Human tumors tend to activate the immune system regulatory checkpoints as a means of escaping immunosurveillance. For instance, interaction between program death-1(PD-1) and program death-ligand 1(PD-L1) will lead the...Human tumors tend to activate the immune system regulatory checkpoints as a means of escaping immunosurveillance. For instance, interaction between program death-1(PD-1) and program death-ligand 1(PD-L1) will lead the activated T cell to a state of anergy. PD-L1 is upregulated on a wide range of cancer cells. Anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies(m Abs), called immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs), have consequently been designed to restore T cell activity. Accumulating data are in favor of an association between PD-L1 expression in tumors and response to treatment. A PD-L1 expression is present in 30% to 50% of digestive cancers. Multiple anti-PD-1(nivolumab, pembrolizumab) and anti-PD-L1 m Abs(MPDL3280A, Medi4736) are under evaluation in digestive cancers. Preliminary results in metastatic gastric cancer with pembrolizumab are highly promising and phase Ⅱ will start soon. In metastatic colorectal cancer(CRC), a phase Ⅲ trial of MPDL3280 A as maintenance therapy will shortly be initiated. Trials are also ongoing in metastatic CRC with high immune T cell infiltration(i.e., microsatellite instability). Major challenges are ahead in order to determine how, when and for which patients we should use these ICIs. New radiologic criteria to evaluate tumor response to ICIs are awaiting prospective validation. The optimal therapeutic sequence and association with cytotoxic chemotherapy needs to be established. Finally, biomarker identification will be crucial to selection ofpatients likely to benefit from ICIs.展开更多
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer(GC)is one of the most common malignancies worldwide,and Helicobacter pylori(HP)infection is a well-established risk factor for its development.Programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1)expression is a ...BACKGROUND Gastric cancer(GC)is one of the most common malignancies worldwide,and Helicobacter pylori(HP)infection is a well-established risk factor for its development.Programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1)expression is a crucial biomarker for predicting the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer treatment.While HP infection and PD-L1 expression in GC may be linked,the relationship between them remains unclear,in part because there have been conflicting results reported from various studies.AIM To perform a meta-analysis to assess the relationship between HP and PD-L1 expression in patients with GC.METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed,Embase,Cochrane Library,and Web of Science databases.Observational studies that examined the association between HP infection and PD-L1 expression in patients with GC were included.Odds ratios and 95%confidence intervals were calculated to estimate the association.Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane’s Q test and I²statistic.A random-effects model was used due to significant heterogeneity across studies.RESULTS Fourteen studies involving a total of 3069 patients with GC were included.The pooled analysis showed a significant association between HP infection and increased PD-L1 expression in GC tissues(odd ratio=1.69,95%confidence interval:1.24-2.29,P<0.001,I^(2)=59%).Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of these findings.Subgroup analyses did not show significant variation based on geographic region,sample size,or method of PD-L1 assessment.Publication bias was minimal,as shown by funnel plots and Egger’s regression test.CONCLUSION HP infection is associated with increased PD-L1 expression in GC,suggesting that HP status may influence the response to programmed cell death protein 1/PD-L1 blockade therapy.展开更多
BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs)are a new class of antitumor agents.They enhance antitumor effects by blocking inhibitory receptors and related ligands expressed on T cells.ICIs also modulate regular immu...BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs)are a new class of antitumor agents.They enhance antitumor effects by blocking inhibitory receptors and related ligands expressed on T cells.ICIs also modulate regular immune cell activity,affecting the immune system and causing immune-related adverse events.The renal system is sometimes affected by these adverse events.Currently,the literature on ICIs-related glomerular injuries is scarce.CASE SUMMARY We present a patient who developed granulomatosis with polyangiitis(GPA)3 weeks after treatment with the anti-programmed cell death-1 inhibitor,tislel-izumab.The patient experienced proteinuria,hematuria,and acute kidney injury without pulmonary hemorrhage and tested positive for anti-neutrophil cyto-plasmic antibody(ANCA)-cytoplasmic type.Renal biopsy confirmed ANCA-associated vasculitis,and GPA was finally diagnosed.The patient received pulse treatment with glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide,and renal function improved.After self-discontinuation of the drug,the disease recurred,and the original treatment regimen was continued.However,the patient’s renal function continued to deteriorate.CONCLUSION Glucocorticoids plus cyclophosphamide are effective for treating GPA induced by tislelizumab.However,follow-up and patient education are needed.展开更多
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most prevalent form of cancer worldwide.Among patients with CRC,colorectal liver metastasis(CRLM)is the foremost direct contributor to mortality.In recent years,immunother...BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most prevalent form of cancer worldwide.Among patients with CRC,colorectal liver metastasis(CRLM)is the foremost direct contributor to mortality.In recent years,immunotherapy has swiftly risen to prominence as a vital approach for treating a range of solid tumors,including CRC.We present a unique case of a patient suffering from CRLM,with the goal of offering an insightful example and relevant references for the treatment of CRLM.CASE SUMMARY We report a patient who experienced liver metastasis after undergoing successful surgical removal of CRC,with the postoperative pathological stage identified as pT4N2aM0.The patient has been receiving a combination treatment of Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine.Regular assessments of the patient’s condition have been conducted,encompassing evaluations of serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels,carbohydrate antigen 199,and observations of the tongue complexion and its coating.The patient achieved clinical remission after anti-programmed death-1 immunotherapy when various systemic therapies failed.Since the diagnosis of CRLM,the patient has survived for more than 6 years,surpassing the expected survival time for those with advanced CRC.CONCLUSION This case illustrates the considerable promise of anti-programmed death-1 immunotherapy in managing CRLM,especially in scenarios of drug resistance and disease progression.展开更多
BACKGROUND We previously demonstrated that the antibody against programmed cell death protein 1 ligand 1(PDCD1 LG1)is a promising new marker of programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1)expression that correlates with both brea...BACKGROUND We previously demonstrated that the antibody against programmed cell death protein 1 ligand 1(PDCD1 LG1)is a promising new marker of programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1)expression that correlates with both breast cancer(BC)clinicopathological characteristics and tumor sensitivity to chemotherapy.However,the concordance of PDCD1 LG1 expression scoring with immunohistochemical(IHC)tests approved for clinical use and with the polymerase chain reaction(PCR)method has not been previously studied.AIM To evaluate the concordance of methods for assessing PD-L1 expression,IHC tests with anti-PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and anti-PD-L1(SP142)antibodies and PCR.METHODS This prospective single-center observational cohort study included 148 patients with BC.PD-L1 expression in immune cells was assessed by the IHC method with anti-PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and anti-PD-L1(SP142)antibodies and by PCR.The concordance of PD-L1 scores between tests was assessed with positive percentage agreement(PPA)and negative percentage agreement(NPA).The strength of the agreement between the methods was calculated via the Cohen kappa index.P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS Regardless of the method used to assess marker expression,PD-L1 expression was significantly more often detected in patients with negative estrogen receptor status,human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-positive(HER2+)status,luminal B HER+BC,nonluminal HER+BC and triple-negative BC.PPA and NPA were 38.3%and 70.4%,respectively,for PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and PD-L1(SP142);26.3%and 63.3%,respectively,for PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and PD-L1(PCR);and 36.5%and 74.4%,respectively,for PD-L1(SP142)and PD-L1(PCR).Cohen's kappa index for PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and PD-L1(SP142)was 0.385(95%CI:0.304–0.466),that for PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and PD-L1(PCR)was 0.207(95%CI:0.127–0.287),and that for PD-L1(SP142)and PD-L1(PCR)was 0.389(95%CI:0.309–0.469).CONCLUSION Thus,all three markers of PD-L1 expression are associated with the characteristics of aggressive BC,demonstrating moderate concordance between the tests.展开更多
