Tumor-specific T-cell memory: clearing the regulatory T-cell hurdle

Cancer Res. 2008 Mar 15;68(6):1614-7. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-07-6012.

Abstract

Antitumor immune responses can be stimulated by interfering with regulatory T-cell (T(reg)) function. However, this effect is short lived unless T-cell memory to tumor antigens can be generated. Our recent studies show that T(reg) cells not only limit primary responses to tumor/self-antigens in tumor-bearing hosts but also prevent the natural generation of T-cell memory to such antigens. Here, we discuss the role of T(reg) cells in suppressing T-cell memory after surgical excision of tumors and the potential clinical benefits of overcoming this suppression.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigens, Neoplasm / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunologic Memory*
  • Melanoma, Experimental / immunology
  • Melanoma, Experimental / pathology
  • Melanoma, Experimental / surgery
  • Mice
  • Neoplasms / immunology*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Neoplasms / surgery
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*

Substances

  • Antigens, Neoplasm