Tumor-specific antigens

Definition

Tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) are unique proteins or molecules expressed on the surface of tumor cells but not found on normal cells. They can stimulate an immune response, making them targets for cancer immunotherapy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. TSAs are distinct from tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), which can be found on both cancerous and normal cells.
2. TSAs arise due to mutations in tumor cells, leading to the production of novel peptides.
3. The presence of TSAs allows for targeted immunotherapies, such as personalized cancer vaccines.
4. Identifying TSAs is crucial for developing effective T-cell-based therapies.
5. The effectiveness of TSAs in eliciting an immune response depends on their ability to be presented by MHC molecules.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes tumor-specific antigens from tumor-associated antigens?
• Why are tumor-specific antigens important in the development of cancer immunotherapies?
• How do mutations in tumor cells lead to the formation of tumor-specific antigens?

Related terms

Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC): A set of cell surface proteins essential for the acquired immune system to recognize foreign molecules.

Tumor-Associated Antigens (TAAs): Antigens that are present on both normal and cancerous cells but are overexpressed in tumors.

Cancer Immunotherapy: Treatment that uses certain parts of a person’s immune system to fight cancer.