The present disclosure provides populations of cells comprising partially mature and optimally activated dendritic cells that can be used for administration to individuals having a cancer and/or tumor. Partially matured dendritic cells, those contacted with a dendritic cell maturation agent for about 10 to about 19 hours, upon administration efficiently take up and process tumor antigens in the area of the tumor site, complete maturation, and can subsequently migrate to the lymph nodes of a treated individual. Once in a lymph node the now fully mature antigen presenting dendritic cells secrete the appropriate cytokines (e.g., TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, and/or IL-12) and contact T cells inducing a substantial and optimal clinical and/or anti-tumor immune response.
