Cancer-associated fibroblast phenotype (CAF phenotype)

The **cancer-associated fibroblast phenotype** refers to the distinct functional and molecular characteristics acquired by stromal fibroblasts within the tumor microenvironment. These cells differ from normal quiescent tissue-resident fibroblasts by adopting an activated state that supports tumor growth through extracellular matrix remodeling, secretion of growth factors and cytokines, modulation of immune responses, and promotion of therapeutic resistance. The presence and abundance of specific subtypes—such as myofibroblast-like cancer-associated fibroblasts—are associated with poor prognosis across multiple cancer types. While these phenotypes are considered promising targets for disrupting tumor-stroma interactions therapeutically, "cancer-associated fibroblast phenotype" itself is not a single molecular entity but rather describes a heterogeneous population defined by shared features at the cellular level.

Other names

Cancer-associated fibroblastsCAFstumor-associated fibroblastsstromal fibroblasts (in cancer context)