The tumor microenvironment: The role of tumor-associated macrophages in cancer progression and responses to therapy

Solid tumors are highly complex, dynamic, microenvironments forged by the interactions of numerous cell types. These heterogeneous cellular components of the tumor microenvironment include the malignant cells themselves, components of the vasculature including endothelial cells and pericytes, stromal cells, and of major importance, components of the innate and adaptive immune system. This chapter will focus on the role of the macrophage in regulating tumor progression and resistance to therapy, and how these cells might be exploited to produce novel anti-cancer therapies.