Role of circadian rhythm disorders on EMT and tumour-immune interactions in endocrine-related cancers

The circadian rhythm is a major environmental regulator of plants and animal physiology. The alternation of days and nights is translated at the cell and tissue level thanks to a molecular machinery, called the circadian clock. This clock controls in particular numerous endocrine functions, and its imbalances can have serious consequences on homeostasis. This is particularly true for the development of endocrine-related cancers, like breast, ovarian and prostate cancer. Circadian rhythm disorder (CRD) not only affects key hormone levels (including oestrogen, melatonin, insulin, glucagon, cortisol) but also favours a pro-inflammatory and immunosuppressive phenotype in the tumour microenvironment. This particular aspect is conducive to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of solid epithelial tumours and cancer cell dissemination. It also favours resistance to chemo- and immunotherapy. Here, we discuss the current knowledge on this crosstalk between CRD, EMT and the immune microenvironment in endocrine-related cancers and its consequences for the development of efficient therapies.

Automated summary

The circadian rhythm plays a crucial role in regulating plant and animal physiology, impacting endocrine-related cancers through its effects on hormone levels and the tumor microenvironment. Imbalances in the circadian clock can lead to the promotion of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and resistance to therapies like chemotherapy and immunotherapy.