Biomaterials to regulate tumor extracellular matrix in immunotherapy

Abstract

The tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) provides physical support and influences tumor development, metastasis, and the tumor microenvironment, creating barriers to immune drug delivery and cell infiltration. Therefore, modulating or degrading the ECM is of significant importance to enhance the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy. This manuscript initially summarizes the main strategies and mechanisms of biomaterials in modulating various components of the ECM, including collagen, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and in remodeling the ECM. Subsequently, it discusses the benefits of biomaterials for immunotherapy following ECM modulation, such as promoting the infiltration of drugs and immune cells, regulating immune cell function, and alleviating the immunosuppressive microenvironment. The manuscript also briefly introduces the application of biomaterials that utilize and mimic the ECM for tumor immunotherapy. Finally, it addresses the current challenges and future directions in this field, providing a comprehensive overview of the potential and innovation in leveraging biomaterials to enhance cancer treatment outcomes. Our work will offer a comprehensive overview of ECM modulation strategies and their application in biomaterials to enhance tumor immunotherapy.

Keywords: Biomaterials; ECM; Immunotherapy; Modulation strategies; TME.