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Targeting A3 and A2A adenosine receptors in the fight against cancer

Stefania Merighi1, Enrica Battistello1, Luca Giacomelli1

  • 1a Department of Medical Sciences , University of Ferrara , Ferrara , Italy.

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets
|June 14, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Novel anticancer drugs targeting adenosine receptors show promise. A3 adenosine receptor agonists and A2A receptor antagonists are key candidates for cancer therapy, potentially overcoming immune suppression and enhancing treatment efficacy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Tumor hypoxia and high adenosine levels create a cycle of immune suppression and cancer growth.
  • Adenosine receptors play a critical role in cancer progression and immune evasion.
  • Current research focuses on adenosine receptor ligands as potential anticancer agents.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an updated overview of A3 adenosine receptor agonists and A2A receptor antagonists in cancer therapy.
  • To discuss the rationale and evidence supporting adenosine receptor modulation in oncology.
  • To present expert perspectives on the clinical potential of these drug candidates.

Main Methods:

  • Review of in vitro, animal, and clinical studies on adenosine receptor ligands in cancer.
  • Analysis of the role of A3 and A2A receptors in tumor progression and immune response.
  • Exploration of combination strategies involving adenosine receptor antagonists and checkpoint inhibitors.

Main Results:

  • A3 adenosine receptor agonists and A2A receptor antagonists are emerging as promising anticancer drugs.
  • A3 receptors are implicated in cancer progression and immune resistance, serving as potential tumor markers.
  • A2A receptors play a crucial role in immunomodulation and can be targeted to enhance immunotherapy.

Conclusions:

  • A3 and A2A receptors represent attractive therapeutic targets in oncology.
  • A3 receptor agonists offer potential for personalized cancer treatment.
  • Blocking A2A receptors in combination with checkpoint inhibitors may improve treatment outcomes.
Keywords:
Adenosine receptorscancercell proliferationclinical trialsimmunoescapingimmunoprotection

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