[Tumor-associated macrophages: Function and differentiation].

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Cell Biology

Context:

• Macrophages play a dual role in cancer, influencing pathogenesis and prognosis.
• Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) can either inhibit or promote tumor growth based on their polarization.
• The heterogeneity and plasticity of macrophages challenge conventional M1/M2 classifications.

Purpose:

• To highlight the limitations of current M1/M2 macrophage polarization definitions in oncology.
• To emphasize the need for standardized nomenclature and quantitative characterization methods for TAMs.
• To underscore the importance of precise marker information in clinical studies involving TAMs.

Summary:

• Macrophages are critical in malignant tumor development and patient outcomes, offering therapeutic targets.
• The simplistic M1 (tumor-inhibitory) and M2 (tumor-promoting) paradigm inadequately captures macrophage complexity.
• TAMs contribute to tumor growth via direct cell interactions, angiogenesis, and immune suppression.

Impact:

• Standardized TAM characterization will improve clinical study comparability and therapeutic development.
• A consensus nomenclature for macrophage polarization is essential for advancing cancer immunotherapy.
• Accurate quantitative assessment of TAMs is crucial for predicting patient prognosis and guiding treatment strategies.