Synergistic immunologic targets for the treatment of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a common disease and, while detection and treatment have advanced, it remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in men. Research suggests significant involvement of the immune system in the pathogenesis and progression of prostate cancer, indicating that immunologic therapies may benefit patients. Two immunologic factors, interleukin-2 and transforming growth factor-beta, may be especially attractive therapeutic targets for prostate cancer. Specifically, an increase in interleukin-2 signaling and a decrease in transforming growth factor-beta signaling might help improve immunologic recognition and targeting of tumor cells. The purpose of this review is to highlight the evidence that interleukin-2 and blockade of transforming growth factor-beta could be used to target prostate cancer based on current understanding of immune function in the context of prostate cancer. Additionally, current treatments related to these two factors for prostate and other cancers will be used to strengthen the argument for this strategy.