Regulatory T cells and tumour immunity - observations in mice and men

An enormous body of work supports a role for CD4(+) CD25(+) regulatory cells (Tregs) in shaping the immune response to tumours. Indeed, there is evidence that the cells impede effective tumour immunosurveillance, inhibit vaccine-induced antitumour immune responses and promote tumour progression. Studies exploring the impact of Tregs on tumour development are discussed in the context of manipulating this T-cell population for the purpose of cancer immunotherapy.