New Insights into Obesity's Dual Role in Cancer Risk and Immunotherapy Response

Vanderbilt researchers uncover how macrophages and PD-1 protein contribute to the obesity paradox in cancer treatment.

Obesity increases macrophages in tumors, enhancing PD-1 protein expression.
Higher PD-1 levels in macrophages suppress immune surveillance, allowing tumor growth.
Blocking PD-1 with immunotherapy boosts macrophage activity and T cell stimulation.
Studies in mice and human samples reveal decreased PD-1 expression after weight loss.
Findings suggest potential strategies for improving immunotherapy effectiveness.