Authors: Rutella, S.; Bonanno, G.; De Cristofaro, R.

Source: Endocrine, Metabolic & Immune Disorders - Drug Targets(Formerly Current Dru, Volume 9, Number 2, June 2009 , pp. 151-177(27)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

Abstract:

The enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) regulates immune responses through the capacity to degrade the essential amino acid tryptophan into kynurenine and other downstream metabolites that suppress effector T-cell function and favour the differentiation of regulatory T cells. Considerable experimental evidence indicates that IDO can be expressed by dendritic cells, by tumour cells or by surrounding stromal cells, either within proximity of the tumour or at distal sites. Recent advances in the biochemistry of IDO and in our understanding of the biological relevance of IDOmediated tryptophan consumption to the establishment of dominant immune tolerance to cancer will be summarised and discussed. Within the wider context of cancer immunotherapy, this Review also delineates how IDO could be exploited as a molecular target for therapeutic intervention in order to boost anti-cancer immunity.

Keywords: Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase; immune tolerance; regulatory T cell; haematopoietic growth factors; cancer

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/187153009788452453

Publication date: 2009-06-01

More about this publication?

• This journal is devoted to timely reviews of experimental and clinical studies in the field of endocrine, metabolic, and immune disorders. Specific emphasis is placed on humoral and cellular targets for natural, synthetic, and genetically engineered drugs that enhance or impair endocrine, metabolic, and immune parameters and functions. Topics related to the neuroendocrine-immune axis are given special emphasis in view of the growing interest in stress-related, inflammatory, autoimmune, and degenerative disorders.

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