The Importance of the Tumor Microenvironment to Understand Tumor Origin, Evolution, and Treatment Response
Jose M Ayuso1,2,3, Ignacio Ochoa Garrido4,5,6
1Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA.
Cancers
|April 23, 2022
Abstract:
During the second half of the twentieth century, oncology adopted a tumor-centric approach to cancer treatment, focusing primarily on the tumor cell to identify new therapeutic targets [...].
Insights
Cancer treatment evolved to a tumor-centric approach, targeting tumor cells for new therapies. This focus on the tumor microenvironment is crucial for advancing oncology research.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Therapeutic Development
Background:
- The latter half of the 20th century saw oncology shift towards a tumor-centric paradigm.
- This approach prioritized identifying therapeutic targets directly within tumor cells.
Discussion:
- The limitations of a purely tumor-centric view are becoming apparent.
- Emerging research highlights the importance of the tumor microenvironment.
Key Insights:
- Understanding the complex interactions within the tumor microenvironment is essential.
- Novel therapeutic strategies must consider the broader cellular and molecular context.
Outlook:
- Future cancer treatment will likely integrate tumor-cell-specific therapies with microenvironment modulation.
- This holistic approach promises more effective and personalized cancer care.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
02:17The Tumor Microenvironment
6.8K
Every normal cell or tissue is embedded in a complex local environment called stroma, consisting of different cell types, a basal membrane, and blood vessels. As normal cells mutate and develop into cancer cells, their local environment also changes to allow cancer progression. The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of a complex cellular matrix of stromal cells and the developing tumor. The cross-talk between cancer cells and surrounding stromal cells is critical to disrupt normal tissue...
6.8K
02:56Treatment Resistant Cancers
3.4K
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. A cancer cell is genetically unstable and hence can mutate faster. They can also modify their microenvironment and escape immune surveillance. The difficulties in treating cancer are further compounded by the emergence of rapid resistance to anticancer drugs. The most common ways to attain resistance in cancer cells include alteration in drug transport and metabolism, modification of drug target, elevated DNA damage response, or...
3.4K
01:27Tumor Immunotherapy
689
Immunotherapy is a treatment that boosts or manipulates the immune system to fight diseases, including cancer. For instance, by stimulating an immune response through vaccinations against viruses that cause cancers, like hepatitis B virus and human papillomavirus, these diseases can be prevented. Nonetheless, some cancer cells can avoid the immune system due to their rapid mutation and division. The immune response to many cancers involves three phases: elimination, equilibrium, and escape.
689