Activation of Fibroblasts in Skin Cancer

Fibroblasts have emerged as a dominant component of the tumor microenvironment, but despite the surging interest in the activation of fibroblasts and their role in cancer, they remain an elusive and complex cell type. In this perspective, we discuss the phenotypic plasticity of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer identified by genome-wide transcriptomic studies and focus on the molecular pathways underlying their activation. These studies reveal distinct fibroblast activation profiles depending on tumor type and stage. A better understanding of skin CAF heterogeneity in origin and function will guide novel therapeutic approaches targeting this cell type in clinical cancer care.

Automated summary

This article discusses the importance of fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment and their role in cancer. It focuses on the phenotypic plasticity and molecular pathways of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) identified through transcriptomic studies. The research shows that different tumor types and stages have distinct fibroblast activation profiles. A better understanding of the origin and function of skin CAFs will guide the development of novel therapeutic approaches.