MAP-KINASE INHIBITORS AS REGULATORS OF TUMOR-ASSOCIATED ANTIGEN EXPRESSION

摘要

This invention relates to methods for identifying agents that modulate expression of tumor-associated antigens in tumor cells. The invention also relates to agents and pharmaceutical compositions containing such agents that modulate expression of tumor-associated antigens in tumor cells. The invention, therefore, is particularly useful, inter alia, for treating subjects with autologous, solid tumors having cells that express, or that can be induced to express, tumor-associated antigens. One category of materials according to the invention is tumor-antigen expression up-regulating agents. These agents include modulators of the MAPK/ERKL signaling cascade, and more specifically modulators of MEK1/2 and ERK1/2 activity.