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Author Spotlight: Investigating Immune Cell Dynamics in the Tumor Microenvironment — Challenges and Innovations in Cancer Prognosis
Published on: April 12, 2024
Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes and Immune Response in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Melani Luque1, Marta Sanz-Álvarez1, Miriam Morales-Gallego1
1Department of Pathology, Fundación Jiménez Díaz University Hospital Health Research Institute (IIS-FJD, UAM)-CIBERONC, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
Abstract:
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2-positive) breast cancer accounts for 15 to 25% of breast cancer cases. Although therapies based on the use of monoclonal anti-HER2 antibodies present clinical benefit for a subtype of patients with HER2-positive breast cancer, more than 50% of them are unresponsive to targeted therapies or they eventually relapse. In recent years, reactivation of the adaptive immune system in patients with solid tumors has emerged as a therapeutic option with great potential for clinical benefit. Since the approval of the first treatment directed against HER2 as a therapeutic target, the range of clinical options has expanded greatly, and, in this sense, cellular immunotherapy with T cells relies on the cytotoxicity generated by these cells, which ultimately leads to antitumor activity. Lymphocytic infiltration of tumors encompasses a heterogeneous population of immune cells within the tumor microenvironment that exhibits distinct patterns of immune activation and exhaustion. The prevalence and prognostic value of tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) counts are associated with a favorable prognosis in HER2-positive breast cancers. This review discusses emerging findings that contribute to a better understanding of the role of immune infiltrates in HER2-positive breast cancer. In addition, it summarizes the most recent results in HER2-positive breast cancer immunotherapy and anticipates which therapeutic strategies could be applied in the immediate future.
Insights
Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) show promise in HER2-positive breast cancer, offering a favorable prognosis. This review explores immune infiltrates and future immunotherapy strategies for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2-positive) breast cancer affects 15-25% of patients.
- Current anti-HER2 antibody therapies benefit only a subset of patients, with over 50% experiencing unresponsiveness or relapse.
- Reactivation of the adaptive immune system is a promising therapeutic strategy for solid tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging findings on the role of immune infiltrates in HER2-positive breast cancer.
- To summarize recent advancements in HER2-positive breast cancer immunotherapy.
- To anticipate future therapeutic strategies in this field.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in HER2-positive breast cancer.
- Analysis of recent clinical trial data and research findings in HER2-positive breast cancer immunotherapy.
- Exploration of the tumor microenvironment and immune cell interactions.
Main Results:
- Lymphocytic infiltration of tumors (TILs) is associated with a favorable prognosis in HER2-positive breast cancers.
- Cellular immunotherapy, leveraging T-cell cytotoxicity, demonstrates potential for antitumor activity.
- Understanding immune cell patterns within the tumor microenvironment is crucial.
Conclusions:
- Immune infiltrates play a significant role in the prognosis and treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer.
- Immunotherapy strategies targeting HER2-positive breast cancer are rapidly evolving.
- Further research into TILs and novel immunotherapies holds promise for improved patient outcomes.
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