Scientists at Columbia University have identified a previously unknown type of fibroblast that may help lung tumors evade immune attack. Using single-cell analysis, researchers found CHL1-positive fibroblasts that are not normally present in healthy lungs. These cells produce the signaling protein CXCL9, which attracts regulatory T cells to the tumor. Although these immune cells normally prevent excessive inflammation, tumors can exploit them to suppress anti-cancer immune responses. In mouse models, blocking the signaling pathway reduced regulatory T-cell accumulation and allowed stronger immune attacks against tumors. The same fibroblasts were found in human lung cancers and were associated with weaker immune responses and poorer progression-free survival. The discovery could point toward new immunotherapy strategies targeting this tumor-supporting cell population.
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