The Role of MSCs in the Tumor Microenvironment and Tumor Progression

Over the past few decades, longevity without disease has become an important topic worldwide. However, as life expectancy increases, the number of patients with cancer is also increasing. Tumor progression is related to interactions between tumor cells and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the tumor microenvironment. MSCs are multipotent stromal cells known to be present in a variety of locations in the body, including bones, cartilage, fat, muscles, and dental pulp. MSCs migrate toward inflamed areas during pathological immune responses. MSCs also migrate toward tumor stroma and participate in tumor progression. MSCs can contribute to tumor progression by interacting with tumor cells via paracrine signaling and differentiate into diverse cell types. This also enables MSCs to make direct contact with tumor cells in tumor stroma. Interactions between tumor cells and MSCs enhance tumorigenic and metastatic potential, in addition to stimulating epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Herein, we reviewed the research associated with the tumor-enhancing role of MSCs in tumor progression, from primary tumor growth to distant tumor metastasis.