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is an inflammation-associated tumor with a dismal prognosis.Immunotherapy has become an important treatment strategy for HCC,as immunity is closely related to inflammation in th...BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is an inflammation-associated tumor with a dismal prognosis.Immunotherapy has become an important treatment strategy for HCC,as immunity is closely related to inflammation in the tumor microenvir-onment.Inflammation regulates the expression of programmed death ligand-1(PD-L1)in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and affects im-munotherapy efficacy.Interleukin-17A(IL-17A)is involved in the remodeling of the tumor microenvironment and plays a protumor or antitumor role in different tumors.We hypothesized that IL-17A participates in tumor progression by affe-cting the level of immune checkpoint molecules in HCC.The upregulation of PD-L1 expression in HCC cells by IL-17A was assessed by reverse transcription PCR,western blotting,and flow cytometry.Mechanistic studies were conducted with gene knockout models and pathway inhibitors.The function of IL-17A in immune evasion was explored through coculture of T cells and HCC cells.The effects of IL-17A on the malignant biological behaviors of HCC cells were evaluated in vitro,and the antitumor effects of an IL-17A inhibitor and its synergistic effects with a PD-L1 inhibitor were studied in vivo.RESULTS IL-17A upregulated PD-L1 expression in HCC cells in a dose-dependent manner,whereas IL-17A receptor knockout or treatment with a small mothers against decapentaplegic 2 inhibitor diminished the PD-L1 expression induced by IL-17A.IL-17A enhanced the survival of HCC cells in the coculture system.IL-17A increased the viability,G2/M ratio,and migration of HCC cells and decreased the apoptotic index.Cyclin D1,VEGF,MMP9,and Bcl-1 expression increased after IL-17A treatment,whereas BAX expression decreased.The combination of IL-17A and PD-L1 inhibitors showed synergistic antitumor efficacy and increased cluster of differentiation 8+T lymphocyte infiltration in an HCC mouse model.CONCLUSION IL-17A upregulates PD-L1 expression via the IL-17A receptor/phosphorylation-small mothers against decapenta-plegic 2 signaling pathway in HCC cells.Blocking IL-17A enhances the therapeutic efficacy of PD-L1 antibodies in HCC in vivo.展开更多
BACKGROUND Regorafenib(R)and fruquintinib(F)are the standard third-line regimens for colorectal cancer(CRC)according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines,but both have limited efficacy.Several phase...BACKGROUND Regorafenib(R)and fruquintinib(F)are the standard third-line regimens for colorectal cancer(CRC)according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines,but both have limited efficacy.Several phase 2 trials have indicated that R or F combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors can reverse immunosuppression and achieve promising efficacy for microsatellite stable or proficient mismatch repair(MSS/pMMR)CRC.Due to the lack of studies comparing the efficacy between F,R,F plus programmed death-1(PD-1)inhibitor,and R plus PD-1 inhibitors(RP),it is still unclear whether the combination therapy is more effective than monotherapy.AIM To provide critical evidence for selecting the appropriate drugs for MSS/pMMR metastatic CRC(mCRC)patients in clinical practice.METHODS A total of 2639 CRC patients were enrolled from January 2018 to September 2022 in our hospital,and 313 MSS/pMMR mCRC patients were finally included.RESULTS A total of 313 eligible patients were divided into F(n=70),R(n=67),F plus PD-1 inhibitor(FP)(n=95)and RP(n=81)groups.The key clinical characteristics were well balanced among the groups.The median progression-free survival(PFS)of the F,R,FP,and RP groups was 3.5 months,3.6 months,4.9 months,and 3.0 months,respectively.The median overall survival(OS)was 14.6 months,15.7 months,16.7 months,and 14.1 months.The FP regimen had an improved disease control rate(DCR)(P=0.044)and 6-month PFS(P=0.014)and exhibited a better trend in PFS(P=0.057)compared with F,and it was also significantly better in PFS than RP(P=0.030).RP did not confer a significant survival benefit;instead,the R group had a trend toward greater benefit with OS(P=0.080)compared with RP.No significant differences were observed between the R and F groups in PFS or OS(P>0.05).CONCLUSION FP is superior to F in achieving 6-month PFS and DCR,while RP is not better than R.FP has an improved PFS and 6-month PFS compared with RP,but F and R had similar clinical efficacy.Therefore,FP may be a highly promising strategy in the treatment of MSS/pMMR mCRC.展开更多
BACKGROUND Breast cancer(BC)continues to occupy a leading position in terms of morbidity and mortality from malignant neoplasms among the female population.One of the promising markers associated with BC progression i...BACKGROUND Breast cancer(BC)continues to occupy a leading position in terms of morbidity and mortality from malignant neoplasms among the female population.One of the promising markers associated with BC progression is programmed death ligand 1(PD-L1).Previously,we investigated PD-L1 expression in BC via a new antibody against programmed cell death protein 1 ligand 1(PDCD1 LG1)and reported that high PDCD1 LG1 expression in tumor cells is an independent factor for a high risk of regional metastasis in patients with BC.However,the prognostic significance of PDCD1 LG1 expression in BC stromal cells has not been adequately studied.AIM To study the features of PDCD1 LG1 expression in BC stromal cells and its relationship with BC clinicopathological characteristics.METHODS In a prospective single-center observational study,tumor samples from 148 patients with newly diagnosed BC were examined.The tumor sections were immunohistochemically stained with antibodies against PDCD1 LG1.In the tumor samples,the PDCD1 LG1-positive lymphocyte(PDCD1 LG1+LF)score,presence of nuclear PDCD1 LG1 expression in the LFs,PDCD1 LG1 expression in polymorphic cell infiltrates(PDCD1 LG1+polymorphic cell infiltrates[PCIs]),and cells of the fibroblastic stroma and endothelial cells of the tumor microvessels were assessed.Statistical analyses were performed using Statistica 10.0 software.RESULTS A PDCD1 LG1+LF score≥3 was detected more often at stages N0 and N3 than at N1 and N2(P=0.03).Moderate and pronounced PDCD1 LG1+PCIs and the presence of PDCD1 LG1+fibroblastic stroma were associated with negative estrogen receptor status(P=0.0008 and P=0.03,respectively),human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive(HER2+)BC(P<0.00001 and P=0.0005),and luminal B HER2+,non-luminal HER2+and triple-negative BC(P<0.00001 and P=0.004).The risk of metastasis to regional lymph nodes(RLNs)depend on lymphovascular invasion(LVI)and the PDCD1 LG1+LF score.In the absence of LVI and a PDCD1 LG1+LF score<3 or≥3,metastases in RLNs were absent in 66.6%and 93.9%of patients with BC,respectively.In the presence of LVI and a PDCD1 LG1+LF score<3 or≥3,metastases in RLNs were detected in 82.6%and 92.7%of patients with BC,respectively.CONCLUSION The results indicated that the combined assessment of the PDCD1 LG1+LF score and LVI can improve the accuracy of predicting the risk of metastasis to RLNs in patients with BC.展开更多
BACKGROUND Irreversible electroporation(IRE)is a novel local tumor ablation approach with the potential to activate the host’s immune system.However,this approach is insufficient to prevent cancer progression,and com...BACKGROUND Irreversible electroporation(IRE)is a novel local tumor ablation approach with the potential to activate the host’s immune system.However,this approach is insufficient to prevent cancer progression,and complementary approaches are required for effective immunotherapy.AIM To assess the immunomodulatory effects and mechanism of IRE combined antiprogrammed cell death protein 1(PD-1)treatment in subcutaneous pancreatic cancer models.METHODS C57BL-6 tumor-bearing mice were randomly divided into four groups:Control group;IRE group;anti-PD-1 group;and IRE+anti-PD-1 group.Tumor-infiltrating T,B,and natural killer cell levels and plasma concentrations of T helper type 1 cytokines(interleukin-2,interferon-γ,and tumor necrosis factor-α)were evaluated.Real-time PCR was used to determine the expression of CD8(marker of CD8+T cells)in tumor tissues of the mice of all groups at different points of time.The growth curves of tumors were drawn.RESULTS The results demonstrated that the IRE+anti-PD-1 group exhibited significantly higher percentages of T lymphocyte infiltration,including CD4+and CD8+T cells compared with the control group.Additionally,the IRE+anti-PD-1 group showed increased infiltration of natural killer and B cells,elevated cytokine levels,and higher CD8 mRNA expression.Tumor volume was significantly reduced in the IRE+anti-PD-1 group,indicating a more pronounced therapeutic effect.CONCLUSION The combination of IRE and anti-PD-1 therapy promotes CD8+T cell immunity responses,leading to a more effective reduction in tumor volume and improved therapeutic outcomes,which provides a new direction for ablation and immunotherapy of pancreatic cancer.展开更多
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC)is a highly aggressive cancer with poor prognosis.When it metastasizes to the liver,treatment options become particularly limited and challenging.Current treatment opti...BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC)is a highly aggressive cancer with poor prognosis.When it metastasizes to the liver,treatment options become particularly limited and challenging.Current treatment options for liver metastatic PDAC are limited,and chemotherapy alone often proves insufficient.Immunotherapy,particularly programmed cell death 1(PD-1)inhibitors like sintilimab,shows potential efficacy for various cancers but has limited reports on PDAC.This study compares the efficacy and safety of sintilimab plus S-1 and gemcitabine vs S-1 and gemcitabine alone in liver metastatic PDAC.AIM To explore the feasibility and effectiveness of combined PD-1 inhibitor sintilimab and S-1 and gemcitabine(combination group)vs S-1 and gemcitabine used alone(chemotherapy group)for treating liver metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma.METHODS Eligible patients were those with only liver metastatic PDAC,an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-1,adequate organ and marrow functions,and no prior anticancer therapy.Participants in the combination group received intravenous sintilimab 200 mg every 3 weeks,oral S-140 mg/m²twice daily on days 1-14 of a 21-day cycle,and intravenous gemcitabine 1000 mg/m²on days 1 and 8 of the same cycle for up to eight cycles or until disease progression,death,or unacceptable toxicity.Participants in the chemotherapy group received oral S-140 mg/m²twice daily on days 1-14 of a 21-day cycle and intravenous gemcitabine 1000 mg/m²on days 1 and 8 of the same cycle for up to eight cycles.Between June 2020 and December 2021,66 participants were enrolled,with 32 receiving the combination treatment and 34 receiving chemotherapy alone.RESULTS The group receiving the combined therapy exhibited a markedly prolonged median overall survival(18.8 months compared to 10.3 months,P<0.05)and progression-free survival(9.6 months vs 5.4 months,P<0.05).compared to the chemotherapy group.The incidence of severe adverse events did not differ significantly between the two groups(P>0.05).CONCLUSION The combination of PD-1 inhibitor sintilimab with S-1 and gemcitabine demonstrated effectiveness and safety for treating liver metastatic PDAC,meriting further investigation.展开更多
