Inflammatory and Anti-Inflammatory Equilibrium, Proliferative and Antiproliferative Balance: The Role of Cytokines in Multiple Myeloma

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is typically exemplified by a desynchronized cytokine system with increased levels of inflammatory cytokines. We focused on the contrast between inflammatory and anti-inflammatory systems by assessing the role of cytokines and their influence on MM. The aim of this review is to summarize the available information to date concerning this equilibrium to provide an overview of the research exploring the roles of serum cytokines in MM. However, the association between MM and inflammatory cytokines appears to be inadequate, and other functions, such as pro-proliferative or antiproliferative effects, can assume the role of cytokines in the genesis and progression of MM. It is possible that inflammation, when guided by cancer-specific Th1 cells, may inhibit tumour onset and progression. In a Th1 microenvironment, proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6 and IL-1) may contribute to tumour eradication by attracting leucocytes from the circulation and by increasing CD4 + T cell activity. Hence, caution should be used when considering therapies that target factors with pro-or anti-inflammatory activity. Drugs that may reduce the tumour-suppressive Th1-driven inflammatory immune response should be avoided. A better understanding of the relationship between inflammation and myeloma will ensure more effective therapeutic interventions.

Bone Marrow Stromal Cells-Induced Drug Resistance in Multiple Myeloma

“…These cells influence myeloma growth, survival, and progression ( Figure 3). In the MM pathologic BM, there is an imbalance of T lymphocyte subsets that play a relevant role in MM progression [90,91].…”

Neuroimmune Alterations in Autism: A Translational Analysis Focusing on the Animal Model of Autism Induced by Prenatal Exposure to Valproic Acid

“…IL-1β is a cytokine produced by fibroblasts, monocytes, tissue macrophages, DC, B lymphocytes, epithelial cells, and NK cells [111], that promotes inflammation by indirectly stimulating lymphocyte function and activating macrophages [112,113]. IL-1β has the ability to increase the expression of adhesion molecules such as VCAM-1 and ICAM-1, supporting the infiltration of inflammatory cells from the circulation into the tissue, and resulting in chronic IL-1-induced inflammation [ 113].…”

“…It is mainly secreted by CD8+ and CD4+ T cells after recognition of the antigen and costimulators [111]. IL-2 is the most important cytokine for promoting the clonal expansion of antigen-activated T cells [126].…”

NETs analysed by novel calprotectin‐based assays in blood donors and patients with multiple myeloma or rheumatoid arthritis: A pilot study

“…NET release from neutrophils is emerging as an important factor in thrombogenesis, so‐called immunothrombosis, which takes place in sepsis (ie disseminated intravascular coagulation) and malignancy . Multiple myeloma is a typical example of a serious disease with immune imbalance and increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL‐6 and IL‐1 . However, little is known about NETs in MM.…”