ApoE-TREM2 axis induces pathogenic senescent-like myeloid cells in prostate cancer
Abstract Tumour cells promote the expansion and intra-tumoural recruitment of Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), a subset of immature myeloid cells, that support tumour cell proliferation and confer treatment resistance. While immature myeloid cells have a very short lifespan, whether pathogenic MDSCs can persist in the tumour microenvironment remains unknown. Here, we report the identification of a subset of long-lasting MDSCs that upregulate markers of cellular senescence and the TREM2 receptor. Senescent-like MDSCs possess higher pro-inflammatory capabilities compared to canonical MDSCs. Genetic and pharmacological elimination of senescent-like MDSCs decreases tumour progression in different mouse models of prostate cancer. Mechanistically, we find that Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) secreted by prostate tumour cells binds TREM2 in senescent-like MDSCs, thereby regulating the survival of these cells. ApoE and TREM2 mRNA levels are upregulated in prostate cancers and correlate with poor patients’ prognosis. Taken together, these results reveal a novel mechanism by which the tumour microenvironment shapes the intra-tumoural immune response. Pathogenic senescent-like MDSCs persist longer in the tumour microenvironment and can be eliminated by histone deacetylase inhibitors enhancing the efficacy of standard therapy in prostate cancer.