bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from MIF Is Necessary for Late-Stage Melanoma Patient MDSC Immune Suppression and Differentiation
Authors: Yaddanapudi Kavitha , Rendon Beatriz E. , Lamont Gwyneth , Kim Eun Jung , Al Rayyan Numan , Richie Jamaal , Albeituni Sabrin , Waigel Sabine , Wise Ashley , Mitchell Robert A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Highly aggressive cancers “entrain” innate and adaptive immune cells to suppress antitumor lymphocyte responses. Circulating myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) constitute the bulk of monocytic immunosuppressive activity in late-stage melanoma patients. Previous studies revealed that monocyte-derived macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is necessary for the immunosuppressive function of tumor-associated macrophages and MDSCs in mouse models of melanoma. In the current study, we sought to determine whether MIF contributes to human melanoma MDSC induction and T-cell immunosuppression using melanoma patient-derived MDSCs and an ex vivo coculture model of human melanoma-induced MDSC. We now report that circulating MDSCs isolated from late-stage melanoma patients are reliant upon MIF for suppression of antigen-independent T-cell activation and that MIF is necessary for maximal reactive oxygen species generation in these cells. Moreover, inhibition of MIF results in a functional reversion from immunosuppressive MDSC to an immunostimulatory dendritic cell (DC)–like phenotype that is at least partly due to reductions in MDSC prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). These findings indicate that monocyte-derived MIF is centrally involved in human monocytic MDSC induction/immunosuppressive function and that therapeutic targeting of MIF may provide a novel means of inducing antitumor DC responses in late-stage melanoma patients. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(2); 101–12. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Tasquinimod Modulates Suppressive Myeloid Cells and Enhances Cancer Immunotherapies in Murine Models
Authors: Shen Li , Sundstedt Anette , Ciesielski Michael , Miles Kiersten Marie , Celander Mona , Adelaiye Remi , Orillion Ashley , Ciamporcero Eric , Ramakrishnan Swathi , Ellis Leigh , Fenstermaker Robert , Abrams Scott I. , Eriksson Helena , Leanderson Tomas , Olsson Anders , Pili Roberto
Published: April 2023

Abstract
A major barrier for cancer immunotherapy is the presence of suppressive cell populations in patients with cancer, such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAM), which contribute to the immunosuppressive microenvironment that promotes tumor growth and metastasis. Tasquinimod is a novel antitumor agent that is currently at an advanced stage of clinical development for treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer. A target of tasquinimod is the inflammatory protein S100A9, which has been demonstrated to affect the accumulation and function of tumor-suppressive myeloid cells. Here, we report that tasquinimod provided a significant enhancement to the antitumor effects of two different immunotherapeutics in mouse models of cancer: a tumor vaccine (SurVaxM) for prostate cancer and a tumor-targeted superantigen (TTS) for melanoma. In the combination strategies, tasquinimod inhibited distinct MDSC populations and TAMs of the M2-polarized phenotype (CD206+). CD11b+ myeloid cells isolated from tumors of treated mice expressed lower levels of arginase-1 and higher levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and were less immunosuppressive ex vivo, which translated into a significantly reduced tumor-promoting capacity in vivo when these cells were coinjected with tumor cells. Tumor-specific CD8+ T cells were increased markedly in the circulation and in tumors. Furthermore, T-cell effector functions, including cell-mediated cytotoxicity and IFNγ production, were potentiated. Taken together, these data suggest that pharmacologic targeting of suppressive myeloid cells by tasquinimod induces therapeutic benefit and provide the rationale for clinical testing of tasquinimod in combination with cancer immunotherapies. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(2); 136–48. ©2014 AACR.
Data from Impact of NRAS Mutations for Patients with Advanced Melanoma Treated with Immune Therapies
Authors: Johnson Douglas B. , Lovly Christine M. , Flavin Marisa , Panageas Katherine S. , Ayers Gregory D. , Zhao Zhiguo , Iams Wade T. , Colgan Marta , DeNoble Sarah , Terry Charles R. , Berry Elizabeth G. , Iafrate A. John , Sullivan Ryan J. , Carvajal Richard D. , Sosman Jeffrey A.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Activating NRAS mutations are found in 15% to 20% of melanomas. Immune therapies have become a mainstay in advanced melanoma treatment. We sought to evaluate whether tumor genotype (e.g., NRAS mutations) correlates with benefit from immune therapy in melanoma. We identified 229 patients with melanoma treated with immune therapies [IL2, ipilimumab, or anti-programmed cell death-1/ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1)] at three centers and compared clinical outcomes following immune therapy for patients with or without NRAS mutations. Of the 229 patients with melanoma, 60 had NRAS mutation, 53 had BRAF mutation, and 116 had NRAS/BRAF wild type. The NRAS-mutant cohort had superior or a trend to superior outcomes compared with the other cohorts in terms of response to first-line immune therapy (28% vs. 16%, P = 0.04), response to any line of immune therapy (32% vs. 20%, P = 0.07), clinical benefit (response + stable disease lasting ≥24 weeks; 50% vs. 31%, P < 0.01), and progression-free survival (median, 4.1 vs. 2.9 months, P = 0.09). Benefit from anti–PD-1/PD-L1 was particularly marked in the NRAS cohort (clinical benefit rate 73% vs. 35%). In an independent group of patient samples, NRAS-mutant melanoma had higher PD-L1 expression (although not statistically significant) compared with other genotypes (8/12 vs. 9/20 samples with ≥1% expression; 6/12 vs. 6/20 samples with ≥5% expression), suggesting a potential mechanism for the clinical results. This retrospective study suggests that NRAS mutations in advanced melanoma correlate with increased benefit from immune-based therapies compared with other genetic subtypes. If confirmed by prospective studies, this may be explained in part by high rates of PD-L1 expression. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(3); 288–95. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Galectin-3 Shapes Antitumor Immune Responses by Suppressing CD8+ T Cells via LAG-3 and Inhibiting Expansion of Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells
Authors: Kouo Theodore , Huang Lanqing , Pucsek Alexandra B. , Cao Minwei , Solt Sara , Armstrong Todd , Jaffee Elizabeth
