The therapeutic potential of 4-1BB (CD137) in cancer

Curr Cancer Drug Targets. 2005 Aug;5(5):357-63. doi: 10.2174/1568009054629681.

Abstract

Techniques for modulating immune cells for cancer therapy have been widely studied. One key approach that is being clinically tested is developing tumor-destructive cell-mediated immune responses by regulating co-stimulatory molecules. 4-1BB (CD137), a member of the TNF receptor family, is expressed following activation of T and NK cells. Recently, it has been reported that DCs also express 4-1BB. Cross-linking of 4-1BB provides a potent co-stimulatory signal for lymphocytes via signal transduction pathways that modulate a number of cellular responses. One remarkable response is stimulation of anti-tumor activity in vivo and in vitro. We here review the potential role of 4-1BB in cancer immunotherapy focusing on the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use*
  • Antigens, CD / drug effects
  • Antigens, CD / immunology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Neoplasms / immunology
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Receptors, Nerve Growth Factor / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Receptors, Nerve Growth Factor / drug effects
  • Receptors, Nerve Growth Factor / immunology
  • Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor / drug effects
  • Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor / immunology
  • Signal Transduction / immunology
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / immunology
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / metabolism
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily, Member 9

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antigens, CD
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Receptors, Nerve Growth Factor
  • Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor
  • TNFRSF9 protein, human
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily, Member 9