Tumor–Immune Cell Interactions in Cancer Progression

Abstract The tumor microenvironment is a complex ecosystem where immune cell components play a pivotal role in cancer progression. Aberrant immune responses within the tumor microenvironment are critical in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and prognosis, highlighting the urgent need to unravel tumor–immune interactions for improved therapies. This commentary reviews recent advancements in understanding tumor–immune interactions, focusing on both intrinsic factors, like cancer genetics and epigenetics, and extrinsic factors, such as metabolic reprogramming. We also examine key mechanisms of tumor–immune cross-talk, including exosome-mediated communication, liquid–liquid phase separation, and circulating tumor cells. Furthermore, we propose future research directions to improve strategies for combating cancer metastasis and enhancing therapeutic efficacy.