Interplay Between Tumor Immunology and Tumor Microenvironment: In-Silico Investigations and Clinical Implications

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Background

The field of tumor immunology has rapidly evolved, illuminating the complex interactions between the immune system and cancer cells. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), a dynamic network of immune cells, stromal cells, extracellular components, and signaling molecules, plays a pivotal role in tumor progression and response to therapies. Within this intricate network, immunotherapies including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), have emerged as transformative treatments for various malignancies. However, the heterogeneity of tumors and their immune microenvironment poses significant challenges to the effectiveness of these therapies.

Recent advancements in in-silico investigations, including molecular docking and molecular dynamics studies, have provided powerful tools to delve into the complex interactions within TIME. These computational approaches allow us to predict and understand the binding behaviors of potential inhibitors, their dynamic behaviors within the cellular environment, and their impact on tumor immunity. Moreover, the integration of mathematical modeling and fluid mechanics has the potential to further our understanding of the spatiotemporal dynamics of immune cells and signaling molecules within the TIME, providing a more comprehensive picture of tumor-immune interactions.

In this context, histopathology and clinical pathology serve as essential components, offering valuable insights into the morphological and functional changes associated with tumor immunity and TIME. Furthermore, organoid technology, a three-dimensional cell culture system that mimics the in vivo environment, provides a promising platform for the study of tumor-immune interactions and the testing of potential immunotherapies.

This Research Topic aims to highlight the latest advancements in the understanding of tumor immunity and TIME, with a particular emphasis on the application of in-silico investigations, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics studies. We welcome submissions focusing on all types of malignant tumors, including but not limited to, gastric, lung, colorectal, melanoma, pancreatic, and liver cancers. Original Research, Reviews, and Mini-Reviews are all welcome. Subtopics of interest include but are not limited to:
(1) In-silico investigations, particularly molecular docking and dynamics studies, are offering new insights into the intricate interactions between immune checkpoint inhibitors and the tumor immune microenvironment.
(2) The complexity and dynamic nature of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) directly contribute to therapy resistance, emphasizing the need for further research to enhance the effectiveness of current immunotherapies.
(3) Understanding the spatiotemporal dynamics of immune cells and signaling molecules within the TIME can provide a more holistic view of tumor-immune interactions, which is crucial for the development of more effective treatment strategies.
(4) Histopathological and clinical pathological studies provide essential insights into the morphological and functional changes in the tumor and its immune environment, potentially guiding the development of novel therapies.
(5) Recent advancements in organoid technology, a three-dimensional cell culture system that mimics the in vivo environment, provide a promising platform for studying tumor-immune interactions and testing potential immunotherapies.
(6) The integration of findings from in-silico investigations into clinical practice holds significant potential for improving patient outcomes, underscoring the importance of continued research in this area.

Please NOTE: Studies that solely rely on bioinformatics or computational analysis of public genomic or transcriptomic databases without robust and relevant validation (such as clinical cohort or biological validation in vitro or in vivo) are considered out of scope for this topic. We encourage submissions that integrate computational predictions with experimental or clinical validation, thereby bridging the gap between in-silico investigations and clinical applications in the field of tumor immunology and TIME.

Keywords: Tumor Immunology, Tumor Microenvironment, In-Silico Investigation, Clinical Implication

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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