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Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment.

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Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) within the tumor microenvironment (TME) can promote or inhibit cancer. Most studies indicate MSCs support tumor growth, but their role is complex and context-dependent.

Keywords:
AngiogenesisCancerCancer stem cellEpithelial-mesenchymal transitionImmune responseMesenchymal stem cellsStromaTumor microenvironment

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Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Stem Cell Biology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • The tumor microenvironment (TME) comprises cancer cells and non-malignant stromal and immune cells.
  • Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are stromal stem cells found in most cancers, significantly influencing TME formation and function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the dual role of MSCs in cancer pathophysiology.
  • To explore mechanisms by which MSCs can either promote or suppress tumor growth.
  • To discuss factors influencing MSC function within the TME, such as cell ratios and cancer education.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies investigating MSC interactions within the TME.
  • Analysis of reported pro-tumorigenic and anti-tumorigenic functions of MSCs.
  • Examination of the concept of cancer education reprogramming MSC behavior.

Main Results:

  • MSCs exhibit diverse mechanisms supporting tumor growth, including immune suppression, angiogenesis promotion, EMT enhancement, and metastasis.
  • Conversely, MSCs can also exert anti-tumorigenic effects like immune enhancement and apoptosis induction.
  • Most evidence suggests MSCs primarily play a pro-tumorigenic role in the TME, with anti-tumor effects seen at higher MSC-to-tumor cell ratios.

Conclusions:

  • MSC function in cancer is complex, context-dependent, and influenced by tissue type and cancer education.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand MSC-TME crosstalk and their precise impact on cancer progression.