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Galectin-3 is a 31-kDa lectin that modulates T-cell responses through several mechanisms, including apoptosis, T-cell receptor (TCR) cross-linking, and TCR downregulation. We found that patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) who responded to a granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor–secreting allogeneic PDA vaccine developed neutralizing antibodies to galectin-3 after immunization. We show that galectin-3 binds activated antigen-committed CD8+ T cells only in the tumor microenvironment. Galectin-3–deficient mice exhibit improved CD8+ T-cell effector function and increased expression of several inflammatory genes. Galectin-3 binds to LAG-3, and LAG-3 expression is necessary for galectin-3–mediated suppression of CD8+ T cells in vitro. Lastly, galectin-3–deficient mice have elevated levels of circulating plasmacytoid dendritic cells, which are superior to conventional dendritic cells in activating CD8+ T cells. Thus, inhibiting galectin-3 in conjunction with CD8+ T-cell–directed immunotherapies should enhance the tumor-specific immune response. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(4); 412–23. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Complex Immune Evasion Strategies in Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Wein Frederik , Weniger Marc A. , Höing Benedikt , Arnolds Judith , Hüttmann Andreas , Hansmann Martin-Leo , Hartmann Sylvia , Küppers Ralf
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The cellular microenvironment in classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) is dominated by a mixed infiltrate of inflammatory cells with typically only about 1% Hodgkin and Reed/Sternberg (HRS) tumor cells. T cells are usually the largest population of cells in the cHL microenvironment, encompassing T helper (Th) cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and cytotoxic T cells. Th cells and Tregs presumably provide essential survival signals for HRS cells. Tregs are also involved in rescuing HRS cells from antitumor immune responses. An understanding of the immune evasion strategies of HRS cells is not only relevant for a characterization of the pathophysiology of cHL but is also clinically relevant, given the current treatment approaches targeting checkpoint inhibitors. Here, we characterized the cHL-specific CD4+ T-cell infiltrate regarding its role in immune evasion. Global gene expression analysis of CD4+ Th cells and Tregs isolated from cHL lymph nodes and reactive tonsils revealed that Treg signatures were enriched in CD4+ Th cells of cHL. Hence, HRS cells may induce Treg differentiation in Th cells, a conclusion supported by in vitro studies with Th cells and cHL cell lines. We also found evidence for immune-suppressive purinergic signaling and a role of the inhibitory receptor-ligand pairs B- and T-cell lymphocyte attenuator–herpesvirus entry mediator and CD200R–CD200 in promoting immune evasion. Taken together, this study highlights the relevance of Treg induction and reveals new immune checkpoint-driven immune evasion strategies in cHL. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(12); 1122–32. ©2017 AACR.
Data from NK-Cell Recruitment Is Necessary for Eradication of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis with an IL12-Expressing Maraba Virus Cellular Vaccine
Authors: Alkayyal Almohanad A. , Tai Lee-Hwa , Kennedy Michael A. , de Souza Christiano Tanese , Zhang Jiqing , Lefebvre Charles , Sahi Shalini , Ananth Abhirami A. , Mahmoud Ahmad Bakur , Makrigiannis Andrew P. , Cron Greg O. , Macdonald Blair , Marginean E. Celia , Stojdl David F. , Bell John C. , Auer Rebecca C.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Despite improvements in chemotherapy and radical surgical debulking, peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) remains among the most common causes of death from abdominal cancers. Immunotherapies have been effective for selected solid malignancies, but their potential in PC has been little explored. Here, we report that intraperitoneal injection of an infected cell vaccine (ICV), consisting of autologous tumor cells infected ex vivo with an oncolytic Maraba MG1 virus expressing IL12, promotes the migration of activated natural killer (NK) cells to the peritoneal cavity in response to the secretion of IFNγ-induced protein-10 (IP-10) from dendritic cells. The recruitment of cytotoxic, IFNγ-secreting NK cells was associated with reduced tumor burden and improved survival in a colon cancer model of PC. Even in mice with bulky PC (tumors > 8 mm), a complete radiologic response was demonstrated within 8 to14 weeks, associated with 100% long-term survival. The impact of MG1-IL12-ICV upon NK-cell recruitment and function observed in the murine system was recapitulated in human lymphocytes exposed to human tumor cell lines infected with MG1-IL12. These findings suggest that an MG1-IL12-ICV is a promising therapy that could provide benefit to the thousands of patients diagnosed with PC each year. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(3); 211–21. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Human Dendritic Cells Mitigate NK-Cell Dysfunction Mediated by Nonselective JAK1/2 Blockade
Authors: Curran Shane A. , Shyer Justin A. , St. Angelo Erin T. , Talbot Lillian R. , Sharma Sneh , Chung David J. , Heller Glenn , Hsu Katharine C. , Betts Brian C. , Young James W.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors have achieved positive responses in myeloproliferative neoplasms, but at the expense of decreased natural killer (NK) cell numbers and compromised function. Selective JAK2 inhibition may also have a role in preventing and treating graft-versus-host disease after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Although JAK inhibitors can impair monocyte-derived dendritic cell (moDC) activation and function and suppress effector T-cell responses, the effects on NK cells and the relevant mechanisms remain undefined. Using common γc cytokines and distinct human dendritic cell (DC) subtypes, we compared the effects of a JAK2-specific (TG101348) with a less selective JAK1/2 (ruxolitinib) inhibitor on NK-cell activation and function. Ruxolitinib treatment completely blocked IL2, IL15, and DC-mediated STAT5 phosphorylation, along with the capacity of NK cells to secrete IFNγ or lyse NK cell–sensitive targets. Only NK-cell proliferation stimulated by moDCs resisted ruxolitinib treatment. In contrast, TG101348 treatment of stimulated NK cells resulted in far less functional compromise. TG101348 completely inhibited only soluble IL15-mediated STAT5 phosphorylation, which Langerhans-type DCs (LCs), presenting membrane-bound IL15 in trans, could salvage. These results demonstrate that ruxolitinib's nonselective inhibition of JAK1/2 results in profound NK-cell dysfunction by blocking downstream pSTAT5, hence providing a persuasive rationale for the development of selective JAK2 inhibitors for immunotherapeutic applications. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(1); 52–60. ©2016 AACR.
