Targeting CAFs to overcome anticancer therapeutic resistance

The view of cancer as a tumor cell-centric disease is now replaced by our understanding of the interconnection and dependency of tumor stroma. Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most abundant stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), are involved in anticancer therapeutic resistance. As we unearth more solid evidence on the link between CAFs and tumor progression, we gain insight into the role of CAFs in establishing resistance to cancer therapies. Herein, we review the origin, heterogeneity, and function of CAFs, with a focus on how CAF subsets can be used as biomarkers and can contribute to therapeutic resistance in cancer. We also depict current breakthroughs in targeting CAFs to overcome anticancer therapeutic resistance and discuss emerging CAF-targeting modalities.

Automated summary

This article discusses the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in anticancer therapeutic resistance in the tumor microenvironment. It explores the origin, heterogeneity, and function of CAFs, as well as their potential use as biomarkers. The article also reviews current breakthroughs in targeting CAFs to overcome therapeutic resistance.