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Published on: September 19, 2019
Tumor Microenvironment Heterogeneity, Potential Therapeutic Avenues, and Emerging Therapies
Xintong Peng1, Jingfan Zheng1, Tianzi Liu1
1Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
Objective:
This review describes the comprehensive portrait of tumor microenvironment (TME). Additionally, we provided a panoramic perspective on the transformation and functions of the diverse constituents in TME, and the underlying mechanisms of drug resistance, beginning with the immune cells and metabolic dynamics within TME. Lastly, we summarized the most auspicious potential therapeutic strategies.
Results:
TME is a unique realm crafted by malignant cells to withstand the onslaught of endogenous and exogenous therapies. Recent research has revealed many small-molecule immunotherapies exhibiting auspicious outcomes in preclinical investigations. Furthermore, some pro-immune mechanisms have emerged as a potential avenue. With the advent of nanosystems and precision targeting, targeted therapy has now transcended the "comfort zone" erected by cancer cells within TME.
Conclusion:
The ceaseless metamorphosis of TME fosters the intransigent resilience and proliferation of tumors. However, existing therapies have yet to surmount the formidable obstacles posed by TME. Therefore, scientists should investigate potential avenues for therapeutic intervention and design innovative pharmacological and clinical technologies.
Insights
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex barrier to cancer therapy. Novel strategies targeting TME components, including immune cells and metabolic dynamics, are crucial for overcoming drug resistance and improving treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Cancer Biology
Background:
- The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a dynamic ecosystem that supports tumor growth and resistance to therapy.
- Understanding the intricate interactions within the TME, including immune cell infiltration and metabolic reprogramming, is critical for developing effective cancer treatments.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes current knowledge on the composition and function of the TME.
- It examines the mechanisms of drug resistance driven by TME constituents.
- The review highlights emerging therapeutic strategies, including small-molecule immunotherapies, pro-immune mechanisms, nanosystems, and precision targeting.
Key Points:
- The TME actively shields cancer cells from therapeutic interventions.
- Immune cells and metabolic alterations within the TME significantly contribute to treatment failure.
- Recent advances in immunotherapy and targeted therapy, particularly nanomedicine, show promise in overcoming TME-mediated resistance.
Conclusions:
- Despite advances, the TME presents significant challenges to existing cancer therapies.
- Further research into novel therapeutic interventions and innovative drug delivery systems is essential.
- Developing strategies that re-engineer the TME holds potential for enhancing treatment efficacy and overcoming tumor resilience.
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