Fig. 2: The molecular mechanisms regulating CAF heterogeneity.
From: Cancer-associated fibroblasts: from basic science to anticancer therapy
The diversity of CAF subtypes is regulated by complex molecular mechanisms, including genetic regulation mediated by tumor cell-derived factors, epigenetic modulation via direct contact between tumor cells and CAFs, and metabolic reprogramming reflecting the reverse Warburg effect. Moreover, these mechanisms can work independently or cooperatively to shape the stromal structure and function, resulting in tumor restraining or tumor supportive effects of CAF subsets in a context-dependent manner. SOCS1: Suppressor of cytokine signaling; STAT3: Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3; LDH: Lactate dehydrogenase; PYCR1: pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase 1.
