Chinese scientists have unveiled a promising new cancer treatment strategy that harnesses one of the body’s fastest immune responses, potentially opening a new chapter in precision oncology. The breakthrough, detailed in a study published in Cell, focuses on mast cells—immune cells best known for triggering allergic reactions such as hives and sneezing.
The research was led by teams from Zhejiang University and the First Hospital of China Medical University. Instead of viewing mast cells’ explosive inflammatory behavior as a drawback, the scientists re-engineered it into a therapeutic advantage. Mast cells are naturally packed with inflammatory molecules and can react within seconds, making them uniquely suited for rapid immune activation.
Gu Zhen, professor at the School of Pharmacy at Zhejiang University and a lead researcher, explained the concept behind the approach.
“This opens up possibilities for precision therapy in the future,” he said, noting that the team aimed to replicate allergy-like reactions inside tumors to overcome their ability to suppress immune responses.
To achieve this, researchers modified mast cells with IgE antibodies that recognize proteins on cancer cells rather than allergens. Once injected into the bloodstream, these customized mast cells home in on tumors. Upon contact, they release sudden bursts of localized inflammation, effectively transforming “cold” tumors—which typically evade immune detection—into “hot” tumors that immune cells can recognize and attack.
The study also revealed that mast cells can act as living carriers for oncolytic viruses, which selectively infect and destroy cancer cells. By hiding these viruses inside mast cell vesicles, the treatment protects them from being neutralized in the bloodstream. When mast cells reach and activate within tumors, the viruses are released.
In mouse models of melanoma, breast cancer, and lung metastasis, the technique attracted more cancer-killing T cells and significantly inhibited tumor growth. Similar results were seen in patient-derived tumor models, including those targeting the HER2 cancer marker.
Looking ahead, the researchers plan to refine patient-specific antibody selection, scale up cell manufacturing, and explore combinations with existing immunotherapies, aiming to move the innovation toward clinical use.
