Hidden weapon against aggressive lung cancer discovered in the body

Scientists at Australia’s Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have found that gamma delta T cells can recognize and destroy small-cell lung cancer cells, even when tumors evade detection by other components of the immune system.

According to TodayPress TV, the researchers also managed to enhance the cells’ activity using existing drugs.

Small-cell lung cancer is considered one of the most aggressive types of tumors. One factor that makes it difficult to treat is its ability to evade conventional T cells, which are the basis of many forms of immunotherapy. The new study, however, has shown that the immune system has another mechanism for fighting cancer.

Initially, the scientists analyzed data from two major clinical trials, IMpower133 and CASPIAN. Higher levels of gamma delta T cells in tumors were associated with greater benefits from immunotherapy.

The researchers then used patient samples to grow miniature tumor models in the laboratory. Gamma delta T cells isolated from the blood of the same patients were added to these models. The immune cells successfully recognized and destroyed the cancer cells.

The scientists further enhanced this effect using two drugs. Zoledronate increased the availability of gamma delta T cells and improved tumor recognition. Tarlatamab helped bring immune cells and cancer cells closer together.

In the laboratory model, combining the two drugs increased the effectiveness of the attack on cancer cells. However, further clinical studies are needed to confirm whether these findings translate into effective treatment for patients.

Aysel Matlab