Novel Therapy Helps Tumor Cells Welcome Cancer Treatment

For years, one of the biggest frustrations in cancer care has been watching immunotherapy succeed spectacularly in some diseases while stalling almost completely in others. Solid tumors, especially those that spread aggressively, have remained stubbornly resistant, not because the immune system cannot kill them, but because it often cannot get close enough to try. New research from a U.S. academic team suggests that this long-standing barrier may be more fragile than once believed. 

Rather than attacking cancer cells head-on, the scientists focused on dismantling the internal defenses that shield tumors from immune attack, effectively forcing them to open themselves to treatment. The work, published in the journal Cancer Cell in January, examined advanced models of lung and ovarian cancer, two diseases that account for a significant share of cancer-related deaths. Traditional immunotherapies have struggled here, largely because solid tumors actively reshape their surroundings to repel immune cells before they can do damage. 

At the center of that defense system are macrophages, immune cells that normally help fight infection and repair tissue. Inside tumors, however, these cells are repurposed. Instead of sounding the alarm, they suppress immune responses, support tumor growth, and help cancer evade detection. 

According to lead investigator Jaime Mateus-Tique, many previous therapies failed because they targeted the wrong enemy. He explained that the team stopped trying to breach the fortress directly and instead focused on neutralizing the guards standing at the gates. 

To do this, the researchers redesigned CAR T cells, immune cells created from a patient’s own blood, so they would recognize and attack tumor-supporting macrophages rather than cancer cells themselves. The cells were also modified to release interleukin-12 only within the tumor, triggering a localized immune response once the protective barrier was removed. When tested in animal models with widespread cancer, the effects were dramatic. Tumors that had resisted multiple treatments began to collapse as immune cells flooded in. Many treated animals lived far longer than expected, and in several cases the cancer disappeared entirely. 

Detailed genetic mapping showed that the therapy fundamentally altered the tumor ecosystem. Immune-suppressing cells were cleared out, while cancer-fighting T cells gained access to areas that had previously been sealed off. Because macrophages are present in nearly all solid tumors, the researchers believe the strategy could extend well beyond the cancers tested. 

Molecular biologist and immunologist Brian Brown, who led the broader research effort, said tumors rely on these cells as a form of biological armor. Turning that armor against the cancer itself, he noted, changes the rules of engagement inside the tumor. Despite the promise, the team cautions that the findings are still limited to preclinical research. Further work is underway to refine how immune-activating signals are delivered, with safety as the primary concern. 

It would be interesting to hear what enterprises like Calidi Biotherapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: CLDI) engaged in advancing immunotherapy think about this breakthrough attained at Mount Sinai and its potential to transform cancer care. 

About TinyGems

TinyGems is a specialized communications platform with a focus on innovative small-cap and mid-cap companies with bright futures and huge potential. It is one of 75+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, TinyGems is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, TinyGems brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. TinyGems is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.

To receive SMS alerts from TinyGems, text “Gems” to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.TinyGems.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the TinyGems website applicable to all content provided by TinyGems, wherever published or re-published: https://www.TinyGems.com/Disclaimer

TinyGems
Austin, Texas
www.TinyGems.com
512.354.7000 Office
Editor@TinyGems.com

TinyGems is powered by IBN