What is the role of tumor stroma?

Tumor stroma is the other components of tumor tissue except tumor cells, including connective tissue, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, immune cells, etc. Its main functions are to provide support and nutrition, influence tumor growth, immune regulation, promote tumor metastasis, etc.

1. Provide support and nutrition The

connective tissue in stroma provides physical support for tumor cells and helps maintain tumor structure. Blood vessels are responsible for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tumor cells to meet their growth and metabolic needs.

2. Affect tumor growth

Rich vascular network is conducive to rapid proliferation and spread of tumors. The components in stroma can secrete a variety of growth factors and cytokines to further promote tumor cell growth and survival.

3. Immunomodulation

Immune cells are present in the stroma and play an important role in tumor immune surveillance and immune response. However, tumor cells can suppress immune cell function through a variety of mechanisms, thereby evading attack by the immune system.

4. Promoting tumor metastasis

Lymphatic vessels in the stroma provide a pathway for tumor cells to metastasize. At the same time, stromal changes may affect the invasive ability and migration characteristics of tumor cells.