How SOX2 Causes Immune Suppression in Precancerous Lesions
Author Information
Author(s): Taner Hülya F., Gong Wang, Fitzsimonds Zackary R., Li Zaiye, Wu Yuesong, He Yumin, Okuyama Kohei, Cheng Wanqing, Kuczura Jung, Rajesh Sashider, Manousidaki Andriana, Feng Shuo, Lee Miki, Nör Felipe, Lanzel Emily, Demehri Shadmehr, Polverini Peter J., Nör Jacques E., Wang Thomas D., Que Jianwen, Wen Haitao, Xie Yuying, Moon James J., Lei Yu Leo
Primary Institution: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Hypothesis
Does SOX2 expression in precancerous lesions lead to immune suppression and malignant transformation?
Conclusion
The study identifies a pathway involving SOX2 that drives immune escape and malignant transformation in precancerous lesions.
Supporting Evidence
- SOX2 expression in precancerous lesions recruits suppressive myeloid cells.
- The study developed a unique genetically engineered mouse model to study malignant transformation.
- Myeloid cells in precancerous lesions show a distinct immune profile before cancer develops.
- Blocking IL-1 signaling reduces the number of suppressive myeloid cells and extends survival.
Takeaway
When certain cells in the body start to change and could become cancerous, a protein called SOX2 can make the immune system less effective at fighting these changes.
Methodology
The study used a genetically engineered mouse model and longitudinal human specimens to investigate the role of SOX2 in immune suppression and malignant transformation.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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