Tumors Exploit Blood Flow Obstruction to Evade Immune System, New Research Reveals
TAIPEI, Taiwan – A groundbreaking study published in JACC-CardioOncology details how restricted blood flow around tumors creates an immunosuppressive microenvironment, effectively allowing cancer cells to build a “sanctuary” adn avoid destruction by the immune system. The findings suggest a critical link between vascular and metabolic health and cancer progression, potentially revolutionizing treatment strategies.Researchers discovered that ischemia - insufficient blood supply – triggers an accumulation of immunosuppressive cells, including Ly6Chi mononuclear spheres, M2 macrophages, and regulatory T cells, surrounding tumors. This cellular shield not only protects cancer cells from immune attack but also alters the expression and chromatin structure of hundreds of genes, further biasing immune cells towards “tolerating” the tumor’s presence. This aging-like mechanism driven by ischemia provides a novel understanding of how cancer thrives even under immune system surveillance.
“the findings reveal how ischemia drives cancer growth through aging-like mechanism,” explained Dr. Alexandra Newman, the study’s first author. Corresponding author Professor Kathryn J.Moore emphasized the need to integrate metabolic and vascular risk factors into cancer treatment. “Cancer treatment strategies must include metabolic and vascular risk factors,” she stated, suggesting earlier cancer screening for patients with peripheral arterial disease and exploration of anti-inflammatory therapies as potential interventions. The research was supported by funding from the American Heart Association and the National Institutes of Health.