Tumor microenvironment complexity: Emerging roles in cancer therapy

Melody A. Swartz, Noriho Iida, Edward W. Roberts, Sabina Sangaletti, Melissa H. Wong, Fiona E. Yull, Lisa M. Coussens, Yves A. DeClerck

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

439 Scopus citations

Abstract

The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of cells, soluble factors, signaling molecules, extracellular matrix, and mechanical cues that can promote neoplastic transformation, support tumor growth and invasion, protect the tumor from host immunity, foster therapeutic resistance, and provide niches for dormant metastases to thrive. An American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) special conference held on November 3-6, 2011, addressed five emerging concepts in our understanding of the TME: its dynamic evolution, how it is educated by tumor cells, pathways of communication between stromal and tumor cells, immunomodulatory roles of the lymphatic system, and contribution of the intestinal microbiota. These discussions raised critical questions on how to include the analysis of the TME in personalized cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)2473-2480
Number of pages8
JournalCancer Research
Volume72
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - May 15 2012

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Oncology
  • Cancer Research

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