Mathematical modeling of tumor-induced immunosuppression by myeloid-derived suppressor cells: implications for therapeutic targeting strategies.

•A mathematical model for tumor-induced immunosuppression caused by myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) is proposed.•The model is in good agreement with the experimental data regarding the development and function of MDSCs as well as the efficacy of the agents that suppress these cells.•Simulation results show that intermittent therapy with low-dose 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) alone can eradicate the tumors by restoring the anti-tumor immunity.•Simulation results demonstrate that supplementation with l-arginine (a functional inhibitor of MDSCs) can potentiate the efficacy of intermittent 5-FU therapy.