LncRNAs as behind-the-scenes molecules in cancer progression through regulating tumor-associated innate immune system cells.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as critical regulators in cancer biology, particularly in the modulation of innate immune cells within the tumor microenvironment. These lncRNAs significantly influence the phenotype and function of immune cells, such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), dendritic cells (DCs), natural killer cells (NK), neutrophils, and γδT cells. Thus, lncRNAs emerge as pivotal molecules in cancer development due to their capacity to modulate the innate immune system. Understanding the intricate mechanisms by which lncRNAs influence tumor-associated immune cells can pave the way for novel therapeutic strategies to restore effective anti-tumor immunity. This review highlights the diverse roles of lncRNAs in regulating the differentiation, activation, and effector functions of innate immune cells within the complex tumor microenvironment.