How Does the Microenvironment Influence Cancer Progression?
The tumor microenvironment can promote cancer progression in several ways:
Promoting Growth: Growth factors and cytokines within the microenvironment can stimulate cancer cell proliferation. Facilitating Metastasis: The ECM and signaling molecules can help cancer cells break away from the primary tumor and invade surrounding tissues or enter the bloodstream. Immune Evasion: Certain cells and molecules within the microenvironment can suppress the immune response, allowing cancer cells to evade detection and destruction. Resistance to Therapy: The microenvironment can create a physical barrier to drug delivery and influence cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy and radiation.