In this editorial,we review the article“Efficacy and predictive factors of transarterial chemoembolization combined with lenvatinib plus programmed cell death protein-1 inhibition for unresectable hepatocellular carc...In this editorial,we review the article“Efficacy and predictive factors of transarterial chemoembolization combined with lenvatinib plus programmed cell death protein-1 inhibition for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma”.We specifically focused on whether transarterial chemoembolization combined with lenvatinib in combination with a programmed death 1 inhibitor could be used in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.Since both transarterial chemoembolization as well as lenvatinib in combination with programmed death 1 inhibitors play an important role in the treatment of advanced liver cancer,but the combination of all three therapeutic approaches needs more research.展开更多
OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effect of Ganoderma Lucidum Spore Oil(GLSO)on the tumor growth and survival of H22 tumor-bearing mice treated with cyclophosphamide(CTX),and explore the underlying mechanism.METHODS:Allogr...OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effect of Ganoderma Lucidum Spore Oil(GLSO)on the tumor growth and survival of H22 tumor-bearing mice treated with cyclophosphamide(CTX),and explore the underlying mechanism.METHODS:Allograft H22 hepatocellular carcinoma mouse model was applied to investigate the effect of GLSO on the tumor growth and survival of animals,and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to analyze the life span.Plasma biochemical examination was used to determine the levels of alanine aminotransferase(ALT),aspartate aminotransferase(AST),urea(UREA)and creatinine(CRE).Western blot analysis was performed to detect Programmed Death-1(PD-1),Programmed Death Ligand 1(PD-L1),Janus Kinase 2(JAK2),phosphorylated Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3(p-STAT3),and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3(STAT3)expression.RESULTS:GLSO increased the anti-tumor effect of CTX and prolonged the survival of H22 tumor-bearing mice treated with CTX.Meanwhile,GLSO increased the thymus index and showed no obvious toxicity to liver functions of animals.GLSO also decreased the level of UREA in H22 tumor-bearing mice treated with CTX.Furthermore,GLSO could inhibit the expression of PD-1 in spleen,which was independent of JAK2 expression and STAT3 phosphorylation.However,GLSO did not affect the expression of PD-L1,JAK2,and p-STAT3 in tumor tissue.CONCLUSION:GLSO could strengthen the anti-tumor effect of CTX and prolong the life span of H22 tumorbearing mice,while the underlying mechanism might be relevant to the amelioration effect of thymus function and inhibition of PD-1 expression in spleen.Furthermore,these findings implied the promising role of GLSO in combination with CTX to extend the survival of patients in clinical chemotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma.展开更多
In recent years,cancer immunotherapy has introduced novel treatments,such as monoclonal antibodies,which have facilitated targeted therapies against tumor cells.Programmed death-1(PD-1)is an immune checkpoint expresse...In recent years,cancer immunotherapy has introduced novel treatments,such as monoclonal antibodies,which have facilitated targeted therapies against tumor cells.Programmed death-1(PD-1)is an immune checkpoint expressed in T cells that regulates the immune system’s activity to prevent over-activation and tissue damage caused by inflammation.However,PD-1 is also expressed in tumor cells and functions as an immune evasion mechanism,making it a therapeutic target to enhance the immune response and eliminate tumor cells.Consequently,immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs)have emerged as an option for certain tumor types.Nevertheless,blocking immune checkpoints can lead to immune-related adverse events(irAEs),such as psoriasis and cytokine release syndrome(CRS),as exemp-lified in the clinical case presented by Zhou et al involving a patient with adva-nced gastric cancer who received sintilimab,a monoclonal antibody targeting PD-1.Subsequently,the patient experienced exacerbation of psoriasis and CRS.The objective of this editorial article is to elucidate potential immunologic mechanisms that may contribute to the development of CRS and psoriasis in patients receiving ICIs.It is crucial to acknowledge that while ICIs offer superior safety and efficacy compared to conventional therapies,they can also manifest irAEs affecting the skin,gastrointestinal tract,or respiratory system.In severe cases,these irAEs can lead to life-threatening complications such as circulatory shock or multiorgan failure.Consequently,it is recommended that patients receiving ICIs undergo regular monitoring to identify and manage these adverse events effectively.展开更多
BACKGROUND Over the years,programmed cell death-1(PD-1)inhibitors have been routinely used for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)treatment and yielded improved survival outcomes.Nonetheless,significant heterogeneity surrou...BACKGROUND Over the years,programmed cell death-1(PD-1)inhibitors have been routinely used for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)treatment and yielded improved survival outcomes.Nonetheless,significant heterogeneity surrounds the outcomes of most studies.Therefore,it is critical to search for biomarkers that predict the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors in patients with HCC.AIM To investigate the role of the C-reactive protein to albumin ratio(CAR)in evaluating the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors for HCC.METHODS The clinical data of 160 patients with HCC treated with PD-1 inhibitors from January 2018 to November 2022 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University were retrospectively analyzed.RESULTS The optimal cut-off value for CAR based on progression-free survival(PFS)was determined to be 1.20 using x-tile software.Cox proportional risk model was used to determine the factors affecting prognosis.Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status[hazard ratio(HR)=1.754,95%confidence interval(95%CI)=1.045-2.944,P=0.033],CAR(HR=2.118,95%CI=1.057-4.243,P=0.034)and tumor number(HR=2.932,95%CI=1.246-6.897,P=0.014)were independent prognostic factors for overall survival.CAR(HR=2.730,95%CI=1.502-4.961,P=0.001),tumor number(HR=1.584,95%CI=1.003-2.500,P=0.048)and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio(HR=1.120,95%CI=1.022-1.228,P=0.015)were independent prognostic factors for PFS.Two nomograms were constructed based on independent prognostic factors.The C-index index and calibration plots confirmed that the nomogram is a reliable risk prediction tool.The ROC curve and decision curve analysis confirmed that the nomogram has a good predictive effect as well as a net clinical benefit.CONCLUSION Overall,we reveal that the CAR is a potential predictor of short-and long-term prognosis in patients with HCC treated with PD-1 inhibitors.If further verified,CAR-based nomogram may increase the number of markers that predict individualized prognosis.展开更多
BACKGROUND In recent years,emerging clinical research has prioritized assessment of combined therapeutic efficacy and safety parameters when programmed death 1 or its ligand(PD-1/L1)inhibitors are incorporated into fi...BACKGROUND In recent years,emerging clinical research has prioritized assessment of combined therapeutic efficacy and safety parameters when programmed death 1 or its ligand(PD-1/L1)inhibitors are incorporated into first-line standard-of-care(SOC)therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer(mCRC).However,data obtained from these trials demonstrated conflicting evidence concerning survival benefits and clinical outcomes.AIM To evaluate the therapeutic impact and safety parameters of combining PD-1/L1 inhibitors with SOC protocols as first-line treatment for mCRC.METHODS Four biomedical databases(PubMed,Embase,Cochrane Library,Web of Science)were systematically interrogated to identify eligible studies published up to October 12,2024.The analysis focused on evaluating the primary outcome of overall survival(OS)in the mCRC population with secondary outcomes of progression-free survival(PFS),overall response rate(ORR),and incidence rate of grade≥3 adverse events.Additionally,we performed exploratory analyses in the microsatellite stable/mismatch repair-proficient(MSS/pMMR)subpopulation,based on a subset of the included studies.Subgroup analyses according to PD-1/L1 inhibitor use were conducted in both the overall population and the MSS/pMMR subgroup.RESULTS This pooled analysis incorporated six randomized controlled trials involving 675 patients with mCRC receiving first-line therapy.The combination of PD-1/L1 inhibitors with SOC regimens demonstrated a significant PFS advantage over SOC monotherapy in intention-to-treat populations[hazard ratio(HR)=0.8,95%confidence interval(CI):0.65-0.98,P=0.033].Nevertheless,the MSS/pMMR subgroup showed no PFS benefit(HR=0.83,95%CI:0.67-1.03,P=0.091),and no cohort exhibited OS improvement(intention-to-treat:HR=0.84,95%CI:0.66-1.05,P=0.124;MSS/pMMR:HR=0.79,95%CI:0.60-1.03,P=0.083).Comparable outcomes were observed for ORR(risk ratio=1.03,95%CI:0.90-1.17,P=0.711)and incidence rate of grade≥3 adverse events(risk ratio=1.12,95%CI:0.93-1.36,P=0.245)between treatment arms.CONCLUSION The findings indicated that integrating PD-1/L1 blocking agents with SOC regimens for mCRC as first-line treatment failed to demonstrate significant improvements in ORR.Existing clinical data remain inadequate to establish OS advantages,particularly in patients with MSS/pMMR,despite exhibiting manageable toxicity profiles.Subsequent confirmation through rigorously designed phase III clinical trials remains essential to verify these therapeutic outcomes.展开更多
