Tumor-dendritic cell fusion as a basis for cancer immunotherapy.

OBJECTIVE: To establish the basis for use of allogeneic dendritic-tumor fusion cells. STUDY DESIGN: Fusion cells were created by electrofusion. We used 2 allogeneic murine tumor lines (D5 and 4T1) that were virally transduced to express the antigen (beta-galactosidase) as a surrogate tumor marker. RESULTS: Cross-immunization was achieved with irradiated allogenic tumor cells. Successful electrofusion of dendritic cells and tumor cells was confirmed by using fluorescence-activated cell sorting and cytospin. Significant responses were shown in immunized mice against tumor challenge and established 3-day pulmonary metastasis with fusion cells. CONCLUSIONS: Allogeneic tumor sharing a common tumor antigen can immunize against syngeneic tumor challenge. Fusion cells showed successful immunization against tumor challenge and showed regression of 3-day established pulmonary metastasis. SIGNIFICANCE: These preclinical studies provide evidence that an allogenic tumor-dendritic cell fusion vaccine is a valid approach for head and neck cancer immunotherapy.

Duke Scholars

Author Walter T Lee Head & Neck Surgical Oncology