Cytokines are potent immunomodulators with the potential to amplify cell-based immunity against cancer development. Interleukin-21 (IL-21) generates antitumor immunity by inducing B-cell activation and driving the development of antitumor T-cell response. The use of IL-21 in cancer treatment so far is limited due to inadequate pharmacokinetic properties and toxicity issues.
Researchers from Dong Wha Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. presented preclinical evaluation of a newly discovered histone-lysine N-methyltransferase EZH1/2 dual inhibitor, DW-91170, being developed for the treatment of lymphoma.
Researchers from Augusta University recently presented data from a study that aimed to assess the role of acetyl-CoA acetyltransferase (ACAT1) in neurovascular damage during diabetic retinopathy (DR).
The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway comprises four JAK kinases and seven STAT transcription factors. Among the latter, STAT3 is the best-known oncogene and its essential role in normal tissue makes its complete blockage useless for treatment due to severe side effects.
Macrophages are specialized immune cells that can either stimulate or inhibit inflammation. Studies in mice suggest that phosphoinositide 3-kinase γ (PI3Kγ), a key mediator in macrophage signaling pathways predominantly expressed in myeloid cells, may promote immune suppression both in inflammation and in the tumor microenvironment.
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) regulates inflammation and the tumor microenvironment, thought to happen through engagement with the E-type prostanoid EP2 and EP4 receptors, exerting immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. The simultaneous blockade of EP2 and EP4 – not blocking either alone – is needed to overcome this immunosuppressor effect.