UV Exposure Boosts Transcutaneous Immunization and Improves Tumor Immunity: Cytotoxic T-Cell Priming through the Skin

作者：Stein Pamela; Rechtsteiner Gerd; Warger Tobias; Bopp Tobias; Fuhr Thorsten; Pruefer Steve; Probst Hans Christian; Stassen Michael; Langguth Peter; Schild Hansjoerg; Radsak Markus P^*

来源：Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2011, 131(1): 211-219.

DOI：10.1038/jid.2010.254

Immunologic approaches to combat cancer aim at the induction of tumor-reactive immune responses to achieve long-term protection. In this context, we recently developed a transcutaneous immunization (TCI) method using the Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7 agonist imiquimod and a peptide epitope. Application onto intact skin induces potent cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses and protection against transplanted tumors. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of UV irradiation on imiquimod-based TCI. Here we show that skin exposure to low-dose UV light before TCI with imiquimod strongly boosts specific CTL responses leading to memory formation and enhanced tumor protection. Toward the mechanisms, we show that the activation of bone-marrow-derived dermal dendritic cells (DCs), but not Langerin-expressing DCs, is responsible for enhanced CTL activation. We describe an optimized TCI method that mediates enhanced CTL and antitumor responses by a DC- and TLR-dependent mechanism. These data may provide the basis for the future development of advanced vaccination protocols against tumors and persistent virus infections.

• 出版日期2011-1