New Study Reveals How Tumors Weaken T Cells — Breakthrough May Boost Cancer Immunotherapy
WASHINGTON: Researchers at **Weill Cornell Medicine** in the United States have discovered a crucial mechanism by which tumors weaken the body’s immune system — and a potential way to reverse it. The findings were published in the journal **Nature Immunology**.
According to the study, tumors release a substance called **Thrombospondin-1**, which activates a protein known as **CD47** on immune T cells. This interaction depletes the strength of T cells, making them less effective in attacking cancer cells.
To counter this, scientists tested a specialized compound named **TAX2**, which blocks the harmful Thrombospondin-1 and CD47 interaction. Once this signal was interrupted, T cells regained strength and became active again.
### **Key Findings of the Study:**
* After receiving **TAX2**, mice showed **slower tumor growth**.
* Immune T cells became **stronger and more efficient** at attacking tumors.
* When TAX2 was **combined with the existing PD-1 cancer therapy**, the overall anti-tumor effect increased significantly.
Researchers believe this breakthrough could pave the way for more effective **future cancer treatments**, particularly in the field of **immunotherapy**, where boosting the body’s natural defense system is essential.
