bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Characterization of INCB086550: A Potent and Novel Small-Molecule PD-L1 Inhibitor
Authors: Koblish Holly K. , Wu Liangxing , Wang Liang-Chuan S. , Liu Phillip C.C. , Wynn Richard , Rios-Doria Jonathan , Spitz Susan , Liu Hao , Volgina Alla , Zolotarjova Nina , Kapilashrami Kanishk , Behshad Elham , Covington Maryanne , Yang Yan-ou , Li Jingwei , Diamond Sharon , Soloviev Maxim , O'Hayer Kevin , Rubin Stephen , Kanellopoulou Chrysi , Yang Gengjie , Rupar Mark , DiMatteo Darlise , Lin Luping , Stevens Christina , Zhang Yue , Thekkat Pramod , Geschwindt Ryan , Marando Cindy , Yeleswaram Swamy , Jackson Jeff , Scherle Peggy , Huber Reid , Yao Wenqing , Hollis Gregory
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Blocking the activity of the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitory receptor with therapeutic antibodies against either the ligand (PD-L1) or PD-1 itself has proven to be an effective treatment modality for multiple cancers. Contrasting with antibodies, small molecules could demonstrate increased tissue penetration, distinct pharmacology, and potentially enhanced antitumor activity. Here, we describe the identification and characterization of INCB086550, a novel, oral, small-molecule PD-L1 inhibitor. In vitro, INCB086550 selectively and potently blocked the PD-L1/PD-1 interaction, induced PD-L1 dimerization and internalization, and induced stimulation-dependent cytokine production in primary human immune cells. In vivo, INCB086550 reduced tumor growth in CD34+ humanized mice and induced T-cell activation gene signatures, consistent with PD-L1/PD-1 pathway blockade. Preliminary data from an ongoing phase I study confirmed PD-L1/PD-1 blockade in peripheral blood cells, with increased immune activation and tumor growth control. These data support continued clinical evaluation of INCB086550 as an alternative to antibody-based therapies.
Significance:
We have identified a potent small-molecule inhibitor of PD-L1, INCB086550, which has biological properties similar to PD-L1/PD-1 monoclonal antibodies and may represent an alternative to antibody therapy. Preliminary clinical data in patients demonstrated increased immune activation and tumor growth control, which support continued clinical evaluation of this approach.

See related commentary by Capparelli and Aplin, p. 1413.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1397
Data from Increased Frequency of ICOS+ CD4 T Cells as a Pharmacodynamic Biomarker for Anti-CTLA-4 Therapy
Authors: Ng Tang Derek , Shen Yu , Sun Jingjing , Wen Sijin , Wolchok Jedd D. , Yuan Jianda , Allison James P. , Sharma Padmanee
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Pharmacodynamic biomarkers can play an important role in understanding whether a therapeutic agent has “hit its target” to impact biologic function. A pharmacodynamic biomarker for anti-CTLA-4 therapy remains to be elucidated. We previously reported that anti-CTLA-4 therapy increases the frequency of CD4 T cells expressing the inducible costimulator (ICOS) molecule. To determine whether the frequency of ICOS+ CD4 T cells could be used as a pharmacodynamic biomarker for anti-CTLA-4 therapy, we carried out flow cytometric studies and statistical analyses on data from 56 individuals, which included 10 healthy donors, 36 patients who received anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibody (mAb), and 10 patients who received treatment with a different immunomodulatory agent (gp100 DNA vaccine). After treatment with anti-CTLA-4 mAb (ipilimumab; Bristol-Myers Squibb), we detected a statistically significant increase in the frequency of ICOS+ CD4 T-cells. After two doses of anti-CTLA-4 therapy, the assay was found to have an estimated specificity of 96% [95% confidence interval (CI), 88–100] and sensitivity of 71% (95% CI, 54–85), with positive expression defined as a frequency that is more than the upper bound of 95% CI among baseline samples from all subjects. Our data suggest that an increased frequency of ICOS+ CD4 T cells measured by flow cytometry can be used as a reproducible pharmacodynamic biomarker to indicate biologic activity in the setting of anti-CTLA-4 therapy, which should enable appropriate immune monitoring to determine whether patients receiving anti-CTLA-4 monotherapy or combination treatment strategies are having an adequate biologic response. Cancer Immunol Res; 1(4); 229–34. ©2013 AACR.
Data from c-Abl Modulates Tumor Cell Sensitivity to Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity
Authors: Murray Joseph C. , Aldeghaither Dalal , Wang Shangzi , Nasto Rochelle E. , Jablonski Sandra A. , Tang Yong , Weiner Louis M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) can modulate cancer cell signal transduction and recruit antitumor immune effector mechanisms—including antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). Although several clinically effective antibodies can promote ADCC, therapeutic resistance is common. We hypothesized that oncogenic signaling networks within tumor cells affect their sensitivity to ADCC. We developed a screening platform and targeted 60 genes derived from an EGFR gene network using RNAi in an in vitro ADCC model system. Knockdown of GRB7, PRKCE, and ABL1 enhanced ADCC by primary and secondary screens. ABL1 knockdown also reduced cell proliferation, independent of its ADCC enhancement effects. c-Abl overexpression decreased ADCC sensitivity and rescued the effects of ABL1 knockdown. Imatinib inhibition of c-Abl kinase activity also enhanced ADCC—phenocopying ABL1 knockdown—against several EGFR-expressing head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines by ex vivo primary natural killer cells. Our findings suggest that combining c-Abl inhibition with ADCC-promoting antibodies, such as cetuximab, could translate into increased therapeutic efficacy of mAbs. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(12); 1186–98. ©2014 AACR.
