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Metabolic Checkpoints: Novel Avenues for Immunotherapy of Cancer
Ivan Shevchenko1, Alexandr V Bazhin2,3
1Institute for Immunology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany.
Abstract:
Novel therapies targeting immune checkpoint molecules have redefined the treatment of cancer at advanced stages and brought hope to millions of patients worldwide. Monoclonal antibodies targeting immune-inhibitory receptors often lead to complete and objective responses as well as to durable progression-free survival where all other therapeutic approaches fail. Yet, many tumors show significant resistance to checkpoint blockade through mechanisms that are only starting to come to light. An alluring alternative strategy to reinvigorate anticancer immune responses comes from the emerging field of immuno-metabolism. Over the past few years, numerous studies revealed that many well-known metabolic playmakers also serve as critical checkpoints in immune homeostasis and immunity against tumors. Here, we survey recent insights into the intimate and intertwining links between T cell metabolic programs and environmental cues in the tumor milieu. Transferring these new findings from the bench to the bedside may soon entirely re-shape the field of cancer immunotherapy and significantly improve the lives of patients.
Insights
Novel cancer immunotherapies, like immune checkpoint blockade, show promise but face resistance. Emerging immuno-metabolism research reveals how T cell metabolism and tumor environment influence treatment efficacy, offering new therapeutic avenues.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Metabolism
Background:
- Novel therapies targeting immune checkpoint molecules have transformed advanced cancer treatment.
- Monoclonal antibodies offer durable responses but many tumors exhibit resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey recent insights into the links between T cell metabolic programs and the tumor microenvironment.
- To explore immuno-metabolism as a strategy to overcome resistance to cancer immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on immuno-metabolism and T cell function in cancer.
- Analysis of the interplay between metabolic pathways and immune responses within the tumor milieu.
Main Results:
- Metabolic pathways are critical regulators of immune homeostasis and anti-tumor immunity.
- The tumor microenvironment significantly influences T cell metabolic programs and function.
Conclusions:
- Understanding immuno-metabolism is crucial for overcoming resistance to current immunotherapies.
- Targeting T cell metabolism holds potential to reshape cancer immunotherapy and improve patient outcomes.
