The role of neutrophils in cancer.

Robert Grecian,Moira K B Whyte,Sarah R Walmsley

doi:10.1093/bmb/ldy029

Abstract

IntroductionIt has been known for some time that neutrophils are present in the tumour microenvironment, but only recently have their roles been explored.Sources of dataComprehensive literature search of neutrophils and cancer (PubMed, Google Scholar and CrossRef) for key articles (systematic reviews, meta-analyses, primary research). References from these articles cross-checked for additional relevant studies.Areas of agreementNeutrophils are a heterogeneous population with both pro- and antitumour roles, and display plasticity. Several neutrophil subpopulations have been identified, defined by a combination of features (density, maturity, surface markers, morphology and anatomical site).Areas of controversyLimitations in translating murine tumour models to human pathology and paucity of human data. Consensus in defining human neutrophil subpopulations.Growing pointsNeutrophils as therapeutic targets and as possible playmakers in the biological response to newer targeted cancer drugs.Areas timely for developing researchUnderstanding the metabolic programming of neutrophils in the tumour microenvironment.

Highlights

It has been known for some time that neutrophils are present in the tumour microenvironment, but only recently have their roles been explored
The ability of malignant cells to establish themselves in a niche and subsequently metastasize is not entirely dependent on their own intrinsic cellular signalling pathways; complex interactions with a myriad of immune cells in the tumour microenvironment are a key.[1]
Neutrophils have been widely reported to suppress T cell proliferation in ex vivo studies, with Coffelt et al demonstrating this is inducible nitric oxide synthase-dependent,[24] but it must be noted that recently concerns have arisen about the accuracy of these assays when T cell activating microbeads have been used.[25]