Data from Tumoricidal Effects of Macrophage-Activating Immunotherapy in a Murine Model of Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Jensen Jeffrey Lee , Rakhmilevich Alexander , Heninger Erika , Broman Aimee Teo , Hope Chelsea , Phan Funita , Miyamoto Shigeki , Maroulakou Ioanna , Callander Natalie , Hematti Peiman , Chesi Marta , Bergsagel P. Leif , Sondel Paul , Asimakopoulos Fotis
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Myeloma remains a virtually incurable malignancy. The inevitable evolution of multidrug-resistant clones and widespread clonal heterogeneity limit the potential of traditional and novel therapies to eliminate minimal residual disease (MRD), a reliable harbinger of relapse. Here, we show potent anti-myeloma activity of macrophage-activating immunotherapy (αCD40+CpG) that resulted in prolongation of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in an immunocompetent, preclinically validated, transplant-based model of multidrug-resistant, relapsed/refractory myeloma (t-Vκ*MYC). αCD40+CpG was effective in vivo in the absence of cytolytic natural killer, T, or B cells and resulted in expansion of M1-polarized (cytolytic/tumoricidal) macrophages in the bone marrow. Moreover, we show that concurrent loss/inhibition of Tpl2 kinase (Cot, Map3k8), a MAP3K that is recruited to activated CD40 complex and regulates macrophage activation/cytokine production, potentiated direct, ex vivo anti-myeloma tumoricidal activity of αCD40+CpG–activated macrophages, promoted production of antitumor cytokine IL12 in vitro and in vivo, and synergized with αCD40+CpG to further prolong PFS and OS in vivo. Our results support the combination of αCD40-based macrophage activation and TPL2 inhibition for myeloma immunotherapy. We propose that αCD40-mediated activation of innate antitumor immunity may be a promising approach to control/eradicate MRD following cytoreduction with traditional or novel anti-myeloma therapies. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(8); 881–90. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Soluble PD-L1 as a Biomarker in Malignant Melanoma Treated with Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Zhou Jun , Mahoney Kathleen M. , Giobbie-Hurder Anita , Zhao Fengmin , Lee Sandra , Liao Xiaoyun , Rodig Scott , Li Jingjing , Wu Xinqi , Butterfield Lisa H. , Piesche Matthias , Manos Michael P. , Eastman Lauren M. , Dranoff Glenn , Freeman Gordon J. , Hodi F. Stephen
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Blockade of the pathway including programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and its receptor programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) has produced clinical benefits in patients with a variety of cancers. Elevated levels of soluble PD-L1 (sPD-L1) have been associated with worse prognosis in renal cell carcinoma and multiple myeloma. However, the regulatory roles and function of sPD-L1 particularly in connection with immune checkpoint blockade treatment are not fully understood. We identified four splice variants of PD-L1 in melanoma cells, and all of them are secreted. Secretion of sPD-L1 resulted from alternate splicing activities, cytokine induction, cell stress, cell injury, and cell death in melanoma cells. Pretreatment levels of sPD-L1 were elevated in stage IV melanoma patient sera compared with healthy donors. High pretreatment levels of sPD-L1 were associated with increased likelihood of progressive disease in patients treated by CTLA-4 or PD-1 blockade. Although changes in circulating sPD-L1 early after treatment could not distinguish responders from those with progressive disease, after five months of treatment by CTLA-4 or PD-1 blockade patients who had increased circulating sPD-L1 had greater likelihood of developing a partial response. Induction of sPD-L1 was associated with increased circulating cytokines after CTLA-4 blockade but not following PD-1 blockade. Circulating sPD-L1 is a prognostic biomarker that may predict outcomes for subgroups of patients receiving checkpoint inhibitors. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(6); 480–92. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Somatic Mutations and Neoepitope Homology in Melanomas Treated with CTLA-4 Blockade
Authors: Nathanson Tavi , Ahuja Arun , Rubinsteyn Alexander , Aksoy Bulent Arman , Hellmann Matthew D. , Miao Diana , Van Allen Eliezer , Merghoub Taha , Wolchok Jedd D. , Snyder Alexandra , Hammerbacher Jeff
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors are promising treatments for patients with a variety of malignancies. Toward understanding the determinants of response to immune checkpoint inhibitors, it was previously demonstrated that the presence of somatic mutations is associated with benefit from checkpoint inhibition. A hypothesis was posited that neoantigen homology to pathogens may in part explain the link between somatic mutations and response. To further examine this hypothesis, we reanalyzed cancer exome data obtained from our previously published study of 64 melanoma patients treated with CTLA-4 blockade and a new dataset of RNA-Seq data from 24 of these patients. We found that the ability to accurately predict patient benefit did not increase as the analysis narrowed from somatic mutation burden, to inclusion of only those mutations predicted to be MHC class I neoantigens, to only including those neoantigens that were expressed or that had homology to pathogens. The only association between somatic mutation burden and response was found when examining samples obtained prior to treatment. Neoantigen and expressed neoantigen burden were also associated with response, but neither was more predictive than somatic mutation burden. Neither the previously described tetrapeptide signature nor an updated method to evaluate neoepitope homology to pathogens was more predictive than mutation burden. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(1); 84–91. ©2016 AACR.
