A research team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) has made groundbreaking discoveries about how the body forms immune cell clusters called tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) in response to cancer. This research reveals a new molecular pathway, involving the cytokine IL-33 and ILC2 immune cells, that triggers TLS formation in tumors. The team has also engineered an optimized human version of IL-33, a potential drug candidate that could enhance immunotherapy by boosting TLSs and anti-tumor activity.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterJan 16 2025 A research team at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center has made new insights into how the body forms immune cell clusters called tertiary lymphoid structures in response to foreign threats such as cancer.
For such patients, new immunotherapies that unleash a more powerful attack against cancers are needed. Treatments that promote TLS formation may be able to accomplish this." In their latest study, published in Nature, the team used mouse models of pancreatic cancer to identify a new molecular pathway that leads to TLS formation. They also showed that therapeutically targeting this pathway could boost TLSs in tumors and enhance anti-tumor effects in the mice.
"The presence of TLSs in a tumor usually suggests a more active immune response, and is a positive sign in cancer," Dr. Balachandran says. "But the molecules and cells involved in creating a TLS have remained unclear." Dr. Balachandran's team found an association between markers of TLSs and IL-33 activity in human tumors, suggesting that the cytokine may play an important role in TLS formation. To test this, they compared mouse models of pancreatic cancer that either contained or lacked the gene that encodes IL-33. They found that TLSs could not form in the absence of IL-33.
Immunotherapy Cancer Tertiary Lymphoid Structures IL-33 ILC2 Immune Cells
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
A new AI tool for unlocking the secrets of spatial multi-omics in cancerA new artificial intelligence-powered tool called MISO (Multi-modal Spatial Omics) can detect cell-level characteristics of cancer by looking at data from extremely small pieces of tissue-some as small as 400 square micrometers, equivalent to the width of five human hairs.
Read more »
Study uncovers how cancer builds molecular bridges to evade the immune system'Build your enemy a golden bridge to retreat across' is a piece of advice offered by Sun Tzu in his ancient military treatise, The Art of War.
Read more »
New Approach to Boost Immune System Against Kidney CancerA researcher at the Medical University of South Carolina is investigating a novel approach to enhance the immune system's ability to combat kidney cancer. By reactivating the immune system's response to cancer cells, this research holds promise for improving existing treatment options.
Read more »
Mum's Devastating Secondary Breast Cancer Diagnosis After Seven Years Cancer-FreeJoanne Taylor's story is one of hope and resilience, but also of the fear and uncertainty that come with a cancer diagnosis. After successfully battling breast cancer seven years prior, Joanne receives the heartbreaking news that her cancer has returned and spread to her neck.
Read more »
Cancer Dietitian Recommends Turmeric to Lower Cancer RiskA cancer dietitian on TikTok advises consuming turmeric in its root or culinary form to potentially reduce cancer risk, emphasizing the importance of avoiding unregulated supplements.
Read more »
Breast Cancer Survivor Opens New Cancer Research SuperstoreA breast cancer survivor opened a new superstore dedicated to raising funds for life-saving cancer research.
Read more »