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Exercise-induced engagement of the IL-15/1L-15Rα axis promotes anti-tumor immunity in pancreatic cancer
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Exercise-induced engagement of the IL-15/1L-15Rα axis promotes anti-tumor immunity in pancreatic cancer

Emma Kurz, Carolina Alcantara Hirsch, Tanner Dalton, Sorin Alberto Shadaloey, Alireza Khodadadi-Jamayran, George Miller, Sumedha Pareek, Hajar Rajaei, Chirayu Mohindroo, Seyda Baydogan, …
Cancer cell, Vol.40(7), p.720
07/11/2022
DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2022.05.006
PMID: 35660135

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Abstract

Aerobic exercise is associated with decreased cancer incidence and cancer-associated mortality. However, little is known about the effects of exercise on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA), a disease for which current therapeutic options are limited. Herein, we show that aerobic exercise reduces PDA tumor growth, by modulating systemic and intra-tumoral immunity. Mechanistically, exercise promotes immune mobilization and accumulation of tumor-infiltrating IL15R alpha(+) CD8 T cells, which are responsible for the tumor-protective effects. In clinical samples, an exercise-dependent increase of intra-tumoral CD8 T cells is also observed. Underscoring the translational potential of the interleukin (IL)-15/IL-15R alpha axis, IL-15 super-agonist (NIZ985) treatment attenuates tumor growth, prolongs survival, and enhances sensitivity to chemotherapy. Finally, exercise or NIZ985 both sensitize pancreatic tumors to alpha PD-1, with improved anti-tumor and survival benefits. Collectively, our findings highlight the therapeutic potential of an exercise-oncology axis and identify IL-15 activation as a promising treatment strategy for this deadly disease.
Cell Biology Life Sciences & Biomedicine Oncology Science & Technology

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