Myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSC) play an important role in tumor progression. In cancer patients, the presence of MDSCs is associated with low survival rates and tumor recurrence.
MDSCs have a remarkable ability to suppress T-cell responses and to modulate the fate of multiple cells of the innate immune system. MDSCs utilize multiple mechanisms targeting the effector functions of cells involved in both the innate and adaptive immune responses to suppress anti-tumor immunity.
As stated in the article, retinoic acid stimulates MDSC to differentiate into immune-supporting cells. In addition, All-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) is a potent differentiating agent, stimulating cancer stem cells to differentiate into less aggressive/resistant cells.
In the new study that has just started enrollment, All-trans retinoic acid (brand name – Vesanoid), is being used at a dose of 150 mg/m2 orally for 3 days surrounding each of the first four infusions of pembrolizumab. There are multiple studies that are ongoing, evaluating the combination of ATRA with chemotherapy and immunotherapy, ranging from doses of 20 mg/m2 up to 150 mg/m2.
ATRA is not specific to the treatment of melanoma; it may be used as an adjunct when treating any cancer.
healthyliving August 15th, 2019
Posted In: cancer care
Tags: all-trans-retinoic acid, ATRA, immune, immune response, MDSC, melanoma, myeloid derived suppressor cells, research, retinoic acid, stem cells, study, tumor, tumor progression
