What is the Role of the Cellular Microenvironment in Disease?
The cellular microenvironment plays a significant role in the onset and progression of diseases. In cancer, the tumor microenvironment, which includes cancer cells, stromal cells, immune cells, and the ECM, can influence tumor growth and metastasis. Similarly, in inflammatory diseases, the microenvironment can perpetuate chronic inflammation through the continuous activation of immune cells and production of inflammatory mediators. Understanding these complex interactions is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
