Maximizing dendritic cell migration in cancer immunotherapy

Background: The success of dendritic cell (DC)-based immunotherapy in inducing cellular immunity against tumors is highly dependent on accurate delivery and trafficking of the DC to T-cell-rich areas of secondary lymphoid tissues. Objective: To provide an overview of DC migration in vivo and how migration to peripheral lymph nodes might be improved to optimize DC therapy. Methods: We focused on DC migration in preclinical models and human skin explants and on clinical vaccination trials studying migration of in vitro-generated DC. Results/conclusions: DC migration requires an intricate interplay between the cell and its environment. To maximize migration for cellular therapy, it is important to optimize the generation of migratory DC as well as treatment strategies.