Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Key Actors in Tumor Niche

Tumors grow in privileged microenvironment referred to as the cancer niche. This niche is composed of cancer cells and various components including mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), fibroblasts, network of microvasculature added to innate and primed immune cells. Additionally, it encloses other elements such as the extracellular matrix (ECM), cytokines, chemokines and growth factors. Crosstalk between cancer cells and different niche constituents is crucial for tumor growth and metastasis. Herein, we focus attention on the bidirectional relationship between MSC and cancer cells and its impact on tumor progression. Better comprehension of these events within the tumor niche might be valuable for developing effective anti-tumor therapeutic strategies.