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Updated: Nov 22, 2025
Intramucosal Inoculation of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells in Mice for Tumor Immune Profiling and Treatment Response Assessment
Published on: April 22, 2019
The Tumor Microenvironment and Immunotherapy of Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Marij J P Welters1, Saskia J Santegoets1, Sjoerd H van der Burg1
1Medical Oncology, Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.
Abstract:
Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) develops as a consequence of several mutations in the tumor suppressor pathways or after a progressive infection with high risk human papillomavirus (HPV). The dismal side effects of the current standard of care and the clear involvement of the immune system has led to a surge in clinical trials that aim to reinforce the tumor-specific immune response as a new treatment option. In this review, we have focused on the most recent literature to discuss the new findings and insights on the role of different immune cells in the context of OPSCC and its etiology. We then applied this knowledge to describe potential biomarkers and analyzed the rationale and outcomes of earlier and ongoing immunotherapy trials. Finally, we describe new developments that are still at the preclinical phase and provide an outlook on what the near future may bring, now that several new and exciting techniques to study the immune system at the single cell level are being exploited.
Insights
This review explores the role of immune cells in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), examining immunotherapy trials and preclinical developments for novel treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Virology
Background:
- Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) arises from genetic mutations or high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
- Current treatments for OPSCC have significant side effects, highlighting the need for alternative therapies.
- The immune system's role in OPSCC pathogenesis is increasingly recognized, driving research into immunotherapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on immune cell involvement in OPSCC.
- To identify potential biomarkers for OPSCC immunotherapy.
- To analyze the outcomes of current and past immunotherapy clinical trials for OPSCC.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of recent studies on OPSCC and immunology.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for immunotherapy in OPSCC.
- Exploration of preclinical research and emerging single-cell analysis techniques.
Main Results:
- Discussion of the diverse roles of immune cells in OPSCC development and progression.
- Evaluation of immunotherapy strategies, including biomarker potential.
- Overview of ongoing and preclinical advancements in OPSCC treatment.
Conclusions:
- Immunotherapy shows promise as a novel treatment strategy for OPSCC.
- Understanding immune cell dynamics is crucial for developing effective OPSCC therapies.
- Emerging technologies offer new avenues for studying and targeting OPSCC immunity.
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