Data from HDAC Inhibition Upregulates PD-1 Ligands in Melanoma and Augments Immunotherapy with PD-1 Blockade
Authors: Woods David M. , Sodré Andressa L. , Villagra Alejandro , Sarnaik Amod , Sotomayor Eduardo M. , Weber Jeffrey
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Expression of PD-1 ligands by tumors and interaction with PD-1–expressing T cells in the tumor microenvironment can result in tolerance. Therapies targeting this coinhibitory axis have proven clinically successful in the treatment of metastatic melanoma, non–small cell lung cancer, and other malignancies. Therapeutic agents targeting the epigenetic regulatory family of histone deacetylases (HDAC) have shown clinical success in the treatment of some hematologic malignancies. Beyond direct tumor cell cytotoxicity, HDAC inhibitors have also been shown to alter the immunogenicity and enhance antitumor immune responses. Here, we show that class I HDAC inhibitors upregulated the expression of PD-L1 and, to a lesser degree, PD-L2 in melanomas. Evaluation of human and murine cell lines and patient tumors treated with a variety of HDAC inhibitors in vitro displayed upregulation of these ligands. This upregulation was robust and durable, with enhanced expression lasting past 96 hours. These results were validated in vivo in a B16F10 syngeneic murine model. Mechanistically, HDAC inhibitor treatment resulted in rapid upregulation of histone acetylation of the PD-L1 gene leading to enhanced and durable gene expression. The efficacy of combining HDAC inhibition with PD-1 blockade for treatment of melanoma was also explored in a murine B16F10 model. Mice receiving combination therapy had a slower tumor progression and increased survival compared with control and single-agent treatments. These results highlight the ability of epigenetic modifiers to augment immunotherapies, providing a rationale for combining HDAC inhibitors with PD-1 blockade. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(12); 1375–85. ©2015 AACR.
Data from Fusobacterium nucleatum in Colorectal Cancer Relates to Immune Response Differentially by Tumor Microsatellite Instability Status
Authors: Hamada Tsuyoshi , Zhang Xuehong , Mima Kosuke , Bullman Susan , Sukawa Yasutaka , Nowak Jonathan A. , Kosumi Keisuke , Masugi Yohei , Twombly Tyler S. , Cao Yin , Song Mingyang , Liu Li , da Silva Annacarolina , Shi Yan , Gu Mancang , Li Wanwan , Koh Hideo , Nosho Katsuhiko , Inamura Kentaro , Keum NaNa , Wu Kana , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Kostic Aleksandar D. , Huttenhower Curtis , Garrett Wendy S. , Meyerson Matthew , Giovannucci Edward L. , Chan Andrew T. , Fuchs Charles S. , Nishihara Reiko , Giannakis Marios , Ogino Shuji
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The presence of Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum) in colorectal carcinoma tissue has been associated with microsatellite instability (MSI), lower-level T-cell infiltrates, and poor clinical outcomes. Considering differences in the tumor–immune microenvironment between MSI-high and non–MSI-high carcinomas, we hypothesized that the association of F. nucleatum with immune response might differ by tumor MSI status. Using samples from 1,041 rectal and colon cancer patients within the Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study, we measured F. nucleatum DNA in tumor tissue by a quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the association between F. nucleatum status and histopathologic lymphocytic reactions or density of CD3+ cells, CD8+ cells, CD45RO (PTPRC)+ cells, or FOXP3+ cells in strata of tumor MSI status. We adjusted for potential confounders, including CpG island methylator phenotype; LINE-1 methylation; and KRAS, BRAF, and PIK3CA mutations. The association of F. nucleatum with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) and intratumoral periglandular reaction differed by tumor MSI status (Pinteraction = 0.002). The presence of F. nucleatum was negatively associated with TIL in MSI-high tumors [multivariable odds ratio (OR), 0.45; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.22–0.92], but positively associated with TIL in non–MSI-high tumors (multivariable OR 1.91; 95% CI, 1.12–3.25). No significant differential association was observed for peritumoral lymphocytic reaction, Crohn-like lymphoid reaction, or T-cell densities. In conclusion, the association of F. nucleatum with immune response to colorectal carcinoma differs by tumor MSI status, suggesting that F. nucleatum and MSI status interact to affect antitumor immune reactions. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(11); 1327–36. ©2018 AACR.

See related Spotlight on p. 1290.
