Deciphering the Tumor Microenvironment in Prostate Cancer: A Focus on the Stromal Component

Abstract

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, and its progression is strongly influenced by the surrounding environment, known as the tumor microenvironment. This is comprised of a variety of cells, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), that modulate tumor initiation and progression and may affect treatment strategies. This review focuses on the interactions between fibroblasts and epithelial cancer cells and how these interactions contribute to cancer progression. This knowledge may unveil novel therapeutic approaches that could mitigate aggressiveness and/or render prostate cancer more responsive to current treatments, thus improving patient outcomes.