[Novel Therapy Targeting the Cancer Microenvironment Using Near-Infrared Photoimmunotherapy Leading to Tumor Immune Activation]

Gan To Kagaku Ryoho. 2023 Dec;50(13):1361-1363.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

Near-infrared photoimmunotherapy(NIR-PIT)is a novel cancer treatment modality that employs antibody-IRDye700DX (IR700)conjugates. Recently, the clinical application of NIR-PIT has received approval in Japan for patients with inoperable head and neck cancer, specifically targeting the human epidermal growth factor receptor(hEGFR). Furthermore, NIR-PIT extends beyond the scope of tumor antigens and can be employed to eliminate specific host cells that contribute to the creation of immune-permissive environments supporting tumor growth. One of the distinguishing features of NIR-PIT is its ability to selectively eliminate various cell types within the tumor microenvironment(TME)by specifically targeting distinct antigens. By employing podoplanin(PDPN)-targeted NIR-PIT, PDPN-expressing fibroblasts were selectively eradicated, resulting in the suppression of tumor progression and a notable extension of overall survival. Additionally, we investigated the efficacy of depleting myeloid-derived suppressor cells(MDSCs)using NIR-PIT. This approach led to the selective elimination of MDSCs within tumors, and remarkable abscopal effects were observed in bilateral tumor models. Hence, NIR-PIT holds immense promise for the treatment of diverse cancer types by precisely targeting tumor cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • ErbB Receptors
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Photosensitizing Agents
  • Phototherapy / methods
  • Tumor Microenvironment*
  • Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays

Substances

  • ErbB Receptors
  • Photosensitizing Agents