Immunogenic cell death in colorectal cancer: a review of mechanisms and clinical utility

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite several clinical advances the survival of patients with advanced colorectal cancer remains limited, demanding newer approaches. The immune system plays a central role in cancer development, propagation, and treatment response. Within the bowel, the colorectal mucosa is a key barrier and site of immune regulation that is generally immunosuppressive. Nonetheless, within this tumour microenvironment, it is evident that anti-neoplastic treatments which cause direct cytotoxic and cytostatic effects may also induce immunogenic cell death (ICD), a form of regulated cell death that leads to an anti-tumour immune response. Therefore, novel ICD inducers and molecular biomarkers of ICD action are urgently needed to advance treatment options for advanced CRC. This article reviews our knowledge of ICD in CRC.