Locally Reprogramming Tumor-Associated Macrophages with Cytokine-Loaded Injectable Cryogels for Breast Cancer.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant immune cells in primary solid tumors, including breast cancer, and typically exhibit an M2-like, immunosuppressive phenotype that promotes tumor growth. Given that TAMs can be repolarized through cytokine signaling, we propose a localized cytokine delivery depot using an injectable alginate cryogel to reprogram TAMs and create an inflammatory, anti-tumor TME.

Methods

The cryogels were fabricated using cryogelation to generate a macroporous structure, followed by ionic crosslinking to enhance mechanical integrity while preserving pore size distribution. In vitro studies were conducted using bone marrow-derived macrophages, tumor-associated macrophages, and tumor explants. In vivo studies were conducted by ortho

SUBMITTER: Henriques SR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12575589 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature