Targeting intratumoral regulatory T cells by CD137 aptamer-shRNA chimeras.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The cytokine CD137 (TNFRSF9, 4-1BB) is best known as a T cell costimulatory molecule. However, CD137 is also part of a negative feedback mechanism that limits T cell activation, and that is employed by regulatory T cells (Tregs) to prevent an overstimulation of T cells and subsequent autoimmune damage. CD137 has been identified as the gene that most significantly distinguishes intra- from extratumoral Tregs. CD137⁺ Tregs are more immunosuppressive than CD137^- ones, and CD137 levels on intratumoral Tregs correlate with a poor prognosis for cancer patients. In addition, CD137 is also ectopically expressed on several types of malignant cells that usurp this physiological feedback mechanism to evade immune surveillance. This suggests CD137 as a target

SUBMITTER: Lee KY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12822494 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature