CD4⁺ T Lymphocytes: A Critical Component of Antitumor Immunity

Abstract

Both prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines targeting a wide variety of cancers are being developed. Because of the potency of cell-mediated immunity, many vaccine strategies are focused on activating tumor-specific cytotoxic CD8⁺ T lymphocytes. CD4⁺ T lymphocytes are a key element in optimal activation of CD8⁺ T cells and in the maintenance of immune memory, and therefore their activation is critical for cancer vaccine efficacy. This article reviews the mechanisms by which CD4⁺ T cells facilitate tumor immunity and the vaccine strategies that enhance CD4⁺ T cell activity.

• Tumor-specific immunity
• MHC class II
• CD4⁺ T lymphocytes