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MicroRNAs in tumor immunity: functional regulation in tumor-associated macrophages

Chong Chen1,2, Jia-Ming Liu1,2, Yun-Ping Luo1,2

  • 1Department of Immunology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China.

Journal of Zhejiang University. Science. B
|January 4, 2020
PubMed

Insights

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) by influencing their differentiation, polarization, and communication within the tumor microenvironment (TME). These miRNAs show potential as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Cancer Biology
  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are key immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), driving cancer initiation and progression.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial regulators of gene expression, influencing cellular phenotypes and functions.
  • The interplay between miRNAs and TAMs significantly impacts tumor development and metastasis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the regulatory roles of miRNAs in macrophage differentiation and polarization within the TME.
  • To explore the function of miRNAs in mediating crosstalk between tumor cells and macrophages.
  • To assess the potential of macrophage-related miRNAs (MRMs) as cancer biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on the regulatory mechanisms of miRNAs in macrophage biology.
  • Analysis of signaling pathways and cellular processes influenced by miRNAs in the TME.
  • Evaluation of existing studies on MRMs for diagnostic and prognostic applications.

Main Results:

  • miRNAs are integral to myeloid cell differentiation into mature macrophages, affecting their recruitment to the TME.
  • miRNAs critically control macrophage polarization, influencing tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressing functions.
  • miRNAs, particularly exosome-encapsulated ones, mediate crucial crosstalk between tumor cells and macrophages.

Conclusions:

  • miRNAs play multifaceted roles in regulating TAMs, impacting cancer progression.
  • Macrophage-related miRNAs (MRMs) demonstrate significant potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.
  • MRM-based therapies offer a promising avenue for future cancer treatment strategies.
Keywords:
MicroRNA; Tumor microenvironment; Tumor-associated macrophage; Functional polarization

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