The Multifaceted Roles of B Cells in Solid Tumors: Emerging Treatment Opportunities

Overview

Journal Target Oncol

Specialty Oncology

Date 2017 Mar 11

PMID 28281220

Citations 24

Authors

Nicole J Flynn

Rajasekharan Somasundaram

Kimberly M Arnold

Jennifer Sims-Mourtada

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The influence of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes on tumor growth and response to therapy is becoming increasingly apparent. While much work has focused on the role of T cell responses in anti-tumor immunity, the role of B cells in solid tumors is much less understood. Tumor infiltrating B cells have been found in a variety of solid tumors, including breast, ovarian, prostate, melanoma, and colorectal cancer. The function of B cells in solid tumors is controversial, with many studies reporting a pro-tumor effect, while other studies demonstrate a role for B cells in the anti-tumor immune response. In this review, we discuss the prognostic ability of B cells in solid tumors as well as the mechanisms by which B cells can either promote or suppress anti-tumor immunity. Additionally, we review current therapeutic strategies that may target both pro- and anti-tumor B cells.

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