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Published on: August 1, 2025
Anti-CD73 immunotherapy: A viable way to reprogram the tumor microenvironment
Luca Antonioli1, Corrado Blandizzi2, Fabio Malavasi3
1Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Department of Surgery and Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA.
Targeting the CD73 enzyme can disrupt the tumor microenvironment, reducing immunosuppression and promoting anti-cancer immune responses. This approach, using CD73 monoclonal antibodies, offers a novel strategy for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Oncology
Background:
- Ecto-5'-nucleotidase/CD73 is crucial for creating an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment by generating adenosine.
- This adenosine-rich niche promotes tumor growth, angiogenesis, and immune evasion.
Discussion:
- Targeting CD73 can reverse the immunosuppressive effects within the tumor microenvironment.
- Modulating CD73 activity influences the behavior and phenotype of tumor-infiltrating T cells.
Key Insights:
- Inhibition of CD73 leads to a less immunosuppressive and potentially anti-angiogenic tumor milieu.
- CD73 targeting reshapes the immune cell landscape, enhancing anti-tumor T cell responses.
Outlook:
- CD73 monoclonal antibodies represent a promising therapeutic strategy for various cancers.
- Further research into CD73-targeted therapies could revolutionize antineoplastic treatment.
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The Tumor Microenvironment
The Tumor Microenvironment

