Cytokines are pivotal regulators of immune responses and inflammation, and their dysregulation is implicated in cancer initiation and progression. A deeper understanding of cytokine-mediated modulation of tumor cell behavior may uncover novel therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases using keywords such as "cytokines," "tumor sensitization," "immune regulation," and "cancer therapy." Peer-reviewed articles published between 2002 and 2025 were evaluated and synthesized to provide an updated overview of cytokine-related therapeutic strategies.This review highlights the complex roles of key cytokines-including interleukins (IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17), interferons (types I and II), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-in modulating tumor cell susceptibility to therapeutic interventions. While cytokines exhibit both tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressive properties, recent advances in cytokine engineering, targeted delivery systems, and combination immunotherapies have enhanced their clinical potential.Integrating cytokine modulation into oncology may improve personalized immunotherapy outcomes.
Aghaei et al. (2026) studied this question.