The Role of the Immune System in the Effects of Cancer on Bone

In this chapter, the contributions of cells in the immune system (monocyte-macrophages, myeloid derived suppressor cells, mesenchymal stromal cells, T cell subsets, NK cells, dendritic cells, and B cells) to bone metastasis, and multiple myeloma bone disease will be reviewed. In addition, the effects of tumor-derived products, such as lactic acid, that is also produced by bone cells, on the suppression of antitumor responses that are required for tumor growth in bone, will be discussed. All of these components of the immune system are major contributors to the growth and bone altering effects of tumor cells in bone.