Changing the tumor microenvironment: new strategies for immunotherapy

Cancer Res. 2012 Oct 15;72(20):5159-64. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-12-1952. Epub 2012 Jul 23.

Abstract

Solid tumors are composed of malignant cells surrounded by a tumor-conditioned stroma that contains extracellular matrix and a variety of nonmalignant populations, including myeloid cells, lymphocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. These stromal elements form a local immunoregulatory network that must be overcome to achieve eradication of established tumors by immunotherapy. On March 21-22, 2012, a symposium was held in Pamplona, Spain, to share the recent advances regarding the molecules and cells that create and sustain this immune-hostile tumor microenvironment. Excellent targets for immunotherapeutic intervention were identified, and a number of therapeutic strategies under translation from mouse to human were presented.

Publication types

  • Congress
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy*
  • Mice
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Tumor Microenvironment*