TeachAde

Macrophages in Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The tumor microenvironment, which includes various immune cells, plays a significant role in cancer progression and response to therapy. Among these immune cells, macrophages have been identified as key players due to their diverse functions and plasticity.
The Role of Macrophages in Liver Cancer
Recent studies have highlighted the crucial role of macrophages in liver cancer. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are abundant in the liver cancer microenvironment and can exhibit either pro-tumor (M2) or anti-tumor (M1) phenotypes. M2 macrophages promote tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis by releasing various cytokines and growth factors. Conversely, M1 macrophages enhance anti-tumor immune responses through the production of inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species.
In liver cancer, the majority of TAMs display an M2-like phenotype, contributing to an immunosuppressive microenvironment that allows cancer cells to evade immune surveillance. This characteristic makes macrophages an attractive target for therapeutic intervention.