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Progress in Tumor-Associated Macrophages: From Bench to Bedside
Yi Wang1,2, Yao-Xin Lin1, Sheng-Lin Qiao1,2
1CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), No. 11 Beiyitiao, Zhongguancun, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China.
Advanced Biosystems
|July 7, 2020
Summary
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are crucial in cancer progression and prognosis. Targeting TAMs offers a promising avenue for novel cancer immunotherapies, potentially enhanced by nanotechnology.
Area of Science:
- Cancer Immunology
- Tumor Microenvironment Research
- Immunotherapy
Background:
- Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are key stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment, originating from circulating monocytes.
- TAMs are implicated in tumor progression, including initiation, growth, metabolism, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
- High TAM presence often correlates with poor patient prognosis, highlighting their clinical significance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biological origins, classification, and functions of TAMs.
- To discuss current basic research and clinical applications of TAMs in cancer immunotherapy.
- To explore the potential of nanotechnology in developing TAM-targeting cancer therapies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of TAM biology and immunotherapy.
- Analysis of current research on TAM differentiation and function.
- Examination of advancements in nanotechnology for TAM-targeted therapy.
Main Results:
- Detailed review of TAM origination, classification, and differentiation pathways.
- Discussion of TAMs' multifaceted roles in promoting tumor progression.
- Overview of emerging TAM-targeting strategies and their clinical implications.
Conclusions:
- TAMs represent a significant target for cancer immunotherapy due to their role in tumor progression.
- Understanding TAM biology is crucial for developing effective cancer treatments.
- Nanotechnology offers innovative approaches to translate TAM-targeting therapies into clinical practice.
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