5- immunotherapy Flashcards
How do natural killer (NK) cells contribute to the immune response against cancer cells?
NK cells send stress-associated molecules to damaged and cancerous cells, leading to the activation of immune responses against these cells.
What is the role of dendritic cells in the immune response against cancer?
Dendritic cells activate cytotoxic T cells by presenting tumor-associated antigens. Activated T cells release perforin and granzymes, inducing apoptosis in tumor cells
Explain the concept of immunoediting and its impact on tumor detection.
Immunoediting occurs as the immune system eliminates tumor cells it can recognize, leading to the emergence of a tumor that evades detection by altering its molecular profile.
How do tumors suppress T cells using immune checkpoints?
Tumor cells express inhibitory molecules like PDL1, which binds to the PD1 receptor on T cells, deactivating them. This interaction is known as an immune checkpoint.
Describe the concept of cancer immunoediting, including its three phases.
Cancer immunoediting involves three phases: elimination (effective immune surveillance), equilibrium (selection for resistant clones), and escape (rapid proliferation of resistant clones).
How can tumors modulate the expression of MHC I, and what impact does it have on immune recognition?
Tumors may down-regulate MHC I expression, preventing recognition by cytotoxic T cells. Upregulation of immune inhibitory molecules on tumor cells further contributes to immune evasion.
What is the significance of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in cancer treatment?
Therapeutic mAbs, like those targeting immune checkpoints, can enhance anti-cancer immunity. These antibodies are designed to specifically recognize and bind to tumor-associated antigens.
How do cancer vaccines work, and what are the challenges in developing them?
Cancer vaccines aim to stimulate the immune system to target cancer cells. Challenges include selecting the right antigens, generating an appropriate immune response, and addressing issues of toxicity and immune evasion.
