Tumor and immune cells

The interaction between tumor and immune cells occurs within the tumor microenvironment (TME), a complex cellular ecosystem that dictates cancer progression and therapeutic response (Binnewies et al., 2018, Nature Medicine). Tumor cells often exploit inhibitory pathways, such as the PD-1/PD-L1 axis, to suppress the activity of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and evade immunosurveillance (Pardoll, 2012, Nature Reviews Cancer). Modern immunotherapy aims to disrupt these interactions using monoclonal antibodies or to enhance immune recognition through engineered cells like CAR-T therapies (June et al., 2018, Science). This cellular interface is characterized by a balance of pro-tumorigenic factors and anti-tumor immune responses, making it a focal point for drug development (Gajewski et al., 2013, Nature Immunology). While 'Tumor and immune cells' describes a biological system rather than a single molecular entity, it represents the primary context for the action of checkpoint inhibitors and other immunomodulatory agents (National Cancer Institute, 2023). Understanding the spatial and functional dynamics between these cell populations is essential for developing effective immunotherapies and identifying relevant biomarkers (Chen & Mellman, 2013, Immunity).

Other names

Tumor microenvironmentTMECancer-immune interfaceTumor-infiltrating immune cellsTumor-immune interactome

Modulation of the tumor microenvironment through immune checkpoint inhibition, cytokine signaling, or adoptive cellular transfer to restore anti-tumor immunity.