This editorial focuses on the recent article by Yang et al in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology,which highlights the role of interlukin-17A in promoting hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)progression by up-regu...This editorial focuses on the recent article by Yang et al in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology,which highlights the role of interlukin-17A in promoting hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)progression by up-regulated programmed cell death protein-1(PD-1)/programmed cell death protein ligand-1(PD-L1)expression.Previous,the high PD-1/PD-L1 level was due to hepatitis virus infection leading to systemic innate immune tolerance and cluster of differen-tiation 8+T cells exhaustion,ultimately leading to HCC.Recently,interesting studies have found that the malignant progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic/fatty liver disease(MASLD/MAFLD),that is former nonalcoholic fatty liver disease,was achieved by up-regulated PD-L1 level that was activated the cGAS-STING pathway under lipid accumulation with mito-chondrial DNA overflow and up-regulated PD-1/PD-L1 to promote MASLD malignant transformation via immune escape.These data suggested that PD-1 or PD-L1 should be a promising target for preventing or delaying non-viral liver disease malignant progression except of antiviral therapy for HCC.展开更多
Prenatal caffeine exposure(PCE)leads to intrauterine growth retardation and altered glucose homeostasis after birth,but the underlying mechanism remains unclear.This study aims to investigate the alteration of pancrea...Prenatal caffeine exposure(PCE)leads to intrauterine growth retardation and altered glucose homeostasis after birth,but the underlying mechanism remains unclear.This study aims to investigate the alteration of pancreatic development and insulin biosynthesis in the PCE female offspring and explore the intrauterine programming mechanism.Pregnant rats were orally treated with 120 mg/(kg·day)of caffeine from gestational day(GD)9 to 20.Results showed that fetal pancreaticβ-cells in the PCE group exhibited reduced mass and impaired insulin synthesis function,as evidenced by decreased expression of developmental and functional genes and reduced pancreatic insulin content.At postnatal week(PW)12,the PCE offspring exhibited glucose intolerance,diminishedβ-cell mass,and lower blood insulin levels.However,by PW28,glucose tolerance showed some improvement.Both in vivo and in vitro findings collectively indicated that excessive serum corticosterone(CORT)levels of the PCE fetuses may act through the activation of the pancreatic glucocorticoid receptor(GR)and recruitment of histone deacetylase 9(HDAC9),leading to H3K9 deacetylation in promoter and downregulation of insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF1),thereby inhibiting pancreatic islet morphogenesis and insulin synthesis in fetal rats.Furthermore,the PCE offspring after birth exhibited decreased blood CORT levels,increased H3K9 acetylation in promoter and upregulated gene expression of the pancreatic IGF1 promoter region,accompanied by elevated insulin biosynthesis.However,when exposed to chronic stress,the above changes were totally reversed.Conclusively,“glucocorticoid-insulin like growth factor 1(GC-IGF1)axis”programming may be involved in pancreaticβ-cell dysplasia and dysfunction in the PCE female offspring.展开更多
This editorial discusses Christodoulidis et al's article,which appeared in the most recent edition.The clinical trials have demonstrated the programmed cell death receptor 1(PD-1)inhibitor Pembrolizumab involved c...This editorial discusses Christodoulidis et al's article,which appeared in the most recent edition.The clinical trials have demonstrated the programmed cell death receptor 1(PD-1)inhibitor Pembrolizumab involved combination therapy can improve the efficacy of advanced gastric cancer(AGC).Pembrolizumab combined with chemotherapy can enhance its sensitivity,and further eliminate tumor cells that develop resistance to chemotherapy.The combination of Pembrolizumab and Trastuzumab targeting human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 showed improved prognosis.The overall toxic effects of Pembrolizumab are significantly lower than traditional chemotherapy,and the safety is controllable.PD-1 inhibitor Pembrolizumab sheds a light on the treatment of AGC and brings new hope to the clinical practice.展开更多
BACKGROUND Patients with microsatellite stable(MSS)metastatic colorectal cancer(mCRC)typically exhibit an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and demonstrate a low response rate to immunotherapy.Reports suggest t...BACKGROUND Patients with microsatellite stable(MSS)metastatic colorectal cancer(mCRC)typically exhibit an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and demonstrate a low response rate to immunotherapy.Reports suggest that chemotherapy and anti-angiogenic therapy may have the potential to enhance the response to immunotherapy in these patients.This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab with or without antiprogrammed death 1(PD-1)immunotherapy as the second-line regimen for MSS mCRC.AIM To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab with or without anti-PD-1 immunotherapy as the second-line regimen for MSS mCRC.METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with MSS mCRC diagnosed at Peking University First Hospital and Jilin Cancer Hospital from January 2020 to December 2024.The patients were divided into two groups:The experimental group receiving second-line chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab and anti-PD-1 immunotherapy,and the control group receiving chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab.Propensity score matching was applied to balance potential prognostic factors,including age,gender,Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score,number of metastases,and primary tumor site.The progression-free survival,overall survival,disease control rate,objective response rate,and treatment-related adverse reactions were compared between the two groups.Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test were used to compare survival outcomes.Inverse probability of treatment weighting was used for sensitivity analysis.RESULTS Propensity score matching resulted in 103 matched eligible patients.The median follow-up period was 13.9 months in the matched cohort.The objective response rate was 11.5%and 9%for the experimental and control groups,respectively(P=0.710),while the disease control rate was 76.9%and 53.2%,respectively(P=0.058).The median progression-free survival in the experimental group was 8.27 months[95%confidence interval(CI):6.7-14.7 months],significantly higher than that in the control group,which was 4.63 months(95%CI:3.9-5.67 months)(hazard ratio=0.4143,95%CI:0.2462-0.6972,P=0.00066).There was a trend towards the higher median overall survival in the experimental group compared to the control group(hazard ratio=0.4504,95%CI:0.1897-1.07,P=0.064).The incidences of adverse events were similar between the two groups.CONCLUSION Compared with the standard second-line chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab regimen,second-line therapy that combines chemotherapy with bevacizumab and anti-PD-1 immunotherapy has demonstrated promising efficacy in the treatment of MSS mCRC,while exhibiting a similar safety profile.展开更多
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer(GC)and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma(HNSCC)are common malignancies with high morbidity and mortality rates.Traditional treatments often yield limited efficacy,especially in advanced c...BACKGROUND Gastric cancer(GC)and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma(HNSCC)are common malignancies with high morbidity and mortality rates.Traditional treatments often yield limited efficacy,especially in advanced cases.Recent advancements in immunotherapy,particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1),have shown promise.However,the expression and interaction of pescadillo ribosomal biogenesis factor 1(PES1)and PD-L1 in these cancers remain unclear.Understanding their roles could provide new insights into tumor biology and improve therapeutic strategies.AIM To investigate the expression levels of PES1 and PD-L1 in tumor tissues of patients with GC and HNSCC.METHODS A total of 58 cases of GC and HNSCC undergoing surgical resection were selected from January 2022 to January 2024.Paraffin specimens of GC and HNSCC tissues were taken from the patients,and the sections were subjected to staining with immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin-eosin staining,and the protein expression of PES1 and PD-L1 was observed microscopically.RESULTS Among 58 GC and HNSCC tissues,30 cases were positive and 28 cases were negative for PES1 expression,and 34 cases were positive and 24 cases were negative for PD-L1 expression.The positive expression rates of PES1 and PDL1 were 51.72% and 58.62%,respectively.PES1 expression was correlated with the TNM stage,lymph node metastasis,and the depth of infiltration(P<0.05),and PD-L1 expression was correlated with the differentiation degree,lymph node metastasis,and infiltration depth(P<0.05).CONCLUSION PES1 and PD-L1 were positively expressed in GC and HNSCC tissues and correlated with clinical features.They may serve as potential biomarkers for immune-targeted therapies.展开更多
文摘Human tumors tend to activate the immune system regulatory checkpoints as a means of escaping immunosurveillance. For instance, interaction between program death-1(PD-1) and program death-ligand 1(PD-L1) will lead the activated T cell to a state of anergy. PD-L1 is upregulated on a wide range of cancer cells. Anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies(m Abs), called immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs), have consequently been designed to restore T cell activity. Accumulating data are in favor of an association between PD-L1 expression in tumors and response to treatment. A PD-L1 expression is present in 30% to 50% of digestive cancers. Multiple anti-PD-1(nivolumab, pembrolizumab) and anti-PD-L1 m Abs(MPDL3280A, Medi4736) are under evaluation in digestive cancers. Preliminary results in metastatic gastric cancer with pembrolizumab are highly promising and phase Ⅱ will start soon. In metastatic colorectal cancer(CRC), a phase Ⅲ trial of MPDL3280 A as maintenance therapy will shortly be initiated. Trials are also ongoing in metastatic CRC with high immune T cell infiltration(i.e., microsatellite instability). Major challenges are ahead in order to determine how, when and for which patients we should use these ICIs. New radiologic criteria to evaluate tumor response to ICIs are awaiting prospective validation. The optimal therapeutic sequence and association with cytotoxic chemotherapy needs to be established. Finally, biomarker identification will be crucial to selection ofpatients likely to benefit from ICIs.
