The common costimulatory and coinhibitory signaling molecules in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are closely linked with immunosuppression, accompanied by complex immune cell functional activities. The abnormal competition between costimulatory and coinhibitory signal molecules plays an important role in the malignant progression of HNSCC. This review will summarize the features of costimulatory molecules (including CD137, OX40 as well as CD40) and coinhibitory molecules (including CTLA-4, PD-1, LAG3, and TIM3), analyze the underlying mechanism behind these molecules’ regulation of the progression of HNSCC, and introduce the clinic application. Vaccines, such as those targeting STING while working synergistically with monoclonal antibodies, are also discussed. A deep understanding of the tumor immune landscape will help find new and improved tumor immunotherapy for HNSCC.