A tumor immunotherapy technique based on modulation of the idiotype anti-idiotype network

In this communication I propose a technique for manipulating the idiotype anti-idiotype network with the aim of enhancing the immune response to tumors. The theoretical basis for this technique follows from Jerne's network theory of the immune system. By tolerizing the host to immunoglobulin bearing idiotypes directed against tumor associated antigens it should be possible to dampen the expected anti-idiotype response to these idiotypes. A reduced anti-idiotype response should result in an increased idiotype response and thus a greater anti-tumor immune response.