Data from Sustained Type I Interferon Reinforces NK Cell–Mediated Cancer Immunosurveillance during Chronic Virus Infection
Authors: Oh Ji Hoon , Kim Myeong Joon , Choi Seong Jin , Ban Young Ho , Lee Heung Kyu , Shin Eui-Cheol , Lee Kyung-Mi , Ha Sang-Jun
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The importance of natural killer (NK) cells in the early immune response to viral or bacterial infection is well known. However, the phenotype, function, and physiologic role of NK cells during the late stage of persistent viral infection have not been extensively studied. Here, we characterized NK cells in mice persistently infected with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus clone 13 and showed that in contrast to NK cells from acutely infected or uninfected mice, NK cells from chronically infected mice expressed a terminally differentiated phenotype, stronger cytotoxicity, and reduced inhibitory receptor expression. In an in vivo tumor model, chronically infected mice exhibited significantly delayed tumor progression in an NK cell–dependent manner. NK cells from chronically infected mice also expressed high STAT1, and blocking the type I interferon (IFN) receptor revealed that type I IFN signaling directly regulated NK cell cytotoxicity. Our findings indicate that sustained type I IFN signaling during chronic viral infection potentiates the cytolytic function of NK cells and contributes to NK cell–dependent host immune surveillance.
Data from Tumor-Specific Inhibition of In Situ Vaccination by Distant Untreated Tumor Sites
Authors: Morris Zachary S. , Guy Emily I. , Werner Lauryn R. , Carlson Peter M. , Heinze Clinton M. , Kler Jasdeep S. , Busche Sara M. , Jaquish Abigail A. , Sriramaneni Raghava N. , Carmichael Lakeesha L. , Loibner Hans , Gillies Stephen D. , Korman Alan J. , Erbe Amy K. , Hank Jacquelyn A. , Rakhmilevich Alexander L. , Harari Paul M. , Sondel Paul M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
In situ vaccination is an emerging cancer treatment strategy that uses local therapies to stimulate a systemic antitumor immune response. We previously reported an in situ vaccination effect when combining radiation (RT) with intratumor (IT) injection of tumor-specific immunocytokine (IC), a fusion of tumor-specific antibody and IL2 cytokine. In mice bearing two tumors, we initially hypothesized that delivering RT plus IT-IC to the “primary” tumor would induce a systemic antitumor response causing regression of the “secondary” tumor. To test this, mice bearing one or two syngeneic murine tumors of B78 melanoma and/or Panc02 pancreatic cancer were treated with combined external beam RT and IT-IC to the designated “primary” tumor only. Primary and secondary tumor response as well as animal survival were monitored. Immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR were used to quantify tumor infiltration with regulatory T cells (Treg). Transgenic “DEREG” mice or IgG2a anti–CTLA-4 were used to transiently deplete tumor Tregs. Contrary to our initial hypothesis, we observed that the presence of an untreated secondary tumor antagonized the therapeutic effect of RT + IT-IC delivered to the primary tumor. We observed reciprocal tumor specificity for this effect, which was circumvented if all tumors received RT or by transient depletion of Tregs. Primary tumor treatment with RT + IT-IC together with systemic administration of Treg-depleting anti–CTLA-4 resulted in a renewed in situ vaccination effect. Our findings show that untreated tumors can exert a tumor-specific, Treg-dependent, suppressive effect on the efficacy of in situ vaccination and demonstrate clinically viable approaches to overcome this effect. Untreated tumor sites antagonize the systemic and local antitumor immune response to an in situ vaccination regimen. This effect is radiation sensitive and may be mediated by tumor-specific regulatory T cells harbored in the untreated tumor sites. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(7); 825–34. ©2018 AACR.
Data from Soluble SLAMF6 Receptor Induces Strong CD8+ T-cell Effector Function and Improves Anti-Melanoma Activity In Vivo
Authors: Eisenberg Galit , Engelstein Roni , Geiger-Maor Anat , Hajaj Emma , Merims Sharon , Frankenburg Shoshana , Uzana Ronny , Rutenberg Abraham , Machlenkin Arthur , Frei Gabi , Peretz Tamar , Lotem Michal
Published: April 2023

Abstract
SLAMF6, a member of the SLAM (signaling lymphocyte activation molecules) family, is a homotypic-binding immune receptor expressed on NK, T, and B lymphocytes. Phosphorylation variance between T-cell subclones prompted us to explore its role in anti melanoma immunity. Using a 203-amino acid sequence of the human SLAMF6 (seSLAMF6) ectodomain, we found that seSLAMF6 reduced activation-induced cell death and had an antiapoptotic effect on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. CD8+ T cells costimulated with seSLAMF6 secreted more IFNγ and displayed augmented cytolytic activity. The systemic administration of seSLAMF6 to mice sustained adoptively transferred transgenic CD8+ T cells in comparable numbers to high doses of IL2. In a therapeutic model, lymphocytes activated by seSLAMF6 delayed tumor growth, and when further supported in vivo with seSLAMF6, induced complete tumor clearance. The ectodomain expedites the loss of phosphorylation on SLAMF6 that occurs in response to T-cell receptor triggering. Our findings suggest that seSLAMF6 is a costimulator that could be used in melanoma immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(2); 127–38. ©2018 AACR.
Data from Tumor Lymphatic Function Regulates Tumor Inflammatory and Immunosuppressive Microenvironments
Authors: Kataru Raghu P. , Ly Catherine L. , Shin Jinyeon , Park Hyeung Ju , Baik Jung Eun , Rehal Sonia , Ortega Sagrario , Lyden David , Mehrara Babak J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Proliferation of aberrant, dysfunctional lymphatic vessels around solid tumors is a common histologic finding. Studies have shown that abnormalities in lymphatic function result in accumulation of inflammatory cells with an immunosuppressive profile. We tested the hypothesis that dysfunctional lymphatic vessels surrounding solid tumors regulate changes in the tumor microenvironment and tumor-specific immune responses. Using subcutaneously implanted mouse melanoma and breast cancer tumors in a lymphatic endothelial cell–specific diphtheria toxin receptor transgenic mouse, we found that local ablation of lymphatic vessels increased peritumoral edema, as compared with controls. Comparative analysis of the peritumoral fluid demonstrated increases in the number of macrophages, CD4+ inflammatory cells, F4/80+/Gr-1+ (myeloid-derived suppressor cells), CD4+/Foxp3+ (Tregs) immunosuppressive cells, and expression of inflammatory cytokines such as TNFα, IFNγ, and IL1β following lymphatic ablation. Tumors grown in lymphatic ablated mice exhibited reduced intratumoral accumulation of cytotoxic T cells and increased tumor PD-L1 expression, causing rapid tumor growth, compared with tumors grown in nonlymphatic-ablated mice. Our study suggests that lymphatic dysfunction plays a role in regulating tumor microenvironments and may be therapeutically targeted in combination with immunotherapy to prevent tumor growth and progression.
