Neuroendocrine regulations in tissue-specific immunity: From mechanism to applications in tumor

Abstract

Immune responses in nonlymphoid tissues play a vital role in the maintenance of homeostasis. Lots of evidence supports that tissue-specific immune cells provide defense against tumor through the localization in different tissue throughout the body, and can be regulated by diverse factors. Accordingly, the distribution of nervous tissue is also tissue-specific which is essential in the growth of corresponding organs, and the occurrence and development of tumor. Although there have been many mature perspectives on the neuroendocrine regulation in tumor microenvironment, the neuroendocrine regulation of tissue-specific immune cells has not yet been summarized. In this review, we focus on how tissue immune responses are influenced by autonomic nervous system, sensory nerves, and various neuroendocrine factors and reversely how tissue-specific immune cells communicate with neuroendocrine system through releasing different factors. Furthermore, we pay attention to the potential mechanisms of neuroendocrine-tissue specific immunity axis involved in tumors. This may provide new insights for the immunotherapy of tumors in the future.

Immunoregulation in cancer-associated cachexia

“…In addition to the central nervous system, neuropils and neural factors within the peripheral region can function as immunomodulators in the development of cancer dyscrasia [204] . Cancer-mediated factors, such as Activin A and IL-6, can inhibit BMP action on muscle fibers and nerve terminals by expressing Noggin.…”

Identification and characterization of nucleotide metabolism and neuroendocrine regulation-associated modification patterns in stomach adenocarcinoma with auxiliary prognostic assessment and immunotherapy response prediction

“…The metabolism of tumors is often regulated by the neuroendocrine system, and abnormal neuroendocrine regulation may cause metabolic disorders (19). In addition, numerous studies have demonstrated that nerves' primary means of modulating tumor cells is through neuroendocrine modulation, which has also been linked to tumor start, development, and a worse prognosis (34)(35)(36). Studies show that catecholamine-induced neuroendocrine phenotype of GC cells accelerates GC progression (13).…”

Tumor microenvironment

“…The innervated microenvironment (IME) is a specialized micro-ecosystem that forms through communication between nerves and cancer cells via nerve-derived neurotransmitters or neuropeptides [22]. IMEs are categorized as intracranial or extracranial innervated niches.…”