This review examines the neuroimmunometabolic co-evolution in cancer, detailing how the nervous system coordinates with immune and metabolic processes to influence tumor progression. At the tumor microenvironment (TME) scale, the authors explain how peripheral neurons—including sympathetic, parasympathetic, and sensory types—reprogram local metabolism and suppress anti-tumor immunity. Expanding to the tumor macroenvironment (TMaE), the text highlights how cancer exploits brain-body interactions to disrupt systemic homeostasis and cause conditions like cancer-associated cachexia. The research identifies the peripheral nervous system as a vital communication bridge between primary tumors and distant organs, facilitating long-range immune suppression. Ultimately, the authors propose integrating spatial technologies to uncover new neuroimmune and neurometabolic therapies that could enhance existing treatments like immunotherapy.

References:

• Zhang Y, Zhuang W, Zhu H, et al. Neuroimmunometabolic co-evolution in the tumor micro-and macroenvironment[J]. Cell Metabolism, 2026.