Data from TK Inhibitor Pazopanib Primes DCs by Downregulation of the β-Catenin Pathway
Authors: Zizzari Ilaria Grazia , Napoletano Chiara , Botticelli Andrea , Caponnetto Salvatore , Calabrò Fabio , Gelibter Alain , Rughetti Aurelia , Ruscito Ilary , Rahimi Hassan , Rossi Ernesto , Schinzari Giovanni , Marchetti Paolo , Nuti Marianna
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) target angiogenesis by affecting, for example, the VEGF receptors in tumors and have improved outcomes for patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have also been proposed for treatment of mRCC with encouraging results. A better understanding of the activity of immune cells in mRCC, the immunomodulatory effects of TKIs, and the characteristics defining patients most likely to benefit from various therapies will help optimize immunotherapeutic approaches. In this study, we investigated the influence of the TKI pazopanib on dendritic cell (DC) performance and immune priming. Pazopanib improved DC differentiation and performance by promoting upregulation of the maturation markers HLA-DR, CD40, and CCR7; decreasing IL10 production and endocytosis; and increasing T-cell proliferation. PD-L1 expression was also downregulated. Our results demonstrate that pazopanib inhibits the Erk/β-catenin pathway, suggesting this pathway might be involved in increased DC activation. Similar results were confirmed in DCs differentiated from mRCC patients during pazopanib treatment. In treated patients pazopanib appeared to enhance a circulating CD4+ T-cell population that expresses CD137 (4-1BB). These results suggest that a potentially exploitable immunomodulatory effect induced by pazopanib could improve responses of patients with mRCC in customized protocols combining TKIs with ICI immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(6); 711–22. ©2018 AACR.
Data from Clonal Expansion and Interrelatedness of Distinct B-Lineage Compartments in Multiple Myeloma Bone Marrow
Authors: Hansmann Leo , Han Arnold , Penter Livius , Liedtke Michaela , Davis Mark M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Multiple myeloma is characterized by the clonal expansion of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow. But the phenotypic diversity and the contribution of less predominant B-lineage clones to the biology of this disease have been controversial. Here, we asked whether cells bearing the dominant multiple myeloma immunoglobulin rearrangement occupy phenotypic compartments other than that of plasma cells. To accomplish this, we combined 13-parameter FACS index sorting and t-Stochastic Neighbor Embedding (t-SNE) visualization with high-throughput single-cell immunoglobulin sequencing to track selected B-lineage clones across different stages of human B-cell development. As expected, the predominant clones preferentially mapped to aberrant plasma cell compartments, albeit phenotypically altered from wild type. Interestingly, up to 1.2% of cells of the predominant clones colocalized with B-lineage cells of a normal phenotype. In addition, minor clones with distinct immunoglobulin sequences were detected in up to 9% of sequenced cells, but only 2 out of 12 of these clones showed aberrant immune phenotypes. The majority of these minor clones showed intraclonal silent nucleotide differences within the CDR3s and varying frequencies of somatic mutations in the immunoglobulin genes. Therefore, the phenotypic range of multiple myeloma cells in the bone marrow is not confined to aberrant-phenotype plasma cells but extends to low frequencies of normal-phenotype B cells, in line with the recently reported success of B cell–targeting cellular therapies in some patients. The majority of minor clones result from parallel nonmalignant expansion. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(9); 744–54. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Prognostic Significance of PD-L1+ and CD8+ Immune Cells in HPV+ Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Solomon Benjamin , Young Richard J. , Bressel Mathias , Urban Damien , Hendry Shona , Thai Alesha , Angel Christopher , Haddad Afaf , Kowanetz Marcin , Fua Tsien , Corry June , Fox Stephen , Rischin Danny
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Human papilloma virus–positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+ OPSCC) represents a distinct subgroup of head and neck cancers associated with clinical outcomes that are not accurately categorized by existing tumor–node–metastasis-based staging methods. Given the significant impact of immune parameters, such as tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in many cancers, we sought to determine if immunophenotyping tumors can improve categorization of HPV+ OPSCCs for prognostic purposes. In a cohort of 190 patients with HPV+ OPSCC, we quantified and determined the localization of CD8+ TILs, as well as PD-L1–expressing tumor cells (TC) and immune cells (IC). The prognostic significance of these parameters on overall survival (OS) was evaluated, and their contribution to existing prognostic models was determined. High CD8+ TIL abundance (≥30% on stromal or intratumoral ICs) was seen in 61.3% patients and was associated with improved OS [HR, 0.4; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.2–0.9; P = 0.017]. Although the expression of PD-L1 on TC was not prognostic, high expression of PD-L1 on ≥5% of intratumoral ICs was found in 38.5% patients and was significantly associated with improved OS (HR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.15–0.93; P = 0. 023). Both high intratumoral IC PD-L1 expression and abundant CD8+ TILs in HPV+ OPSCCs identify subgroups of patients with excellent outcomes and provide additional prognostic information beyond existing staging systems. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(3); 295–304. ©2018 AACR.
