Implications of IL-21 in solid tumor therapy

Cancer, the most deadly disease, is known as a recent dilemma worldwide. Presently different treatments are used for curing cancers, especially solid cancers. Because of the immune-enhancing functions of cytokine, IL-21 as a cytokine may have new possibilities to manipulate the immune system in disease conditions, as it stimulates NK and CTL functions and drives IgG antibody production. Indeed, IL-21 has been revealed to elicit antitumor-immune responses in several tumor models. Combining IL-21 with other agents, which target tumor cells, immune-regulatory circuits, or other immune-enhancing molecules enhances this activity. The exciting breakthrough in the results obtained in pre-clinical situations has led to the early outset of present developing clinical trials in cancer patients. In the paper, we have reviewed the function of IL-21 in solid tumor immunotherapy.

Automated summary

Cancer, a deadly disease, is a recent global dilemma. The use of cytokine IL-21 shows potential in manipulating the immune system to fight solid tumors, as it enhances NK and CTL functions and stimulates IgG antibody production. Combining IL-21 with other agents is found to further enhance its antitumor activity. Promising preclinical results have led to the initiation of clinical trials in cancer patients. This review focuses on the function of IL-21 in solid tumor immunotherapy.