Research in the area of cancer vaccines reported from Rockefeller University

   "Recent studies have suggested that cell death induced by different agents may have distinct consequences for the immune system. One of the immunogenic signals may be the expression of heat shock proteins on dying tumor cells under certain settings. For example, bortezomib (a proteasome inhibitor) induces the expression of heat shock protein 90 (hsp90) on the surface of dying human myeloma tumor cells. Recognition of such tumor cells by antigen presenting dendritic cells leads to the generation of anti-tumor T cells," wrote R. Spisek and colleagues, Rockefeller University.

   The researchers concluded: "Harnessing the properties of some anti-tumor agents to induce immunogenic death of tumor cells may facilitate the recruitment of adaptive immunity and promote the durability of anti-tumor effects."

   Spisek and colleagues published their study in Cell Cycle (Towards a better way to die with chemotherapy - Role of heat shock protein exposure on dying tumor cells. Cell Cycle, 2007;6(16):1962-1965).

   For additional information, contact M.V. Dhodapkar, Rockefeller University, Laboratory Tumor Immunology & Immunotherapy, 1230 York Avenue, New York City, NY 10021, USA.

   Publisher contact information for the journal Cell Cycle is: Landes Bioscience, 810 South Church Street, Georgetown, TX 78626, USA.

   Keywords: United States, New York, Anticancer Therapy, Apoptosis, Biotechnology, Cancer Vaccines, Chemotherapy, Drug Therapy, Immunization, Myeloma, Oncology, Therapy, Treatment, Vaccination, Rockefeller University.

   This article was prepared by Biotech Business Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2007, Biotech Business Week via NewsRx.com.

Return to Cancer Alert Section