Targeting myeloid cells in the tumor sustaining microenvironment

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Myeloid cells are abundant in the tumor microenvironment (TME).
• Tumors recruit and modulate myeloid cells into immunosuppressive phenotypes like tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and neutrophils (TANs).
• Mediators like granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor and vascular endothelial growth factor drive myelopoiesis, increasing myeloid cell numbers and contributing to tumor burden.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of human myeloid cells in the TME.
• To elucidate mechanisms by which myeloid cells sustain cancer hallmarks.
• To introduce current and novel therapeutic strategies targeting myeloid cells in cancer.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of human myeloid cells in the TME.
• Analysis of mechanisms sustaining cancer hallmarks.
• Overview of therapeutic approaches targeting myeloid cell phenotypes.

Main Results:

• Myeloid cells are key components of the TME, often maintained in an immature state to promote immunosuppression.
• Dysregulated myelopoiesis contributes to increased myeloid cell populations associated with tumor burden.
• Platelets also play a role in tumor promotion.

Conclusions:

• Reprogramming myeloid cells from a pro-tumor to an anti-tumor phenotype is a promising therapeutic strategy.
• Understanding myeloid cell biology in the TME is crucial for developing effective cancer treatments.
• Targeting myeloid cell differentiation and function offers potential for cancer therapy.