文摘BACKGROUND Gastric cancer(GC)is one of the most common malignancies worldwide,and Helicobacter pylori(HP)infection is a well-established risk factor for its development.Programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1)expression is a crucial biomarker for predicting the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer treatment.While HP infection and PD-L1 expression in GC may be linked,the relationship between them remains unclear,in part because there have been conflicting results reported from various studies.AIM To perform a meta-analysis to assess the relationship between HP and PD-L1 expression in patients with GC.METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed,Embase,Cochrane Library,and Web of Science databases.Observational studies that examined the association between HP infection and PD-L1 expression in patients with GC were included.Odds ratios and 95%confidence intervals were calculated to estimate the association.Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane’s Q test and I²statistic.A random-effects model was used due to significant heterogeneity across studies.RESULTS Fourteen studies involving a total of 3069 patients with GC were included.The pooled analysis showed a significant association between HP infection and increased PD-L1 expression in GC tissues(odd ratio=1.69,95%confidence interval:1.24-2.29,P<0.001,I^(2)=59%).Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of these findings.Subgroup analyses did not show significant variation based on geographic region,sample size,or method of PD-L1 assessment.Publication bias was minimal,as shown by funnel plots and Egger’s regression test.CONCLUSION HP infection is associated with increased PD-L1 expression in GC,suggesting that HP status may influence the response to programmed cell death protein 1/PD-L1 blockade therapy.
文摘BACKGROUND Immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs)are a new class of antitumor agents.They enhance antitumor effects by blocking inhibitory receptors and related ligands expressed on T cells.ICIs also modulate regular immune cell activity,affecting the immune system and causing immune-related adverse events.The renal system is sometimes affected by these adverse events.Currently,the literature on ICIs-related glomerular injuries is scarce.CASE SUMMARY We present a patient who developed granulomatosis with polyangiitis(GPA)3 weeks after treatment with the anti-programmed cell death-1 inhibitor,tislel-izumab.The patient experienced proteinuria,hematuria,and acute kidney injury without pulmonary hemorrhage and tested positive for anti-neutrophil cyto-plasmic antibody(ANCA)-cytoplasmic type.Renal biopsy confirmed ANCA-associated vasculitis,and GPA was finally diagnosed.The patient received pulse treatment with glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide,and renal function improved.After self-discontinuation of the drug,the disease recurred,and the original treatment regimen was continued.However,the patient’s renal function continued to deteriorate.CONCLUSION Glucocorticoids plus cyclophosphamide are effective for treating GPA induced by tislelizumab.However,follow-up and patient education are needed.
基金Supported by the National Key R and D Program of China,No.2022YFC3500200 and No.2022YFC3500204Innovation Team and Talents Cultivation Program of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine,No.ZYYCXTD-C-202208+3 种基金NATCM’s Project of Highlevel Construction of Key TCM Disciplines,No.[2023]85Qing Lan Project of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions,No.[2023]27Jiangsu Postgraduate Practice Innovation Plan,No.SJCX22_0706General Project of Universities’Philosophy and Social Science in Jiangsu Province,No.2024SJYB0564.
文摘BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most prevalent form of cancer worldwide.Among patients with CRC,colorectal liver metastasis(CRLM)is the foremost direct contributor to mortality.In recent years,immunotherapy has swiftly risen to prominence as a vital approach for treating a range of solid tumors,including CRC.We present a unique case of a patient suffering from CRLM,with the goal of offering an insightful example and relevant references for the treatment of CRLM.CASE SUMMARY We report a patient who experienced liver metastasis after undergoing successful surgical removal of CRC,with the postoperative pathological stage identified as pT4N2aM0.The patient has been receiving a combination treatment of Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine.Regular assessments of the patient’s condition have been conducted,encompassing evaluations of serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels,carbohydrate antigen 199,and observations of the tongue complexion and its coating.The patient achieved clinical remission after anti-programmed death-1 immunotherapy when various systemic therapies failed.Since the diagnosis of CRLM,the patient has survived for more than 6 years,surpassing the expected survival time for those with advanced CRC.CONCLUSION This case illustrates the considerable promise of anti-programmed death-1 immunotherapy in managing CRLM,especially in scenarios of drug resistance and disease progression.
基金Supported by Russian Science Foundation,No.23-25-00183.
文摘BACKGROUND We previously demonstrated that the antibody against programmed cell death protein 1 ligand 1(PDCD1 LG1)is a promising new marker of programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1)expression that correlates with both breast cancer(BC)clinicopathological characteristics and tumor sensitivity to chemotherapy.However,the concordance of PDCD1 LG1 expression scoring with immunohistochemical(IHC)tests approved for clinical use and with the polymerase chain reaction(PCR)method has not been previously studied.AIM To evaluate the concordance of methods for assessing PD-L1 expression,IHC tests with anti-PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and anti-PD-L1(SP142)antibodies and PCR.METHODS This prospective single-center observational cohort study included 148 patients with BC.PD-L1 expression in immune cells was assessed by the IHC method with anti-PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and anti-PD-L1(SP142)antibodies and by PCR.The concordance of PD-L1 scores between tests was assessed with positive percentage agreement(PPA)and negative percentage agreement(NPA).The strength of the agreement between the methods was calculated via the Cohen kappa index.P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS Regardless of the method used to assess marker expression,PD-L1 expression was significantly more often detected in patients with negative estrogen receptor status,human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-positive(HER2+)status,luminal B HER+BC,nonluminal HER+BC and triple-negative BC.PPA and NPA were 38.3%and 70.4%,respectively,for PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and PD-L1(SP142);26.3%and 63.3%,respectively,for PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and PD-L1(PCR);and 36.5%and 74.4%,respectively,for PD-L1(SP142)and PD-L1(PCR).Cohen's kappa index for PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and PD-L1(SP142)was 0.385(95%CI:0.304–0.466),that for PD-L1(PDCD1 LG1)and PD-L1(PCR)was 0.207(95%CI:0.127–0.287),and that for PD-L1(SP142)and PD-L1(PCR)was 0.389(95%CI:0.309–0.469).CONCLUSION Thus,all three markers of PD-L1 expression are associated with the characteristics of aggressive BC,demonstrating moderate concordance between the tests.
基金Supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Gansu Province,No.21JR7RA373 and No.24JRRA295.
