Tumor-associated neutrophils: potential therapeutic targets in pancreatic cancer immunotherapy

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer (PC), a highly malignant tumor of the digestive system with poor therapeutic response and low survival rates. In recent years, immunotherapy have developed rapidly and achieved substantial results in many malignant neoplasms. However, responses to immunotherapy in PC are rare and its immunosuppressive and desmoplastic tumor microenvironment (TME) composes an important impediment to their efficacy in PC. Tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) play a crucial role in the PC microenvironment, exerting a profound influence on PC immunotherapy through establishing a robust stromal shelter and restraining immune cells to assist PC cells in immune escape, which may subvert the current situation of immunotherapy for PC. The purpose of this review is to offer a thorough summary of the latest progress in comprehending the involvement of TANs in PC desmoplastic and immunosuppressive functions, as well as to emphasize the potential therapeutic consequences of focusing on TANs in the immunotherapy of this destructive ailment. Last but not least, we have provided an outlook for the future of TANs in PC immunotherapy.