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Tumor microenvironment: driving forces and potential therapeutic targets for breast cancer metastasis
Hong-Yan Xie1,2,3, Zhi-Min Shao4,5,6,7,8, Da-Qiang Li9,10,11,12
1Shanghai Cancer Center and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, P. R. China.
Abstract:
Distant metastasis to specific target organs is responsible for over 90% of breast cancer-related deaths, but the underlying molecular mechanism is unclear. Mounting evidence suggests that the interplay between breast cancer cells and the target organ microenvironment is the key determinant of organ-specific metastasis of this lethal disease. Here, we highlight new findings and concepts concerning the emerging role of the tumor microenvironment in breast cancer metastasis; we also discuss potential therapeutic intervention strategies aimed at targeting components of the tumor microenvironment.
Insights
Breast cancer metastasis to specific organs, a major cause of death, is driven by interactions between cancer cells and their microenvironment. Targeting the tumor microenvironment offers potential therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Tumor Microenvironment Research
Background:
- Distant metastasis in breast cancer accounts for over 90% of cancer-related deaths.
- The molecular mechanisms driving organ-specific breast cancer metastasis remain largely unclear.
- The tumor microenvironment plays a critical role in facilitating metastasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current findings on the tumor microenvironment's role in breast cancer metastasis.
- To discuss the interplay between cancer cells and target organ microenvironments.
- To explore therapeutic strategies targeting the tumor microenvironment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of recent research findings.
- Conceptual analysis of tumor microenvironment dynamics in metastasis.
- Discussion of potential therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- The tumor microenvironment is a key determinant of organ-specific breast cancer metastasis.
- Interactions between cancer cells and the microenvironment are crucial for metastatic progression.
- Emerging evidence highlights the significance of the tumor microenvironment.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the tumor microenvironment is essential for combating breast cancer metastasis.
- Targeting tumor microenvironment components presents promising therapeutic avenues.
- Further research into these interactions could lead to novel treatment strategies.