How Does the Tumor Microenvironment Influence Invasion and Metastasis?
The tumor microenvironment plays a significant role in facilitating invasion and metastasis: 1. Hypoxia: Low oxygen levels in tumors can induce the expression of genes associated with invasion and metastasis through pathways such as HIF-1α. 2. Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can promote cancer progression by providing growth factors, cytokines, and enzymes that facilitate invasion and metastasis. 3. Interactions with Stromal Cells: Cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and endothelial cells can secrete factors that enhance cancer cell motility, invasiveness, and survival in distant organs.
