Genetically engineered dendritic cells in cancer immunotherapy: from immune reprogramming strategies to emerging CAR-DC platforms

Abstract

Genetic engineering can enhance dendritic cell (DC) migration, antigen presentation, co-stimulation, cytokine production, survival, and resistance to tumor-mediated suppression. This review examines established engineering strategies and emerging chimeric antigen receptor-engineered DCs (CAR-DCs). Preclinical studies indicate that CAR-DCs may promote tumor-material uptake, cross-presentation, T cell priming, and microenvironmental remodeling. However, limited persistence, manufacturing complexity, safety uncertainties, and the absence of clinical outcome data remain major barriers to translation.