Enhancing cancer vaccine efficacy via modulation of the tumor microenvironment

Abstract

The development of therapeutic cancer vaccines is impacted by immunosuppressive elements in the tumor microenvironment. Most immunogenic cancer proteins are "self," therefore, peripheral tolerance contributes substantially to tumor immune escape. Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)ac tivelymodulates both inflammation and tolerance induction. Combining vaccination with agents that disarm TGFβ will enhance vaccine efficacy. © 2009 American Association for Cancer Research.