Eph receptors in the immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment

Abstract

The tumor microenvironment (TME) promotes tumor development via complex intercellular signaling, aiding tumor growth and suppressing immunity. Eph receptors and their ephrin ligands control cell interactions during normal development, and re-emerge in tumors and the TME, where they are implicated in invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis. Recent studies also indicate roles for Eph receptors in suppressing immune responses, by controlling tumor interactions with innate and adaptive immune cells within the TME. Accordingly, inhibiting these functions can promote immune response and efficacy of immune-checkpoint inhibition. This research highlights Eph receptors as potential targets to enhance efficacy of immune-based therapies in cancer patients.