New mechanism may help predict and improve macrophage-targeted cancer immunotherapy
Immunotherapy that targets tumor-associated macrophages, a type of immune cell in the tumor microenvironment, works only if the cells have a functional system of molecules that enables them to respond to the treatment. This is shown in a new study from Karolinska Institutet, published in the journal Nature Communications. The findings may help identify which tumors could respond to the treatment…
A new study from Karolinska Institutet, published in Nature Communications, may help improve macrophage-targeted cancer immunotherapy. The research found that the effectiveness of this treatment depends on a group of receptors known as endosomal Toll-like receptors, particularly TLR9. When these receptors are absent, macrophages remain in an immunosuppressive state, rendering the treatment ineffective.
The study also suggests that combining the immunotherapy with substances that activate TLR9 could enhance the treatment's effectiveness. Additionally, analyzing human tumor samples revealed links between the expression of the treatment target MARCO and TLR9 in various cancers, indicating that these mechanisms may also be relevant in humans.
The findings could aid in identifying which tumors may respond to the treatment and pave the way for new combination therapies in cancer treatment.
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