The present invention provides populations of cells comprising partially matured dendritic cells that can be used for administration individuals having a tumor. Partially matured dendritic cells, those contacted with a dendritic cell maturation agent for about 1 to about 10 hours, or more, 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 the lymph node the now fully mature antigen presenting dendritic cells secrete the appropriate cytokines (e.g., TNFα and IL-12) and contact T cells inducing a substantial anti-tumor immune response.
