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Tumor-promoting functions of adenosine
1Department of Pharmacology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7295, USA. jozek@med.unc.edu
Abstract:
Tumor growth is a multifactorial process that, in addition to mutations leading to dysregulated expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressive genes, requires specific conditions that provide a supportive physiological environment at the primary and metastatic sites of the disease. Adenosine is one of the factors potentially contributing to tumor growth that thus far has not received adequate attention, despite evidence for a broad range of cytoprotective, growth-promoting, and immunosuppressive activities. Adenosine accumulates in solid tumors at high concentrations, and has been shown to stimulate tumor growth and angiogenesis and to inhibit cytokine synthesis, adhesion of immune cells to the endothelial wall, and the function of T-cells, macrophages, and natural killer cells. However, the mechanisms whereby adenosine accumulates in cancer and the specific effects that result from this accumulation are not well understood. This article surveys the available evidence that supports an important role of adenosine in cancer.
Insights
Adenosine, a molecule accumulating in tumors, promotes cancer growth and suppresses immune responses. Further research is needed to understand adenosine
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Tumor growth depends on mutations and a supportive microenvironment.
- Adenosine, with cytoprotective and growth-promoting roles, is increasingly recognized in cancer.
- High adenosine concentrations in tumors are linked to growth, angiogenesis, and immune suppression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence supporting adenosine's role in cancer.
- To explore the mechanisms of adenosine accumulation in cancer.
- To elucidate the specific effects of adenosine accumulation in tumors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on adenosine and cancer.
- Analysis of evidence for adenosine's impact on tumor physiology and immunology.
- Survey of proposed mechanisms for adenosine accumulation in neoplastic tissues.
Main Results:
- Adenosine accumulation in solid tumors is a documented phenomenon.
- Adenosine demonstrates pro-tumorigenic activities, including stimulating growth and angiogenesis.
- Adenosine inhibits crucial anti-tumor immune functions, such as T-cell and NK cell activity.
Conclusions:
- Adenosine plays a significant, yet underappreciated, role in supporting cancer progression.
- Understanding adenosine's mechanisms in cancer is critical for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
- Further investigation into adenosine's accumulation and effects is warranted.