Data from PARP1 Suppresses the Transcription of PD-L1 by Poly(ADP-Ribosyl)ating STAT3
Authors: Ding Ling , Chen Xi , Xu Xiaqing , Qian Yuli , Liang Guikai , Yao Fengqi , Yao Zhangting , Wu Honghai , Zhang Jieqiong , He Qiaojun , Yang Bo
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Studies have pointed to a role of PARP1 in regulating gene expression through poly(ADP-ribosyl)ating, sequence-specific, DNA-binding transcription factors. However, few examples exist that link this role of PARP1 to the immunogenicity of cancer cells. Here, we report that PARP1 poly(ADP-ribosyl)ates STAT3 and subsequently promotes STAT3 dephosphorylation, resulting in reduced transcriptional activity of STAT3 and expression of PD-L1. In this study, we showed that PARP1 silencing or pharmacologic inhibition enhanced the transcription of PD-L1 in cancer cells, which was accompanied by the upregulation of PD-L1 protein expression, both in the cytoplasm and on the cell surface. This induction of PD-L1 was attenuated in the absence of the transcription factor STAT3. Cell-based studies indicated that PARP1 interacted directly with STAT3 and caused STAT3 poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation. STAT3′s activation of PD-L1 transcription was abolished by the overexpression of wild-type PARP1 but not mutant PARP1, which lacks catalytic activity. PARP1 downregulation or catalytic inhibition enhanced the phosphorylation of STAT3, which was reversed by the ectopic expression of wild-type PARP1 but not by mutated PARP1. An inverse correlation between PARP1 and PD-L1 was also observed in clinical ovarian cancer samples. Overall, our study revealed PARP1-mediated poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation of STAT3 as a key step in inhibiting the transcription of PD-L1, and this mechanism exists in a variety of cancer cells.
Data from Maelstrom Directs Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells to Promote Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression via Activation of the Akt1/RelA/IL8 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Pupu , Chen Xinfeng , Qin Guohui , Yue Dongli , Zhang Zhen , Ping Yu , Wang Dan , Zhao Xuan , Song Mengjia , Zhao Qitai , Li Jieyao , Liu Shasha , Wang Dong , Zhang Chaoqi , Lian Jingyao , Cao Ling , Li Feng , Huang Lan , Wang Liping , Yang Li , Huang Jianmin , Li Hong , Zhang Bin , Zhang Yi
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Maelstrom (MAEL) is a novel cancer/testis-associated gene, which is not only expressed in the male testicular germ cells among human normal tissues, but is also aberrantly expressed in various cancer tissues. In our study, MAEL was characterized as a tumor-promoting gene and was significantly associated with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) recurrence and unfavorable prognosis. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that patients with high MAEL expression had a shorter survival time. Functional experiments showed that MAEL promoted tumor cell growth and inhibited cell apoptosis. These results prompted us to investigate the factors affecting the tumorigenicity of MAEL. Further experimentation demonstrated that MAEL enhanced the expression of phosphorylated Akt1, with subsequent phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) subunit RelA in tumor cells, and chemoattracted myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) by upregulating interleukin-8 (IL8) to accelerate tumor progression in the tumor microenvironment. We also found that TGFβ secreted by MDSCs could upregulate MAEL by inducing Smad2/Smad3 phosphorylation. In summary, this study revealed a mechanism by which MAEL could upregulate IL8 through Akt1/RelA to direct MDSCs homing into the tumor, suggesting that MAEL could be an attractive therapeutic target and a prognostic marker against ESCC. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(10); 1246–59. ©2018 AACR.
Data from Tumor Microenvironment Characterization in Gastric Cancer Identifies Prognostic and Immunotherapeutically Relevant Gene Signatures
Authors: Zeng Dongqiang , Li Meiyi , Zhou Rui , Zhang Jingwen , Sun Huiying , Shi Min , Bin Jianping , Liao Yulin , Rao Jinjun , Liao Wangjun
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) cells constitute a vital element of tumor tissue. Increasing evidence has elucidated their clinicopathologic significance in predicting outcomes and therapeutic efficacy. Nonetheless, no studies have reported a systematic analysis of cellular interactions in the TME. In this study, we comprehensively estimated the TME infiltration patterns of 1,524 gastric cancer patients and systematically correlated the TME phenotypes with genomic characteristics and clinicopathologic features of gastric cancer using two proposed computational algorithms. Three TME phenotypes were defined, and the TMEscore was constructed using principal component analysis algorithms. The high TMEscore subtype was characterized by immune activation and response to virus and IFNγ. Activation of transforming growth factor β, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis pathways were observed in the low TMEscore subtype, which are considered T-cell suppressive and may be responsible for significantly worse prognosis in gastric cancer [hazard ratio (HR), 0.42; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.33–0.54; P < 0.001]. Multivariate analysis revealed that the TMEscore was an independent prognostic biomarker, and its value in predicting immunotherapeutic outcomes was also confirmed (IMvigor210 cohort: HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.46–0.89; P = 0.008; GSE78220 cohort: HR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.07–0.89; P = 0.021). Depicting a comprehensive landscape of the TME characteristics of gastric cancer may, therefore, help to interpret the responses of gastric tumors to immunotherapies and provide new strategies for the treatment of cancers.
