Importance of CD4+ helper T-cells in antitumor immunity

Int J Hematol. 2003 Jun;77(5):435-8. doi: 10.1007/BF02986610.

Abstract

CD8+ cytotoxic T-lymphocytes are major effector cells involved in immunologically specific tumor destruction in vivo, and CD4+ T-cells are essential for controlling this CD8+ T-cell-dependent tumor eradication. The presence of CD4+ T-cells with distinct functional roles has been recognized. The further understanding of the complexity of antitumor immune responses by CD4+ T-cells may be crucial for designing more effective cancer vaccines.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antigen Presentation
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Cellular
  • Neoplasms / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / immunology*