How does FAK influence the tumor microenvironment?
The tumor microenvironment is composed of various cell types, including cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and endothelial cells. FAK modulates the interactions between these cells and the cancer cells, promoting a pro-tumorigenic environment. For instance, FAK activation in cancer-associated fibroblasts can lead to the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors that support tumor growth and metastasis.
