Neuro-immune interactions in cancer: mechanisms and therapeutic prospects
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By
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Jingting Liu
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Chun Zhang
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Chong Zhang
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Jianying Pei
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Yan Li
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June 19, 2026
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Objective:
To synthesize recent advancements in understanding the molecular mechanisms and regulatory pathways of the neuro-immune axis in cancer.
Approach:
Key Findings:
- Neuro-immune interactions significantly impact tumor progression and immune regulation.
- Perineural invasion is recognized as a key route for cancer cell spread and contributes to an immunosuppressive environment.
- The presence of nerve fibers within tumors is now considered a hallmark of many solid tumors, influencing cancer progression.
Interpretation:
The interplay between the nervous and immune systems is complex and significantly influences cancer development and responses to therapy.
Limitations:
- The exact processes by which neurons affect immunity are still being investigated, presenting challenges for targeted therapies.
- Tissue-specific variations in neuro-immune profiles complicate the development of effective therapeutic strategies.
Conclusion:
Understanding neuro-immune interactions may provide new insights for therapeutic interventions in cancer treatment.