Title:The Role of Bacterial Superantigens in the Immune Response: From Biology to Cancer Treatment
Volume: 17
Issue: 1
Author(s): Mohammad S. Hashemzadeh*, Behnam E.G. Tapeh and Seyed A. Mirhosseini
Affiliation:
- Nanobiotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran,Iran
Keywords:
Superantigen, immunotherapy, cancer, T lymphocyte, immune response, lymphocyte.
Abstract:
Aims: Encouraging results have been indicated preclinically and in patients using the
bacterial superantigen. This review article intends to summarize the role of the superantigens that
have been recently used in the treatment of cancer. In addition, the vector systems, including lentiviral
vectors, adeno-associated vector systems and retroviral vectors that are increasingly being
used in basic and applied research, were discussed. Most importantly, the new CRISPR technique
has also been discussed in this literature review.
Discussion: More successful therapies can be achieved by manipulating bacterial vector systems
through incorporating genes related to the superantigens and cytokines. The products of SAg and
cytokine genes contribute to the strong stimulation of the immune system against tumor cells. They
bind to MHC II molecules as well as the V beta regions of TCR and lead to the production of IL2
and other cytokines, the activation of antigen-presenting cells and T lymphocytes. Additionally, superantigens
can be used to eradicate tumor cells. Better results in cancer treatment can be achieved
by transferring superantigen genes and subsequent strong immune stimulation along with other cancer
immunotherapy agents.
Conclusion: Superantigens induce the proliferation of T lymphocytes and antigen-presenting cells
by binding to MHCII molecules and V beta regions in T cell receptors. Therefore, the presentation
of tumor cell antigens is increased. Additionally, the production of important cytokines by T cells
and APCs contributes to the stimulation of immune response against tumor cells. The manipulation
of bacterial vector systems through incorporating genesrelated to SAgs and other immune response
factors is a good strategy for the immune system stimulating and eradicating tumor cells along with
other immunotherapy agents.