Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) as a target for advancing immunotherapy in solid tumors

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Oncology
• Immunology

Background:

• Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) is a molecular chaperone crucial for maintaining protein homeostasis.
• Hsp70 is overexpressed in cancer, promoting malignancy by stabilizing oncoproteins and aiding immune evasion.
• Aberrant cell surface and extracellular Hsp70 presentation on tumor cells distinguishes them from healthy tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of Hsp70 in cancer.
• To evaluate Hsp70 as a therapeutic target and diagnostic biomarker in solid tumors.
• To discuss current and emerging therapeutic strategies and diagnostic applications of Hsp70.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of Hsp70's function in cancer.
• Analysis of therapeutic approaches targeting membrane-bound and extracellular Hsp70.
• Evaluation of Hsp70 as a liquid biomarker for cancer patient stratification and monitoring.

Main Results:

• Hsp70's surface expression on tumor cells makes it a tumor-associated antigen and immunotherapy target.
• Therapeutic strategies include small molecule inhibitors, NK cell activation, antibodies, vaccines, and CAR-T cells.
• Extracellular Hsp70 shows potential as a liquid biomarker for cancer management.

Conclusions:

• Hsp70 is a versatile target with significant translational potential in oncology.
• Further research and clinical trials are needed to overcome challenges like off-target effects and tumor heterogeneity.
• Hsp70-targeted therapies and diagnostics offer promising avenues for improving cancer patient outcomes.