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The IL-1 system in inflammation and cancer
Cecilia Garlanda1, Eduardo Bonavita1, Roberto Garuti1
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan 20072, Italy; IRCCS, Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan 20089, Italy.
Seminars in Immunology
|August 8, 2026
Summary
Inflammation, driven by the IL-1 system, plays a dual role in cancer. IL-1 can promote tumor growth and metastasis, but also activate anti-tumor immunity, highlighting its complex involvement in cancer progression.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Inflammation is a key factor in cancer development and progression.
- The tumor microenvironment significantly influences cancer outcomes.
- The IL-1 system comprises ligands and receptors with critical roles in immunity and inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of the IL-1 system's role in cancer.
- To discuss the complex, context-dependent functions of IL-1 family cytokines in tumorigenesis.
- To explore how IL-1 influences both pro- and anti-tumor processes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on the IL-1 system and cancer.
- Analysis of the dual roles of IL-1α and IL-1β in cancer cell behavior.
- Examination of IL-1's impact on the tumor microenvironment and immune responses.
Main Results:
- IL-1 family members exhibit context-specific functions, acting as both tumor promoters and inhibitors.
- IL-1α and IL-1β can directly enhance cancer cell proliferation, survival, and plasticity.
- IL-1 also drives anti-tumor immune responses and regulates cancer-related mechanisms like metabolism.
Conclusions:
- The IL-1 system's intricate involvement in cancer necessitates a nuanced understanding of its dual functions.
- Targeting the IL-1 system may offer therapeutic strategies by modulating pro- or anti-tumor activities.
- Further research is crucial to fully elucidate the IL-1 system's complex orchestration of cancer biology.
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