Cross Talk of Macrophages with Tumor Microenvironment Cells and Modulation of Macrophages in Cancer by Virotherapy

Cellular compartments constituting the tumor microenvironment including immune cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and mesenchymal stromal/stem cells communicate with malignant cells to orchestrate a series of signals that contribute to the evolution of the tumor microenvironment. In this study, we will focus on the interplay in tumor microenvironment between macrophages and mesenchymal stem cells and macrophages and fibroblasts. In particular, cell-cell interaction and mediators secreted by these cells will be examined to explain pro/anti-tumor phenotypes induced in macrophages. Nonetheless, in the context of virotherapy, the response of macrophages as a consequence of treatment with oncolytic viruses will be analyzed regarding their polarization status and their pro/anti-tumor response.

Automated summary

This study focuses on the interaction between macrophages and mesenchymal stem cells, as well as macrophages and fibroblasts, in the tumor microenvironment. The cell-cell interactions and secreted mediators will be examined to explain the pro/anti-tumor phenotypes induced in macrophages. Additionally, the response of macrophages to oncolytic virus treatment will be analyzed in terms of polarization status and their pro/anti-tumor response.