[Progress in targeting therapy of cancer metastasis by CCL21/CCR7 axis]

Area of Science:

• Oncology and Immunology
• Molecular Biology
• Cancer Metastasis Research

Background:

• Lymphatic metastasis is a primary driver of cancer mortality.
• The chemokine ligand CCL21 and its receptor CCR7 play crucial roles in immune cell trafficking and lymphatic metastasis.
• Both immune cells and tumor cells expressing CCR7 can utilize the CCL21/CCR7 pathway for lymphatic system colonization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the involvement of the CCL21/CCR7 axis in the process of lymphatic metastasis.
• To summarize preclinical and clinical trials targeting the CCL21/CCR7 axis for cancer metastasis therapy.
• To highlight the potential of targeting this axis for effective tumor immunotherapy while preserving anti-tumor immunity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating the CCL21/CCR7 pathway in cancer metastasis.
• Analysis of preclinical data on targeting the CCL21/CCR7 axis.
• Review of ongoing and completed clinical trials focused on CCL21/CCR7-targeted therapies.

Main Results:

• The CCL21/CCR7 axis facilitates tumor cell migration to lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes.
• Targeting this axis shows promise in preclinical models for reducing lymphatic metastasis.
• Clinical trials are exploring the efficacy and safety of CCL21/CCR7-targeted immunotherapies.

Conclusions:

• The CCL21/CCR7 axis is a critical mediator of lymphatic metastasis and a viable therapeutic target.
• Targeting CCL21/CCR7 offers a potential strategy to inhibit metastasis while maintaining anti-tumor immune responses.
• Further research and clinical trials are essential to fully realize the therapeutic potential of targeting the CCL21/CCR7 axis in cancer.