IL-36α inhibits melanoma by inducing pro-inflammatory polarization of macrophages

Interleukin-36 alpha (IL-36 alpha) is essential for various inflammatory conditions, such as psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, whereas its role in tumor immunity is unclear. In this study, it was demonstrated that IL-36 alpha could activate the NF-kappa B and MAPK signaling pathways in macrophages, leading to the expression of IL-1 beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha, CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL3, CXCL5 and iNOS. Importantly, IL-36a has significant antitumor effects, altering the tumor microenvironment and promoting the infiltration of MHC IIhigh macrophages and CD8(+) T cells while decreasing the levels of monocyte myeloid-derived suppressor cells, CD4(+) T cells and regulatory T cells. This ultimately results in the inhibition of tumor growth and migration. Furthermore, IL-36 alpha synergized with the PD-L1 antibody increased the immune cells infiltration and enhanced the anti-tumor effect of the PD-L1 antibody on melanoma. Collectively, this study reveals a new role for IL-36 alpha in promoting anti-tumor immune responses in macrophages and suggests its potential for cancer immunotherapy.

Automated summary

IL-36 alpha activates NF-kappa B and MAPK signaling pathways in macrophages, leading to the expression of inflammatory factors. Additionally, IL-36 alpha has significant anti-tumor effects by altering the tumor microenvironment and promoting the infiltration of immune cells while decreasing suppressor cells and regulatory T cells.IL-36 alpha also synergizes with PD-L1 antibody to enhance its anti-tumor effect on melanoma. This study reveals a new role for IL-36 alpha in promoting anti-tumor immune responses and suggests its potential for cancer immunotherapy.