Cytokine-mediated mechanisms of TAM in driving cancer progression

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), along with the cytokines they secrete are central elements of the tumor microenvironment. The polarization of TAMs into either M1 or M2 phenotypes significantly influences tumor progression. While both phenotypes can contribute to tumor development, M2-like TAMs, particularly the M2d subset, are more prevalent and are strongly correlated with poor prognosis in various cancer types. Considering the increasing cancer burden and the limitations of conventional therapies, including treatment resistance and adverse side effects, there is a pressing need for more effective therapeutic strategies. Cytokines released by M2 TAMs are known to facilitate critical processes in cancer progression, such as tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Therapeutically targeting these cytokines and their corresponding receptors holds potential to reprogram the tumor microenvironment, enhancing immune system activity against cancer cells and reducing resistance to existing treatments. Therefore, TAMs and their associated cytokine networks represent promising targets for innovative cancer therapies, particularly in treatment-resistant cases.