Lecture on Tumor Microenvironment and Extracellular Matrix in Cancer

Acknowledgment & Introduction

• Acknowledgment of the traditional owners of the land.
• Introduction of Thomas, a cancer cell biologist specializing in extracellular matrix (ECM) and its role in tumor progression.
• Thomas's background includes a PhD from the University of Durham, postdoctoral research in London and Copenhagen, and current work at the Garvin.
• Thomas leads the Matrix and Metastasis lab, focusing on ECM in oncology and personalized treatment strategies.

Overview of Thomas's Talk

• Insight into the tumor microenvironment (TME).
• Concentration on the extracellular matrix's role in cancer progression.
• Discussion on the study of ECM in tumors and its importance in cancer research and treatment.
• Potential example from recent research on pancreatic cancer.

Tumor Microenvironment (TME)

• Tumors are complex ecosystems, not just made up of cancer cells.
• TME includes fibroblasts, immune cells (B cells, T cells, macrophages), blood vessels, nutrients, and growth factors.
• Malignant tumors have genetic mutations, but TME extends beyond just cancer cells.
• Extracellular Matrix (ECM) is a key component of TME.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

• ECM is crucial for tissue formation and organ structure, influencing and being influenced by cell behavior.
• Dynamic Reciprocity: ECM influences cells; cells alter ECM.
• Stromal Tumors: High ECM content in tumors, affecting structure and therapy response.

ECM's Role in Cancer Progression

• ECM affects cancer cell behavior, immune cell regulation, and therapy response.
• Changes in ECM composition, stiffness, and organization are critical.
• ECM structures can serve as physical barriers or paths for metastasis.

Studying ECM

• Tissue Clearing & Imaging: Techniques developed to map ECM without degrading it.
• 3D Decellularization: Removes cells to study ECM structure and interactions.
• Intravital Imaging: Real-time imaging of ECM in living organisms.

ECM and Therapy

• ECM can hinder or aid in cancer treatment through its influence on drug delivery and cell behavior.
• Balancing ECM remodeling is key; complete removal can have adverse effects.

Research Example: Pancreatic Cancer

• Differences in ECM between models with different p53 mutations.
• ECM's role in influencing cancer cell behavior and chemotherapy response.

Conclusion

• ECM is a crucial component of the TME, influencing cancer progression and treatment.
• Future research aims to manipulate ECM for better cancer treatment outcomes.

Q&A Highlights

• Discussed ECM's role as a prognostic tool, its interaction with immune cells, and its influence on tumor dormancy.
• Explored the potential of using ECM signatures and components for cancer staging and therapy enhancement.