SPP1⁺ macrophages facilitate the differentiation and maturation of regulatory T cells in tumour-draining lymph nodes of colorectal cancer

This study investigates the role of SPP1⁺ macrophages in the differentiation and maturation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) within tumour-draining lymph nodes (TDLNs) in colorectal cancer (CRC). The authors aim to identify immunomodulatory mechanisms that contribute to Treg maturation and immunosuppression in CRC, revealing that SPP1⁺ macrophages promote the development of immunosuppressive CD137⁺ Tregs through the SPP1-CD44-NF-κB1 signaling pathway. Targeting this pathway may provide a therapeutic strategy to mitigate Treg-mediated immunosuppression in CRC.