HIFU-CCL19/21 Axis Enhances Dendritic Cell Vaccine Efficacy in the Tumor Microenvironment.

ABSTRACT:

Background/objectives

Effectively targeting treatment-resistant tumor cells, particularly cancer stem cells (CSCs) involved in tumor recurrence, remains a major challenge in immunotherapy. This study examines the potential of combining mechanical high-intensity focused ultrasound (M-HIFU) with dendritic cell (DC) vaccines to enhance immune responses against OLFM4-expressing tumors, a CSC marker linked to immune evasion and tumor growth.

Methods

M-HIFU was applied to induce immunogenic cell death by mechanically disrupting tumor cells, releasing tumor-associated antigens and creating an immunostimulatory environment. DC vaccines loaded with OLFM4 were then administered to boost the immune response within this primed environment.

Results

The combination of M-HIFU and DC

SUBMITTER: Baek BS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11769570 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature