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Suppression of anti-cancer immunity by regulatory T cells: back to the future

Rimas J Orentas1, M Eric Kohler, Bryon D Johnson

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.

Seminars in Cancer Biology
|December 27, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) impact cancer progression, but their study was limited by marker identification. The discovery of CD4(+)CD25(+) Tregs has renewed interest, with evidence supporting their role in cancer and potential therapeutic inhibition for immunotherapy.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Oncology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Suppressor/regulatory T cells (Tregs) have been linked to cancer progression since the 1970s.
  • Lack of specific markers and variable cell functions created scientific skepticism.
  • The identification of CD4(+)CD25(+) natural regulatory T cells has revitalized research into their immune regulatory properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a historical overview of suppressor T cells and their role in cancer.
  • To present experimental and clinical evidence for CD4(+)CD25(+) natural regulatory T cells in cancer progression.
  • To discuss current strategies for inhibiting Tregs to enhance cancer immunotherapy.

Main Methods:

  • Historical literature review of suppressor T cells in cancer.
  • Analysis of experimental and clinical data on CD4(+)CD25(+) T cell function in cancer.
  • Review of therapeutic strategies targeting regulatory T cells.

Main Results:

  • Early studies in the 1970s indicated Tregs influence cancer progression in models.
  • CD4(+)CD25(+) Tregs are now recognized for their immune regulatory properties.
  • Evidence suggests CD4(+)CD25(+) Tregs play a significant role in advancing cancer.

Conclusions:

  • Regulatory T cells are crucial in cancer progression.
  • Targeting CD4(+)CD25(+) Tregs offers a promising avenue for cancer immunotherapy.
  • Further research into Treg inhibition strategies is warranted to improve treatment outcomes.

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