Data from CAR-T Cells Surface-Engineered with Drug-Encapsulated Nanoparticles Can Ameliorate Intratumoral T-cell Hypofunction
Authors: Siriwon Natnaree , Kim Yu Jeong , Siegler Elizabeth , Chen Xianhui , Rohrs Jennifer A. , Liu Yarong , Wang Pin
Published: April 2023

Abstract
One limiting factor of CAR T-cell therapy for treatment of solid cancers is the suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), which inactivates the function of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) through the production of immunosuppressive molecules, such as adenosine. Adenosine inhibits the function of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells by binding to and activating the A2a adenosine receptor (A2aR) expressed on their surface. This suppression pathway can be blocked using the A2aR-specific small molecule antagonist SCH-58261 (SCH), but its applications have been limited owing to difficulties delivering this drug to immune cells within the TME. To overcome this limitation, we used CAR-engineered T cells as active chaperones to deliver SCH-loaded cross-linked, multilamellar liposomal vesicles (cMLV) to tumor-infiltrating T cells deep within the immune suppressive TME. Through in vitro and in vivo studies, we have demonstrated that this system can be used to effectively deliver SCH to the TME. This treatment may prevent or rescue the emergence of hypofunctional CAR-T cells within the TME. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(7); 812–24. ©2018 AACR.
Data from Enhancement of Peptide Vaccine Immunogenicity by Increasing Lymphatic Drainage and Boosting Serum Stability
Authors: Moynihan Kelly D. , Holden Rebecca L. , Mehta Naveen K. , Wang Chensu , Karver Mark R. , Dinter Jens , Liang Simon , Abraham Wuhbet , Melo Mariane B. , Zhang Angela Q. , Li Na , Gall Sylvie Le , Pentelute Bradley L. , Irvine Darrell J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Antitumor T-cell responses have the potential to be curative in cancer patients, but the induction of potent T-cell immunity through vaccination remains a largely unmet goal of immunotherapy. We previously reported that the immunogenicity of peptide vaccines could be increased by maximizing delivery to lymph nodes (LNs), where T-cell responses are generated. This was achieved by conjugating the peptide to 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine-N-PEG (DSPE-PEG) to promote albumin binding, which resulted in enhanced lymphatic drainage and improved T-cell responses. Here, we expanded upon these findings and mechanistically dissected the properties that contribute to the potency of this amphiphile-vaccine (amph-vaccine). We found that multiple linkage chemistries could be used to link peptides with DSPE-PEG, and further, that multiple albumin-binding moieties conjugated to peptide antigens enhanced LN accumulation and subsequent T-cell priming. In addition to enhancing lymphatic trafficking, DSPE-PEG conjugation increased the stability of peptides in serum. DSPE-PEG peptides trafficked beyond immediate draining LNs to reach distal nodes, with antigen presented for at least a week in vivo, whereas soluble peptide presentation quickly decayed. Responses to amph-vaccines were not altered in mice deficient in the albumin-binding neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), but required Batf3-dependent dendritic cells (DCs). Amph-peptides were processed by human DCs equivalently to unmodified peptides. These data define design criteria for enhancing the immunogenicity of molecular vaccines to guide the design of next-generation peptide vaccines. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(9); 1025–38. ©2018 AACR.
Data from PPARγ Contributes to Immunity Induced by Cancer Cell Vaccines That Secrete GM-CSF
Authors: Goyal Girija , Wong Karrie , Nirschl Christopher J. , Souders Nicholas , Neuberg Donna , Anandasabapathy Niroshana , Dranoff Glenn
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) is a lipid-activated nuclear receptor that promotes immune tolerance through effects on macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), and regulatory T cells (Tregs). Granulocyte–macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) induces PPARγ expression in multiple myeloid cell types. GM-CSF contributes to both immune tolerance and protection, but the role of PPARγ in these pathways is poorly understood. Here, we reveal an unexpected stimulatory role for PPARγ in the generation of antitumor immunity with irradiated, GM-CSF–secreting tumor-cell vaccines (GVAX). Mice harboring a deletion of pparg in lysozyme M (LysM)-expressing myeloid cells (KO) showed a decreased ratio of CD8+ T effectors to Tregs and impaired tumor rejection with GVAX. Diminished tumor protection was associated with altered DC responses and increased production of the Treg attracting chemokines CCL17 and CLL22. Correspondingly, the systemic administration of PPARγ agonists to vaccinated mice elevated the CD8+ T effector to Treg ratio through effects on myeloid cells and intensified the antitumor activity of GVAX combined with cytotoxic T lymphocyte–associated antigen-4 antibody blockade. PPARγ agonists similarly attenuated Treg induction and decreased CCL17 and CCL22 levels in cultures of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells with GM-CSF–secreting tumor cells. Together, these results highlight a key role for myeloid cell PPARγ in GM-CSF–stimulated antitumor immunity and suggest that PPARγ agonists might be useful in cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(6); 723–32. ©2018 AACR.
