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Toll-like receptor-targeted particles: A paradigm to manipulate the tumor microenvironment for cancer immunotherapy

Tuan Hiep Tran1, Thi Thu Phuong Tran2, Duy Hieu Truong3

  • 1Department for Management of Science and Technology Development, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Faculty of Pharmacy, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam.

Acta Biomaterialia
|May 27, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) on immune cells are key to detecting pathogens and initiating adaptive immunity. This review explores TLRs in cancer, focusing on antitumor pathways and nanoparticle-conjugated TLR agonists for cancer suppression.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Oncology
  • Nanotechnology

Background:

  • Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are crucial for innate immunity, expressed on antigen-presenting cells like dendritic cells and macrophages.
  • TLRs recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns, initiating adaptive immune responses.
  • Dysregulation of TLR signaling is implicated in various diseases, including cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the multifaceted roles of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in tumor biology.
  • To highlight TLR-dependent antitumor pathways and their therapeutic potential.
  • To examine the application of TLR agonists conjugated to nanoparticles for cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on TLRs in cancer biology and immunotherapy.
  • Analysis of TLR-dependent antitumor mechanisms.
  • Evaluation of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for TLR agonists.

Main Results:

  • TLRs play a dual role in cancer, influencing both tumor progression and immune surveillance.
  • Targeting TLRs can enhance anti-tumor immunity through various signaling pathways.
  • Nanoparticle conjugation of TLR agonists improves drug delivery, stability, and efficacy, leading to enhanced anti-tumor responses.

Conclusions:

  • TLRs represent promising therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.
  • Combination therapies involving TLR agonists, particularly when delivered via nanoparticles, hold significant potential for cancer suppression and eradication.
  • Further research into TLR-targeted immunotherapies is warranted for clinical translation.
Keywords:
BiomaterialsCancerImmunotherapyParticulate systemsToll-like receptors

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