Macrophage infiltration has been identified as an independent poor prognostic factor for several cancer entities. In mouse tumor models macrophages orchestrate various tumor-promoting processes. This observation sparked an interest to therapeutically target these plastic innate immune cells. To date, blockade of colony stimulating factor-1 or its receptor represents the only truly selective approach to manipulate macrophages in cancer patients. Here, we discuss the currently available information on efficacy and safety of various CSF-1/CSF-1R inhibitors in cancer patients and highlight potential combination partners emerging from preclinical studies while considering the differences between mouse and human macrophage biology.
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