Antigen-specific CD4+ regulatory T cells in cancer: implications for immunotherapy

Microbes Infect. 2005 Jun;7(7-8):1056-62. doi: 10.1016/j.micinf.2005.03.028. Epub 2005 Apr 25.

Abstract

Regulatory T cells play essential roles in inducing self-tolerance by suppressing immune responses against self such as autoantigens or non-self-antigens such as tumor and pathogenic antigens. Despite the importance of CD4(+) regulatory T cells in many immune-related diseases, their antigen specificity and suppressive mechanisms remain elusive. This review discusses the natural ligands and their potential roles of tumor-specific CD4(+) regulatory T cells in cancer therapy.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Antigens, Neoplasm / immunology
  • Autoantigens / immunology
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / physiology*
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / physiology
  • Humans
  • Immune Tolerance
  • Immunotherapy*
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Neoplasms / immunology*
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Antigens, Neoplasm
  • Autoantigens