Distinct features of dendritic cell-based immunotherapy as cancer vaccines

Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most professional antigen presenting cells that play important roles in connection between innate and adaptive immune responses. Numerous studies revealed that the functions of DCs are related with the capture and processing of antigen as well as the migration to lymphoid tissues for the presenting antigens to T cells. These unique features of DCs allow them to be considered as therapeutic vaccines that can induce immune responses and anti-tumor activity. Here, we discuss and understand the immunological basis of DCs and presume the possibilities of DC-based vaccines for the promising cancer therapy.

Cytokine Signaling in Tumor Progression

Cytokines are molecules that play critical roles in the regulation of a wide range of normal functions leading to cellular proliferation, differentiation and survival, as well as in specialized cellular functions enabling host resistance to pathogens. Cytokines released in response to infection, inflammation or immunity can also inhibit cancer development and progression. The predominant intracellular signaling pathway triggered by cytokines is the JAK-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway. Knockout mice and clinical human studies have provided evidence that JAK-STAT proteins regulate the immune system, and maintain immune tolerance and tumor surveillance. Moreover, aberrant activation of the JAK-STAT pathways plays an undeniable pathogenic role in several types of human cancers. Thus, in combination, these observations indicate that the JAK-STAT proteins are promising targets for cancer therapy in humans. The data supporting this view are reviewed herein.