Data from PD-L1 Expression in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Mittendorf Elizabeth A. , Philips Anne V. , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Qiao Na , Wu Yun , Harrington Susan , Su Xiaoping , Wang Ying , Gonzalez-Angulo Ana M. , Akcakanat Argun , Chawla Akhil , Curran Michael , Hwu Patrick , Sharma Padmanee , Litton Jennifer K. , Molldrem Jeffrey J. , Alatrash Gheath
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Early-phase trials targeting the T-cell inhibitory molecule programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) have shown clinical efficacy in cancer. This study was undertaken to determine whether PD-L1 is overexpressed in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and to investigate the loss of PTEN as a mechanism of PD-L1 regulation. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) RNA sequencing data showed significantly greater expression of the PD-L1 gene in TNBC (n = 120) compared with non-TNBC (n = 716; P < 0.001). Breast tumor tissue microarrays were evaluated for PD-L1 expression, which was present in 19% (20 of 105) of TNBC specimens. PD-L1+ tumors had greater CD8+ T-cell infiltrate than PD-L1− tumors (688 cells/mm vs. 263 cells/mm; P < 0.0001). To determine the effect of PTEN loss on PD-L1 expression, stable cell lines were generated using PTEN short hairpin RNA (shRNA). PTEN knockdown led to significantly higher cell-surface PD-L1 expression and PD-L1 transcripts, suggesting transcriptional regulation. Moreover, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway inhibition using the AKT inhibitor MK-2206 or rapamycin resulted in decreased PD-L1 expression, further linking PTEN and PI3K signaling to PD-L1 regulation. Coculture experiments were performed to determine the functional effect of altered PD-L1 expression. Increased PD-L1 cell surface expression by tumor cells induced by PTEN loss led to decreased T-cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. PD-L1 is expressed in 20% of TNBCs, suggesting PD-L1 as a therapeutic target in TNBCs. Because PTEN loss is one mechanism regulating PD-L1 expression, agents targeting the PI3K pathway may increase the antitumor adaptive immune responses. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(4); 361–70. ©2014 AACR.
Data from STING Ligand c-di-GMP Improves Cancer Vaccination against Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Chandra Dinesh , Quispe-Tintaya Wilber , Jahangir Arthee , Asafu-Adjei Denise , Ramos Ilyssa , Sintim Herman O. , Zhou Jie , Hayakawa Yoshihiro , Karaolis David K.R. , Gravekamp Claudia
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Cancer vaccination may be our best and most benign option for preventing or treating metastatic cancer. However, breakthroughs are hampered by immune suppression in the tumor microenvironment. In this study, we analyzed whether cyclic diguanylate (c-di-GMP), a ligand for stimulator of interferon genes (STING), could overcome immune suppression and improve vaccination against metastatic breast cancer. Mice with metastatic breast cancer (4T1 model) were therapeutically immunized with an attenuated Listeria monocytogenes (LM)–based vaccine, expressing tumor-associated antigen Mage-b (LM-Mb), followed by multiple low doses of c-di-GMP (0.2 μmol/L). This treatment resulted in a striking and near elimination of all metastases. Experiments revealed that c-di-GMP targets myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and tumor cells. Low doses of c-di-GMP significantly increased the production of IL12 by MDSCs, in correlation with improved T-cell responses to Mage-b, whereas a high dose of c-di-GMP (range, 0.3–3 mmol/L) activated caspase-3 in the 4T1 tumor cells and killed the tumor cells directly. On the basis of these results, we tested one administration of high-dose c-di-GMP (3 mmol/L) followed by repeated administrations of low-dose c-di-GMP (0.2 μmol/L) in the 4T1 model, and found equal efficacy compared with the combination of LM-Mb and c-di-GMP. This finding correlated with a mechanism of improved CD8 T-cell responses to tumor-associated antigens (TAA) Mage-b and Survivin, most likely through cross-presentation of these TAAs from c-di-GMP–killed 4T1 tumor cells, and through c-di-GMP–activated TAA-specific T cells. Our results demonstrate that activation of STING-dependent pathways by c-di-GMP is highly attractive for cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(9); 901–10. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Antitumor Efficacy of Anti-GD2 IgG1 Is Enhanced by Fc Glyco-Engineering
Authors: Xu Hong , Guo Hongfen , Cheung Irene Y. , Cheung Nai-Kong V.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The affinity of therapeutic antibodies for Fcγ receptors (FcγRs) strongly influences their antitumor potency. To generate antibodies with optimal binding and immunologic efficacy, we compared the affinities of different versions of an IgG1 Fc region that had an altered peptide backbone, altered glycans, or both. To produce IgG1 with glycans that lacked α1,6-fucose, we used CHO cells that were deficient in the enzyme UDP-N-acetylglucosamine: α-3-d-mannoside-β-1,2-N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase I (GnT1), encoded by the MGAT1 gene. Mature N-linked glycans require this enzyme, and without it, CHO cells synthesize antibodies carrying only Man5-GlcNAc2, which were more effective in antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Our engineered IgG1, hu3F8-IgG1, is specific for GD2, a neuroendocrine tumor ganglioside. Its peptide mutant is IgG1-DEL (S239D/I332E/A330L), both produced in wild-type CHO cells. When produced in GnT1-deficient CHO cells, we refer to them as IgG1n and IgG1n-DEL, respectively. Affinities for human FcγRs were measured using Biacore T-100 (on CD16 and CD32 polymorphic alleles), their immunologic properties compared for ADCC and complement-mediated cytotoxicity (CMC) in vitro, and pharmacokinetics and antitumor effects were compared in vivo in humanized mice. IgG1n and IgG1n-DEL contained only mannose and acetylglucosamine and had preferential affinity for activating CD16s, over inhibitory CD32B, receptors. In vivo, the antitumor effects of IgG1, IgG1-DEL, and IgG1n-DEL were similar but modest, whereas IgG1n was significantly more effective (P < 0.05). Thus, IgG1n antibodies produced in GnT1-deficient CHO cells may have potential as improved anticancer therapeutics. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(7); 631–8. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Extracellular Vesicles Present in Human Ovarian Tumor Microenvironments Induce a Phosphatidylserine-Dependent Arrest in the T-cell Signaling Cascade
