Pro‐ and Anti‐Inflammatory Role of Complement in Cancer
Pradipta Pal, Praneet Wahi, Arvind Sahu, Girdhari Lal
Abstract
The complement system bridges innate and adaptive immunity, and its role in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is complex and context-dependent. Multiple recent studies have demonstrated the complement system's pro- and anti-tumor effects. In the present review, we discuss the role of complement in shaping the functions of various immune cells, including T cells, macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells, neutrophils, and dendritic cells within the TME. We also highlighted how complement proteins drive the pro- or anti-inflammatory immune responses, the associated cellular and molecular mechanisms, their influence on anti-tumor immunity, and some clinical trials targeting complement systems. A comprehensive and critical understanding of the complement system in oncoimmunology may aid in designing effective tumor-specific therapeutic strategies.