Modern Methods of Obtaining Immune Dendritic Cells With Anti-Tumor Potential

Abstract

Dendritic cells (DCs) initiate and shape both innate and adaptive immune responses. They specialize in presenting antigens to naïve T cells, thereby directing T cell immune responses and contributing significantly to the maintenance of antitumor immunity. In both human and animal bodies, these cells are present in limited quantities, posing challenges in their procurement. Hence, the quest for obtaining DCs with antitumor properties in vitro from progenitor cells for clinical or experimental use remains pertinent. This research aims to consolidate existing studies on deriving immune DCs from progenitor cells for application in anticancer therapy. Analysis of published reports reveals that monocytes from peripheral blood, mononuclear cells from bone marrow, and cord blood can serve as precursor cells of immune DCs. Protocols for generating immature DCs from progenitor cells involve the addition of various combinations of cytokines to the culture, including granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interleukin-4, and other cytokines. The extensive range of cytokines and conditions influencing the differentiation and functional activity of DCs results in considerable heterogeneity in the phenotypic and functional characteristics of these cells. Sources of tumor antigen for DC-based vaccines encompass tumor lysates, indivi­dual tumor proteins, peptides, and tumor cells in a state of immunogenic apoptosis. This paper delves into the use of maturation factors and cryopreservation as integral stages in obtaining immune DCs. A comprehensive understanding of the parameters involved in obtaining immune DCs is imperative for the development of DC-based vaccines to unleash their full antitumor potential.