Authors: Kelleher Raymond J. , Balu-Iyer Sathy , Loyall Jenni , Sacca Anthony J. , Shenoy Gautam N. , Peng Peng , Iyer Vandana , Fathallah Anas M. , Berenson Charles S. , Wallace Paul K. , Tario Joseph , Odunsi Kunle , Bankert Richard B.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The identification of immunosuppressive factors within human tumor microenvironments, and the ability to block these factors, would be expected to enhance patients' antitumor immune responses. We previously established that an unidentified factor, or factors, present in ovarian tumor ascites fluids reversibly inhibited the activation of T cells by arresting the T-cell signaling cascade. Ultracentrifugation of the tumor ascites fluid has now revealed a pellet that contains small extracellular vesicles (EV) with an average diameter of 80 nm. The T-cell arrest was determined to be causally linked to phosphatidylserine (PS) that is present on the outer leaflet of the vesicle bilayer, as a depletion of PS-expressing EV or a blockade of PS with anti-PS antibody significantly inhibits the vesicle-induced signaling arrest. The inhibitory EV were also isolated from solid tumor tissues. The presence of immunosuppressive vesicles in the microenvironments of ovarian tumors and our ability to block their inhibition of T-cell function represent a potential therapeutic target for patients with ovarian cancer. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(11); 1269–78. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Transgenic Expression of IL15 Improves Antiglioma Activity of IL13Rα2-CAR T Cells but Results in Antigen Loss Variants
Authors: Krenciute Giedre , Prinzing Brooke L. , Yi Zhongzhen , Wu Meng-Fen , Liu Hao , Dotti Gianpietro , Balyasnikova Irina V. , Gottschalk Stephen
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor in adults and is virtually incurable with conventional therapies. Immunotherapy with T cells expressing GBM-specific chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) is an attractive approach to improve outcomes. Although CAR T cells targeting GBM antigens, such as IL13 receptor subunit α2 (IL13Rα2), HER2, and EGFR variant III (EGFRvIII), have had antitumor activity in preclinical models, early-phase clinical testing has demonstrated limited antiglioma activity. Transgenic expression of IL15 is an appealing strategy to enhance CAR T-cell effector function. We tested this approach in our IL13Rα2-positive glioma model in which limited IL13Rα2-CAR T-cell persistence results in recurrence of antigen-positive gliomas. T cells were genetically modified with retroviral vectors encoding IL13Rα2-CARs or IL15 (IL13Rα2-CAR.IL15 T cells). IL13Rα2-CAR.IL15 T cells recognized glioma cells in an antigen-dependent fashion, had greater proliferative capacity, and produced more cytokines after repeated stimulations in comparison with IL13Rα2-CAR T cells. No autonomous IL13Rα2-CAR.IL15 T-cell proliferation was observed; however, IL15 expression increased IL13Rα2-CAR T-cell viability in the absence of exogenous cytokines or antigen. In vivo, IL13Rα2-CAR.IL15 T cells persisted longer and had greater antiglioma activity than IL13Rα2-CAR T cells, resulting in a survival advantage. Gliomas recurring after 40 days after T-cell injection had downregulated IL13Rα2 expression, indicating that antigen loss variants occur in the setting of improved T-cell persistence. Thus, CAR T cells for GBM should not only be genetically modified to improve their proliferation and persistence, but also to target multiple antigens.

Summary: Glioblastoma responds imperfectly to immunotherapy. Transgenic expression of IL15 in T cells expressing CARs improved their proliferative capacity, persistence, and cytokine production. The emergence of antigen loss variants highlights the need to target multiple tumor antigens. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(7); 571–81. ©2017 AACR.
Data from CALGB 150905 (Alliance): Rituximab Broadens the Antilymphoma Response by Activating Unlicensed NK Cells
Authors: Du Juan , Lopez-Verges Sandra , Pitcher Brandelyn N. , Johnson Jeffrey , Jung Sin-Ho , Zhou Lili , Hsu Katharine , Czuczman Myron S. , Cheson Bruce , Kaplan Lawrence , Lanier Lewis L. , Venstrom Jeffrey M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells contribute to clinical responses in patients treated with rituximab, but the rules determining NK-cell responsiveness to mAb therapies are poorly defined. