Journal of Jilin University(Medicine Edition) ›› 2026, Vol. 52 ›› Issue (1): 264-271.doi: 10.13481/j.1671-587X.20260129

• Review • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Research progress in effect of Toll-like receptor 7/8 on occurrence and development of tumor

Luyao WANG,Chenxi ZHAO,Jincheng DU,Linlin LIU()   

  1. Department of Radiotherapy,China-Japan Union Hospital,Jilin University,Changchun 130033,China
  • Received:2024-09-06 Accepted:2024-10-20 Online:2026-01-28 Published:2026-02-25
  • Contact: Linlin LIU E-mail:liulinl@jlu.edu.cn

Abstract:

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are the most well-characterized family of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), playing key roles in both innate and adaptive immune processes. In addition to their widespread expression in immune cells, TLRs are also expressed in many tumor cell populations. Their activation can lead to tumor progression or regression, which has made the clinical relevance of TLRs to tumors a research hotspot in recent years. Among them, the TLR subtypes TLR7/8 have dual effects in tumorigenesis and development. On the one hand, they exert tumor-suppressive effects by inducing effective anti-tumor immune responses and mediating tumor cell death; on the other hand, they can also promote tumor progression by regulating tumor cell behavior and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Therefore, TLR7/8 has become a potential target for tumor prevention and treatment. This article summarizes and analyzes the molecular characteristics and signaling pathways of TLR7/8 and their impact on the process of tumorigenesis and development based on the latest research findings at home and abroad, and systematically reviews the research progress in the application of small molecule modulators targeting TLR7/8, aiming to provide a reference for the discussion on the role of TLR7/8 in tumor prevention and treatment.

Key words: Toll-like receptor 7/8, Neoplasm, Biological function, Small molecule modulator, Tumor microenvironment, Innate immune response

CLC Number: 

  • R730.51