Improving cancer immunotherapy by targeting IL-1

Oncoimmunology. 2021 Nov 25;10(1):2008111. doi: 10.1080/2162402X.2021.2008111. eCollection 2021.

Abstract

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is an inflammatory cytokine associated with tumor invasiveness and metastasis. We recently found that baseline IL-1 in melanomas promoted resistance to immunotherapy by creating an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and that IL-1 produced in response to CD40 agonist also induced resistance to therapy. Here, we discuss how naturally occurring and immunotherapy-induced IL-1 in tumors causes immune suppression and resistance to immunotherapy, and we discuss targeting the IL-1 pathway to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy.

Keywords: IL-1; Inflammation; cancer; immunotherapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • CD40 Antigens
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy*
  • Interleukin-1*
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness
  • Tumor Microenvironment

Substances

  • CD40 Antigens
  • Interleukin-1