Preclinical models of HPV+ and HPV- HNSCC in mice: an immune clearance of HPV+ HNSCC

Head Neck. 2009 Jul;31(7):911-8. doi: 10.1002/hed.21040.

Abstract

Background: To investigate whether human papilloma virus (HPV)-specific immune mechanisms can result in tumor clearance, we have created HPV+ and HPV- tonsil cells that form squamous cancers in immune-competent mice. Here, we determine that an immune-specific response can clear HPV+ tumor cells and the cellular requirements to mediate this tumor clearance.

Methods: Through the benefit of this model, we use in vitro and in vivo methods to better understand how HPV+ cells are rejected. RESULT.: The data show that an in vivo antigen-specific antitumor response is generated to HPV+ transformed cells and that this response requires CD4+ and CD8+ cells to mount this antitumor response.

Conclusion: The findings from this preclinical model will have implications not only in understanding human disease but also as a valuable model for testing immunotherapeutic strategies for HPV+ head and neck cancer.

MeSH terms

  • Adoptive Transfer
  • Animals
  • Antigens, Viral / physiology*
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / immunology*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / virology
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / immunology*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / virology
  • Human papillomavirus 16 / immunology*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Tumor Burden

Substances

  • Antigens, Viral