Myeloid-derived suppressor cells in the tumor microenvironment: expect the unexpected
Douglas Marvel, Dmitry I. Gabrilovich
Douglas Marvel, Dmitry I. Gabrilovich
Published September 1, 2015; First published July 13, 2015
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2015;125(9):3356-3364. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI80005.
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Review Series

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells in the tumor microenvironment: expect the unexpected

Abstract

Our understanding of the role of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in cancer is becoming increasingly complex. In addition to their eponymous role in suppressing immune responses, they directly support tumor growth, differentiation, and metastasis in a number of ways that are only now beginning to be appreciated. It is because of this increasingly complex role that these cells may become an important factor in the treatment of human cancer. In this Review, we discuss the most pertinent and controversial issues of MDSC biology and their role in promoting cancer progression and highlight how these cells may be used in the clinic, both as prognostic factors and as therapeutic targets.

Authors

Douglas Marvel, Dmitry I. Gabrilovich

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Figure 2

Potential role of immature myeloid cells and MDSCs in the regulation of tumor development and progression.

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Potential role of immature myeloid cells and MDSCs in the regulation of ...
(A) Immature myeloid cells (IMCs) with the typical phenotype of MDSCs are produced in response to inflammatory stimuli. However, these cells often lack immunosuppressive activity. They contribute to tumorigenesis by recruiting proinflammatory CD4+ T cells that promote epithelial cell proliferation. (B) Tumor development is associated with the expansion of cells with acquired immunosuppressive activity (MDSCs). These cells also promote tumor cell invasion and angiogenesis and neutralize tumor cell senescence. (C) In metastatic tumors, MDSCs, in addition to promoting tumor cell invasion and angiogenesis, can support EMT and differentiation of osteoclasts supporting bone resorption.