IFN-γ-dependent tumor-antigen cross-presentation by lymphatic endothelial cells promotes their killing by T cells and inhibits metastasis

Sci Adv. 2022 Jun 10;8(23):eabl5162. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.abl5162. Epub 2022 Jun 8.

Abstract

Tumor-associated lymphatic vessels promote metastasis and regulate antitumor immune responses. Here, we assessed the impact of cytotoxic T cells on the local lymphatic vasculature and concomitant tumor dissemination during an antitumor response. Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) released by effector T cells enhanced the expression of immunosuppressive markers by tumor-associated lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). However, at higher effector T cell densities within the tumor, T cell-based immunotherapies induced LEC apoptosis and decreased tumor lymphatic vessel density. As a consequence, lymphatic flow was impaired, and lymph node metastasis was reduced. Mechanistically, T cell-mediated tumor cell death induced the release of tumor antigens and cross-presentation by tumor LECs, resulting in antigen-specific LEC killing by T cells. When LECs lacked the IFN-γ receptor expression, LEC killing was abrogated, indicating that IFN-γ is indispensable for reducing tumor-associated lymphatic vessel density and drainage. This study provides insight into how cytotoxic T cells modulate tumor lymphatic vessels and may help to improve immunotherapeutic protocols.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antigens, Neoplasm
  • Cross-Priming
  • Endothelial Cells* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Interferon-gamma* / metabolism
  • Lymphatic Metastasis

Substances

  • Antigens, Neoplasm
  • Interferon-gamma