Merkel cell polyomavirus-specific immune responses in patients with Merkel cell carcinoma receiving anti-PD-1 therapy.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer that frequently responds to anti-PD-1 therapy. MCC is associated with sun exposure and, in 80% of cases, Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). MCPyV-specific T and B cell responses provide a unique opportunity to study cancer-specific immunity throughout PD-1 blockade therapy.

Methods

Immune responses were assessed in patients (n = 26) with advanced MCC receiving pembrolizumab. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were collected at baseline and throughout treatment. MCPyV-oncoprotein antibodies were quantified and T cells were assessed for MCPyV-specificity via tetramer staining and/or cytokine secretion. Pre-treatment tumor biopsies were analyzed for T cell receptor clonality.

Results

MCPyV oncoprot

SUBMITTER: Miller NJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6258401 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature