Background: To investigate whether human papilloma virus (HPV)-specific immune mechanisms can result in tumor clearance, we have created HPV+ and HPV- tonsil cells that form squamous cancers in immune-competent mice. Here, we determine that an immune-specific response can clear HPV+ tumor cells and the cellular requirements to mediate this tumor clearance.
Methods: Through the benefit of this model, we use in vitro and in vivo methods to better understand how HPV+ cells are rejected. RESULT.: The data show that an in vivo antigen-specific antitumor response is generated to HPV+ transformed cells and that this response requires CD4+ and CD8+ cells to mount this antitumor response.
Conclusion: The findings from this preclinical model will have implications not only in understanding human disease but also as a valuable model for testing immunotherapeutic strategies for HPV+ head and neck cancer.