Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in tumor microenvironment

Abstract

Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are defined as a subpopulation of cells that reside within the tumour microenvironment to enhance the growth and invasion of cancer cells by various mechanisms. One of the most important mechanisms is secreting growth factors such as transforming growth factor (TGF) beta and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in order to maintain continuous growth at metastatic sites. CAFs can be derived from various origins, as a result they demonstrate a high degree of heterogeneity; however, many predictive biomarkers, morphological features and pathological functions of CAFs have been identified. It is becoming clear that the crosstalk between the cancer cells and the CAFs plays a significant role in transformation process and metastasis by secreting numerous matrix degrading protease that lead to remodelling of the extracellular matrix which participate in angiogenesis and metastasis. Thus, this study seeks to develop a better understanding about the origins of CAFs. In addition, the role of CAFs in tumorigenesis and metastasis will be discussed followed by case studies, which examined the different biological functions of both normal fibroblasts, and CAFs in tumour microenvironment will be explained. Finally, the potential therapeutic targets for CAFs to treat cancer will be discussed.