Figure 8.

Schematic Diagram Showing More Potent Anti-tumor Effects of Local Irradiation Combined with Antigen-Specific DNA Vaccination

Local irradiation first induces tumor cell apoptosis, enhancing the expressions of various DAMPs, including HMGB-1. The HMGB-1 expression of apoptotic tumor cells then stimulates DC maturation. Meanwhile, the antigen-specific DNA vaccine generates antigen-specific T cells, which can be activated and their numbers can be increased through association with maturated DCs. These antigen-specific T cells infiltrate both irradiated (index) and non-irradiated (distant) tumors to exert tumor-killing effects.