Targeting the Devil: Strategies Against Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Colorectal Cancer

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as significant constituents of the tumor microenvironment (TME), play a pivotal role in the progression of cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). In this comprehensive review, we presented the origin and activation mechanisms of CAFs in CRC, elaborating on how CAFs drive tumor advancement through their interactions with CRC cells, immune cells, vascular endothelial cells, and the extracellular matrix within the tumor microenvironment. We systematically outline the intricate web of interactions among CAFs, tumor cells, and other TME components, and based on this complex interplay, we summarize various therapeutic strategies designed to target CAFs in CRC.
Source: Translational Research - Category: Research Authors: Source Type: research