Animal models and the tumor microenvironment: studies of tumor-host symbiosis

Semin Oncol. 2014 Apr;41(2):146-55. doi: 10.1053/j.seminoncol.2014.02.004. Epub 2014 Feb 14.

Abstract

The contributions of murine models to elucidation of processes central to tumor growth are reviewed. Localized acidosis, increased interstitial pressure, perturbations in structure and function of the extracellular matrix, hypoxia, angiogenesis, and co-optation of the immune response are all phenomena that promote tumor survival and metastasis. The use of animal models is critical to understanding the pathophysiology of these processes and the development of more effective cancer therapies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acidosis / metabolism
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Animals
  • Apolipoprotein A-I / metabolism
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Cell Survival
  • Disease Models, Animal*
  • Extracellular Matrix / metabolism
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Inflammation / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Neoplasm Transplantation
  • Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic
  • Thrombospondin 1 / metabolism
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Tumor Microenvironment*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Apolipoprotein A-I
  • Thrombospondin 1