Steel JC, Waldmann TA, Morris JC. Interleukin-15 biology and its therapeutic implications in cancer.
Trends Pharmacol Sci 2011;
33:35-41. [PMID:
22032984 DOI:
10.1016/j.tips.2011.09.004]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2011] [Revised: 09/22/2011] [Accepted: 09/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy is designed to stimulate the immune system to reject and destroy tumors. Recently, interleukin-15 (IL-15), a member of the four α-helix bundle family of cytokines, has emerged as a candidate immunomodulator for the treatment of cancer. IL-15 acts through its specific receptor, IL-15Rα, which is expressed on antigen-presenting dendritic cells, monocytes and macrophages. IL-15 exhibits broad activity and induces the differentiation and proliferation of T, B and natural killer (NK) cells. It also enhances the cytolytic activity of CD8(+) T cells and induces long-lasting antigen-experienced CD8(+)CD44(hi) memory T cells. IL-15 stimulates differentiation and immunoglobulin synthesis by B cells and induces maturation of dendritic cells. It does not stimulate immunosuppressive T regulatory cells (Tregs). Thus, boosting IL-15 activity could enhance innate and specific immunity and fight tumors. Here we review aspects of IL-15 biology that make it a promising agent for anticancer therapy. We also discuss preclinical models in which IL-15 has demonstrated antitumor activity and highlight ongoing clinical trials of IL-15 in patients with cancer and HIV infection.
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