Tumor-derived exosomes are a source of shared tumor rejection antigens for CTL cross-priming

Nat Med. 2001 Mar;7(3):297-303. doi: 10.1038/85438.

Abstract

The initiation of T-cell-mediated antitumor immune responses requires the uptake and processing of tumor antigens by dendritic cells and their presentation on MHC-I molecules. Here we show in a human in vitro model system that exosomes, a population of small membrane vesicles secreted by living tumor cells, contain and transfer tumor antigens to dendritic cells. After mouse tumor exosome uptake, dendritic cells induce potent CD8+ T-cell-dependent antitumor effects on syngeneic and allogeneic established mouse tumors. Therefore, exosomes represent a novel source of tumor-rejection antigens for T-cell cross priming, relevant for immunointerventions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigens, Neoplasm / immunology*
  • Dendritic Cells / immunology
  • Humans
  • Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental / immunology*
  • Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental / ultrastructure
  • Mice
  • Microscopy, Immunoelectron
  • T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic / immunology*
  • Tumor Cells, Cultured

Substances

  • Antigens, Neoplasm