The effects of tumor‐derived exosomes on T‐cell function and efficacy of cancer immunotherapy

Abstract

Tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs) are a class of extracellular vesicles which play an important role in the tumor microenvironment. These vesicles have multiple biological functions including promotion of cancer progression and reduction of anti-tumor immunity. Recently, interaction between TEXs and immune cells are of great interest in cell-based immunotherapy. Here, we review the effects of TEXs on the survival and functions of T cell subsets, as well as their clinical applications. Unraveling the immunoregulatory function of exosomes allows a better understanding of the molecular and cellular basis for cancer immunotherapy.

Emerging diversity in extracellular vesicles and their roles in cancer

“…Cancer EVs can also directly modulate T cell function. Cancer cells and their EVs often overexpress apoptosis-inducing ligands, such as PD-L1, FasL, TRAIL, NKG2DLs, and others that induce apoptosis in CD8+ T cells and NK cells and inhibit their cytotoxicity (113). PD-L1 can be present in both soluble and membrane-bound forms, and while both forms have been reported to suppress T cell function, it remains unclear which form is more active.…”