Tumor-specific T-cell memory: Clearing the regulatory T-cell hurdle

Abstract

Antitumor immune responses can be stimulated by interfering with regulatory T-cell (Treg) function. However, this effect is short lived unless T-cell memory to tumor antigens can be generated. Our recent studies show that Treg cells not only limit primary responses to tumor/self-antigens in tumor-bearing hosts but also prevent the natural generation of T-cell memory to such antigens. Here, we discuss the role of Treg cells in suppressing T-cell memory after surgical excision of tumors and the potential clinical benefits of overcoming this suppression. ©2008 American Association for Cancer Research.