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.
