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Targeting the adenosine pathway for cancer immunotherapy
Akil Hammami1, David Allard1, Bertrand Allard1
1Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal et Institut du Cancer de Montréal, QC, Canada; Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, QC, Canada.
Seminars in Immunology
|October 13, 2019
Summary
The CD39 and CD73 enzymes create adenosine in tumors, suppressing anti-tumor immunity. Targeting this pathway is a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy development.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in cancer progression.
- Immunosuppressive pathways within the TME hinder anti-tumor immunity.
- Extracellular adenosine, generated by ecto-nucleotidases, is a key immunosuppressive molecule.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of ecto-nucleotidases CD39 and CD73 in cancer.
- To summarize research on the CD39/CD73 pathway as an immune checkpoint.
- To discuss the development of adenosine-targeting agents for cancer immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on CD39, CD73, and adenosine in cancer.
- Analysis of research on the immunosuppressive mechanisms of the CD39/CD73 pathway.
- Overview of clinical trials involving adenosine-targeting agents.
Main Results:
- CD39 and CD73 hydrolyze extracellular ATP to adenosine, promoting immune suppression.
- The CD39/CD73 axis represents a significant immune checkpoint in various cancers.
- Adenosine targeting agents have shown promise in preclinical and clinical settings.
Conclusions:
- Inhibition of CD39 and CD73 can restore anti-tumor immunity.
- Adenosine-targeting agents are a viable therapeutic strategy for cancer immunotherapy.
- Further research and clinical testing are warranted to optimize these therapies.
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