Immunotherapy I: Cytokine gene transfer strategies

Authors: Colombo M.P.; Forni G.

Source: Cancer and Metastasis Reviews, Volume 16, Numbers 3-4, 12 September 1997 , pp. 421-432(12)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

The cytokine approach to gene therapy of cancer stems from early studies of direct, repeated injection of recombinant cytokines at the tumor site, and extension of the bystander effect that enables a few cytokine gene transduced cells in a tumor to bring about its total destruction. This effect can be extended through the immune system, since cytokine-activated regression of a small mass of tumor cells can afford systemic protection. Transduced cells used as a vaccine provide a local concentration of both cytokine and tumor antigens. Cytokines sustain antigen uptake and presentation by increasing the immunogenic potential of the environment through the recruitment of antigen presenting cells and leukocytes, and activation of a cascade of events which amplify and tone up the efficacy of a vaccine. The promises and difficulties of this approach are discussed by considering what is still missing from experimental studies and what can best be done as soon as possible in animals and humans to reach compelling conclusions.

Keywords: cytokine; tumor; gene transfer; immunotherapy

Language: English

Document Type: Regular paper

Affiliations: 1: Gene Therapy Program and Experimental Oncology D, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, 20133 Milan, and CNR-CIOS and Department of Medical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, 10123 Turin, Italy

Publication date: 1997-09-12