Immune Cells: Critical Players in Drug Resistance

The chapter explores the complicated relationship between immune cells and cancer drug resistance. The immune cell composition in the tumor microenvironment (TME), encompassing B cells, effector and regulatory T cells, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), plays a decisive role in tumorigenesis. Various studies showed that MDSCs can create immunosuppressive microenvironment, allowing cancer cells to evade drug-induced cytotoxicity. The dynamics of the tumor microenvironment, influenced by immune cells, play a crucial role in modulating drug responsiveness. The chapter navigates through the signaling pathways, molecular cross talk, and adaptive mechanisms that define the immune landscape in the context of cancer drug resistance. It explores the potential of immunotherapeutic interventions, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, to recalibrate immune responses and overcome resistance mechanisms. In essence, this exploration underscores the pivotal role of immune cells in shaping the destiny of cancer drug resistance. By deciphering the intricacies of these interactions, the chapter aims to provide insights that pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies, pushing the boundaries of cancer treatment toward greater efficacy and resilience against resistance.