The Function and Therapeutic Implications of TNF Signaling in MDSCs

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a group of immature and heterogeneous myeloid cells with immunosuppressive functions. MDSCs play important roles in the pathogenesis of cancer, chronic inflammatory diseases, and many autoimmune disorders. The accumulation and activation of MDSCs can be regulated by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). In this review, we summarize the roles played by TNF-alpha in the recruitment, immunosuppressive functions, and chemotaxis of MDSCs, and discuss the potential therapeutic effects of TNF-alpha upon these cells in tumor growth and some inflammatory disorders.

Automated summary

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are immature and heterogeneous myeloid cells with immunosuppressive functions, and they play important roles in cancer, chronic inflammatory diseases, and autoimmune disorders. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) regulates the accumulation and activation of MDSCs. In this review, the roles of TNF-alpha in the recruitment, immunosuppressive functions, and chemotaxis of MDSCs are summarized, and the potential therapeutic effects of TNF-alpha on these cells in tumor growth and inflammatory disorders are discussed.