Similarities between tumour immune response and chronic wound microenvironment : influence of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells
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Date
Authors
Peta, Kimberly Thando
Ambele, Melvin Anyasi
Pepper, Michael Sean
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Hindawi
Abstract
Tumours are characterized by a state of chronic inflammation and are regarded as wounds that never heal. Mesenchymal
stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are being considered as a possible treatment option. While MSCs can regulate the immune system,
migrate to sites of inflammation, and are naturally immune-privileged, there have been contradictory reports on the role of
these cells in the tumour microenvironment (TME). Some studies have suggested that MSCs promote tumourigenesis while
others have suggested the contrary. To better evaluate the role of MSCs in the TME, it may be helpful to understand the role of
MSCs in chronic wounds. Here, we discuss the role of MSCs in chronic wounds and extrapolate this to the TME. Chronic
wounds are stuck in the inflammatory phase of wound healing, while in the case of the TME, both the inflammatory and
proliferative phases are exploited. MSCs in chronic wounds promote a switch in macrophage phenotype from proinflammatory
(M1) to anti-inflammatory (M2), thereby suppressing T, B, and natural killer cells, consequently promoting wound healing. In
the case of the TME, MSCs are reported to promote tumorigenesis by suppressing T, B, and natural killer cells in addition to
dendritic cells, cytotoxic T cells, and Th1-associated cytokines, thereby promoting tumour growth. Some studies have however
suggested that MSCs inhibit tumourigenesis, depending on the source of the MSCs and the specific mediators involved.
Therefore, the role of MSCs in the TME appears to be complex and may result in variable outcomes. Compelling evidence to
suggest that MSCs are an effective treatment option against tumour progression is lacking.
Description
Keywords
Tumours, Wounds, Treatment, Tumour microenvironment, Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs), Tumour microenvironment (TME)
Sustainable Development Goals
Citation
Peta, K.T., Ambele, M.A., Pepper, M.S. 2021, 'Similarities between tumour immune response and chronic wound microenvironment : influence of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells', Journal of Immunology Research, vol. 2021, art. 664314, pp. 1-11, doi : 10.1155/2021/6649314.