Researchers at the University of Turku in Finland have identified a new function for the TIMP-1 protein, traditionally known for preventing damage to cells and tissues. They discovered that TIMP-1 plays a critical role in the immune system’s defence against cancer. Produced by dendritic cells, TIMP-1 enhances antitumor immunity by activating surrounding immune cells. Increasing TIMP-1 expression or targeting its negative regulators in tumours with deficient immune responses could potentially improve the effectiveness of current cancer immunotherapies.
Carlos Rogerio Figueiredo, a researcher at the University of Turku, emphasizes the importance of this discovery for patients deficient in TIMP-1 expression. The findings have implications not only for cancer treatment but also for fighting infections by viruses and bacteria. By uncovering a universal mechanism that fights microorganisms and cancer in a similar fashion, the study offers valuable insights into enhancing the body’s immune response to various threats. The research used samples from the Finnish Auria Biobank for clinical-oriented discoveries, which were further validated with state-of-the-art biochemical and immunological tools.
Figueiredo credits the patients, Oncologist Maria Sundvall, and Pathologist Eva-Maria Birkman from Turku University Hospital for their significant contributions to the project. He points out the importance of the reverse translational method used in the study, which starts with real-world data from patient samples to guide focused laboratory studies. This approach enhances the likelihood of success when applied to patients, offering a more targeted and efficient way of developing and testing potential therapeutic interventions. The Medical Immuno-Oncology Research Group (MIORG) led by Figueiredo at the University of Turku works on advancing cancer treatment strategies.
The study’s findings, published in the journal Genes & Immunity, shed light on the critical role of TIMP-1 in the immune system’s response to cancer. These insights could lead to improvements in current cancer immunotherapies by targeting TIMP-1 expression or its negative regulators in tumours with deficient immune responses. The research is part of the InFLAMES Flagship initiative, a joint effort between University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Finland. The goal of the Flagship is to integrate immunological and immunology-related research activities to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic tools for personalized medicine.
InFLAMES Flagship, supported by the Research Council of Finland, aims to advance research in immunology and immune-related fields to address key medical challenges, including cancer. By combining expertise from different research institutions and utilizing the latest tools and technologies, the initiative seeks to accelerate the development of innovative treatments and diagnostic methods. The Nature Portfolio publication highlights the importance of the study’s findings in advancing our understanding of the immune system’s response to cancer and the potential for improving cancer immunotherapies based on TIMP-1.
