May 22, 2017 (Medical News Today)
An antibody originally developed to study multiple sclerosis has been found to precisely target T cells that can kill cancer cells.
Researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, discovered that the antibody can decrease tumor growth in models of melanoma, glioblastoma and colorectal carcinoma. The paper has been published in Science Immunology.
The antibody locks on the molecular complex that is uniquely specific to the T cell surface. Being able to target these cells may offer a new way to treat cancers.
The researchers used preclinical models to uncover how well the anti-LAP antibodies might work to block T cells and restore the immune system’s ability to fight cancer. They found that it can affect multiple mechanisms in the immune system.
They will be expanding their research to modify the antibody for humans.
Read more about this exciting discovery at Medical News Today.
