The tumor microenvironment

Both genetic factors and the local tissue microenvironment are key drivers of the tumor development. The tumor microenvironment (TME) was described as ''a wound that does not heal'' . The TME is composed of extracellular matrix, soluble factors and various types of cells e.g. immune cells, endothelial cells, neurons and carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). In the current project we are investigating the molecular mechanisms of stromal-epithelial cross-talk in the prostate TME.