1406-The PLAU-ITGB1-TGF-β Axis in OSCC Immunosuppression

The study investigates the molecular mechanisms driving oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) progression through an integrated multi-omics approach. Researchers identified a specific subpopulation of COL11A1+ fibroblasts that localize at the tumor’s invasive front to create an immunosuppressive microenvironment. The study reveals that malignant epithelial cells secrete PLAU, which activates the TGF-β pathway via the ITGB1 receptor on fibroblasts to trigger this cellular reprogramming. This signaling axis leads to extracellular matrix remodeling and the recruitment of regulatory T cells, effectively shielding the tumor from immune attacks. Experiments demonstrate that targeting ITGB1 can break this barrier, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy. Ultimately, the findings suggest that the PLAU-ITGB1-TGF-β axis serves as a critical driver of cancer malignancy and a promising target for future clinical treatments.References:Xiong Y, Liu S, Zhao L, et al. The PLAU-ITGB1-TGF-β axis orchestrates spatiotemporal reprogramming of fibroblasts at the invasive front to drive dual immunosuppressive niche and immunotherapy resistance in oral squamous cell carcinoma[J]. Cell Death & Disease, 2026.前往小宇宙评论区与主播互动