增强乳腺癌抗肿瘤免疫：佐剂、药物和纳米载体的潜力

Despite advancements in breast cancer treatment, therapeutic resistance, and tumor recurrence continue to pose formidable challenges.

Therefore, a deep knowledge of the intricate interplay between the tumor and the immune system is necessary. In the pursuit of combating breast cancer, the awakening of antitumor immunity has been proposed as a compelling avenue. Tumor stroma in breast cancers contains multiple stromal and immune cells that impact the resistance to therapy and also the expansion of malignant cells.

Activating or repressing these stromal and immune cells, as well as their secretions can be proposed for exhausting resistance mechanisms and repressing tumor growth. NK cells and T lymphocytes are the prominent components of breast tumor immunity that can be triggered by adjuvants for eradicating malignant cells.

However, stromal cells like endothelial and fibroblast cells, as well as some immune suppressive cells, consisting of premature myeloid cells, and some subsets of macrophages and CD4+ T lymphocytes, can dampen antitumor immunity in favor of breast tumor growth and therapy resistance.

This review article aims to research the prospect of harnessing the power of drugs, adjuvants, and nanoparticles in awakening the immune reactions against breast malignant cells. By investigating the immunomodulatory properties of pharmacological agents and the synergistic effects of adjuvants, this review seeks to uncover the mechanisms through which antitumor immunity can be triggered.

Moreover, the current review delineates the challenges and opportunities in the translational journey from bench to bedside. Breast cancer is a formidable opponent, partly because it can create a protective environment that shields itself from the body’s immune system. To counter this, scientists have been developing various strategies to enhance the immune system’s ability to fight back. In this comprehensive review article, researchers have outlined several innovative approaches to boost antitumor immunity within the breast tumor microenvironment. One of the primary methods discussed is the use of immune checkpoint blockers. These are drugs that help immune cells recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.

The review also looks at other substances, including drugs, natural products, and also designed nanoparticles, that can help restore the strength and function of immune cells like CD8+ T lymphocytes and Natural Killer cells. These cells are crucial in the body’s defense against tumors, and by enhancing their activity, they can better locate and destroy cancer cells.

It also considers the importance of reducing the number of immunosuppressive cells, such as Regulatory T cells, Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells, Tumor-Associated Macrophages, and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. These cells typically work to protect the tumor by weakening the immune response, so finding ways to deplete them could tip the scales in favor of the immune system.

Additionally, the review addresses the challenging conditions within the tumor itself, such as low-oxygen levels and changes in metabolism that result in increased acidity. These factors can create a hostile environment for immune cells, so altering these conditions could make the tumor more vulnerable to an immune attack. In essence, the review provides a detailed examination of the current landscape and future possibilities for empowering the immune system in its battle against breast cancer.