Harnessing Listeria monocytogenes: A Promising Approach to Cancer Treatment

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Graduate student of the Plant Biology Department, University of Nazlu Urmia, Iran

2 Islamic Azad University of Shoushtar, Khuzestan, Iran

3 Medical doctor, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

4 Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

5 Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

10.32592/ARI.2025.80.2.375

Abstract

Increasing mortality and morbidity rates have drawn global attention to cancer, prompting the exploration of new treatment options. The use of immunotherapy for recurrent or metastatic cancer has emerged as a promising option over the years despite its limitations as compared to traditional treatment options. Among the various immunotherapeutic approaches, bacterial-based vectors like Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) have garnered attention for their unique characteristics. Utilizing these vectors involves leveraging their ability to invade Antigen-Presenting Cells (APCs), grow intracellularly within immune cells, and spread intracellularly, enhancing their efficacy in tailoring immune responses. It is important to note that the use of bacterial vectors significantly minimizes the risks associated with off-target effects. The antitumor effects of Lm can be observed through the reduction of immunosuppressive cells in the tumor microenvironment as well as the stimulation of T cells. Various types of tumor cells can be targeted by modified Lm vaccines, according to research. However, it is recognized that Lm vaccines alone may not suffice for comprehensive cancer treatment. Therefore, using Lm vaccines in combination with other therapeutic modalities like radiotherapy, reactivated adoptive cell therapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors could result in superior results. As a result of these developments, the current review aims to elaborate on recent developments in the understanding of how Lm vaccines perform their antitumor properties. This review aims to provide insights into optimizing the therapeutic potential of Lm vaccines by comprehensively examining their interplay with the immune system. In order to harness the full therapeutic potential of Lm vaccines for fighting cancer, researchers and clinicians need to gain a deeper understanding of these mechanisms.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Archives of Razi Institute
Volume 80, Issue 2
March and April 2025
Pages 375-384

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