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IL-6/IL-6R-Mediated Mechanisms in Lung Cancer: From Pathogenesis to Potential Therapeutic Targets
Qamar Abuhassan1, Hamzeh J Al-Ameer2, S Renuka Jyothi3
1Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
Immunology
|July 22, 2026
Summary
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) signaling drives lung cancer progression and resistance to therapies. Targeting the IL-6/IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) pathway offers a promising strategy to improve treatment outcomes for lung cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally.
- Therapeutic resistance in advanced lung cancer contributes significantly to mortality.
- Chronic inflammation and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) overexpression in the tumor microenvironment (TME) promote tumorigenesis and treatment resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the IL-6/IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) signaling pathway in lung cancer.
- To synthesize evidence on IL-6's function in therapy resistance, metastasis, and tumor progression.
- To highlight the potential of targeting IL-6/IL-6R as a therapeutic strategy.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical and preclinical studies.
- Analysis of the IL-6/IL-6R signaling pathway in lung cancer.
- Examination of IL-6's role in promoting tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance.
Main Results:
- IL-6, secreted by tumor cells and fibroblasts, is overexpressed in lung cancer.
- IL-6 signaling facilitates therapeutic resistance, metastasis, and tumor progression.
- Targeting IL-6/IL-6R is associated with improved treatment efficacy in preclinical models.
Conclusions:
- The IL-6/IL-6R pathway is a critical driver of lung cancer progression and resistance.
- Targeting IL-6/IL-6R in combination with standard therapies presents a viable strategy for lung cancer management.
- Further clinical investigation into IL-6/IL-6R inhibitors is warranted.
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