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms responsible for antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) could yield useful biomarkers for predicting clinical responses in patients. Unlicensed NK cells, defined as NK cells lacking expression of an inhibitory KIR for self-HLA class I ligands, are hyporesponsive in steady state, but are potent effectors in inflammatory conditions. We hypothesized that antitumor antibodies such as rituximab can overcome NK-cell dependence on licensing, making unlicensed NK cells important for clinical responses. Here, we examined the influences of variations in KIR and HLA class I alleles on in vitro responses to rituximab. We tested the clinical significance in a cohort of patients with follicular lymphoma treated with rituximab-containing mAb combinations, and show that rituximab triggers responses from all NK-cell populations regardless of licensing. Neither IL2 nor accessory cells are required for activating unlicensed NK cells, but both can augment rituximab-mediated ADCC. Moreover, in 101 patients with follicular lymphoma treated with rituximab-containing mAb combinations, a “missing ligand” genotype (predictive of unlicensed NK cells) is associated with a higher rate of progression-free survival. Our data suggest that the clinical efficacy of rituximab may be driven, in part, by its ability to broaden the NK-cell repertoire to include previously hyporesponsive, unlicensed NK cells. A “missing ligand” KIR and HLA class I genotype may be predictive of this benefit and useful for personalizing treatment decisions in lymphomas and other tumors. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(9); 878–89. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Clinical Features of Acquired Resistance to Anti–PD-1 Therapy in Advanced Melanoma
Authors: Wang Daniel Y. , Eroglu Zeynep , Ozgun Alpaslan , Leger Paul D. , Zhao Shilin , Ye Fei , Luke Jason J. , Joseph Richard W. , Haq Rizwan , Ott Patrick A. , Hodi F. Stephen , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Johnson Douglas B. , Buchbinder Elizabeth I.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Anti–PD-1 therapy has improved clinical outcomes in advanced melanoma, but most patients experience intrinsic resistance. Responding patients can develop acquired resistance to anti–PD-1. We retrospectively reviewed 488 patients treated with anti–PD-1 from three academic centers and identified 36 patients with acquired resistance, defined as disease progression following objective response. The incidence, timing, disease sites, post-progression survival (PPS), and outcomes were evaluated descriptively. The acquired resistance cohort consisted of 67% with more than 1 feature of poor prognosis (stage M1c, elevated LDH, or brain metastasis), and 67% had previously received ipilimumab. Partial and complete responses were achieved in 89% (n = 32) and 11% (n = 4) of patients, respectively, and median time to resistance (progression-free survival; PFS) was 11.1 months (range 4.3–32.8 months). Most progression was isolated (78% of patients, n = 28) and occurred while receiving therapy (78%, n = 28). The median PPS was 12.8 months (range 0.1–51.8 months), and the median overall survival was 33.7 months. Among isolated progressors, 15 received localized therapy (12 with surgery, 3 with radiation). Patients with isolated versus systemic progression exhibited a trend for improved PPS (P = 0.081), and patients with an initial PFS ≥ 15 months showed significant PPS improvement (P = 0.036). Two patients experienced subsequent responses to anti–PD-1 resumption. In conclusion, acquired resistance to anti–PD-1 was frequently associated with excellent clinical outcomes and often presented as isolated progression amenable to localized therapy (surgery or radiation) or systemic progression sensitive to therapy resumption. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(5); 357–62. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Safety and Efficacy of Intratumoral Injections of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T Cells in Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Tchou Julia , Zhao Yangbing , Levine Bruce L. , Zhang Paul J , Davis Megan M. , Melenhorst Jan Joseph , Kulikovskaya Irina , Brennan Andrea L , Liu Xiaojun , Lacey Simon F. , Posey Avery D. , Williams Austin D. , So Alycia , Conejo-Garcia Jose R. , Plesa Gabriela , Young Regina M. , McGettigan Shannon , Campbell Jean , Pierce Robert H. , Matro Jennifer M. , DeMichele Angela M. , Clark Amy S. , Cooper Laurence J. , Schuchter Lynn M. , Vonderheide Robert H. , June Carl H.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) are synthetic molecules that provide new specificities to T cells. Although successful in treatment of hematologic malignancies, CAR T cells are ineffective for solid tumors to date. We found that the cell-surface molecule c-Met was expressed in ∼50% of breast tumors, prompting the construction of a CAR T cell specific for c-Met, which halted tumor growth in immune-incompetent mice with tumor xenografts. We then evaluated the safety and feasibility of treating metastatic breast cancer with intratumoral administration of mRNA-transfected c-Met-CAR T cells in a phase 0 clinical trial (NCT01837602). Introducing the CAR construct via mRNA ensured safety by limiting the nontumor cell effects (on-target/off-tumor) of targeting c-Met. Patients with metastatic breast cancer with accessible cutaneous or lymph node metastases received a single intratumoral injection of 3 × 107 or 3 × 108 cells. CAR T mRNA was detectable in peripheral blood and in the injected tumor tissues after intratumoral injection in 2 and 4 patients, respectively. mRNA c-Met-CAR T cell injections were well tolerated, as none of the patients had study drug–related adverse effects greater than grade 1. Tumors treated with intratumoral injected mRNA c-Met-CAR T cells were excised and analyzed by immunohistochemistry, revealing extensive tumor necrosis at the injection site, cellular debris, loss of c-Met immunoreactivity, all surrounded by macrophages at the leading edges and within necrotic zones. We conclude that intratumoral injections of mRNA c-Met-CAR T cells are well tolerated and evoke an inflammatory response within tumors. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(12); 1152–61. ©2017 AACR.
