Principles of dendritic cell-based immunotherapy in myeloid leukemia.
Persistent presence of minimal residual disease in myeloid leukemia carries the risk of a relapse of the disease. In the setting of allogeneic transplants, leukemic cells have been proven to be susceptible to the action of immunocompetent T cells. Thus, an immunotherapeutic approach might hold promise in the attempt to eradicate or control residual leukemia cells. Dendritic cells (DCs) are very potent stimulators of immune responses and these cells have been widely used to target other types of malignancies. This review discusses the function and the applicability of leukemia-derived DCs for active specific immunotherapy in myeloid leukemia including possible pitfalls, and describes options to optimize DC-based vaccines.
Westers
Theresia M
TM
Department of Hematology, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands. tm.westers@vumc.nl
Houtenbos
Ilse
I
van de Loosdrecht
Arjan A
AA
Ossenkoppele
Gert J
GJ
D000818:Animals; D003713:Dendritic Cells / Q000276:immunology* / Q000637:transplantation*; D006801:Humans; D016219:Immunotherapy, Adoptive; D007951:Leukemia, Myeloid / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy*