Foxo transcription factors in T cell biology and tumor immunity

Semin Cancer Biol. 2018 Jun:50:13-20. doi: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2018.04.006. Epub 2018 Apr 21.

Abstract

The evolutionally conserved forkhead box O (Foxo) family of transcription factors is pivotal in the control of nutrient sensing and stress responses. Recent studies have revealed that the Foxo proteins have been rewired to regulate highly specialized T cell activities. Here, we review the latest advances in the understanding of how Foxo transcription factors control T cell biology, including T cell trafficking, naive T cell homeostasis, effector and memory responses, as well as the differentiation and function of regulatory T cells. We also discuss the emerging evidence on Foxo-mediated regulation in antitumor immunity. Future work will further explore how the Foxo-dependent programs in T cells can be exploited for cancer immunotherapy.

Keywords: Foxo transcription factor; T cell; Tumor immunology.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Differentiation / immunology
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / genetics*
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy*
  • Neoplasms / immunology*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Signal Transduction / genetics
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / pathology

Substances

  • Forkhead Transcription Factors