Blocking MIF secretion enhances CAR T-cell efficacy against neuroblastoma

IF 7.6 1区 医学 Q1 ONCOLOGY European Journal of Cancer Pub Date : 2025-01-27 DOI:10.1016/j.ejca.2025.115263
Josephine G.M. Strijker , Guillem Pascual-Pasto , Grant P. Grothusen , Yannine J. Kalmeijer , Elisavet Kalaitsidou , Chunlong Zhao , Brendan McIntyre , Stephanie Matlaga , Lindy L. Visser , Marta Barisa , Courtney Himsworth , Rivani Shah , Henrike Muller , Linda G. Schild , Peter G. Hains , Qing Zhong , Roger R. Reddel , Phillip J. Robinson , Xavier Catena , María S. Soengas , Judith Wienke
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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Introduction

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a promising and innovative cancer therapy. However, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments (TME) limit T cell persistence and durable efficacy. Here, we aimed to identify and target immunosuppressive factors in the TME of neuroblastoma, a pediatric extracranial solid tumor, to improve CAR-T efficacy.

Methods

Immunosuppressive factors were identified using a multi-omics approach, including single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of 24 neuroblastoma tumors, published bulk-RNA sequencing datasets, and mass-spectrometry of patient-derived tumoroid models. Candidate targets were validated with functional assays in vitro and in vivo. Protein degradation of the top immunosuppressive target by PROTAC technology was used to evaluate the effect on CAR T-cell activity.

Results

ScRNA-seq revealed 13 immunosuppressive interactions in the TME of neuroblastoma, two effectors of which, Midkine (MDK) and Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF), were validated as candidate targets across multiple published datasets. Both factors were among the top 6 % of most abundantly secreted factors by patient-derived tumoroid models, substantiating their potential relevance in the TME. In vitro and in vivo functional assays confirmed MIF to be a potent inhibitor of CAR T-cell activation and killing capacity. To translate these findings into a potentially clinically applicable treatment, we explored MIF targeting by PROTAC technology, which significantly enhanced activation of CAR T-cells targeting GPC2 and B7-H3.

Conclusion

By defining the immunosuppressive effects of neuroblastoma’s TME on CAR T-cell efficacy, revealing the pivotal role of MIF, we provide an analytic pipeline and therapeutic strategy for improving adoptive cell therapies for this pediatric malignancy and potentially other solid tumors.
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来源期刊
European Journal of Cancer
European Journal of Cancer 医学-肿瘤学
CiteScore
11.50
自引率
4.80%
发文量
953
审稿时长
23 days
期刊介绍: The European Journal of Cancer (EJC) serves as a comprehensive platform integrating preclinical, digital, translational, and clinical research across the spectrum of cancer. From epidemiology, carcinogenesis, and biology to groundbreaking innovations in cancer treatment and patient care, the journal covers a wide array of topics. We publish original research, reviews, previews, editorial comments, and correspondence, fostering dialogue and advancement in the fight against cancer. Join us in our mission to drive progress and improve outcomes in cancer research and patient care.
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