Tumor-Stroma Interactions: Focus on Fibroblasts

Despite improved diagnosis and therapies, including chemo- and radiotherapy, cancer still is among the leading causes of death in Europe and the world. Not only the tumor itself, but also the stromal tumor microenvironment has recently been pinpointed as a crucial player in tumor progression. Among the molecules of the tumor stroma, extracellular matrix components, integrins, matrix metalloproteinases and cytokines are considered potential targets in therapy approaches aimed at eradicating the tumor.