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Evaluating the Effectiveness of Cancer Drug Sensitization In Vitro and In Vivo
Published on: February 6, 2015
Host effects contributing to cancer therapy resistance
Ofrat Beyar Katz1, Yuval Shaked1
1Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel.
Abstract:
There are several approaches for the management of malignant disease. However, tumor resistance to therapy is still a major challenge in the clinic. Efflux transporters, genetic responses and enzyme activity in tumor cells are examples of the main modalities that account for resistance to therapy. In addition, emerging evidence suggests that the host also plays a significant role in promoting therapy resistance. Recruitment of different host cell types to the treated tumor site occurs in response to a range of therapies, including chemotherapy, radiation and even targeted drugs. This host response may have a protective effect on the tumor cells, not only negating anti-tumor activity, but also promoting a resistant tumor. In this review, we focus on host-tumor interactions leading to therapy resistance with special emphasis on different host cells and secreted factors within the tumor microenvironment. The development of novel inhibitors that block the host response to therapy could be used as a treatment strategy to enhance therapy outcomes and survival.
Insights
Tumor resistance to cancer therapy is a major challenge. Emerging evidence shows that the host immune response can protect tumors, promoting resistance and hindering treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Tumor resistance to therapy remains a significant clinical challenge.
- Mechanisms of resistance include intrinsic tumor cell factors like efflux transporters and genetic alterations.
- The host's role in promoting therapy resistance is increasingly recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review host-tumor interactions that contribute to therapy resistance.
- To emphasize the role of host cells and secreted factors in the tumor microenvironment.
- To explore therapeutic strategies targeting host responses.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on host-tumor interactions in therapy resistance.
- Analysis of host cell recruitment and secreted factors in response to various cancer therapies.
- Synthesis of current understanding of the tumor microenvironment's role.
Main Results:
- Host cell recruitment to tumors post-therapy can protect cancer cells.
- Host responses can negate anti-tumor activity and promote a resistant phenotype.
- Specific host cells and secreted factors within the tumor microenvironment are key mediators.
Conclusions:
- Host-tumor interactions are critical determinants of therapy resistance.
- Targeting host responses offers a potential strategy to overcome resistance.
- Developing inhibitors of host response could improve cancer treatment efficacy and patient survival.
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