Radiotherapy and the tumor microenvironment: The "macro" picture

Abstract

In this issue of the Biomedical Journal, we explore the inner workings of tumor-associated macrophages and seek to understand how these cells can boost or limit the efficacy of radiotherapy, depending on the context. We also highlight a study revealing that staffing patterns in the intensive care unit may affect the outcome of patients with severe sepsis. Finally, we learn how an advanced imaging technique can improve endodontic treatment planning.

Keywords: Radiotherapy; Severe sepsis; Tumor-associated macrophages.

Fig. 1

The effect of ionizing radiation on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Depending on a multitude of factors, including dose, genetics and age, ionizing radiation may either promote a pro-inflammatory M1 like response or an anti-inflammatory M2 like response in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). As a result, TAMs may either promote or inhibit anti-tumor responses thus making the tumor sensitive or resistant to radiotherapy, respectively. Figure kindly provided by Wu et al. .