4-1BB (CD137), an inducible costimulatory receptor, as a specific target for cancer therapy

Although considerable progress has been made in understanding how tumors evade immune surveillance, measures to counter the same have not kept pace with the advances made in designing effective strategies. 4-1BB (CD137; TNFRS9), an activation-induced costimulatory molecule, is an important regulator of immune responses. Targeting 4-1BB or its natural ligand 4-1BB ligand (4-1BBL) has important implications in many clinical conditions, including cancer. In-depth analysis revealed that 4-1BB-mediated anti-cancer effects are based on its ability to induce activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), and among others, high amounts of IFN-γ. In this review, we will discuss the various aspects of 4-1BB-mediated anti-tumor responses, the basis of such responses, and future directions. [BMB Reports 2014; 47(3): 122-129]