Researchers at the University of Oklahoma have discovered a potential mechanism through which triple-negative breast cancer tumors may attract nerves that could aid in their expansion and resistance to treatment. The investigation revealed that macrophages, immune cells that infiltrate tumors, produce BDNF, a protein associated with nerve development. In experiments conducted on mice, inhibiting BDNF signaling hindered nerve infiltration into tumors and notably diminished tumor size. Additionally, patient data indicated a correlation between elevated levels of macrophages and BDNF with reduced survival rates. The researchers propose that these insights could inform future therapeutic approaches aimed at disrupting the nerve-supporting system of tumors.
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