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Tumors are unique organs defined by abnormal signaling and context
D Radisky1, C Hagios, M J Bissell
1Life Science Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
Seminars in Cancer Biology
|April 27, 2001
Summary
Altered tumor cell communication, not just mutations, defines cancer. Targeting the root cause of abnormalities in stromal cells may offer more effective cancer research strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Tumor Microenvironment
Background:
- Current cancer research often focuses on eradicating cancer cells, neglecting the complex and heterogeneous nature of solid tumors.
- Tumorigenesis is a complex process influenced by the tumor microenvironment and cell-cell communication, not solely by genetic mutations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a shift in cancer research focus from direct cancer cell eradication to addressing the underlying causes of tumor development.
- To highlight the significance of intercellular communication and stromal cell alterations in cancer progression.
Main Methods:
- This study is primarily a conceptual and argumentative review.
- It synthesizes existing knowledge on tumor heterogeneity and the tumor microenvironment.
- It proposes a novel perspective on cancer research strategies.
Main Results:
- Solid tumors are characterized by complex heterogeneity and altered intercellular communication.
- Environmental or inherited factors impacting stromal cells can initiate tumorigenesis.
- Altered communication within the tumor microenvironment is a defining feature of cancer.
Conclusions:
- Anticancer research may be more effective by targeting the root causes of abnormalities, such as altered stromal cell function and communication.
- A paradigm shift towards understanding and manipulating the tumor microenvironment is crucial for developing novel cancer therapies.