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Role of CD154 in cancer pathogenesis and immunotherapy
Ghada S Hassan1, John Stagg1, Walid Mourad1
1Centre de Recherche-Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CR-CHUM), Montréal, Quebec, Canada.
Abstract:
Many factors and molecules have been investigated as potential players in the pathogenesis or immunosurveillance of cancer. Among these, CD154 has been recognized as a co-stimulatory molecule with high potential for treating cancer, in addition to its contribution in the development of the disease. CD154 was initially described for its pivotal role in T cell-dependent humoral responses via an interaction with its classical receptor, CD40. Subsequent studies showed that CD154 is also implicated in cell-mediated immunity and inflammation via an interaction with CD40 alone or in combination with newly identified receptors, members of the integrin family, leading to the development of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. In the current article, we present an overview of the role of CD154 as a potential etiological factor in tumors inducing proliferation of malignant cells, their rescue from apoptosis and their invasiveness. In addition, this review describes the immuno-regulatory functions of CD154 against cancer reflected by its stimulation of antigen-presenting cells and the subsequent activation of effector cells, its enhancement of malignant cells' immunogenicity, its modulation of immune settings around tumors, and its initiation of proliferation inhibiting effects in malignant cells. In vitro as well as in vivo studies are outlined and a particular attention is given to clinical studies and progress reached at this point. Findings reviewed herein will improve our knowledge of the role of the CD154 system in cancers from causative to immunotherapeutic functions, paving the way for the identification of new targets for prevention and/or treatment of malignant disorders.
Insights
CD154 (Cluster of Differentiation 154) has a dual role in cancer, potentially promoting tumor growth and invasiveness while also offering therapeutic benefits by stimulating anti-cancer immune responses. Understanding this molecule is key for developing new cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- CD154 (Cluster of Differentiation 154) is a co-stimulatory molecule initially recognized for its role in T cell-dependent humoral responses through CD40 interaction.
- CD154 also participates in cell-mediated immunity and inflammation via CD40 and integrin family receptors, contributing to autoimmune diseases.
- The multifaceted roles of CD154 in both cancer development and immune surveillance are increasingly recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of CD154's involvement in cancer pathogenesis.
- To explore CD154's potential as an immunotherapeutic target in cancer treatment.
- To review in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies investigating the CD154 system in cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on CD154 in cancer.
- Analysis of CD154's role in tumor proliferation, apoptosis resistance, and invasiveness.
- Examination of CD154's immuno-regulatory functions against cancer, including antigen-presenting cell stimulation and immune microenvironment modulation.
Main Results:
- CD154 can act as an etiological factor in tumors, promoting malignant cell proliferation, survival, and invasiveness.
- CD154 exhibits immuno-regulatory functions against cancer, enhancing anti-tumor immunity by activating effector cells and increasing tumor immunogenicity.
- Clinical studies show progress in leveraging CD154's functions for cancer therapy.
Conclusions:
- The CD154 system plays a complex role in cancer, acting as both a potential driver of disease and a target for immunotherapy.
- Further understanding of CD154's dual functions can lead to novel strategies for cancer prevention and treatment.
- Targeting the CD154 pathway holds promise for improving cancer management and patient outcomes.
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