Targeting TIME With Phytochemicals: A Promising Approach Against Lung Cancer.
Phytother ResJul 13, 2026 (epub)
Feng Xiang, Liyue Lu, Fangfei Li et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review investigates the role of phytochemicals in targeting the tumour immune microenvironment (TIME) in lung cancer. It highlights how these compounds can enhance antitumour immunity by reprogramming the TIME, particularly through the inhibition of immunosuppressive cells and activation of effector cells. The review underscores the potential of phytochemicals as multi-target therapeutic agents.
Key findings
- Phytochemicals can inhibit immunosuppressive cells like myeloid-derived suppressor cells and Treg cells.
- Activation of effector cells such as NK cells and CD8+ T cells was observed.
- Dihydroisotanshinone I downregulates STAT3, contributing to TIME modulation.
- Phytochemicals enhance CD8+ T cell responses and overcome functional exhaustion.
Why it matters
Understanding the immunomodulatory effects of phytochemicals could lead to innovative therapeutic strategies for lung cancer, particularly in overcoming resistance to existing treatments. This approach may improve patient outcomes by enhancing immune responses.