Dihydroartemisinin inhibits lung cancer bone metastasis by modulating macrophage polarization

The high metastasis rate of lung cancer contributes to its low 5-year survival rate. Bone metastasis is a common complication in advanced lung cancer, adversely affecting postoperative recovery. This study investigates the effects of DHA on macrophage polarization and its underlying mechanisms. In vitro, DHA was found to inhibit M2 polarization while promoting M1 polarization of macrophages, thereby reducing the invasion and migration of lung cancer cells. In vivo, DHA inhibited lung cancer growth and bone metastasis by modulating macrophage M1/M2 polarization in both lung cancer tissues and bone metastatic sites. In addition, through the CCL2/CCR2 pathway, DHA decreased macrophage recruitment and accumulation. These results suggest that DHA is effective in inhibiting lung cancer growth and bone metastasis, offering promising research and application prospects.