Generation of MUC1 CytotoxicT-Cells in Mice and Epitope Mapping

Abstract

A successful vaccine for cancer immunotherapy, particularly for solid tumors, would require a suitable target antigen and the production of a cytotoxic T-cell response (1). In the mid- to late-1980s, there was a focus on monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) for the treatment of common cancers, such as those of the colon, breast, and lung. However, with the difficulties of using such agents, there is now a clear focus on cellular immunity for several reasons. First, using genetic engineering techniques, peptide epitopes have been identified and can be produced in large amounts, particularly as synthetic peptides and as recombinant molecules. Second, the description of many cytokines, combined with the knowledge of antigen processing and presentation by class I and class II pathways, has led to a degree of sophistication and knowledge in how to immunize to produce the desired response. These developmets are proving useful in the generation of new and improved vaccines and the future holds much promise for the production of effective vaccines to prevent, control, and possibly eradicate many diseases, including cancer. It is now theoretically possible to induce either antibodies or CTLs to defined polypeptides. However, it remains to be determined which will be the most effective.