Chemopreventive agents targeting tumor microenvironment.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Tumor development is influenced by both cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME).
• The TME comprises non-tumor stromal cells, including immune cells, endothelial cells, pericytes, and mast cells.
• Interactions within the TME regulate abnormal cell proliferation and immune responses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the roles of non-tumor stromal cells in tumor progression.
• To explore the intervention of TME components by pharmacological agents.
• To highlight the TME as a target for cancer prevention and therapy using natural products.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on tumor microenvironment.
• Analysis of cellular interactions and mediators within the TME.
• Examination of natural products' potential in modulating TME characteristics.

Main Results:

• Non-tumor cells in the TME significantly impact tumor development and progression.
• Immune cells and stromal cells interact via autocrine and paracrine signaling.
• Targeting the TME, alongside tumor cells, is a valuable therapeutic approach.

Conclusions:

• Directly targeting cancer cells or reversing TME immunosuppression are key strategies.
• The TME presents a promising target for cancer prevention and chemotherapy.
• Further research is needed to elucidate TME mechanisms for effective natural product-based therapies.