VEGFA and neoplasm: These cells then release proteases and reactive oxygen species, creating a hostile environment that inhibits T-cell function and thus further impairs the anti-tumor immune response.54 Additionally, IL-8 is implicated in enhancing tumor invasiveness and metastasis by promoting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tumor cells, which facilitates their spread throughout the body.55 Together, VEGF and IL-8 orchestrate a microenvironment that not only favors tumor growth and spread but also renders strategically less accessible to immune effector cells.