Coupled for cross-presentation in tumor immunotherapy

Sci Transl Med. 2010 Aug 11;2(44):44ps40. doi: 10.1126/scitranslmed.3001245.

Abstract

Antigen cross-presentation is a critical step in the elicitation of cell-mediated immune responses. Much research has been aimed at manipulating antigen cross-presentation to improve tumor immunotherapy and vaccination. In this issue of Science Translational Medicine, Saccheri et al. describe a mechanism for spurring successful antitumor responses by enhancing the transfer, to antigen-presenting cells, of tumor-specific antigens that leave the cancer cells via gap junctions induced by Salmonella infection of the melanoma tumor. Salmonella turns from foe to friend by promoting cross-presentation for strong antitumor immunity and tumor eradication.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigen Presentation / immunology
  • Antigens, Neoplasm / immunology
  • Cancer Vaccines / immunology
  • Cross-Priming / immunology*
  • Dendritic Cells / immunology
  • Gap Junctions / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Neoplasms / immunology
  • Neoplasms / therapy*

Substances

  • Antigens, Neoplasm
  • Cancer Vaccines