Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026

In Vitro Differentiation of Human CD4+FOXP3+ Induced Regulatory T Cells (iTregs) from Naïve CD4+ T Cells Using a TGF-β-containing Protocol
Published on: December 30, 2016
FOXO3: A master switch for regulating tolerance and immunity in dendritic cells.
Stephanie K Watkins1, Arthur A Hurwitz
1Tumor Immunity and Tolerance Section; Laboratory of Molecular Immunoregulation; Cancer and Inflammation Program; NCI-Frederick; Frederick, MD USA.
Prostate tumors use dendritic cells to suppress CD8(+) T cell responses. Silencing Foxo3 in these cells enhances anti-tumor immunity, making FOXO3 a potential immunotherapy target.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Dendritic cells (DCs) within prostate tumors are known to induce immune tolerance.
- This tolerance specifically affects tumor antigen-specific CD8(+) T cells, hindering anti-tumor immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of Foxo3 expression in regulating DC tolerogenicity in prostate tumors.
- To determine if modulating Foxo3 expression can enhance anti-tumor immunity.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Foxo3 expression in tumor-infiltrating dendritic cells.
- Experimental manipulation of Foxo3 expression in DCs.
- Assessment of CD8(+) T cell responses against tumor antigens.
Main Results:
- Foxo3 expression in dendritic cells correlates with immune tolerance in prostate tumors.
- Silencing Foxo3 expression in DCs reverses immune tolerance.
- Enhanced anti-tumor immune responses were observed following Foxo3 silencing.
Conclusions:
- Dendritic cell tolerogenicity in prostate tumors is regulated by Foxo3 expression.
- Targeting FOXO3 by silencing its expression represents a potential strategy for prostate cancer immunotherapy.
Related Concept Videos
Master Transcription Regulators
Master Transcription Regulators
Regulation of the Unfolded Protein Response
B Cell Activation and Differentiation
When naive B cells encounter a specific antigen that can bind to the B cell receptor (BCR) on their surface, they undergo sensitization to respond to the antigen's presence. Sensitization begins with...
Cells of the Adaptive Immune Response
Immune Surveillance by NK Cells and Phagocytes
Natural Killer Cells: The Fast Responders
NK cells are large granular lymphocytes found in the blood and lymphatic system. These...

