New mechanism with potential to boost checkpoint-blocking cancer immunotherapies identified

Originally published by University of Aberdeen, on January 15, 2024

 Credit: Molecular Therapy (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.11.028

Researchers at the University of Aberdeen working on a partnership study that looks at how the immune system could help improve cancer treatment have found a potential new way to aid and develop better cancer therapies.

Together with colleagues at the University of Liverpool and the Center for Cancer Immunology at the University of Southampton, researchers examined the role of CTLA-4, a cell surface molecule that plays a crucial role in the immune system.

Known as a "checkpoint" receptor responsible for maintaining immune balance and tolerance, CTLA-4 works to prevent the immune system becoming too active at the end of a normal immune response. However, it is also subverted by cancer cells to prevent the immune system from attacking them.

Researchers developed antibodies targeting CTLA-4 and these have shown promise in treating various cancers. However, the exact mechanisms behind their anti-tumor effects have remained elusive and there are issues with immune toxicity.

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