Tertiary Lymphoid Structure-Associated B Cells Enhance CXCL13+CD103+CD8+ Tissue-Resident Memory T-Cell Response to Programmed Cell Death Protein 1 Blockade in Cancer Immunotherapy

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Although the presence of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) correlates with positive responses to immunotherapy in many solid malignancies, the mechanism by which TLS enhances anti-tumor immunity is not well understood. The present study aimed to investigate the underlying cross-talk circuits between B cells and tissue-resident memory T (Trm) cells within the TLS and to understand their role in the context of immunotherapy. METHODS: Trm cells in suppressing tumor growth was evaluated through anti-PD-1 therapy. RESULTS: Trm cells correlated with potent responsiveness to anti-PD-1 therapy in a TNFR2 dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS: Trm cells for advancing immunotherapy strategies in GC.