Immunotheranostic target modules for imaging and navigation of UniCAR T-cells to strike FAP-expressing cells and the tumor microenvironment

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

Abstract

Background: Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells are a promising approach in cancer immunotherapy, particularly for treating hematologic malignancies. Yet, their effectiveness is limited when tackling solid tumors, where immune cell infiltration and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments (TME) are major hurdles. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is highly expressed on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and various tumor cells, playing an important role in tumor growth and immunosuppression. Aiming to modulate the TME with increased clinical safety and effectiveness, we developed novel small and size-extended immunotheranostic UniCAR target modules (TMs) targeting FAP. Methods: The specific binding and functionality of the αFAP-scFv TM and the size-extended αFAP-IgG4 TM were assessed using 2D and 3D in vitro models as well as in vivo. Their specific tumor accumulation and diagnostic potential were evaluated using PET studies after functionalization with a chelator and suitable radionuclide. Results: The αFAP-scFv and -IgG4 TMs effectively and specifically redirected UniCAR T-cells using 2D, 3D, and in vivo models. Moreover, a remarkably high and specific accumulation of radiolabeled FAP-targeting TMs at the tumor site of xenograft mouse models was observed. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that the novel αFAP TMs are promising immunotheranostic tools to foster cancer imaging and treatment, paving the way for a more convenient, individualized, and safer treatment of cancer patients. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number341
JournalJournal of Experimental and Clinical Cancer Research
Volume42
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2023
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

PubMed 38102692

Keywords

Sustainable Development Goals

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Keywords

  • 3D in vitro models, Cancer immunotherapy, Fibroblast activation protein (FAP), Immunotheranostic Target Modules (TMs), Tumor microenvironment (TME), UniCAR T-cells, Immunoglobulin G/metabolism, T-Lymphocytes, Immunotherapy/methods, Humans, Tumor Microenvironment, Animals, Cell Line, Tumor, Mice, Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging, Disease Models, Animal