Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) display pro-tumorigenic phenotypes for supporting tumor progression in response to microenvironmental cues imposed by tumor and stromal cells. However, the underlying mechanisms by which tumor cells instruct TAM behavior remain elusive. The investigators here uncover that tumor-cell-derived glucosylceramide stimulated unconventional endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress responses by inducing reshuffling of lipid composition and saturation on the ER membrane in macrophages.

As part of the study, a comparison of culture media (CM) with and without lipids (woLip) was made. The article states “To generate culture media without lipids, …CM was treated with Cleanascite according to the manufacturer’s instructions.”. The authors uncover the unexpected roles of tumor-cell-produced lipids that simultaneously orchestrate macrophage polarization and survival in tumors via induction of ER stress responses and reveal therapeutic targets for sustaining host antitumor immunity.

“Its very rewarding to see how Cleanascite™ can enhance cancer research associated with the selective removal of lipids. Cleanascite™ is an aqueous suspension product without harmful solvents, or any other non-specific cytotoxic effects. As you see from this data, it ultimately helps researchers investigate how lipids impart characteristic changes in cells. This article exemplifies such utility.” states Swapan Roy, Ph.D., President and Founder of Biotech Support Group