Significance of IL-6 in the transition of hormone-resistant prostate cancer and the induction of myeloid-derived suppressor cells

Hormone-resistant (HR) prostate cancers are highly aggressive and respond poorly to treatment. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in HR should lead to more rational approaches to therapy. The role of IL-6/STAT3 signaling in the transition of HR with aggressive tumor behavior and its possible link with myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) were identified. In the present study, murine prostate cancer cell line (TRAMP-C1) and a hormone-resistant cell sub-line (TRAMP-HR) were used. Changes in tumor growth, invasion ability, and the responsible pathway were investigated in vitro and in vivo. We also examined the role of IL-6 in HR tumor progression and the recruitment of MDSCs. As seen in both in vitro and in vivo experiments, HR had aggressive tumor growth compared to TRAMP-C1. From mRNA and protein analysis, a higher expression of IL-6 associated with a more activated STAT3 was noted in HR tumor. When IL-6 signaling in prostate cancer was blocked, aggressive tumor behavior could be overcome. The underlying changes included decreased cell proliferation, less epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and decreased STAT3 activation. In addition to tumor progression, circulating IL-6 levels were significantly correlated with MDSC recruitment in vivo. Inhibition of IL-6 abrogated the recruitment of MDSCs in tumor- bearing mice, associated with slower tumor growth and attenuated angiogenesis. In conclusion, altered IL-6/STAT3 signaling is crucial in HR transition, aggressive behavior, and MDSC recruitment. These findings provide evidence for therapeutically targeting IL-6 signaling in prostate cancer.