Tumor microenvironment promotes lymphatic metastasis of cervical cancer: its mechanisms and clinical implications

Abstract

Although previous studies have shed light on the etiology of cervical cancer, metastasis of advanced cervical cancer remains the main reason for the poor outcome and high cancer-related mortality rate. Cervical cancer cells closely communicate with immune cells recruited to the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as lymphocytes, tumor-associated macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. The crosstalk between tumors and immune cells has been clearly shown to foster metastatic dissemination. Therefore, unraveling the mechanisms of tumor metastasis is crucial to develop more effective therapies. In this review, we interpret several characteristics of the TME that promote the lymphatic metastasis of cervical cancer, such as immune suppression and premetastatic niche formation. Furthermore, we summarize the complex interactions between tumor cells and immune cells within the TME, as well as potential therapeutic strategies to target the TME.

Decoding the immune landscape: a comprehensive analysis of immune-associated biomarkers in cervical carcinoma and their implications for immunotherapy strategies

“…Overall, CESC cells actively recruit normal macrophages in the TME, inducing them to act as immunosuppressive TAMs. Research has shown a significant correlation between increased macrophage levels in the tumor stroma and lymphatic vessel formation and lymphatic metastasis in CESC ( Li et al, 2023 ). The presence of TAMs in cervical cancer tumors is also associated with tumor progression and recurrence ( Gorvel and Olive, 2023 ).…”

Circular RNA in cervical cancer: Fundamental mechanism and clinical potential

“…Additionally, the specific enrichment of miR-221–3p has been noted within exosomes secreted by cervical squamous cell carcinoma cells. In this context, miR-221–3p has been shown to facilitate the migration and tube formation of human lymphatic endothelial cells, thereby promoting lymphangiogenesis and lymph node metastasis [ 82 ]. Regarding circRNAs, they have been observed to be particularly abundant within exosomes, often surpassing their cellular counterparts in terms of quantity.…”

Circular RNAs in Cervical Cancer: What are the Prospects?

“…Кроме того, специфическое обогащение миРНК-221-3p было отмечено в экзосомах, секретируемых клетками плоскоклеточного РШМ. В этом контексте было показано, что миРНК-221-3p облегчает миграцию и образование трубочек лимфатических эндотелиальных клеток человека, тем самым способствуя лимфангиогенезу и метастазированию в лимфатические узлы [70]. Что касается циркРНК, то их особенно много в экзосомах, и часто они превосходят по количеству свои клеточные аналоги.…”