Heterogeneity in expression of human leukocyte antigens and melanoma-associated antigens in advanced melanoma

The study of tumor immunology has led to many innovative therapeutic strate gies for the treatment of melanoma. The strategies are primarily dependent on melanoma-associated antigen peptide vaccination or T-cell-based therapy. These immunotherapies are totally reliant on proper copresentation of huma n leukocyte antigen class I molecules in sufficient quantity and the presen ce and availability of melanoma-associated antigenic peptides. Altered expr ession of either HLA class I molecules or melanoma antigens is known to occ ur. These defects lead to altered manufacture and copresentation of HLA cla ss I molecules with melanoma-associated antigens to T-cells. Defects in any one combination can lead to loss of recognition of melanoma cells and thei r subsequent destruction by cytotoxic T-lymphocytes. Thus, these immunother apy strategies can be thwarted by defects or heterogeneity of expression of human leukocyte antigen class I or of melanoma-associated antigens. Publis hed 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.