Tumor-associated macrophages in immunotherapy

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are essential components of the tumor microenvironment involved in the progression and metastasis of cancer. They are intimately involved in angiogenesis and immunosuppression in normal and malignant tissues, as well as pro-fibrotic activities. With the development of immunotherapy, eradication of cancer cells through activation of the innate immune system has achieved inspiring results, whereas only a handful of patients show a durable response. The tumor-suppressive environment has been investigated with respect to playing a vital role in cancer relapse. In this review, we uncover the heterogeneity of the origin of TAMs, as well as the functions of TAMs in tumor progression associated with intricate regulatory networks in the tumor microenvironment, aiming to inspire therapeutic insight for tumor immunotherapy.

Automated summary

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play essential roles in tumor progression and metastasis by promoting angiogenesis, immunosuppression, and fibrotic activities. While immunotherapy has shown promising results in eradicating cancer cells by activating the innate immune system, the tumor-suppressive environment is crucial in cancer relapse.