Stem Cells, Vol 11, 204-211, Copyright © 1993 by AlphaMed Press
Identification and activation of tumor-reactive cells for adoptive immunotherapy
PL Triozzi
Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus 43210.
The use of adoptive immunotherapy to treat cancer has several potential
advantages. Although extensive evaluation has been undertaken, issues
regarding the source of cells and methods of ex vivo activation continue to
be controversial. A number of potential effector cells, including natural
killer cells, monocytes/macrophages, cytolytic T cells and helper T cells,
are exploitable and are the focus of clinical trials. A number of methods
of activating these cells, including the use of recombinant cytokines,
tumor cells, monoclonal antibodies, and gene insertion, have been
developed. Varying specificities, trafficking and lytic potentials have
been observed. In addition, the logistics of activating and expanding the
various effectors ex vivo vary considerably. Although the optimal methods
of identifying and activating cells have not been established, adoptive
therapy with immunologically active cells can effect clinically significant
responses in selected patients. Efforts to build upon the initial
preclinical and clinical observations are in progress.
