Scientists have discovered how two types of immune cells collaborate to combat cancer and have also uncovered the series of molecules that help coordinate this battle. The tumor microenvironment, which consists of immune cells, tissues, blood vessels, and other cells, interacts with the tumor and is manipulated by the tumor over time to its advantage. This allows the tumor to control the nutrients and protect itself from immune responses. The Jackson Laboratory researchers are studying the role of this ecosystem in cancer risk, progression, and therapy.Researchers have not only discovered how two types of immune cells collaborate to combat cancer, but they have also unveiled the sequence of molecules that help to organize this defense. The study, led by JAX Assistant Professor Chih-Hao “Lucas” Chang, Ph.D., centers on cytotoxic T-cells, which are a versatile type of immune cell capable of eliminating cells infected with viruses, battling bacterial infections and other pathogens, and targeting tumor cells. While our immune systems can eliminate most cancerous cells before they become problematic, cytotoxic T-cells can become “exhausted” once a tumor is established.The researchers are studying the reasons why immune cells become exhausted in the harsh tumor environment and are unable to effectively fight against tumors. Chang and his team are exploring potential ways to signal these immune cells to target tumors again.
Chang explained, “T-cells are great at recognizing and attacking cancerous cells, but they can become exhausted in the tumor environment. They can become overwhelmed and overstimulated, while also being deprived of glucose and other essential nutrients by tumor cells. Improving the function of these cells could enhance cancer treatment methods, especially immunotherapies.” This work is featured in Cancer Immun.Chang and his team conducted research on the activation of cytotoxic T-cells and their release of cytokines. They found that as a tumor grows, the ability of cytotoxic T-cells to produce the cytokine interleukin-3 (IL-3) decreases in the tumor microenvironment. When IL-3 levels were increased in mice with lymphoma or melanoma tumors, strong antitumor effects were observed. The team also discovered that IL-3 mobilizes basophils, a rare immune cell that can contribute to allergies, to produce another substance.A new study has found that basophils, a type of white blood cell, may play a role in reactivating cytotoxic T-cells to fight against tumors. The study discovered that basophils produce a cytokine called interleukin-4 (IL-4) which signals cytotoxic T-cells to start targeting and destroying tumors. This discovery is significant because it was not previously known that basophils were involved in this process. The researchers believe that targeting tumor-associated basophils could be a promising approach to improving the immune response against tumors and ultimately, the outcomes for cancer patients. However, it is important to note that these findings are still in the early stages and further research is needed to confirm the potential benefits of targeting basophils in cancer treatment.
