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Diagnostic Pathology
Published in: Diagnostic Pathology 1/2017

Open Access 01-12-2017 | Review

Role of tumour-associated macrophages in oral squamous cells carcinoma progression: an update on current knowledge

Authors: Maria Noel Marzano Rodrigues Petruzzi, Karen Cherubini, Fernanda Gonçalves Salum, Maria Antonia Zancanaro de Figueiredo

Published in: Diagnostic Pathology | Issue 1/2017

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Abstract

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) accounts over 90% of malignant neoplasms of the oral cavity. This pathological entity is associated to a high mortality rate that has remained unchanged over the past decades. Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are believed to have potential involvement in OSCC progression. However, the molecular networks involved in communication between stroma and cancer cells have not yet been fully elucidated.

Main body

The role of M2 polarized cells in oral carcinogenesis is supported by a correlation between TAMs accumulation into OSCC stroma and poor clinical outcome. Signalling pathways such as the NF-κB and cytokines released in the tumour microenvironment promote a bidirectional cross-talk between M2 and OSCC cells. These interactions consequently result in an increased proliferation of malignant cells and enhances aggressiveness, thus reducing patients’ survival time.

Conclusions

Here, we present a comprehensive review of the role of interleukin (IL)-1, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and the receptor tyrosine kinase Axl in macrophage polarization to an M2 phenotype and OSCC progression. Understanding the molecular basis of oral carcinogenesis and metastatic spread of OSCC would promote the development of targeted treatment contributing to a more favourable prognosis.
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Metadata
Title
Role of tumour-associated macrophages in oral squamous cells carcinoma progression: an update on current knowledge
Authors
Maria Noel Marzano Rodrigues Petruzzi
Karen Cherubini
Fernanda Gonçalves Salum
Maria Antonia Zancanaro de Figueiredo
Publication date
01-12-2017
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Diagnostic Pathology / Issue 1/2017
Electronic ISSN: 1746-1596
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13000-017-0623-6

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