Targeting Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase 1: Fighting Cancers via Dormancy Regulation

The connection between indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) and tumour dormancy - a quiescent state of tumour cells which has been consistently linked to metastasis and cancer recurrence - is rarely discussed despite the pivotal role of IDO1 in cancer development and progression. Whilst the underlying mechanisms of IDO1-mediated dormancy are elusive, we summarize the IDO1 pathways which potentially contribute to dormancy in this review. Critically, distinct IDO1 activities are involved in dormancy initiation and maintenance; factors outside the well-studied IDO1/kynurenine/aryl hydrocarbon receptor axis, including the mammalian target of rapamycin and general control nonderepressible 2, appear to be implicated in dormancy. We also discuss various strategies for cancer treatment via regulating IDO1-dependent dormancy and suggest the application of nanotechnology to deliver effective treatment.

Automated summary

This review highlights the connection between IDO1 and tumour dormancy, emphasizing the importance of understanding IDO1 pathways in cancer development and progression. The involvement of distinct IDO1 activities in dormancy initiation and maintenance, as well as the potential role of other factors outside the well-studied IDO1/kynurenine/aryl hydrocarbon receptor axis, are discussed. Various strategies for cancer treatment via regulating IDO1-dependent dormancy and the potential application of nanotechnology for effective treatment delivery are also proposed.