Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs): what do we currently know about the effect they have against
Ronald Sergio Limón Tellez1,2,3,4, Lucia Reynolds2,3, Miguel A Piris4
1Department of Oncology, University Social Security USS, Nº58 Colon Street, 10260 Santa Cruz, Bolivia.
Abstract:
Recent advances in cancer treatment such as PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors have prompted multiple research studies to determine all of the factors that influence response or failure to these new treatments. One of those identified factors is myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). These cells were identified and described for the first time in 2007 in laboratory mice and cancer patients. Previous studies showed that a greater number of MDSCs was directly related to a greater tumour volume. There are two clearly identified subpopulations: Mononuclear-type myeloid-derived suppressor cells (M-MDSCs) and polymorphonuclear (PMN-MDSCs). These cell population subtypes play a very important role, depending on the type of cancer, since they have the particularity of expressing PD-L1, which interacts with PD-1, inhibiting the expansion of cytotoxic T lymphocytes, promoting resistance to these treatments.
Insights
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) impact cancer treatment effectiveness. These cells, including M-MDSCs and PMN-MDSCs, can promote resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 therapies by inhibiting T lymphocytes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors represent a significant advancement in cancer therapy.
- Understanding factors influencing treatment response is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
- Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) have been identified as a key factor in treatment failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in the context of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor efficacy.
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which MDSCs contribute to treatment resistance.
Main Methods:
- Identification and characterization of MDSC subpopulations (M-MDSCs and PMN-MDSCs).
- Correlation of MDSC levels with tumor volume and treatment response in preclinical models and cancer patients.
Main Results:
- Increased numbers of MDSCs are associated with larger tumor volumes.
- MDSC subpopulations, M-MDSCs and PMN-MDSCs, express PD-L1.
- PD-L1 expression on MDSCs inhibits cytotoxic T lymphocyte expansion, leading to treatment resistance.
Conclusions:
- MDSCs play a critical role in mediating resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor therapies.
- Targeting MDSCs or their PD-L1 expression may represent a viable strategy to overcome treatment resistance in cancer.
Related Concept Videos
02:23Abnormal Proliferation
01:19Mesenchymal Stem Cells