The tumor microenvironment: shaping cancer progression and treatment response

Jan 5, 2024Journal of chemotherapy (Florence, Italy)

How the tumor surroundings influence cancer growth and treatment response

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Abstract

The tumor microenvironment (TME) significantly influences cancer progression and treatment response.

The TME consists of stromal cells, immune cells, extracellular matrix, and blood vessels that interact with cancer cells.
Targeting specific cellular interactions and signaling pathways within the TME may provide new strategies for anti-tumor drug discovery.
Emerging combination therapies could simultaneously target both cancer cells and the TME.
Challenges in TME-targeted therapies include overcoming drug resistance and improving drug delivery.
Personalized medicine and technologies like immunotherapy and nanotechnology may enhance TME-targeted therapeutic approaches.

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The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in cancer progression and treatment response. It comprises a complex network of stromal cells, immune cells, extracellular matrix, and blood vessels, all of which interact with cancer cells and influence tumor behaviour. This review article provides an in-depth examination of the TME, focusing on stromal cells, blood vessels, signaling molecules, and ECM, along with commonly available therapeutic compounds that target these components. Moreover, we explore the TME as a novel strategy for discovering new anti-tumor drugs. The dynamic and adaptive nature of the TME offers opportunities for targeting specific cellular interactions and signaling pathways. We discuss emerging approaches, such as combination therapies that simultaneously target cancer cells and modulate the TME. Finally, we address the challenges and future prospects in targeting the TME. Overcoming drug resistance, improving drug delivery, and identifying new therapeutic targets within the TME are among the challenges discussed. We also highlight the potential of personalized medicine and the integration of emerging technologies, such as immunotherapy and nanotechnology, in TME-targeted therapies. This comprehensive review provides insights into the TME and its therapeutic implications. Understanding the TME's complexity and targeting its components offer promising avenues for the development of novel anti-tumor therapies and improved patient outcomes.

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The tumor microenvironment: shaping cancer progression and treatment response

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