Work

Novel “Elements” of Immune Suppression within the Tumor Microenvironment

Year: 2017

Type: review

Abstract: Adaptive evolution has prompted immune cells to use a wide variety of inhibitory signals, many of which are usurped by tumor cells to evade immune surveillance. Although tumor immunologists often focus on genes and proteins as mediators of immune function, here we highlight two elements from the periodic table—oxygen and potassium—that suppress the immune system in previously unappreciated ways. While both are key to the maintenance of T-cell function and tissue homeostasis, they are exploited by tumors to suppress immuno-surveillance and promote metastatic spread. We discuss the temporal and spatial roles of these elements within the tumor microenvironment and explore possible therapeutic interventions for effective and promising anticancer therapies. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(6); 426–33. ©2017 AACR.

Source: Cancer Immunology Research

DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-17-0117

Authors: Devikala Gurusamy, David Clever, Robert Eil, Nicholas P. Restifo

Institutions: National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, The Ohio State University, Oregon Health & Science University

Language: English

Topic: Cancer Immunotherapy and Biomarkers

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute