Targeting 4-1BB for tumor immunotherapy from bench to bedside

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Immune dysfunction is linked to cancer progression.
• Immunotherapy modulates the tumor microenvironment to combat cancer.
• 4-1BB (CD137/TNFRS9) is upregulated in tumors and crucial for progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the structure, expression, and function of 4-1BB and its ligand.
• To discuss the role of 4-1BB in the tumor microenvironment and cancer progression.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of 4-1BB-targeted immunotherapies and future prospects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications.
• Analysis of 4-1BB structure, expression, and function.
• Summary of clinical trial data for 4-1BB-based therapies.

Main Results:

• 4-1BB is a promising target due to its expression and role in tumor progression.
• 4-1BB-based immunotherapies demonstrate significant antitumor activity, alone or combined with immune checkpoints.
• Ongoing drug development shows potential for novel cancer treatments.

Conclusions:

• 4-1BB is a validated and attractive target for cancer immunotherapy.
• Modulating 4-1BB offers a promising strategy to enhance antitumor immunity.
• Further research and development of 4-1BB-targeting drugs are crucial for advancing cancer therapy.