Tumor-associated macrophage--New targets for anti-tumor metastasis

The interaction between tumor cells and tumor microenvironment is a necessary condition for tumor metastasis. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are macrophages that infiltrate tumor tissues and are the most abundant immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Tumor-associated macrophages play a key role in tumor invasion and metastasis, and has been suggested an important target for anti-tumor metastasis treatment. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms related to tumor-associated macrophage polarization and its role in tumor invasion and metastasis. Key words: Macrophages; Neoplasms; Neoplasm metastasis