Dados do Resumo

Título

IL-10: A Crucial Factor in Immune Modulation and Colorectal Cancer Progression

Introdução

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally. The immune environment, particularly cytokines like IL-10, plays a crucial role in tumor progression. IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine, is implicated in immune evasion by tumors. Studies suggest that IL-10 can modulate immune responses in the tumor microenvironment, contributing to CRC development and progression by promoting immune tolerance.

Objetivo

To investigate the role of IL-10 in colorectal cancer progression, focusing on its impact on the immune microenvironment and potential as a therapeutic target for limiting tumor growth and enhancing immune response in CRC patients.

Métodos

A literature review was performed using PubMed and LILACS databases with the descriptors: “IL-10,” “colorectal cancer,” “immune response,” and “tumor microenvironment.” The search was restricted to articles published between 2018 and 2024. Studies were included if they explored the mechanistic role of IL-10 in modulating the immune response in CRC or examined therapeutic interventions targeting IL-10. Both human and mouse studies were considered. Exclusion criteria included studies not published in English, articles centered on other cancers, studies focusing on other cytokines, and research that did not provide quantitative data on IL-10's impact. A total of 46 studies were identified, of which 29 were excluded based on these criteria, resulting in 17 studies included in this review.

Resultados

IL-10 levels were elevated in the CRC microenvironment, promoting tumor growth by skewing immune responses toward a pro-tumorigenic profile. Depletion of gut microbiota reduced IL-10 production, leading to an increase in IFN-gamma-producing T cells and a decrease in IL-17a and IL-10-producing T cells. This shift in cytokine balance resulted in reduced tumor burden. Additionally, blocking IL-17a reversed the tumor-suppressing effects of gut microbiome depletion, highlighting IL-10's critical role in tumor progression.

Conclusões

IL-10 significantly contributes to colorectal cancer progression by modulating immune responses within the tumor microenvironment. Targeting IL-10, either through direct inhibition or by altering gut microbiota, presents a promising therapeutic strategy for enhancing anti-tumor immunity in CRC patients. Further research is needed to explore IL-10 as a biomarker and therapeutic target.

Palavras Chave

Colorectal cancer; Immune modulation; Gut microbiota