Immune cell topography of head and neck cancer

• DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2024-009550
• Publication Date: 2024-07-25T07:01:14Z
• Authors: Tara Muijlwijk; Dennis N L M Nije...; Sonja H Ganzevles; Fatima Ekhlas; Carmen Ballestero...; Laura A N Peferoen; Elisabeth Bloemena; Bernard A Fox; Jos B Poell; C René Leemans; Ruud H Brakenhoff; Rieneke van de Ven
• Keywords: Squamous cell cancer

Background Approximately 50% of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) recur after treatment with curative intent. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are options for recurrent/metastatic HNSCC; however, less than 20% patients respond. To increase this response rate, it is fundamental to our understanding the spatial tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Methods In total, 53 HNSCC specimens were included. Using a seven-color multiplex immunohistochemistry panel we identified cells, CD163+macrophages, B CD8+T CD4+T helper cells regulatory T (Tregs) in treatment-naive surgical resection (n=29) biopsies (n=18). further characterize tumor-infiltrating stained (n=12) five-color tumor-resident including CD103, Ki67, CD8 pan-cytokeratin. Secretome analysis was performed on matched suspensions (n=11) measure protein levels. Results Based infiltrates, four different immunotypes: fully infiltrated, stroma-restricted, immune-excluded, immune-desert. We found higher cytokine levels infiltrated tumors compared other immunotypes. While highest infiltrates observed invasive margin all CD163+macrophages Tregs had tendency infiltrate center. Within center, especially stayed at stroma, whereas followed by more often localized within fields. Also, away from formed aggregates while tended be closely located each other. Across various anatomical sites neck, oral cavity exhibited densities Tregs. Moreover, distance shortest carcinoma (OCSCC), suggesting interaction between lymphocytes cells. fraction 10 µm lowest OCSCC, indicating fewer myeloid/T-cell suppressive interactions OCSCC. Conclusions comprehensively described TIME using unique data set specimens. discovered that composition, as well relative localization TIME, differed distinct neck.