Implications of IL-21 in solid tumor therapy

Med Oncol. 2023 May 30;40(7):191. doi: 10.1007/s12032-023-02051-4.

Abstract

Cancer, the most deadly disease, is known as a recent dilemma worldwide. Presently different treatments are used for curing cancers, especially solid cancers. Because of the immune-enhancing functions of cytokine, IL-21 as a cytokine may have new possibilities to manipulate the immune system in disease conditions, as it stimulates NK and CTL functions and drives IgG antibody production. Indeed, IL-21 has been revealed to elicit antitumor-immune responses in several tumor models. Combining IL-21 with other agents, which target tumor cells, immune-regulatory circuits, or other immune-enhancing molecules enhances this activity. The exciting breakthrough in the results obtained in pre-clinical situations has led to the early outset of present developing clinical trials in cancer patients. In the paper, we have reviewed the function of IL-21 in solid tumor immunotherapy.

Keywords: Combined therapy; Cytokines; Immune cells; Immunotherapy; Interleukin-21(IL-21), Solid tumor.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cytokines
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy / methods
  • Interleukins
  • Neoplasms* / therapy

Substances

  • interleukin-21
  • Interleukins
  • Cytokines