Data from Rapamycin Prevents Surgery-Induced Immune Dysfunction in Patients with Bladder Cancer
Authors: Svatek Robert S. , Ji Niannian , de Leon Essel , Mukherjee Neelam Z. , Kabra Aashish , Hurez Vincent , Nicolas Marlo , Michalek Joel E. , Javors Martin , Wheeler Karen , Sharp Z. Dave , Livi Carolina B. , Shu Zhen-Ju , Henkes David , Curiel Tyler J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) integrates environmental inputs to regulate cellular growth and metabolism in tumors. However, mTOR also regulates T-cell differentiation and activation, rendering applications of mTOR inhibitors toward treating cancer complex. Preclinical data support distinct biphasic effects of rapamycin, with higher doses directly suppressing tumor cell growth and lower doses enhancing T-cell immunity. To address the translational relevance of these findings, the effects of the mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) inhibitor, rapamycin, on tumor and T cells were monitored in patients undergoing cystectomy for bladder cancer. MB49 syngeneic murine bladder cancer models were tested to gain mechanistic insights. Surgery-induced T-cell exhaustion in humans and mice and was associated with increased pulmonary metastasis and decreased PD-L1 antibody efficacy in mouse bladder cancer. At 3 mg orally daily, rapamycin concentrations were 2-fold higher in bladder tissues than in blood. Rapamycin significantly inhibited tumor mTORC1, shown by decreased rpS6 phosphorylation in treated versus control patients (P = 0.008). Rapamycin reduced surgery-induced T-cell exhaustion in patients, evidenced by a significant decrease in the prevalence of dysfunctional programmed death-1 (PD-1)–expressing T cells. Grade 3 to 4 adverse event rates were similar between groups, but rapamycin-treated patients had a higher rate of wound complications versus controls. In conclusion, surgery promoted bladder cancer metastasis and decreased the efficacy of postoperative bladder cancer immunotherapy. Low-dose (3 mg daily) oral rapamycin has favorable pharmacodynamic and immune modulating activity in surgical patients and has the potential to decrease surgery-induced immune dysfunction.
Data from Concurrent PD-1 Blockade Negates the Effects of OX40 Agonist Antibody in Combination Immunotherapy through Inducing T-cell Apoptosis
Authors: Shrimali Rajeev K. , Ahmad Shamim , Verma Vivek , Zeng Peng , Ananth Sudha , Gaur Pankaj , Gittelman Rachel M. , Yusko Erik , Sanders Catherine , Robins Harlan , Hammond Scott A. , Janik John E. , Mkrtichyan Mikayel , Gupta Seema , Khleif Samir N.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Combination therapies that depend on checkpoint inhibitor antibodies (Abs) such as for PD-1 or its ligand (PD-L1) together with immune stimulatory agonist Abs like anti-OX40 are being tested in the clinic to achieve improved antitumor effects. Here, we studied the potential therapeutic and immune effects of one such combination: Ab to PD-1 with agonist Ab to OX40/vaccine. We tested the antitumor effects of different treatment sequencing of this combination. We report that simultaneous addition of anti–PD-1 to anti-OX40 negated the antitumor effects of OX40 Ab. Antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell infiltration into the tumor was diminished, the resultant antitumor response weakened, and survival reduced. Although we observed an increase in IFNγ-producing E7-specifc CD8+ T cells in the spleens of mice treated with the combination of PD-1 blockade with anti-OX40/vaccine, these cells underwent apoptosis both in the periphery and the tumor. These results indicate that anti–PD-1 added at the initiation of therapy exhibits a detrimental effect on the positive outcome of anti-OX40 agonist Ab. These findings have important implications on the design of combination immunotherapy for cancer, demonstrating the need to test treatment combination and sequencing before moving to the clinic. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(9); 755–66. ©2017 AACR.
Data from Autologous Lymphocyte Infusion Supports Tumor Antigen Vaccine–Induced Immunity in Autologous Stem Cell Transplant for Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Cohen Adam D. , Lendvai Nikoletta , Nataraj Sarah , Imai Naoko , Jungbluth Achim A. , Tsakos Ioanna , Rahman Adeeb , Mei Anna Huo-Chang , Singh Herman , Zarychta Katarzyna , Kim-Schulze Seunghee , Park Andrew , Venhaus Ralph , Alpaugh Katherine , Gnjatic Sacha , Cho Hearn J.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Autologous stem cell transplant (autoSCT), the standard consolidation therapy for multiple myeloma, improves disease-free survival, but is not curative. This could be an ideal setting for immunologic therapy. However, the immune milieu is impaired after autoSCT. We hypothesized that autologous lymphocyte infusion would restore immune competence, allowing immunotherapies such as cancer vaccines to elicit tumor antigen–specific immunity in the setting of autoSCT. In this pilot study (NCT01380145), we investigated safety, immunologic, and clinical outcomes of autologous lymphocyte infusion combined with peri-autoSCT immunotherapy with recombinant MAGE-A3 (a multiple myeloma–associated antigen) and adjuvant. Thirteen patients with multiple myeloma undergoing autoSCT were enrolled. Autologous lymphocyte infusion and MAGE vaccination were well tolerated. Combination immunotherapy resulted in high-titer humoral immunity and robust, antigen-specific CD4+ T-cell responses in all subjects, and the responses persisted at least one year post-autoSCT. CD4+ T cells were polyfunctional and Th1-biased. CD8+ T-cell responses were elicited in 3 of 13 subjects. These cells recognized naturally processed MAGE-A3 antigen. Median progression-free survival was 27 months, and median overall survival was not reached, suggesting no differences from standard-of-care. In 4 of 8 subjects tested, MAGE-A protein expression was not detected by IHC in multiple myeloma cells at relapse, suggesting therapy-induced immunologic selection against antigen-expressing clones. These results demonstrated that autologous lymphocyte infusion augmentation of autoSCT confers a favorable milieu for immunotherapies such as tumor vaccines. This strategy does not require ex vivo manipulation of autologous lymphocyte products and is an applicable platform for further investigation into combination immunotherapies to treat multiple myeloma.