Data from SLC45A2: A Melanoma Antigen with High Tumor Selectivity and Reduced Potential for Autoimmune Toxicity
Authors: Park Jungsun , Talukder Amjad H. , Lim Seon A. , Kim Kwanghee , Pan Ke , Melendez Brenda , Bradley Sherille D. , Jackson Kyle R. , Khalili Jahan S. , Wang Junmei , Creasy Caitlin , Pan Bih-Fang , Woodman Scott E. , Bernatchez Chantale , Hawke David , Hwu Patrick , Lee Kyung-Mi , Roszik Jason , Lizée Gregory , Yee Cassian
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)–based immunotherapies have had remarkable success at generating objective clinical responses in patients with advanced metastatic melanoma. Although the melanocyte differentiation antigens (MDA) MART-1, PMEL, and tyrosinase were among the first melanoma tumor-associated antigens identified and targeted with immunotherapy, expression within normal melanocytes of the eye and inner ear can elicit serious autoimmune side effects, thus limiting their clinical potential as CTL targets. Using a tandem mass spectrometry (MS) approach to analyze the immunopeptidomes of 55 melanoma patient–derived cell lines, we identified a number of shared HLA class I–bound peptides derived from the melanocyte-specific transporter protein SLC45A2. Antigen-specific CTLs generated against HLA-A*0201- and HLA-A*2402–restricted SLC45A2 peptides effectively killed a majority of HLA-matched cutaneous, uveal, and mucosal melanoma cell lines tested (18/25). CTLs specific for SLC45A2 showed significantly reduced recognition of HLA-matched primary melanocytes that were, conversely, robustly killed by MART1- and PMEL-specific T cells. Transcriptome analysis revealed that SLC45A2 mRNA expression in normal melanocytes was less than 2% that of other MDAs, therefore providing a more favorable melanoma-to-melanocyte expression ratio. Expression of SLC45A2 and CTL sensitivity could be further upregulated in BRAF(V600E)-mutant melanoma cells upon treatment with BRAF or MEK inhibitors, similarly to other MDAs. Taken together, our study demonstrates the feasibility of using tandem MS as a means of discovering shared immunogenic tumor-associated epitopes and identifies SLC45A2 as a promising immunotherapeutic target for melanoma with high tumor selectivity and reduced potential for autoimmune toxicity. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(8); 618–29. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Phase I/II Study of Metastatic Melanoma Patients Treated with Nivolumab Who Had Progressed after Ipilimumab
Authors: Weber Jeffrey , Gibney Geoffrey , Kudchadkar Ragini , Yu Bin , Cheng Pingyan , Martinez Alberto J. , Kroeger Jodie , Richards Allison , McCormick Lori , Moberg Valerie , Cronin Heather , Zhao Xiuhua , Schell Michael , Chen Yian Ann
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The checkpoint inhibitor nivolumab is active in patients with metastatic melanoma who have failed ipilimumab. In this phase I/II study, we assessed nivolumab's safety in 92 ipilimumab-refractory patients with unresectable stage III or IV melanoma, including those who experienced grade 3–4 drug-related toxicity to ipilimumab. We report long-term survival, response duration, and biomarkers in these patients after nivolumab treatment (3 mg/kg) every 2 weeks for 24 weeks, then every 12 weeks for up to 2 years, with or without a multipeptide vaccine. The response rate for ipilimumab-refractory patients was 30% (95% CI, 21%–41%). The median duration of response was 14.6 months, median progression-free survival was 5.3 months, and median overall survival was 20.6 months, when patients were followed up for a median of 16 months. One- and 2-year survival rates were 68.4% and 31.2%, respectively. Ipilimumab-naïve and ipilimumab-refractory patients showed no significant difference in survival. The 21 patients with prior grade 3–4 toxicity to ipilimumab that was managed with steroids tolerated nivolumab well, with 62% (95% CI, 38%–82%) having complete or partial responses or stabilized disease at 24 weeks. High numbers of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) were associated with poor survival. Thus, survival and long-term safety were excellent in ipilimumab-refractory patients treated with nivolumab. Prior grade 3–4 immune-related adverse effects from ipilimumab were not indicative of nivolumab toxicities, and patients had a high overall rate of remission or stability at 24 weeks. Prospectively evaluating MDSC numbers before treatment could help assess the expected benefit of nivolumab. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(4); 345–53. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Environmental and Genetic Activation of Hypothalamic BDNF Modulates T-cell Immunity to Exert an Anticancer Phenotype
Authors: Xiao Run , Bergin Stephen M. , Huang Wei , Slater Andrew M. , Liu Xianglan , Judd Ryan T. , Lin En-Ju D. , Widstrom Kyle J. , Scoville Steven D. , Yu Jianhua , Caligiuri Michael A. , Cao Lei
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Macroenvironmental factors, including a patient's physical and social environment, play a role in cancer risk and progression. Our previous studies show that living in an enriched environment (EE) providing complex stimuli confers an anticancer phenotype in mice mediated, in part by a specific neuroendocrine axis, with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) as the key brain mediator. Here, we investigated how an EE modulated T-cell immunity and its role in the EE-induced anticancer effects. Our data demonstrated that CD8 T cells were required to mediate the anticancer effects of an EE in an orthotropic model of melanoma. In secondary lymphoid tissue (SLT), an EE induced early changes in the phenotype of T-cell populations, characterized by a decrease in the ratio of CD4 T helper to CD8 cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). Overexpression of hypothalamic BDNF reproduced EE-induced T-cell phenotypes in SLT, whereas knockdown of hypothalamic BDNF inhibited EE-induced immune modulation in SLT. Both propranolol and mifepristone blocked the EE-associated modulation of CTLs in SLT, suggesting that both the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis were involved. Our results demonstrated that enhanced anticancer effect of an EE was mediated at least in part through modulation of T-cell immunity and provided support to the emerging concept of manipulating a single gene in the brain to improve cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(6); 488–97. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Combined Anti-VEGF and Anti–CTLA-4 Therapy Elicits Humoral Immunity to Galectin-1 Which Is Associated with Favorable Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Wu Xinqi , Li Jingjing , Connolly Erin M. , Liao Xiaoyun , Ouyang Jing , Giobbie-Hurder Anita , Lawrence Donald , McDermott David , Murphy George , Zhou Jun , Piesche Matthias , Dranoff Glenn , Rodig Scott , Shipp Margaret , Hodi F. Stephen
