages, 586 KiB

Open AccessReview

NK and NKT Cell-Mediated Immune Surveillance against Hematological Malignancies

by Kanako Shimizu, Tomonori Iyoda, Satoru Yamasaki, Norimitsu Kadowaki, Arinobu Tojo and Shin-ichiro Fujii

Cancers 2020, 12(4), 817; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12040817 - 28 Mar 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 6821

Abstract

Recent cancer treatment modalities have been intensively focused on immunotherapy. The success of chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy for treatment of refractory B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia has pushed forward research on hematological malignancies. Among the effector types of innate lymphocytes, natural [...] Read more.

Recent cancer treatment modalities have been intensively focused on immunotherapy. The success of chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy for treatment of refractory B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia has pushed forward research on hematological malignancies. Among the effector types of innate lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells show great importance in immune surveillance against infectious and tumor diseases. Particularly, the role of NK cells has been argued in either elimination of target tumor cells or escape of tumor cells from immune surveillance. Therefore, an NK cell activation approach has been explored. Recent findings demonstrate that invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells capable of producing IFN-γ when optimally activated can promptly trigger NK cells. Here, we review the role of NKT and/or NK cells and their interaction in anti-tumor responses by highlighting how innate immune cells recognize tumors, exert effector functions, and amplify adaptive immune responses. In addition, we discuss these innate lymphocytes in hematological disorders, particularly multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia. The immune balance at different stages of both diseases is explored in light of disease progression. Various types of innate immunity-mediated therapeutic approaches, recent advances in clinical immunotherapies, and iNKT-mediated cancer immunotherapy as next-generation immunotherapy are then discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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24 pages, 1180 KiB

Open AccessReview

Targeted Therapies: Friends or Foes for Patient’s NK Cell-Mediated Tumor Immune-Surveillance?

by Laura Damele, Selene Ottonello, Maria Cristina Mingari, Gabriella Pietra and Chiara Vitale

Cancers 2020, 12(4), 774; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12040774 - 25 Mar 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5403

Abstract

In the last 20 years there has been a huge increase in the number of novel drugs for cancer treatment. Most of them exploit their ability to target specific oncogenic mutations in the tumors (targeted therapies–TT), while others target the immune-checkpoint inhibitor molecules [...] Read more.

In the last 20 years there has been a huge increase in the number of novel drugs for cancer treatment. Most of them exploit their ability to target specific oncogenic mutations in the tumors (targeted therapies–TT), while others target the immune-checkpoint inhibitor molecules (ICI) or the epigenetic DNA modifications. Among them, TT are the longest established drugs exploited against a wide spectrum of both solid and hematological tumors, often with reasonable costs and good efficacy as compared to other innovative therapies (i.e., ICI). Although they have greatly improved the treatment of cancer patients and their survival, patients often relapse or develop drug-resistance, leading to the impossibility to eradicate the disease. The outcome of TT has been often correlated with their ability to affect not only tumor cells, but also the repertoire of immune cells and their ability to interact with cancer cells. Thus, the possibility to create novel synergies among drugs an immunotherapy prompted scientists and physicians to deeply characterize the effects of TT on immune cells both by in-vitro and by ex-vivo analyses. In this context, NK cells may represent a key issue, since they have been shown to exert a potent anti-tumor activity, both against hematological malignancies and solid tumors. In the present review we will discuss most recent ex-vivo analyses that clarify the effect of TT treatment on patient’s NK cells comparing them with clinical outcome and previous in-vitro data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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12 pages, 859 KiB

Open AccessReview

Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs): Shaping the Innate Immune Response in Cancers

by Vincent Alcazer, Paola Bonaventura and Stephane Depil

Cancers 2020, 12(3), 610; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12030610 - 6 Mar 2020

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 6801

Abstract

Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs) are accounting for 8% of the human genome. These sequences are remnants from ancient germline infections by exogenous retroviruses. After million years of evolution and multiple integrations, HERVs have acquired many damages rendering them defective. At steady state, HERVs [...] Read more.

Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs) are accounting for 8% of the human genome. These sequences are remnants from ancient germline infections by exogenous retroviruses. After million years of evolution and multiple integrations, HERVs have acquired many damages rendering them defective. At steady state, HERVs are mostly localized in the heterochromatin and silenced by methylation. Multiple conditions have been described to induce their reactivation, including auto-immune diseases and cancers. HERVs re-expression leads to RNA (simple and double-stranded) and DNA production (by reverse transcription), modulating the innate immune response. Some studies also argue for a role of HERVs in shaping the evolution of innate immunity, notably in the development of the interferon response. However, their exact role in the innate immune response, particularly in cancer, remains to be defined. In this review, we see how HERVs could be key-players in mounting an antitumor immune response. After a brief introduction on HERVs characteristics and biology, we review the different mechanisms by which HERVs can interact with the immune system, with a focus on the innate response. We then discuss the potential impact of HERVs expression on the innate immune response in cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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18 pages, 1169 KiB

Open AccessReview

MAIT Cells Come to the Rescue in Cancer Immunotherapy?

by Zuzanna Lukasik, Dirk Elewaut and Koen Venken

Cancers 2020, 12(2), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12020413 - 11 Feb 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 7246

Abstract

Recent progress in immunobiology has led to the observation that, among cells classically categorized as the typical representatives of the adaptive immune system, i.e., T cells, some possess the phenotype of innate cells. Invariant T cells are characterized by T cell receptors recognizing [...] Read more.

