The Role of TRL7/8 Agonists in Cancer Therapy, with Special Emphasis on Hematologic Malignancies
Maria Leśniak1, Justyna Lipniarska1, Patrycja Majka1
1Student Scientific Society of Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland.
Abstract:
Toll-like receptors (TLR) belong to the pattern recognition receptors (PRR). TLR7 and the closely correlated TLR8 affiliate with toll-like receptors family, are located in endosomes. They recognize single-stranded ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules and synthetic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)/RNA analogs-oligoribonucleotides. TLRs are primarily expressed in hematopoietic cells. There is compiling evidence implying that TLRs also direct the formation of blood cellular components and make a contribution to the pathogenesis of certain hematopoietic malignancies. The latest research shows a positive effect of therapy with TRL agonists on the course of hemato-oncological diseases. Ligands impact activation of antigen-presenting cells which results in production of cytokines, transfer of mentioned cells to the lymphoid tissue and co-stimulatory surface molecules expression required for T-cell activation. Toll-like receptor agonists have already been used in oncology especially in the treatment of dermatological neoplastic lesions. The usage of these substances in the treatment of solid tumors is being investigated. The present review discusses the direct and indirect influence that TLR7/8 agonists, such as imiquimod, imidazoquinolines and resiquimod have on neoplastic cells and their promising role as adjuvants in anticancer vaccines.
Insights
Toll-like receptors 7 and 8 (TLR7/8) agonists show promise in treating blood cancers and solid tumors. These compounds activate immune cells, enhancing anti-cancer responses and aiding vaccine development.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) crucial for innate immunity.
- TLR7 and TLR8, located in endosomes, recognize RNA and DNA/RNA analogs.
- These receptors are primarily expressed in hematopoietic cells and influence blood cell formation and malignancy pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the direct and indirect effects of TLR7/8 agonists on neoplastic cells.
- To explore the potential of TLR7/8 agonists as adjuvants in anticancer vaccines.
- To discuss their role in treating hemato-oncological diseases and solid tumors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on TLR7/8 agonists.
- Analysis of mechanisms of action, including immune cell activation and cytokine production.
- Examination of clinical applications in oncology.
Main Results:
- TLR7/8 agonists activate antigen-presenting cells, leading to cytokine production and T-cell activation.
- Therapy with TLR agonists has shown positive effects in hemato-oncological diseases.
- TLR agonists are used in treating skin cancers and are being investigated for solid tumors.
Conclusions:
- TLR7/8 agonists, including imiquimod, imidazoquinolines, and resiquimod, have direct and indirect anti-cancer effects.
- They hold significant promise as adjuvants in anticancer vaccines.
- Further investigation into their use for solid tumors is warranted.
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