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The combination of anti-VEGF blockade (bevacizumab) with immune checkpoint anti–CTLA-4 blockade (ipilimumab) in a phase I study showed tumor endothelial activation and immune cell infiltration that were associated with favorable clinical outcomes in patients with metastatic melanoma. To identify potential immune targets responsible for these observations, posttreatment plasma from long-term responding patients were used to screen human protein arrays. We reported that ipilimumab plus bevacizumab therapy elicited humoral immune responses to galectin-1 (Gal-1), which exhibits protumor, proangiogenesis, and immunosuppressive activities in 37.2% of treated patients. Gal-1 antibodies purified from posttreatment plasma suppressed the binding of Gal-1 to CD45, a T-cell surface receptor that transduces apoptotic signals upon binding to extracellular Gal-1. Antibody responses to Gal-1 were found more frequently in the group of patients with therapeutic responses and correlated with improved overall survival. In contrast, another subgroup of treated patients had increased circulating Gal-1 protein instead, and they had reduced overall survival. Our findings suggest that humoral immunity to Gal-1 may contribute to the efficacy of anti-VEGF and anti–CTLA-4 combination therapy. Gal-1 may offer an additional therapeutic target linking anti-angiogenesis and immune checkpoint blockade. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(6); 446–54. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Customized Viral Immunotherapy for HPV-Associated Cancer
Authors: Atherton Matthew J. , Stephenson Kyle B. , Pol Jonathan , Wang Fuan , Lefebvre Charles , Stojdl David F. , Nikota Jake K. , Dvorkin-Gheva Anna , Nguyen Andrew , Chen Lan , Johnson-Obaseki Stephanie , Villeneuve Patrick J. , Diallo Jean-Simon , Dimitroulakos Jim , Wan Yonghong , Lichty Brian D.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The viral-transforming proteins E6 and E7 make human papillomavirus–positive (HPV+) malignancies an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy. However, therapeutic vaccination exerts limited efficacy in the setting of advanced disease. We designed a strategy to induce substantial specific immune responses against multiple epitopes of E6 and E7 proteins based on an attenuated transgene from HPV serotypes 16 and 18 that is incorporated into MG1-Maraba virotherapy (MG1-E6E7). Mutations introduced to the transgene abrogate the ability of E6 and E7 to perturb p53 and retinoblastoma, respectively, while maintaining the ability to invoke tumor-specific, multifunctional CD8+ T-cell responses. Boosting with MG1-E6E7 significantly increased the magnitude of T-cell responses compared with mice treated with a priming vaccine alone (greater than 50 × 106 E7-specific CD8+ T cells per mouse was observed, representing a 39-fold mean increase in boosted animals). MG1-E6E7 vaccination in the HPV+ murine model TC1 clears large tumors in a CD8+-dependent manner and results in durable immunologic memory. MG1-Maraba can acutely alter the tumor microenvironment in vivo and exploit molecular hallmarks of HPV+ cancer, as demonstrated by marked infection of HPV+ patient tumor biopsies and is, therefore, ideally suited as an oncolytic treatment against clinical HPV+ cancer. This approach has the potential to be directly translatable to human clinical oncology to tackle a variety of HPV-associated neoplasms that cause significant morbidity and mortality globally. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(10); 847–59. ©2017 AACR.
Data from MicroRNA MIR21 and T Cells in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Mima Kosuke , Nishihara Reiko , Nowak Jonathan A. , Kim Sun A. , Song Mingyang , Inamura Kentaro , Sukawa Yasutaka , Masuda Atsuhiro , Yang Juhong , Dou Ruoxu , Nosho Katsuhiko , Baba Hideo , Giovannucci Edward L. , Bowden Michaela , Loda Massimo , Giannakis Marios , Bass Adam J. , Dranoff Glenn , Freeman Gordon J. , Chan Andrew T. , Fuchs Charles S. , Qian Zhi Rong , Ogino Shuji
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The complex interactions between colorectal neoplasia and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment remain to be elucidated. Experimental evidence suggests that microRNA MIR21 (miR-21) suppresses antitumor T-cell–mediated immunity. Thus, we hypothesized that tumor MIR21 expression might be inversely associated with T-cell density in colorectal carcinoma tissue. Using 538 rectal and colon cancer cases from the Nurses' Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study, we measured tumor MIR21 expression by a quantitative reverse-transcription PCR assay. Densities of CD3+, CD8+, CD45RO (PTPRC)+, and FOXP3+ cells in tumor tissue were determined by tissue microarray immunohistochemistry and computer-assisted image analysis. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the association of MIR21 expression (ordinal quartiles as a predictor variable) with T-cell density (ordinal quartiles as an outcome variable), adjusting for tumor molecular features, including microsatellite instability; CpG island methylator phenotype; KRAS, BRAF, and PIK3CA mutations; and LINE-1 methylation. We adjusted the two-sided α level to 0.012 for multiple hypothesis testing. Tumor MIR21 expression was inversely associated with densities of CD3+ and CD45RO+ cells (Ptrend < 0.0005). The multivariate odds ratio of the highest versus lowest quartile of MIR21 for a unit increase in quartile categories of CD3+ or CD45RO+ cells was 0.44 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.28 to 0.68] or 0.41 (95% CI, 0.26–0.64), respectively. Our data support a possible role of tumor epigenetic deregulation by noncoding RNA in suppressing the antitumor T-cell–mediated adaptive immune response and suggest MIR21 as a potential target for immunotherapy and prevention in colorectal cancer. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(1); 33–40. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Restoring Retinoic Acid Attenuates Intestinal Inflammation and Tumorigenesis in APCMin/+ Mice
