The tumor-immune microenvironment and response to radiation therapy

J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia. 2010 Dec;15(4):411-21. doi: 10.1007/s10911-010-9194-9. Epub 2010 Dec 16.

Abstract

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy (RT) are standard therapeutic modalities for patients with cancer, including breast cancer. Historic studies examining tissue and cellular responses to RT have predominantly focused on damage caused to proliferating malignant cells leading to their death. However, there is increasing evidence that RT also leads to significant alterations in the tumor microenvironment, particularly with respect to effects on immune cells infiltrating tumors. This review focuses on tumor-associated immune cell responses following RT and discusses how immune responses may be modified to enhance durability and efficacy of RT.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Breast Neoplasms / immunology
  • Breast Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / immunology*
  • Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Tumor Microenvironment / immunology*
  • Tumor Microenvironment / radiation effects*