Targeting Myeloid Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy

Abstract

Myeloid cells-including monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, and granulocytes-are critical architects of the tumor microenvironment, in which they exert diverse functions ranging from immunosuppressive to immunostimulatory. Advances in single-cell omics and high-dimensional immune profiling have unveiled the remarkable heterogeneity and plasticity of these cells, revealing lineage-specialized functions that shape cancer immunity. These discoveries have sparked growing interest in therapeutically targeting myeloid cells as a next-generation strategy in cancer immunotherapy. As a complementary or alternative approach to T cell-centered immunotherapies, myeloid-directed therapies offer unique opportunities to reprogram the immune landscape, enhance antitumor responses, and overcome resistance mechanisms. In this review, we highlight recent discoveries in myeloid cell biology in cancer and discuss emerging therapeutic targets, with an emphasis on antibody-based therapies that have reached clinical development. We further provide perspective on translational challenges to implement these approaches into the clinic and discuss how Fc-engineering and rational antibody design can optimize myeloid cell engagement and amplify their immune effector functions. Together, these advances position myeloid-directed immunotherapies as a promising approach to enhance the efficacy and durability of cancer treatment.

Topics & Concepts