Tumor and stromal cells

Tumor and stromal cells collectively define the tumor microenvironment (TME), a complex and dynamic ecosystem that facilitates cancer progression, survival, and metastasis. Tumor cells are the malignant drivers characterized by genomic instability and uncontrolled growth, while stromal cells—including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), endothelial cells, and diverse immune populations—provide the necessary structural and biochemical support for the tumor (National Cancer Institute, 2023). Interactions between these cells are mediated by a variety of secreted factors, such as cytokines and growth factors, and the remodeling of the extracellular matrix (PubMed PMID: 32801445). Therapeutic strategies often target specific molecular pathways within these cells, such as the PD-1/PD-L1 axis for immune cells or VEGF for endothelial cells, to disrupt the pro-tumorigenic niche (NIH, 2022). Because this entry describes a broad cellular population and tissue compartment rather than a specific protein, receptor, or enzyme, it is not considered a single therapeutic target in a biochemical or pharmacological context.

Other names

Tumor microenvironmentCancer-associated stromaTMETumor-stroma compartment

Inhibition of DNA synthesis and repair, disruption of microtubule assembly, immune checkpoint blockade, and neutralization of pro-angiogenic growth factors within the tumor niche.