Inhibition of protein phosphatase-2A with LB-100 enhances antitumor immunity against glioblastoma

Dominic Maggio1, Winson S Ho2,3, Rebecca Breese1

  • 1Surgical Neurology Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.

Abstract

Insights

Combining protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) inhibition with PD1 blockade immunotherapy significantly improved survival in a preclinical glioblastoma model. This novel combination enhanced anti-tumor immunity and led to long-term survival in some mice.

Area of Science:

  • Neuro-oncology
  • Immunotherapy
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Glioblastoma (GBM) has a poor prognosis despite standard treatments.
  • Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) like PD1 blockade have shown limited efficacy in GBM.
  • Novel combination strategies are needed to enhance immunotherapy for GBM.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the potential of combining a protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) inhibitor (LB-100) with PD1 blockade to enhance anti-tumor immunity in a syngeneic glioma model.
  • To assess the efficacy of this combination therapy in improving survival and immune responses against GBM.

Main Methods:

  • C57BL/6 mice bearing GL261 glioma cells were randomized into four groups: control, LB-100, PD1 blockade, or combination therapy.
  • Survival rates were monitored, and tumor-infiltrating leukocytes were analyzed for immune cell profiles and function.

Main Results:

  • Combination therapy significantly improved survival compared to monotherapy.
  • Approximately 25% of mice in the combination group achieved complete tumor regression.
  • This response was dependent on CD4 and CD8 T cells, leading to antigen-specific protective immunity and enhanced CD8+ T cell infiltration and effector function.

Conclusions:

  • This study presents the first preclinical investigation of combining PP2A inhibition with PD1 blockade for GBM.
  • This novel combination demonstrates effective tumor immunotherapy and induces long-term survival in a murine GBM model.
  • The findings support further investigation of this combination strategy for GBM treatment.

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