The mechanical microenvironment in cancer: How physics affects tumours

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biophysics
• Cell Biology

Background:

• The tumor microenvironment (TME) includes chemical and physical factors influencing tumor cell behavior.
• Tumors exhibit distinct mechanical properties, notably increased stiffness compared to normal tissues.
• This altered mechanical landscape plays a significant role in cancer development and progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of the mechanical microenvironment on tumor cells.
• To explore the mechanisms by which tumor stiffness influences cancer.
• To highlight the potential of targeting tumor mechanics in cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating tumor mechanics and its effects.
• Analysis of the physical properties of the TME, including stiffness, cell density, matrix deposition, and interstitial fluid pressure.
• Examination of the impact of mechanical cues on cellular processes and signaling pathways.

Main Results:

• Increased tumor stiffness can promote malignant transformation by affecting oncogenic and tumor suppressor pathways.
• Mechanical properties influence epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, cell survival (autophagy), and therapeutic sensitivity.
• Tumor stiffness is attributed to factors like higher cell density, increased matrix deposition, and elevated interstitial fluid pressure, rather than intrinsic cell stiffness.
• Intracellular signaling pathways are sensitive to the mechanical properties of the TME.

Conclusions:

• Tumor mechanics are fundamentally different from normal tissue and represent a critical aspect of the TME.
• The mechanical microenvironment is a significant driver of cancer progression and influences treatment outcomes.
• Exploiting tumor mechanical properties holds promise for novel strategies in cancer prevention, detection, and treatment.