Unveiling the potential of natural TLR modulators in cancer immunotherapy
Wenying Zheng, Junming Chen, Jiajun Liu, Xintong Han, Siyuan Zhang, Chao Yang, Hua Yu, Wen Tan, Zhangfeng Zhong
Abstract
Despite extensive global research, malignant tumors remain incurable with targeted therapies. Over recent years, developments in immunotherapy have generated new hope for cancer patients. As a novel and promising immunotherapy approach, toll-like receptor (TLR) modulators emerged as a crucial player in anti-cancer treatment by activating TLR signaling pathways and boosting the body's immune response. In the present study, we delved into multiple aspects, namely the classification, underlying underpinnings, and expression patterns of TLRs, alongside their pivotal roles in cancer immunotherapy. Furthermore, we critically evaluate the application of natural TLR modulators derived from herbal medicine across diverse malignancies, including lung, colon, liver, hematological, and pancreatic cancers. Our review provides the recent advances of TLRs and practical guidance for utilizing natural product-derived TLR modulators in cancer immunotherapy, laying the groundwork for developing novel anti-cancer strategies.