文摘BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is an inflammation-associated tumor with a dismal prognosis.Immunotherapy has become an important treatment strategy for HCC,as immunity is closely related to inflammation in the tumor microenvir-onment.Inflammation regulates the expression of programmed death ligand-1(PD-L1)in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and affects im-munotherapy efficacy.Interleukin-17A(IL-17A)is involved in the remodeling of the tumor microenvironment and plays a protumor or antitumor role in different tumors.We hypothesized that IL-17A participates in tumor progression by affe-cting the level of immune checkpoint molecules in HCC.The upregulation of PD-L1 expression in HCC cells by IL-17A was assessed by reverse transcription PCR,western blotting,and flow cytometry.Mechanistic studies were conducted with gene knockout models and pathway inhibitors.The function of IL-17A in immune evasion was explored through coculture of T cells and HCC cells.The effects of IL-17A on the malignant biological behaviors of HCC cells were evaluated in vitro,and the antitumor effects of an IL-17A inhibitor and its synergistic effects with a PD-L1 inhibitor were studied in vivo.RESULTS IL-17A upregulated PD-L1 expression in HCC cells in a dose-dependent manner,whereas IL-17A receptor knockout or treatment with a small mothers against decapentaplegic 2 inhibitor diminished the PD-L1 expression induced by IL-17A.IL-17A enhanced the survival of HCC cells in the coculture system.IL-17A increased the viability,G2/M ratio,and migration of HCC cells and decreased the apoptotic index.Cyclin D1,VEGF,MMP9,and Bcl-1 expression increased after IL-17A treatment,whereas BAX expression decreased.The combination of IL-17A and PD-L1 inhibitors showed synergistic antitumor efficacy and increased cluster of differentiation 8+T lymphocyte infiltration in an HCC mouse model.CONCLUSION IL-17A upregulates PD-L1 expression via the IL-17A receptor/phosphorylation-small mothers against decapenta-plegic 2 signaling pathway in HCC cells.Blocking IL-17A enhances the therapeutic efficacy of PD-L1 antibodies in HCC in vivo.
文摘BACKGROUND Regorafenib(R)and fruquintinib(F)are the standard third-line regimens for colorectal cancer(CRC)according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines,but both have limited efficacy.Several phase 2 trials have indicated that R or F combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors can reverse immunosuppression and achieve promising efficacy for microsatellite stable or proficient mismatch repair(MSS/pMMR)CRC.Due to the lack of studies comparing the efficacy between F,R,F plus programmed death-1(PD-1)inhibitor,and R plus PD-1 inhibitors(RP),it is still unclear whether the combination therapy is more effective than monotherapy.AIM To provide critical evidence for selecting the appropriate drugs for MSS/pMMR metastatic CRC(mCRC)patients in clinical practice.METHODS A total of 2639 CRC patients were enrolled from January 2018 to September 2022 in our hospital,and 313 MSS/pMMR mCRC patients were finally included.RESULTS A total of 313 eligible patients were divided into F(n=70),R(n=67),F plus PD-1 inhibitor(FP)(n=95)and RP(n=81)groups.The key clinical characteristics were well balanced among the groups.The median progression-free survival(PFS)of the F,R,FP,and RP groups was 3.5 months,3.6 months,4.9 months,and 3.0 months,respectively.The median overall survival(OS)was 14.6 months,15.7 months,16.7 months,and 14.1 months.The FP regimen had an improved disease control rate(DCR)(P=0.044)and 6-month PFS(P=0.014)and exhibited a better trend in PFS(P=0.057)compared with F,and it was also significantly better in PFS than RP(P=0.030).RP did not confer a significant survival benefit;instead,the R group had a trend toward greater benefit with OS(P=0.080)compared with RP.No significant differences were observed between the R and F groups in PFS or OS(P>0.05).CONCLUSION FP is superior to F in achieving 6-month PFS and DCR,while RP is not better than R.FP has an improved PFS and 6-month PFS compared with RP,but F and R had similar clinical efficacy.Therefore,FP may be a highly promising strategy in the treatment of MSS/pMMR mCRC.
基金Supported by Russian Science Foundation,No.23-25-00183.
文摘BACKGROUND Breast cancer(BC)continues to occupy a leading position in terms of morbidity and mortality from malignant neoplasms among the female population.One of the promising markers associated with BC progression is programmed death ligand 1(PD-L1).Previously,we investigated PD-L1 expression in BC via a new antibody against programmed cell death protein 1 ligand 1(PDCD1 LG1)and reported that high PDCD1 LG1 expression in tumor cells is an independent factor for a high risk of regional metastasis in patients with BC.However,the prognostic significance of PDCD1 LG1 expression in BC stromal cells has not been adequately studied.AIM To study the features of PDCD1 LG1 expression in BC stromal cells and its relationship with BC clinicopathological characteristics.METHODS In a prospective single-center observational study,tumor samples from 148 patients with newly diagnosed BC were examined.The tumor sections were immunohistochemically stained with antibodies against PDCD1 LG1.In the tumor samples,the PDCD1 LG1-positive lymphocyte(PDCD1 LG1+LF)score,presence of nuclear PDCD1 LG1 expression in the LFs,PDCD1 LG1 expression in polymorphic cell infiltrates(PDCD1 LG1+polymorphic cell infiltrates[PCIs]),and cells of the fibroblastic stroma and endothelial cells of the tumor microvessels were assessed.Statistical analyses were performed using Statistica 10.0 software.RESULTS A PDCD1 LG1+LF score≥3 was detected more often at stages N0 and N3 than at N1 and N2(P=0.03).Moderate and pronounced PDCD1 LG1+PCIs and the presence of PDCD1 LG1+fibroblastic stroma were associated with negative estrogen receptor status(P=0.0008 and P=0.03,respectively),human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive(HER2+)BC(P<0.00001 and P=0.0005),and luminal B HER2+,non-luminal HER2+and triple-negative BC(P<0.00001 and P=0.004).The risk of metastasis to regional lymph nodes(RLNs)depend on lymphovascular invasion(LVI)and the PDCD1 LG1+LF score.In the absence of LVI and a PDCD1 LG1+LF score<3 or≥3,metastases in RLNs were absent in 66.6%and 93.9%of patients with BC,respectively.In the presence of LVI and a PDCD1 LG1+LF score<3 or≥3,metastases in RLNs were detected in 82.6%and 92.7%of patients with BC,respectively.CONCLUSION The results indicated that the combined assessment of the PDCD1 LG1+LF score and LVI can improve the accuracy of predicting the risk of metastasis to RLNs in patients with BC.
基金Science and Technology Program of Guangzhou,No.202102010077International Science Foundation of Guangzhou Fuda Cancer Hospital,No.Y2020-ZD-03.
文摘BACKGROUND Irreversible electroporation(IRE)is a novel local tumor ablation approach with the potential to activate the host’s immune system.However,this approach is insufficient to prevent cancer progression,and complementary approaches are required for effective immunotherapy.AIM To assess the immunomodulatory effects and mechanism of IRE combined antiprogrammed cell death protein 1(PD-1)treatment in subcutaneous pancreatic cancer models.METHODS C57BL-6 tumor-bearing mice were randomly divided into four groups:Control group;IRE group;anti-PD-1 group;and IRE+anti-PD-1 group.Tumor-infiltrating T,B,and natural killer cell levels and plasma concentrations of T helper type 1 cytokines(interleukin-2,interferon-γ,and tumor necrosis factor-α)were evaluated.Real-time PCR was used to determine the expression of CD8(marker of CD8+T cells)in tumor tissues of the mice of all groups at different points of time.The growth curves of tumors were drawn.RESULTS The results demonstrated that the IRE+anti-PD-1 group exhibited significantly higher percentages of T lymphocyte infiltration,including CD4+and CD8+T cells compared with the control group.Additionally,the IRE+anti-PD-1 group showed increased infiltration of natural killer and B cells,elevated cytokine levels,and higher CD8 mRNA expression.Tumor volume was significantly reduced in the IRE+anti-PD-1 group,indicating a more pronounced therapeutic effect.CONCLUSION The combination of IRE and anti-PD-1 therapy promotes CD8+T cell immunity responses,leading to a more effective reduction in tumor volume and improved therapeutic outcomes,which provides a new direction for ablation and immunotherapy of pancreatic cancer.
