Cancer Cells Reprogramme Immune Cells to Aid Tumour Growth

Cancer cells can manipulate the body’s immune defences to support tumour growth, according to a new study that sheds light on a critical mechanism of cancer progression. Researchers have found that tumours can “reprogramme” immune cells to produce molecules that actively promote cancer growth, with potential implications for diagnosis and personalised treatment.

Neutrophils Turn from Defenders to Enablers

The study, led by researchers from the University of Geneva and the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, focused on neutrophils, one of the most abundant immune cells in the human body. Neutrophils normally act as the first line of defence against infections and injuries. However, when exposed to tumour environments, they undergo functional reprogramming that contributes to cancer progression.

Role of CCL3 in Tumour Progression

Published in the journal Cancer Cell, the research identifies the chemokine CCL3 as a key molecule produced by reprogrammed neutrophils. The study shows that CCL3 promotes tumour growth and can serve as a marker of disease progression. Lead researcher Mikaël Pittet noted that identifying such variables is essential to understanding why some tumours grow aggressively while others progress more slowly.

Genetic Control Alters Harmful Immune Behaviour

By selectively controlling the CCL3 gene in neutrophils, researchers found that these cells lost their tumour-promoting behaviour without affecting their normal immune functions. Neutrophils without CCL3 could still circulate in the blood and accumulate in tumours but no longer adopted the harmful reprogrammed state. This finding highlights CCL3 as both a functional driver and a potential therapeutic target.

Important Facts for Exams

• Neutrophils are the most abundant white blood cells in humans.
• Chemokines like CCL3 regulate immune cell movement and activity.
• Tumour microenvironment can alter immune cell behaviour.
• Biomarkers help assess cancer progression and treatment response.

Towards Personalised Cancer Management

By re-analysing data from multiple independent studies, the researchers suggest that tumour evolution may be governed by a limited set of biological variables. Identifying these factors could enable clinicians to better predict disease trajectories and design more personalised and effective cancer therapies in the future.