Tumor Microenvironment

The tumour mass consists not only of a heterogeneous population of cancer cells but also a variety of resident and infiltrating host cells, secreted factors and extracellular matrix proteins, collectively known as the tumour microenvironment. Tumour progression is profoundly influenced by interactions of cancer cells with their environment that ultimately determine whether the primary tumour is eradicated, metastasizes or establishes dormant micrometastases.

Tumor microenvironment plays an important role in tumor growth and metastasis and thus becomes a very promising target for anticancer treatment. Low pH or acidic environment could facilitate tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis.