A narrative review on tumor microenvironment in malignant tumors

The environment in which cancer cells can be functionally shaped is called the tumor microenvironment (TME). TME plays a complex role in cancer biology and treatment resistance. During the initiation and progression of cancer, not only is the single transformed cell growing and multiplying, but its environment is also developing. TME promotes the growth and expansion of cancer cells and the metastasis process. Many cell types, such as inflammation-associated cells, fibroblasts, nerve cells, and vascular endothelial cells, are involved in TME. Molecules such as cytokines and chemokines are released by these cells. Utilizing these molecules, the growth signals in cancer cells are directly activated, leading to tumor growth. This results in the reprogramming of cells surrounding the tumor. Continuous interactions between tumor cells and TME play a decisive role in tumor induction, growth, metastasis, and reply to treatments. Understanding the dynamics of the tumor microenvironment is crucial for developing targeted therapies and improving cancer treatment outcomes. This review aims to review the available information on different aspects of TME in different types of cancer. Understanding of the TME has underscored its complex role in cancer biology and therapy resistance. Targeting components of TME holds promise for developing more effective cancer treatments in the future.