Metabolic antagonism in the TME suppresses CD8+ T cell function by depleting essential nutrients and generating toxic byproducts. Metabolic symbiosis between tumor cells and TAMs fosters an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Disrupting metabolic interactions can overcome immune suppression, boost antitumor immunity, and enhance immunotherapy efficacy.
ABSTRACT
The fate of immune cells is fundamentally linked to their metabolic program, which is also influenced by the metabolic landscape of their environment. The tumor microenvironment represents a unique system for intercellular metabolic interactions, where tumor-derived metabolites suppress effector CD8+ T cells and promote tumor-promoting macrophages, reinforcing an immune-suppressive niche. This review will discuss recent advancements in metabolism research, exploring the interplay between various metabolites and their effects on immune cells within the tumor microenvironment.