Understanding the influence of the tumor microenvironment on macrophage responses to CD40 agonists

Both TH1 and TH2 cytokines influence the antitumor functions of macrophages. We have recently shown that interferon γ (IFNγ) licenses the antineoplastic functions of CD40 ligand (CD40L)-stimulated macrophages more efficiently than interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13. The presence of a TH1 and TH2 skewed tumor microenvironment may therefore influence therapeutic responses to CD40 agonists, agents that are showing promise in preliminary clinical trials.