Immunogenic Cell Death Induction by Ionizing Radiation.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Radiation Biology

Background:

• Immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a regulated cell death (RCD) process that elicits antitumor immune responses through the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs).
• Ionizing radiation (IR) is known to induce cell death, with emerging evidence suggesting it can trigger ICD, influenced by radiation parameters like dose and fractionation.
• Current evidence for IR-induced ICD is primarily from in vitro and murine models, with limited clinical validation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular mechanisms underlying ICD.
• To explore factors associated with IR that promote ICD.
• To summarize clinical evidence and strategies for enhancing IR-induced ICD to improve antitumor immunity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on molecular mechanisms of ICD.
• Analysis of studies investigating IR-induced ICD in vitro and in vivo.
• Examination of synergistic strategies combining IR with other therapies (e.g., hyperthermia, nanoparticles, chemotherapy).

Main Results:

• IR can induce ICD, with its efficacy dependent on irradiation parameters.
• Various DAMPs (HMGB1, CRT, ATP, HSPs) are key mediators of IR-induced ICD.
• Combinatorial approaches show promise in enhancing IR-induced ICD and antitumor immune responses.

Conclusions:

• IR is a potential inducer of ICD, contributing to antitumor immunity.
• Further clinical research is needed to validate IR-induced ICD.
• Strategies combining IR with other modalities can significantly boost ICD and enhance cancer immunotherapy.