Advances in research on natural killer cell-associated tumor immune escape

Tumor immune escape plays an important role in carcinogenesis. Nature killer (NK) cells are human innate immune cells that do not need antigen sensitization prior to their activation. NK cells directly or indirectly kill tumor cells through cytotoxicity and immune regulation, but they are also involved in tumor immune escape. In this study, we reviewed the mechanism of NK cell-related tumor immune escape. The current knowledge on tumor cell alteration and the impact of inhibitory factors and the joint influence of other cells that lead to NK cell dysfunction and ultimately result in tumor immune escape have been researched and discussed. Understanding the potential mechanisms for restoration of the anti-tumor function of immune cells is of critical significance for discovering novel approaches for the treatment of tumors.