Tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) from irradiated tumor cells (TAA)

Tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) from irradiated tumor cells represent a diverse and complex pool of proteins, glycoproteins, and neoantigens released or modified following the lethal irradiation of malignant cells (Kroemer et al., 2013, Annual Review of Immunology). This approach is primarily utilized in the development of whole-cell cancer vaccines, such as GVAX, where the irradiation process serves to render the cells non-proliferative while simultaneously inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD) (Dranoff et al., 1993, PNAS). The resulting antigenic profile includes both shared tumor antigens and unique, patient-specific neoantigens, providing a broad target for the host's immune system to circumvent tumor heterogeneity and antigen escape (Chiang et al., 2015, Seminars in Oncology). Upon administration, these antigens are captured, processed, and presented by professional antigen-presenting cells, such as dendritic cells, which then migrate to secondary lymphoid organs to prime and activate cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and helper T cells. While this strategy aims to generate a robust and polyclonal anti-tumor response, its clinical efficacy is often challenged by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and the inherent variability in the antigenic composition of the irradiated cell lines (Kozlowska et al., 2016, Cancers).

Other names

Irradiated tumor cell vaccine antigensWhole-cell tumor antigensRadiation-induced neoantigensIrradiated tumor cell-derived antigens

Stimulation of a polyclonal T-cell response through the uptake and presentation of a broad array of tumor-derived antigens and neoantigens by professional antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as dendritic cells, to prime cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs).