Dendritic cells and breast cancer immunity

Prior work by J. Banchereau and K. Palucka has not only demonstrated the presence, but a conspicuous compartimentalization of dendritic cells (DC) in breast cancer (BrCa) tissue. This phenomenon is all the more intriguing since mature DC, considered the most potent antigen presenting cells, are normally found in secondary lymphoid organs. In e.g. lymph nodes they initiate antigen-specific T-cell responses. We now postulate that the presence of mature DC at the tumor site indicates tumor specific immunity. The focus of this research plan is to determine whether mature breast tumor-associated DC present breast cancer antigens. Aims: We will analyze whether 1) mature DC isolated from breast tumor samples present brca antigens and 2) whether tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) specific for brca antigen are present. The findings will permit us to conclude that mature DC, infiltrating breast cancer tissue, reflect an ongoing breast tumor specific immune response. Methods: The Baylor Institute of Immunology Research will provide the most modern technology available in order to establish phenotype of DC, investigate cytokine expression and carry out immunological testing. Conclusion: This proposal has been designed to generate information and tools that will be of immediate interest to the breast cancer management. Once completed this proposal may demonstrate that immune response against breast cancer exists and can be generated. This will further open the avenue to develop immunotherapy protocols for breast cancer.