Tumor-extracellular matrix interactions: Identification of tools associated with breast cancer progression

Semin Cancer Biol. 2015 Dec:35:3-10. doi: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2015.09.012. Epub 2015 Sep 28.

Abstract

Several evidences support the concept that cancer development and progression are not entirely cancer cell-autonomous processes, but may be influenced, and possibly driven, by cross-talk between cancer cells and the surrounding microenvironment in which, besides immune cells, stromal cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) play a major role in regulating distinct biologic processes. Stroma and ECM-related signatures proved to influence breast cancer progression, and to contribute to the identification of tumor phenotypes resistant to cytotoxic and hormonal treatments. The possible clinical implications of the interplay between tumor cells and the microenvironment, with special reference to ECM remodelling, will be discussed in this review.

Keywords: Breast cancer; ECM-related signatures; Extracellular matrix; Tumor microenvironment; Tumor stroma component.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomarkers
  • Breast Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Breast Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology
  • Breast Neoplasms / therapy
  • Carcinoma in Situ
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / pathology
  • Cell Communication
  • Disease Progression
  • Extracellular Matrix / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
  • Signal Transduction
  • Stromal Cells / metabolism
  • Stromal Cells / pathology
  • Tumor Microenvironment* / genetics

Substances

  • Biomarkers