While TAMs are often associated with tumor progression, they can also exhibit anti-tumorigenic properties under certain conditions. Depending on the signals they receive from the tumor microenvironment, TAMs can polarize into different phenotypes: M1 and M2. M1 macrophages are generally pro-inflammatory and have anti-tumor activities, including the ability to present antigens and produce reactive oxygen species that can kill cancer cells. In contrast, M2 macrophages are more associated with tissue repair and immunosuppression, thus promoting tumor growth.