Recent progress in immunobiology has led to the observation that, among cells classically categorized as the typical representatives of the adaptive immune system, i.e., T cells, some possess the phenotype of innate cells. Invariant T cells are characterized by T cell receptors recognizing a limited range of non-peptide antigens, presented only in the context of particular molecules. Mucosal-associated invariant T cells (MAIT cells) are an example of such unconventional cells. In humans, they constitute between 1% and 8% of the peripheral blood T lymphocytes and are further enriched in mucosal tissues, mesenteric lymph nodes, and liver, where they can account for even 40% of all the T cells. MAIT cells recognize antigens in the context of major histocompatibility complex class I-related protein (MR1). Upon activation, they instantly release pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediate cytolytic function towards bacterially infected cells. As such, they have been a rapidly evolving research topic not only in the field of infectious diseases but also in the context of many chronic inflammatory diseases and, more recently, in immuno-oncology. Novel findings suggest that MAIT cells function could also be modulated by endogenous ligands and drugs, making them an attractive target for therapeutic approaches. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of MAIT cell biology, their role in health and disease and discuss their future potential in cancer immunotherapy. This is discussed through the prism of knowledge and experiences with invariant natural killer T cells (iNKT)—another prominent unconventional T cell subset that shares many features with MAIT cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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33 pages, 9758 KiB

Open AccessReview

Toll-like Receptors from the Perspective of Cancer Treatment

by Nasir Javaid and Sangdun Choi

Cancers 2020, 12(2), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers12020297 - 27 Jan 2020

Cited by 85 | Viewed by 9158

Abstract

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) represent a family of pattern recognition receptors that recognize certain pathogen-associated molecular patterns and damage-associated molecular patterns. TLRs are highly interesting to researchers including immunologists because of the involvement in various diseases including cancers, allergies, autoimmunity, infections, and inflammation. After [...] Read more.

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) represent a family of pattern recognition receptors that recognize certain pathogen-associated molecular patterns and damage-associated molecular patterns. TLRs are highly interesting to researchers including immunologists because of the involvement in various diseases including cancers, allergies, autoimmunity, infections, and inflammation. After ligand engagement, TLRs trigger multiple signaling pathways involving nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), interferon-regulatory factors (IRFs), and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) for the production of various cytokines that play an important role in diseases like cancer. TLR activation in immune as well as cancer cells may prevent the formation and growth of a tumor. Nonetheless, under certain conditions, either hyperactivation or hypoactivation of TLRs supports the survival and metastasis of a tumor. Therefore, the design of TLR-targeting agonists as well as antagonists is a promising immunotherapeutic approach to cancer. In this review, we mainly describe TLRs, their involvement in cancer, and their promising properties for anticancer drug discovery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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Graphical abstract

25 pages, 858 KiB

Open AccessReview

Natural Killer Cells as Allogeneic Effectors in Adoptive Cancer Immunotherapy

by Kyle B. Lupo and Sandro Matosevic

Cancers 2019, 11(6), 769; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11060769 - 3 Jun 2019

Cited by 148 | Viewed by 11935

Abstract

Natural killer (NK) cells are attractive within adoptive transfer settings in cancer immunotherapy due to their potential for allogeneic use; their alloreactivity is enhanced under conditions of killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) mismatch with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) ligands on cancer cells. In addition [...] Read more.

Natural killer (NK) cells are attractive within adoptive transfer settings in cancer immunotherapy due to their potential for allogeneic use; their alloreactivity is enhanced under conditions of killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) mismatch with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) ligands on cancer cells. In addition to this, NK cells are platforms for genetic modification, and proliferate in vivo for a shorter time relative to T cells, limiting off-target activation. Current clinical studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of allogeneic NK cell adoptive transfer therapies as a means for treatment of hematologic malignancies and, to a lesser extent, solid tumors. However, challenges associated with sourcing allogeneic NK cells have given rise to controversy over the contribution of NK cells to graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). Specifically, blood-derived NK cell infusions contain contaminating T cells, whose activation with NK-stimulating cytokines has been known to lead to heightened release of proinflammatory cytokines and trigger the onset of GvHD in vivo. NK cells sourced from cell lines and stem cells lack contaminating T cells, but can also lack many phenotypic characteristics of mature NK cells. Here, we discuss the available published evidence for the varying roles of NK cells in GvHD and, more broadly, their use in allogeneic adoptive transfer settings to treat various cancers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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20 pages, 1254 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Tumor-Associated Neutrophils in Cancer: Going Pro

by Lingyun Wu, Sugandha Saxena, Mohammad Awaji and Rakesh K. Singh

Cancers 2019, 11(4), 564; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers11040564 - 19 Apr 2019

Cited by 261 | Viewed by 13461

Abstract

The progression of cancer is not only about the tumor cell itself, but also about other involved players including cancer cell recruited immune cells, their released pro-inflammatory factors, and the extracellular matrix. These players constitute the tumor microenvironment and play vital roles in [...] Read more.

The progression of cancer is not only about the tumor cell itself, but also about other involved players including cancer cell recruited immune cells, their released pro-inflammatory factors, and the extracellular matrix. These players constitute the tumor microenvironment and play vital roles in the cancer progression. Neutrophils—the most abundant white blood cells in the circulation system—constitute a significant part of the tumor microenvironment. Neutrophils play major roles linking inflammation and cancer and are actively involved in progression and metastasis. Additionally, recent data suggest that neutrophils could be considered one of the emerging targets for multiple cancer types. This review summarizes the most recent updates regarding neutrophil recruitments and functions in the tumor microenvironment as well as potential development of neutrophils-targeted putative therapeutic strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeting Innate Immunity Cells in Cancer)

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