文摘BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC)is a highly aggressive cancer with poor prognosis.When it metastasizes to the liver,treatment options become particularly limited and challenging.Current treatment options for liver metastatic PDAC are limited,and chemotherapy alone often proves insufficient.Immunotherapy,particularly programmed cell death 1(PD-1)inhibitors like sintilimab,shows potential efficacy for various cancers but has limited reports on PDAC.This study compares the efficacy and safety of sintilimab plus S-1 and gemcitabine vs S-1 and gemcitabine alone in liver metastatic PDAC.AIM To explore the feasibility and effectiveness of combined PD-1 inhibitor sintilimab and S-1 and gemcitabine(combination group)vs S-1 and gemcitabine used alone(chemotherapy group)for treating liver metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma.METHODS Eligible patients were those with only liver metastatic PDAC,an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-1,adequate organ and marrow functions,and no prior anticancer therapy.Participants in the combination group received intravenous sintilimab 200 mg every 3 weeks,oral S-140 mg/m²twice daily on days 1-14 of a 21-day cycle,and intravenous gemcitabine 1000 mg/m²on days 1 and 8 of the same cycle for up to eight cycles or until disease progression,death,or unacceptable toxicity.Participants in the chemotherapy group received oral S-140 mg/m²twice daily on days 1-14 of a 21-day cycle and intravenous gemcitabine 1000 mg/m²on days 1 and 8 of the same cycle for up to eight cycles.Between June 2020 and December 2021,66 participants were enrolled,with 32 receiving the combination treatment and 34 receiving chemotherapy alone.RESULTS The group receiving the combined therapy exhibited a markedly prolonged median overall survival(18.8 months compared to 10.3 months,P<0.05)and progression-free survival(9.6 months vs 5.4 months,P<0.05).compared to the chemotherapy group.The incidence of severe adverse events did not differ significantly between the two groups(P>0.05).CONCLUSION The combination of PD-1 inhibitor sintilimab with S-1 and gemcitabine demonstrated effectiveness and safety for treating liver metastatic PDAC,meriting further investigation.
文摘In this editorial,we review the article“Efficacy and predictive factors of transarterial chemoembolization combined with lenvatinib plus programmed cell death protein-1 inhibition for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma”.We specifically focused on whether transarterial chemoembolization combined with lenvatinib in combination with a programmed death 1 inhibitor could be used in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.Since both transarterial chemoembolization as well as lenvatinib in combination with programmed death 1 inhibitors play an important role in the treatment of advanced liver cancer,but the combination of all three therapeutic approaches needs more research.
基金the Ministry of Science and Technology of China:Evaluation,Re-examination,Promotion and Demonstration of Complete Sets of Technical Equipment for Efficient and Energy-Saving Extraction and Separation of Traditional Chinese Medicine(No.2017YFC1703104)the Key Laboratory Project of Pharmaceutical Lipids in Guangdong Province:Assessment of Enterprise-Class Key Laboratory of Guangdong Province(No.2020B1212070024)the Guangdong Province Key Areas Research and Development Program Project:Research and Development on Innovative Key Technologies and Intelligent Production Equipment about Processing,Decoction,Extraction and Separation of Traditional Chinese Medicine(No.2020B1111120002)。
文摘OBJECTIVE:To investigate the effect of Ganoderma Lucidum Spore Oil(GLSO)on the tumor growth and survival of H22 tumor-bearing mice treated with cyclophosphamide(CTX),and explore the underlying mechanism.METHODS:Allograft H22 hepatocellular carcinoma mouse model was applied to investigate the effect of GLSO on the tumor growth and survival of animals,and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to analyze the life span.Plasma biochemical examination was used to determine the levels of alanine aminotransferase(ALT),aspartate aminotransferase(AST),urea(UREA)and creatinine(CRE).Western blot analysis was performed to detect Programmed Death-1(PD-1),Programmed Death Ligand 1(PD-L1),Janus Kinase 2(JAK2),phosphorylated Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3(p-STAT3),and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3(STAT3)expression.RESULTS:GLSO increased the anti-tumor effect of CTX and prolonged the survival of H22 tumor-bearing mice treated with CTX.Meanwhile,GLSO increased the thymus index and showed no obvious toxicity to liver functions of animals.GLSO also decreased the level of UREA in H22 tumor-bearing mice treated with CTX.Furthermore,GLSO could inhibit the expression of PD-1 in spleen,which was independent of JAK2 expression and STAT3 phosphorylation.However,GLSO did not affect the expression of PD-L1,JAK2,and p-STAT3 in tumor tissue.CONCLUSION:GLSO could strengthen the anti-tumor effect of CTX and prolong the life span of H22 tumorbearing mice,while the underlying mechanism might be relevant to the amelioration effect of thymus function and inhibition of PD-1 expression in spleen.Furthermore,these findings implied the promising role of GLSO in combination with CTX to extend the survival of patients in clinical chemotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma.
基金Supported by Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz,No.NC23189.0.
文摘In recent years,cancer immunotherapy has introduced novel treatments,such as monoclonal antibodies,which have facilitated targeted therapies against tumor cells.Programmed death-1(PD-1)is an immune checkpoint expressed in T cells that regulates the immune system’s activity to prevent over-activation and tissue damage caused by inflammation.However,PD-1 is also expressed in tumor cells and functions as an immune evasion mechanism,making it a therapeutic target to enhance the immune response and eliminate tumor cells.Consequently,immune checkpoint inhibitors(ICIs)have emerged as an option for certain tumor types.Nevertheless,blocking immune checkpoints can lead to immune-related adverse events(irAEs),such as psoriasis and cytokine release syndrome(CRS),as exemp-lified in the clinical case presented by Zhou et al involving a patient with adva-nced gastric cancer who received sintilimab,a monoclonal antibody targeting PD-1.Subsequently,the patient experienced exacerbation of psoriasis and CRS.The objective of this editorial article is to elucidate potential immunologic mechanisms that may contribute to the development of CRS and psoriasis in patients receiving ICIs.It is crucial to acknowledge that while ICIs offer superior safety and efficacy compared to conventional therapies,they can also manifest irAEs affecting the skin,gastrointestinal tract,or respiratory system.In severe cases,these irAEs can lead to life-threatening complications such as circulatory shock or multiorgan failure.Consequently,it is recommended that patients receiving ICIs undergo regular monitoring to identify and manage these adverse events effectively.
基金Supported by the Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High Frequency Tumor (Guangxi Medical University),Ministry of Education,No.GKE-ZZ202117 and No.GKE-ZZ202334.
文摘BACKGROUND Over the years,programmed cell death-1(PD-1)inhibitors have been routinely used for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)treatment and yielded improved survival outcomes.Nonetheless,significant heterogeneity surrounds the outcomes of most studies.Therefore,it is critical to search for biomarkers that predict the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors in patients with HCC.AIM To investigate the role of the C-reactive protein to albumin ratio(CAR)in evaluating the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors for HCC.METHODS The clinical data of 160 patients with HCC treated with PD-1 inhibitors from January 2018 to November 2022 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University were retrospectively analyzed.RESULTS The optimal cut-off value for CAR based on progression-free survival(PFS)was determined to be 1.20 using x-tile software.Cox proportional risk model was used to determine the factors affecting prognosis.Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status[hazard ratio(HR)=1.754,95%confidence interval(95%CI)=1.045-2.944,P=0.033],CAR(HR=2.118,95%CI=1.057-4.243,P=0.034)and tumor number(HR=2.932,95%CI=1.246-6.897,P=0.014)were independent prognostic factors for overall survival.CAR(HR=2.730,95%CI=1.502-4.961,P=0.001),tumor number(HR=1.584,95%CI=1.003-2.500,P=0.048)and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio(HR=1.120,95%CI=1.022-1.228,P=0.015)were independent prognostic factors for PFS.Two nomograms were constructed based on independent prognostic factors.The C-index index and calibration plots confirmed that the nomogram is a reliable risk prediction tool.The ROC curve and decision curve analysis confirmed that the nomogram has a good predictive effect as well as a net clinical benefit.CONCLUSION Overall,we reveal that the CAR is a potential predictor of short-and long-term prognosis in patients with HCC treated with PD-1 inhibitors.If further verified,CAR-based nomogram may increase the number of markers that predict individualized prognosis.
