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The following is a summary of “Metabolic reprogramming of macrophages in cancer therapy,” published in the September 2024 issue of Endocrinology by Wang et al.

Cancer continues to pose a substantial global public health challenge, characterized by complex interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Among the various immune cell populations present, macrophages represent the most abundant group, significantly influencing tumor progression and response to therapy. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are particularly noteworthy as they undergo metabolic reprogramming driven by the unique biochemical signals and conditions of the TME. This metabolic alteration can skew TAMs toward a pro-tumorigenic phenotype, often resulting in immunosuppression and tumor promotion. However, by strategically manipulating key metabolic pathways—such as those governing glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism—a promising opportunity exists to redirect TAMs toward an antitumor state, thereby enhancing the overall immune response against malignancies. 

In this review, researchers elucidate the processes underlying the metabolic reprogramming of TAMs and examine how these changes can be leveraged as a novel strategy in cancer immunotherapy. The study group delved into the primary metabolic pathways facilitating TAM reprogramming, emphasizing their implications for therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, investigators provide insights into cutting-edge technologies currently employed in TAM reprogramming, including genome editing techniques, monoclonal antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, nanoparticles, and innovative in situ editing strategies. By integrating these advanced methodologies, they aim to redefine the functional roles of TAMs within the TME and harness their potential to enhance antitumor immunity. The exploration of metabolic reprogramming as a therapeutic target holds the promise of improving patient outcomes and contributing to the development of more effective cancer treatment modalities. 

Ultimately, the findings underscore the importance of understanding the metabolic landscape of TAMs and highlight the potential of metabolic interventions as a transformative approach in the ongoing battle against cancer.

Source: sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1043276024002443