Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells: New Insights into the Pathogenesis and Therapy of MDS

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are hematopoietic malignancies characterized by the clonal expansion of hematopoietic stem cells, bone marrow failure manifested by cytopenias, and increased risk for evolving to acute myeloid leukemia. Despite the fact that the acquisition of somatic mutations is considered key for the initiation of the disease, the bone marrow microenvironment also plays significant roles in MDS by providing the right niche and even shaping the malignant clone. Aberrant immune responses are frequent in MDS and are implicated in many aspects of MDS pathogenesis. Recently, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) have gained attention for their possible implication in the immune dysregulation associated with MDS. Here, we summarize the key findings regarding the expansion of MDSCs in MDS, their role in MDS pathogenesis and immune dysregulation, as well their potential as a new therapeutic target for MDS.