Collagen code in tumor microenvironment: Functions, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic implications

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cancer Biology
• Extracellular Matrix Research

Background:

• The tumor microenvironment (TME) significantly influences cancer progression.
• Extracellular matrix (ECM) components, particularly collagen, play a critical role in tumor dynamics.
• Collagen deposition forms barriers that facilitate tumor cell infiltration and metastasis, while also impeding drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of collagen deposition in the TME on tumor progression.
• To elucidate the complex interactions between collagen and tumor cells.
• To explore the potential of targeting collagen for cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on collagen's role in the TME.
• Analysis of signaling pathways involved in collagen-tumor cell interactions.
• Discussion of therapeutic implications of targeting tumor collagen.

Main Results:

• Collagen deposition is integral to tumor cell infiltration, expansion, and metastasis.
• Collagen acts as a physical barrier, hindering therapeutic interventions.
• Complex biochemical and mechanical signaling pathways mediate collagen-tumor cell interactions.

Conclusions:

• Collagen significantly drives tumor progression and metastasis within the TME.
• The interaction between collagen and tumor cells is multifaceted, involving various signaling cascades.
• Targeting collagen in the TME represents a potentially effective strategy for cancer therapy.