Tumor Stroma

Dear Colleagues,

The process of tumorigenic conversion of normal cells by genetic events is paralleled by co-evolution of an activated stromal compartment. It is increasingly evident that the microenvironment in which a neoplastic lesion persists holds critical influence over cancer initiation, maintenance, growth and progression into a metastatic and lethal disease. The tumor stroma is populated by endothelial cells and pericytes in the angiogenic vasculature, various types of inflammatory cells of the innate and adaptive immune system, as well as by fibroblasts and a rich connective tissue. Collectively, the stromal components sustain tumor proliferation, survival, stem cell maintenance, angiogenesis, invasiveness and distant spread. As such, the tumor microenvironment is an attractive target for novel anti-cancer therapies. The special issue of Cancers on “Tumor Stroma” will include original research articles and review articles on the influence of the microenvironment on all aspects of tumor biology.

We are looking forward to your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Kristian Pietras
Guest Editor