Advancing Cancer Immunotherapy: CTD-1

By: Rachel Pangilinan

In the dynamic realm of cancer immunotherapy, challenges persist particularly in navigating the complex interplay of regulatory T cells (Tregs) within the tumor microenvironment. Tregs play a crucial role in maintaining immune homeostasis, and when affected by signaling molecules, metabolic conditions, and Foxp3 post-translational modifications, Tregs have the potential to transform into immunosuppressive Tregs that promote tumor growth and inhibit antitumor immunity. Current systemic Treg depletion therapies, while effective, pose risks of autoimmune toxicity, underscoring the need for more targeted approaches. CTD-1’s immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties serve as a groundbreaking approach to immunotherapy that could potentially revolutionize and enhance the efficacy of current treatment without compromising autoimmune tolerance.

CTD-1 has proven to have the ability to modulate Tregs in an inflammatory tumor microenvironment by reducing their immunosuppressive function, creating a conducive setting for immunotherapy to work effectively. Recent studies have demonstrated CTD-1’s ability to activate signaling pathways such as AMPk/mTOR, which restore the balance between Tregs and effector T cells, such as Th17 cells, which are often disrupted in cancer. In fact, studies have also shown CTD-1 to be associated with the regulation of key proteins connected to immune homeostasis, such as p-STAT3, ROR-γt, p-STAT5, and FOXP3 p-AMPK/AMPK, and p-mTOR/mTOR. By inhibiting Th17 cell differentiation and promoting Treg differentiation, CTD-1 successfully mitigates the negative effects of Treg reprogramming and tumor progression.

The immunomodulatory effects extend beyond just Treg/Th17 regulation. Studies have also shown CTD-1’s ability to alleviate inflammatory responses and histological damage by targeting key signaling pathways involved in immune regulation.This includes decreased serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-17, IL-6, and IL-1β) and increased levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β and IL-10).

At GTS Biotech, we are committed to advancing cancer and immunology treatment. CTD-1 presents a synergistic approach to immunology treatment through its immune-regulating activity via Tregs, resulting in enhanced anti-tumor immune responses and reduced inflammation within the tumor microenvironment. As research in this field continues to advance, CTD-1 holds the potential to transform the landscape of cancer treatment.

Illustration: Visualizing the Impact of CTD-1 on Treg Reprogramming and enhancing

antitumor responses by restoring the balance between Treg/Th17 cells through

activating AMPk/mTOR signaling pathway, decreasing serum levels of pro-inflammatory

cytokines, and regulating key proteins connected to immune homeostasis.

Image source: Ying XY et al.“Cinnamtannin D1 ameliorates DSS-induced colitis by preventing Th17/Treg imbalance through activation of the AMPK/mTOR pathway”. 2022.