Show-Me State Times

Researchers at Saint Louis University School of Medicine have explored sex-based differences in immune responses against tumors, focusing on T-cell responses in lung cancer patients. Their findings may guide future treatments. The study, led by Alspach and her team, revealed that the protein CXCL13 is more highly expressed in females than males and serves as a better marker for immunotherapy response in females.

The team utilized single-cell RNA sequencing to investigate how male and female immune systems respond to tumors. This technology enabled them to discover that T-cells infiltrating female tumors are highly activated, while immune suppressive T-cells are more frequent in male tumors.

Alspach noted an interesting contrast: although their research suggests females mount stronger immune responses against tumors, there is evidence indicating males may respond better to immunotherapy. "We currently don’t understand why males would respond better than females to immune targeting therapies," Alspach said, emphasizing the need for further research into sex differences in cancer immunity.

She highlighted the revolutionary potential of immunotherapy in mediating tumor rejection and inducing long-term remission. Unlike traditional cancer treatments, current immunotherapies are generally well-tolerated and allow patients to maintain a higher quality of life by specifically targeting tumors.

Given the observed differences in immune responses between sexes, Alspach suggested designing distinct treatments for male and female patients. She hopes future strategies will target pathways that improve tumor control tailored to individual needs.

This research was facilitated by recent investments in single-cell RNA sequencing technology at Saint Louis University. Additional contributors include Richard J. DiPaolo, Ph.D.; Ryan M. Teague, Ph.D.; Michelle Brennan, Ph.D.; David DeBruin; Chinye Nwokolo; Katey S. Hunt; Alexander Piening; Maureen J. Donlin; and Stephen T. Ferris from the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine.