Neuro-immune interactions and immuno-oncology

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Oncology

Background:

• The nervous system is a key component of the tumor microenvironment (TME).
• Neuronal cues within the TME can alter immune cell function, promoting immune evasion and cancer progression.
• Tumor-associated nerves regulate immunity through neural transmission and immune checkpoint expression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review novel findings on neuroimmune circuits in the tumor milieu.
• To highlight the role of the nervous system in cancer progression and immune evasion.
• To identify potential therapeutic targets for anticancer strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on neuroimmune interactions in cancer.
• Analysis of mechanisms of immune regulation by tumor-associated nerves.
• Identification of immune checkpoints expressed on intratumoral nerves and glial cells.

Main Results:

• Neuronal stimuli in the TME induce immune cell exhaustion and inhibit effector functions.
• Tumor-associated nerves and glial cells express immune checkpoints, mediating immune regulation.
• Neuroimmune circuits play a significant role in tumorigenesis and cancer progression.

Conclusions:

• Targeting neuroimmune circuits presents a promising avenue for novel anticancer therapies.
• Understanding the interplay between nerves and immunity in tumors can lead to more effective and affordable cancer treatments.