The role of macrophage polarization and function in environmental toxicant-induced cancers

Macrophages are a critical member of the innate immune system and can intensify tumor invasiveness and assist the growth of neoplastic cells. Moreover, they have the capability to reinforce immunosuppression and angiogenesis. Various investigations suggest that health-related issues, including inflammatory disorders and neoplastic diseases may be caused by environmental toxicant exposure. However, it is still unclear what role these environmental toxicants play in causing carcinogenesis by disturbing the mechanisms of migration, polarization, differentiation, and immune-stimulatory functions of macrophages. Accordingly, in this article, we will explore the interaction between environmental chemicals and inflammatory macrophage processes at the molecular level and their association with tumor progression and carcinogenesis.