The future of TAM research is likely to focus on a deeper understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern macrophage plasticity and function within the tumor microenvironment. Advances in single-cell sequencing and high-dimensional imaging techniques will provide new insights into the heterogeneity of TAMs and their interactions with other cells. Moreover, combination therapies that target TAMs along with other components of the immune system or tumor stroma are expected to yield more effective and durable anti-cancer responses.
