Tissue-resident memory-like T cells in tumor immunity: Clinical implications

• Authors: Madhav Dhodapkar, Emory University; Kavita Dhodapkar, Emory University
• Journal Title: SEMINARS IN IMMUNOLOGY
• Volume: Volume 49
• Publisher: ACADEMIC PRESS LTD- ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD | 2020-06-01, Pages 101415-101415
• Type of Work: Article | Post-print: After Peer Review
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1016/j.smim.2020.101415
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Oncology
• Keywords: Science & Technology; Life Sciences & Biomedicine; Immunology; Tissue resident memory; Tumor immunity; Tumor infiltrating lymphocytes; DENDRITIC CELLS; INFILTRATING LYMPHOCYTES; NONLYMPHOID TISSUES; RM CELLS; INFECTION; CD103; DIFFERENTIATION; MAINTENANCE; SURVIVAL; ACTIVATION

Abstract

Tissue-resident memory (TRM) T cells are distinct population of non-circulating lymphocytes that play an important role in mediating regional immunity. TRM- like cells have now been identified as a component of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in several human tumors and correlate with outcome and response to immunotherapy. TRM cells have also been shown to mediate anti-tumor immunity in murine models. Biology of TRM cells has several implications for clinical cancer immunotherapy. Here we discuss newer insights into the biology of TRM T cells and discuss their implications for understanding the heterogeneity of immune microenvironment in tumors as well as improving the efficacy of cancer vaccines, immune-checkpoint blockade and adoptive cellular therapies in the clinic.