文摘BACKGROUND In recent years,emerging clinical research has prioritized assessment of combined therapeutic efficacy and safety parameters when programmed death 1 or its ligand(PD-1/L1)inhibitors are incorporated into first-line standard-of-care(SOC)therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer(mCRC).However,data obtained from these trials demonstrated conflicting evidence concerning survival benefits and clinical outcomes.AIM To evaluate the therapeutic impact and safety parameters of combining PD-1/L1 inhibitors with SOC protocols as first-line treatment for mCRC.METHODS Four biomedical databases(PubMed,Embase,Cochrane Library,Web of Science)were systematically interrogated to identify eligible studies published up to October 12,2024.The analysis focused on evaluating the primary outcome of overall survival(OS)in the mCRC population with secondary outcomes of progression-free survival(PFS),overall response rate(ORR),and incidence rate of grade≥3 adverse events.Additionally,we performed exploratory analyses in the microsatellite stable/mismatch repair-proficient(MSS/pMMR)subpopulation,based on a subset of the included studies.Subgroup analyses according to PD-1/L1 inhibitor use were conducted in both the overall population and the MSS/pMMR subgroup.RESULTS This pooled analysis incorporated six randomized controlled trials involving 675 patients with mCRC receiving first-line therapy.The combination of PD-1/L1 inhibitors with SOC regimens demonstrated a significant PFS advantage over SOC monotherapy in intention-to-treat populations[hazard ratio(HR)=0.8,95%confidence interval(CI):0.65-0.98,P=0.033].Nevertheless,the MSS/pMMR subgroup showed no PFS benefit(HR=0.83,95%CI:0.67-1.03,P=0.091),and no cohort exhibited OS improvement(intention-to-treat:HR=0.84,95%CI:0.66-1.05,P=0.124;MSS/pMMR:HR=0.79,95%CI:0.60-1.03,P=0.083).Comparable outcomes were observed for ORR(risk ratio=1.03,95%CI:0.90-1.17,P=0.711)and incidence rate of grade≥3 adverse events(risk ratio=1.12,95%CI:0.93-1.36,P=0.245)between treatment arms.CONCLUSION The findings indicated that integrating PD-1/L1 blocking agents with SOC regimens for mCRC as first-line treatment failed to demonstrate significant improvements in ORR.Existing clinical data remain inadequate to establish OS advantages,particularly in patients with MSS/pMMR,despite exhibiting manageable toxicity profiles.Subsequent confirmation through rigorously designed phase III clinical trials remains essential to verify these therapeutic outcomes.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81673241 and No.32470985.
文摘This editorial focuses on the recent article by Yang et al in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology,which highlights the role of interlukin-17A in promoting hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)progression by up-regulated programmed cell death protein-1(PD-1)/programmed cell death protein ligand-1(PD-L1)expression.Previous,the high PD-1/PD-L1 level was due to hepatitis virus infection leading to systemic innate immune tolerance and cluster of differen-tiation 8+T cells exhaustion,ultimately leading to HCC.Recently,interesting studies have found that the malignant progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic/fatty liver disease(MASLD/MAFLD),that is former nonalcoholic fatty liver disease,was achieved by up-regulated PD-L1 level that was activated the cGAS-STING pathway under lipid accumulation with mito-chondrial DNA overflow and up-regulated PD-1/PD-L1 to promote MASLD malignant transformation via immune escape.These data suggested that PD-1 or PD-L1 should be a promising target for preventing or delaying non-viral liver disease malignant progression except of antiviral therapy for HCC.
基金supported by grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2020YFA0803900)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U23A20407,82414020,81703631)the Hubei Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(2024AFB742)。
文摘Prenatal caffeine exposure(PCE)leads to intrauterine growth retardation and altered glucose homeostasis after birth,but the underlying mechanism remains unclear.This study aims to investigate the alteration of pancreatic development and insulin biosynthesis in the PCE female offspring and explore the intrauterine programming mechanism.Pregnant rats were orally treated with 120 mg/(kg·day)of caffeine from gestational day(GD)9 to 20.Results showed that fetal pancreaticβ-cells in the PCE group exhibited reduced mass and impaired insulin synthesis function,as evidenced by decreased expression of developmental and functional genes and reduced pancreatic insulin content.At postnatal week(PW)12,the PCE offspring exhibited glucose intolerance,diminishedβ-cell mass,and lower blood insulin levels.However,by PW28,glucose tolerance showed some improvement.Both in vivo and in vitro findings collectively indicated that excessive serum corticosterone(CORT)levels of the PCE fetuses may act through the activation of the pancreatic glucocorticoid receptor(GR)and recruitment of histone deacetylase 9(HDAC9),leading to H3K9 deacetylation in promoter and downregulation of insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF1),thereby inhibiting pancreatic islet morphogenesis and insulin synthesis in fetal rats.Furthermore,the PCE offspring after birth exhibited decreased blood CORT levels,increased H3K9 acetylation in promoter and upregulated gene expression of the pancreatic IGF1 promoter region,accompanied by elevated insulin biosynthesis.However,when exposed to chronic stress,the above changes were totally reversed.Conclusively,“glucocorticoid-insulin like growth factor 1(GC-IGF1)axis”programming may be involved in pancreaticβ-cell dysplasia and dysfunction in the PCE female offspring.
基金Supported by Jilin Provincial Natural Science Foundation,No.YDZJ202401650ZYTS。
文摘This editorial discusses Christodoulidis et al's article,which appeared in the most recent edition.The clinical trials have demonstrated the programmed cell death receptor 1(PD-1)inhibitor Pembrolizumab involved combination therapy can improve the efficacy of advanced gastric cancer(AGC).Pembrolizumab combined with chemotherapy can enhance its sensitivity,and further eliminate tumor cells that develop resistance to chemotherapy.The combination of Pembrolizumab and Trastuzumab targeting human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 showed improved prognosis.The overall toxic effects of Pembrolizumab are significantly lower than traditional chemotherapy,and the safety is controllable.PD-1 inhibitor Pembrolizumab sheds a light on the treatment of AGC and brings new hope to the clinical practice.
基金Supported by the National High Level Hospital Clinical Research Funding(Multi-center Clinical Research Project of Peking University First Hospital),No.2022CR65.
文摘BACKGROUND Patients with microsatellite stable(MSS)metastatic colorectal cancer(mCRC)typically exhibit an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and demonstrate a low response rate to immunotherapy.Reports suggest that chemotherapy and anti-angiogenic therapy may have the potential to enhance the response to immunotherapy in these patients.This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab with or without antiprogrammed death 1(PD-1)immunotherapy as the second-line regimen for MSS mCRC.AIM To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab with or without anti-PD-1 immunotherapy as the second-line regimen for MSS mCRC.METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with MSS mCRC diagnosed at Peking University First Hospital and Jilin Cancer Hospital from January 2020 to December 2024.The patients were divided into two groups:The experimental group receiving second-line chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab and anti-PD-1 immunotherapy,and the control group receiving chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab.Propensity score matching was applied to balance potential prognostic factors,including age,gender,Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score,number of metastases,and primary tumor site.The progression-free survival,overall survival,disease control rate,objective response rate,and treatment-related adverse reactions were compared between the two groups.Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test were used to compare survival outcomes.Inverse probability of treatment weighting was used for sensitivity analysis.RESULTS Propensity score matching resulted in 103 matched eligible patients.The median follow-up period was 13.9 months in the matched cohort.The objective response rate was 11.5%and 9%for the experimental and control groups,respectively(P=0.710),while the disease control rate was 76.9%and 53.2%,respectively(P=0.058).The median progression-free survival in the experimental group was 8.27 months[95%confidence interval(CI):6.7-14.7 months],significantly higher than that in the control group,which was 4.63 months(95%CI:3.9-5.67 months)(hazard ratio=0.4143,95%CI:0.2462-0.6972,P=0.00066).There was a trend towards the higher median overall survival in the experimental group compared to the control group(hazard ratio=0.4504,95%CI:0.1897-1.07,P=0.064).The incidences of adverse events were similar between the two groups.CONCLUSION Compared with the standard second-line chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab regimen,second-line therapy that combines chemotherapy with bevacizumab and anti-PD-1 immunotherapy has demonstrated promising efficacy in the treatment of MSS mCRC,while exhibiting a similar safety profile.
文摘BACKGROUND Gastric cancer(GC)and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma(HNSCC)are common malignancies with high morbidity and mortality rates.Traditional treatments often yield limited efficacy,especially in advanced cases.Recent advancements in immunotherapy,particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting programmed death-ligand 1(PD-L1),have shown promise.However,the expression and interaction of pescadillo ribosomal biogenesis factor 1(PES1)and PD-L1 in these cancers remain unclear.Understanding their roles could provide new insights into tumor biology and improve therapeutic strategies.AIM To investigate the expression levels of PES1 and PD-L1 in tumor tissues of patients with GC and HNSCC.METHODS A total of 58 cases of GC and HNSCC undergoing surgical resection were selected from January 2022 to January 2024.Paraffin specimens of GC and HNSCC tissues were taken from the patients,and the sections were subjected to staining with immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin-eosin staining,and the protein expression of PES1 and PD-L1 was observed microscopically.RESULTS Among 58 GC and HNSCC tissues,30 cases were positive and 28 cases were negative for PES1 expression,and 34 cases were positive and 24 cases were negative for PD-L1 expression.The positive expression rates of PES1 and PDL1 were 51.72% and 58.62%,respectively.PES1 expression was correlated with the TNM stage,lymph node metastasis,and the depth of infiltration(P<0.05),and PD-L1 expression was correlated with the differentiation degree,lymph node metastasis,and infiltration depth(P<0.05).CONCLUSION PES1 and PD-L1 were positively expressed in GC and HNSCC tissues and correlated with clinical features.They may serve as potential biomarkers for immune-targeted therapies.
