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Interleukin (IL)-7 Signaling in the Tumor Microenvironment
Iwona Bednarz-Misa1, Mariusz A Bromke1, Małgorzata Krzystek-Korpacka2
1Department of Medical Biochemistry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|February 9, 2021
Summary
Interleukin-7 (IL-7) has a dual role in cancer, supporting some malignancies while potentially boosting anti-tumor immunity. Understanding its complex signaling pathways is crucial for effective cancer immunotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Interleukin-7 (IL-7) is a key immunoregulatory cytokine with poorly understood functions.
- IL-7 is vital for lymphocyte development and has been implicated in both promoting and inhibiting cancer.
- Its role in cancer is complex, varying by cancer type, cell stage, and microenvironment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on Interleukin-7 (IL-7) and its signaling in cancer development.
- To describe IL-7's involvement in solid tumors and hematological malignancies.
- To highlight the need for further research into IL-7's role in cancer immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review summarizing existing research on IL-7 in cancer.
- Analysis of IL-7's signaling pathways, including JAK/STAT, PI3K/Akt, and MAPK.
- Cancer-type focused description of IL-7's involvement in solid tumors and hematological malignancies.
Main Results:
- IL-7 supports lymphocyte development and certain leukemias/lymphomas.
- IL-7 has been explored for immunotherapy in lymphopenia and to boost anti-cancer immunity.
- Evidence shows IL-7 upregulation in carcinomas can promote tumor growth, metastasis, and drug resistance.
Conclusions:
- The effect of IL-7 is context-dependent, influenced by cell type, stage, and microenvironment.
- IL-7 signaling primarily involves JAK/STAT and PI3K/Akt pathways, with MAPK relevant in solid tumors.
- Further research on IL-7's source, signaling, and responsive cells is a priority for immunotherapy development.
Keywords:
ApoptosisCarcinomaDrug resistanceEpithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)ImmunosurveillanceImmunotherapyLeukemiaLymphangiogenesisLymphomaMetastasisSignaling pathwayTumor microenvironmentMore Related Videos
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