Work

Neutrophils in cancer: from immune defense to tumor promotion

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Neutrophils are the protagonists of the host immune response, possessing potent antimicrobial and inflammatory capacities. The neutrophil reservoir as well as the development, mobilization, chemotaxis, pro-inflammatory activity, and clearance of neutrophils are strictly regulated to prevent inflammation-induced tissue damage. Inflammation pervades almost every type of cancer. However, there is growing awareness that although the tumor microenvironment has the capacity to recruit neutrophils, the functions are diverse and include roles other than that of sentinels in cancer. This review highlights the heterogeneity of neutrophils in tumors, discusses the dual role of neutrophils as angels and demons in tumorigenesis, invasion, and metastasis, and examines the potential of neutrophils as targets in clinical therapy.

Source: Cancer Biology and Medicine

DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2025.0023

Authors: Zhen Wang, Hanwen Hu, Yunjia Bao, Liwei Pang, Chenghui Yang

Institutions: Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Immune cells in cancer

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,500