Optimizing T Cell-Based Therapy for Glioblastoma

Evading T cell surveillance is a hallmark of cancer. Patients with solid tissue malignancy, such as glioblastoma (GBM), have multiple forms of immune dysfunction, including defective T cell function. T cell dysfunction is exacerbated by standard treatment strategies such as steroids, chemotherapy, and radiation. Reinvigoration of T cell responses can be achieved by utilizing adoptively transferred T cells, including CAR T cells. However, these cells are at risk for depletion and dysfunction as well. This review will discuss adoptive T cell transfer strategies and methods to avoid T cell dysfunction for the treatment of brain cancer.