Tumor Inflammation: How Stromal Cells Fuel Growth and Immune Evasion

Tumor-associated stromal cells contribute to tumor inflammation by producing a variety of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. This inflammatory environment drives tumor growth, neovascularization, and the recruitment of immune cells. Furthermore, stromal cells influence glycosyltransferase expression, which impacts glycosylation patterns.

Glycosylation modifications play a crucial role in immune cell trafficking and function. They facilitate the recruitment of circulating lymphocytes to lymph nodes and inflamed tissues. Importantly, these modifications also regulate the differentiation of inflammatory immune cells towards immunosuppressive phenotypes.

Tumor cells, through high sialylation modifications, can effectively 'disguise' themselves from immune cells. This 'disguise' promotes immune tolerance and allows tumor cells to escape immune surveillance, ultimately fostering tumor growth and progression.