PD-1 blockade improves the anti-tumor potency of exhausted CD3⁺CD56⁺ NKT-like cells in patients with primary hepatocellular carcinoma.

ABSTRACT: CD3⁺CD56⁺ NKT-like cells play pivotal roles in the anti-tumor immune defense response. However, little is known regarding circulating NKT-like cells in patients with primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the present study, we demonstrate that circulating NKT-like cells in HCC patients are functionally impaired and anti-PD-1 blockade improves their anti-tumor potency. Circulating NKT cells were mainly comprised of CD8+ T cells. The frequencies and absolute counts of circulating NKT-like cells were comparable between HCC patents compared to healthy donors. NKT-like cells in HCC patients were impaired in their production of TNF-α and IFN-γ as well as cytotoxicity. The level of activating receptor NKG2D was significantly decreased on NKT-like cells in HCC patients. I

SUBMITTER: Tao L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8583083 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature