How Does Hypoxia Contribute to Immune Suppression?
Hypoxia, or low oxygen levels within the tumor microenvironment, can exacerbate immune suppression. Hypoxia can lead to the stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), which in turn promote the expression of immunosuppressive molecules and the recruitment of immunosuppressive cells. Additionally, hypoxia can impair the function of immune cells such as T cells and dendritic cells, further contributing to an immunosuppressive microenvironment.
