Fibroblasts—a key host cell type in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis

Abstract

Tumor initiation, growth, invasion, and metastasis occur as a consequence of a complex interplay between the host environment and cancer cells. Fibroblasts are now recognized as a key host cell type involved in host–cancer signaling. This review discusses some recent studies that highlight the roles of fibroblasts in tumor initiation, early progression, invasion, and metastasis. Some clinical studies describing the prognostic significance of fibroblast-derived markers and signatures are also discussed.

Key words::

• Cancer associated fibroblasts
• cancer stem cell
• invasion
• metastasis
• microenvironment

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper. C.S. and H.R. contributed equally.