Functional assay to assess T-cell inhibitory properties of myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) isolated from the tumor microenvironment of murine glioma models

Despite advances in uncovering the molecular mechanisms that mediate glioma progression and the implementation of novel therapeutic modalities, patients' prognosis remains dismal. This is due to both systemic and local tumor induced immune suppression. We are particularly interested in the role played by infiltrating immunosuppressive myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in the glioma tumor microenvironment (TME). This immunosuppressive TME also interferes with the effectiveness of immunotherapies against glioma. Development of multipronged treatment approaches is imperative when aiming to generate a robust anti-glioma immune response. Evaluating the inhibitory potential of MDSCs within the TME is an important aspect for developing effective treatments for glioma. Herein, we discuss methodology to assess the inhibitory effects of MDSCs isolated from the TME using a mouse glioma model.