Enhancing cancer immunotherapy through nanotechnology-mediated tumor infiltration and activation of immune cells

Semin Immunol. 2017 Dec:34:114-122. doi: 10.1016/j.smim.2017.09.002. Epub 2017 Sep 23.

Abstract

Cancer immunotherapy has become arguably the most promising advancement in cancer research and therapy in recent years. The efficacy of cancer immunotherapy is critically dependent on specific physiological and physical processes - collectively referred to as transport barriers - including the activation of T cells by antigen presenting cells, T cells migration to and penetration into the tumor microenvironment, and movement of nutrients and other immune cells through the tumor microenvironment. Nanotechnology-based approaches have great potential to help overcome these transport barriers. In this review, we discuss the ways that nanotechnology is being leveraged to improve the efficacy and potency of various cancer immunotherapies.

Keywords: Cancer immunotherapy; Nanotechnology; Tumor microenvironment; Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigen Presentation
  • Cell Movement
  • Dendritic Cells / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Nanoparticles / therapeutic use*
  • Nanotechnology*
  • Neoplasms / immunology
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • Tumor Microenvironment