Parvimonas micra-polarized M2-like tumor-associated macrophages accelerate colorectal cancer development via IL-8

Dang Khoa Nguyen1,2,3, Min-Jung Kang1, Su-Jeong Oh1,2,3

  • 1Department of Oral Biochemistry, Dental and Life Science Institute, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea.

Animal Cells and Systems
|January 8, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Parvimonas micra (Pm) infection promotes colorectal cancer (CRC) progression by polarizing macrophages to an M2-like state, enhancing tumor cell proliferation and migration. This study reveals mechanisms linking Pm to CRC advancement via the tumor microenvironment.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Parvimonas micra (Pm) is a periodontal pathogen linked to impaired anti-tumor immunity in colorectal cancer (CRC).
  • Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) influence CRC progression, with M2-like polarization suppressing anti-tumor immune responses.
  • Mechanisms of Pm's impact on CRC progression are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of Pm infection on CRC cell characteristics and macrophage polarization.
  • To elucidate the role of Pm in modulating the CRC tumor microenvironment.

Main Methods:

  • In vitro studies using THP-1 derived macrophages and CRC cells treated with Pm.
  • Analysis of macrophage polarization markers (e.g., interleukin-10).
  • In vivo studies using an azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate mouse model of CRC treated with oral Pm.

Main Results:

  • Pm-infected macrophages showed increased interleukin-10 (M2 marker).
  • Conditioned media from Pm-treated cells enhanced CRC cell proliferation, cisplatin resistance, and migration, with interleukin-8 identified as a key mediator.
  • Oral Pm administration accelerated CRC tumor growth in a mouse model.

Conclusions:

  • Pm infection promotes CRC progression by inducing M2-like macrophage polarization.
  • Pm influences CRC cell proliferation, chemoresistance, and migration through factors like interleukin-8.
  • These findings offer insights into Pm's role in the CRC tumor microenvironment and suggest potential therapeutic targets.