Why is the Cellular Microenvironment Important in Disease?

The cellular microenvironment plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including cancer, fibrosis, and inflammatory conditions.

Cancer: The tumor microenvironment, which includes cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and an altered ECM, can promote tumor growth, invasion, and resistance to therapy.
Fibrosis: Dysregulation of ECM components and chronic inflammation can lead to excessive tissue scarring, as seen in conditions like liver cirrhosis and pulmonary fibrosis.
Inflammation: The microenvironment can influence the recruitment and activation of immune cells, contributing to chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.