Functions of CAFs in microenvironment of non-small cell lung cancer: based on updated hallmarks of cancer

Abstract

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common subtype of lung cancer, which ranks as the first malignant tumor in mortality. The occurrence and development of NSCLC are closely related to the tumor microenvironment (TME). Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment are considered to be critical regulators of the occurrence and development of NSCLC, which have essential effects on multiple biological characteristics of NSCLC. The hallmarks of cancer biology have been updated recently, however, there are no reviews revisiting the function of CAFs in tumor microenvironment. This article reviews the origin, markers, and classification of CAFs, their impacts on the characteristics of NSCLC, and potential therapeutic targets of CAFs to help develop individualized treatment plans for NSCLC.