Authors: Penny Hweixian Leong , Prestwood Tyler R. , Bhattacharya Nupur , Sun Fionna , Kenkel Justin A. , Davidson Matthew G. , Shen Lei , Zuniga Luis A. , Seeley E. Scott , Pai Reetesh , Choi Okmi , Tolentino Lorna , Wang Jinshan , Napoli Joseph L. , Engleman Edgar G.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Chronic intestinal inflammation accompanies familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and is a major risk factor for colorectal cancer in patients with this disease, but the cause of such inflammation is unknown. Because retinoic acid (RA) plays a critical role in maintaining immune homeostasis in the intestine, we hypothesized that altered RA metabolism contributes to inflammation and tumorigenesis in FAP. To assess this hypothesis, we analyzed RA metabolism in the intestines of patients with FAP as well as APCMin/+ mice, a model that recapitulates FAP in most respects. We also investigated the impact of intestinal RA repletion and depletion on tumorigenesis and inflammation in APCMin/+ mice. Tumors from both FAP patients and APCMin/+ mice displayed striking alterations in RA metabolism that resulted in reduced intestinal RA. APCMin/+ mice placed on a vitamin A–deficient diet exhibited further reductions in intestinal RA with concomitant increases in inflammation and tumor burden. Conversely, restoration of RA by pharmacologic blockade of the RA-catabolizing enzyme CYP26A1 attenuated inflammation and diminished tumor burden. To investigate the effect of RA deficiency on the gut immune system, we studied lamina propria dendritic cells (LPDC) because these cells play a central role in promoting tolerance. APCMin/+ LPDCs preferentially induced Th17 cells, but reverted to inducing Tregs following restoration of intestinal RA in vivo or direct treatment of LPDCs with RA in vitro. These findings demonstrate the importance of intestinal RA deficiency in tumorigenesis and suggest that pharmacologic repletion of RA could reduce tumorigenesis in FAP patients. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(11); 917–26. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Generation of Mouse Pluripotent Stem Cell–Derived Proliferating Myeloid Cells as an Unlimited Source of Functional Antigen-Presenting Cells
Authors: Zhang Rong , Liu Tian-Yi , Senju Satoru , Haruta Miwa , Hirosawa Narumi , Suzuki Motoharu , Tatsumi Minako , Ueda Norihiro , Maki Hiroyuki , Nakatsuka Ryusuke , Matsuoka Yoshikazu , Sasaki Yutaka , Tsuzuki Shinobu , Nakanishi Hayao , Araki Ryoko , Abe Masumi , Akatsuka Yoshiki , Sakamoto Yasushi , Sonoda Yoshiaki , Nishimura Yasuharu , Kuzushima Kiyotaka , Uemura Yasushi
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The use of dendritic cells (DC) to prime tumor-associated antigen-specific T-cell responses provides a promising approach to cancer immunotherapy. Embryonic stem cells (ESC) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) can differentiate into functional DCs, thus providing an unlimited source of DCs. However, the previously established methods of generating practical volumes of DCs from pluripotent stem cells (PSC) require a large number of PSCs at the start of the differentiation culture. In this study, we generated mouse proliferating myeloid cells (pMC) as a source of antigen-presenting cells (APC) using lentivirus-mediated transduction of the c-Myc gene into mouse PSC-derived myeloid cells. The pMCs could propagate almost indefinitely in a cytokine-dependent manner, while retaining their potential to differentiate into functional APCs. After treatment with IL4 plus GM-CSF, the pMCs showed impaired proliferation and differentiated into immature DC-like cells (pMC-DC) expressing low levels of major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-I, MHC-II, CD40, CD80, and CD86. In addition, exposure to maturation stimuli induced the production of TNFα and IL12p70, and enhanced the expression of MHC-II, CD40, and CD86, which is thus suggestive of typical DC maturation. Similar to bone marrow–derived DCs, they stimulated a primary mixed lymphocyte reaction. Furthermore, the in vivo transfer of pMC-DCs pulsed with H-2Kb-restricted OVA257-264 peptide primed OVA-specific cytotoxic T cells and elicited protection in mice against challenge with OVA-expressing melanoma. Overall, myeloid cells exhibiting cytokine-dependent proliferation and DC-like differentiation may be used to address issues associated with the preparation of DCs. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(6); 668–77. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Preexisting Levels of CD4 T Cells Expressing PD-1 Are Related to Overall Survival in Prostate Cancer Patients Treated with Ipilimumab
Authors: Kwek Serena S. , Lewis Jera , Zhang Li , Weinberg Vivian , Greaney Samantha K. , Harzstark Andrea L. , Lin Amy M. , Ryan Charles J. , Small Eric J. , Fong Lawrence
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte–associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) blockade can induce tumor regression and improved survival in cancer patients. This treatment can enhance adaptive immune responses without an exogenous vaccine, but the immunologic biomarkers associated with improved clinical outcome in cancer patients are not fully established. A phase Ib trial in patients with metastatic, castration-resistant prostate cancer was performed combining ipilimumab with sargramostim (GM-CSF). In addition to evaluating ipilimumab dose, patients were followed clinically for response and overall survival, and for immunomodulation of circulating T cells. PSA declines of ≥50% and radiographic responses were observed at doses of ≥3 mg/kg/dose. Timing of clinical responses could be either immediate or delayed. Durable responses were also observed off treatment. A subset of patients experienced long-term survival with or without objective clinical responses. The relationship between T-cell phenotype in peripheral blood and overall survival was examined retrospectively. We found that the treatment induced an increase in the levels of CD4+ effector T (Teff) cells, regulatory T cells, PD-1+ CD4 Teff cells, and PD-1+ CD8 T cells. However, these increased levels were not associated with overall survival. Instead, low pretreatment baseline levels of PD-1+ CD4 Teff cells were found to correlate with longer overall survival. Furthermore, baseline levels of PD-1+ CD4 Teff cells from patients with shorter overall survival were higher than from cancer-free male control subjects. These results suggest that preexisting expression of immunologic checkpoint marker PD-1 on CD4 Teff cells may help identify patients that may benefit from ipilimumab treatment. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(9); 1008–16. ©2015 AACR.