Cancer-associated fibroblast

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (often abbreviated as CAF) are a type of cell that are present within the tumor microenvironment. They are one of the most abundant cell types in many types of cancer, and play a crucial role in cancer progression and metastasis.

Overview

Cancer-associated fibroblasts are derived from normal fibroblasts, which are cells that produce the structural framework (stroma) for animal tissues. In response to signals from cancer cells, fibroblasts can become permanently activated and transform into CAFs. These cells then contribute to the growth and spread of the tumor by secreting various growth factors, cytokines, and extracellular matrix proteins.

Role in Cancer Progression

CAFs play a key role in promoting tumor growth and metastasis. They do this through a variety of mechanisms, including:

• Stimulation of angiogenesis: CAFs secrete factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF), which promote the formation of new blood vessels. This provides the tumor with the nutrients it needs to grow.

• Promotion of cancer cell invasion: CAFs remodel the extracellular matrix and secrete enzymes that degrade the basement membrane, allowing cancer cells to invade surrounding tissues.

• Immune evasion: CAFs can suppress the immune response to the tumor by secreting immunosuppressive factors and attracting regulatory T cells.

Therapeutic Targeting of CAFs

Due to their crucial role in cancer progression, CAFs are being investigated as potential therapeutic targets. Strategies for targeting CAFs include inhibiting their activation, blocking their secreted factors, or depleting them from the tumor microenvironment. However, these approaches are still in the early stages of development and further research is needed to determine their efficacy and safety.

See Also

• Tumor microenvironment
• Fibroblast
• Angiogenesis
• Metastasis