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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
Evaluation of Tumor-infiltrating Leukocyte Subsets in a Subcutaneous Tumor Model
Published on: April 13, 2015
22. Immune responses to malignancies
1Research Pavilion at Hillman Cancer Center, Suite 1.27, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, 5117 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-1863, USA.
Abstract:
Immune responses to tumor-associated antigens exist in tumor-bearing hosts but are usually not successful in eliminating malignant cells or preventing the development of metastases. Patients with cancer generate robust immune responses to infectious agents (bacteria and viruses) perceived as a "danger signal" but only ineffective, weak responses to tumor-associated antigens, which are considered as "self." This fundamental difference in responses to self versus non-self is further magnified by the ability of tumors to subvert the host immune system. Tumors induce dysfunction, as well as apoptosis in CD8(+) antitumor effector cells. The escape of tumors from immune cells is mediated by several distinct molecular mechanisms. Insights into these mechanisms and more effective control of tumor-orchestrated immune dysfunction are needed. Novel strategies for immunotherapy of cancer must address protection and survival of antitumor effector cells in the tumor microenvironment.
Insights
Cancer immunotherapy faces challenges as tumors evade immune detection. Novel strategies must protect antitumor effector cells within the tumor microenvironment for effective cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Immune responses to tumor antigens are typically weak in cancer patients.
- Tumors are recognized as
- self
- ,
- leading to inadequate immune surveillance.
- Tumors actively subvert the host immune system, causing immune dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms by which tumors escape immune detection.
- To understand how tumors induce dysfunction and apoptosis in CD8(+) antitumor effector cells.
- To identify strategies for protecting antitumor effector cells in the tumor microenvironment.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of immune responses to tumor-associated antigens versus infectious agents.
- Investigation of molecular mechanisms of tumor immune escape.
- Evaluation of tumor-induced immune cell dysfunction and apoptosis.
Main Results:
- Patients mount strong responses to non-self (infections) but weak responses to self (tumors).
- Tumors employ distinct molecular mechanisms to evade immune cells.
- Tumors induce apoptosis and dysfunction in CD8(+) effector cells.
Conclusions:
- Effective cancer immunotherapy requires overcoming tumor-induced immune suppression.
- Strategies must focus on protecting antitumor effector cells within the tumor microenvironment.
- Further research into tumor immune evasion mechanisms is crucial for developing novel cancer treatments.
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