Heterogeneity in expression of human leukocyte antigens and melanoma-associated antigens in advanced melanoma

J Cell Physiol. 2000 Mar;182(3):332-8. doi: 10.1002/(SICI)1097-4652(200003)182:3<332::AID-JCP3>3.0.CO;2-Z.

Abstract

The study of tumor immunology has led to many innovative therapeutic strategies for the treatment of melanoma. The strategies are primarily dependent on melanoma-associated antigen peptide vaccination or T-cell-based therapy. These immunotherapies are totally reliant on proper copresentation of human leukocyte antigen class I molecules in sufficient quantity and the presence and availability of melanoma-associated antigenic peptides. Altered expression of either HLA class I molecules or melanoma antigens is known to occur. These defects lead to altered manufacture and copresentation of HLA class I molecules with melanoma-associated antigens to T-cells. Defects in any one combination can lead to loss of recognition of melanoma cells and their subsequent destruction by cytotoxic T-lymphocytes. Thus, these immunotherapy strategies can be thwarted by defects or heterogeneity of expression of human leukocyte antigen class I or of melanoma-associated antigens.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic / immunology*
  • Genetic Heterogeneity
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / genetics
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Leukocytes / chemistry
  • Leukocytes / immunology*
  • Melanoma / chemistry
  • Melanoma / genetics
  • Melanoma / immunology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / chemistry
  • Skin Neoplasms / genetics
  • Skin Neoplasms / immunology*

Substances

  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I