The tumor microenvironment represents the dynamic network consisting of tumor cells, stromal cells, and multiple lineages of immune subsets. It is well recognized that metabolic crosstalk within the tumor microenvironment (TME) greatly shapes both the composition and functionality of the infiltrated immune cells and therefore critically regulate the antitumor immunity. In general, most solid tumors are considered as lipid-enriched environment, which is beneficial for tumor cell growth and immune escape. Here we briefly summarize the effects of accumulated lipids on tumor cells and immune cells. We also discuss the possibility of targeting lipid metabolism within the TME and potential strategies for optimizing cancer treatment.
Keywords: Antitumor immunity; Immunosuppression; Lipid metabolism; T cells; Tumor microenvironment.