Immunotherapy has been generally ineffective for prostate cancer because the tumors are considered immunologically “cold,” meaning they do not attract enough immune cells to mount a strong attack. Hormone therapy commonly used for prostate cancer, called androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), can temporarily make tumors more responsive by drawing immune cells into the cancer. But that benefit is short-lived: the treatment also increases levels of regulatory T cells (Tregs), which act as brakes on the immune system and blunt its anticancer effects.
This article was originally published on MedicalXpress.com
