The Role of TME In Mesothelioma Progression
Shrishti¹ and Jalyn Huang²#
¹ Mountain House High School
² Irvine High School
#Advisor
ABSTRACT
Malignant Mesothelioma is a dangerous type of cancer that predominantly occurs due to asbestos exposure. Its development and drug resistance are mainly caused by the tumor microenvironment (TME). TME is a complex community of immune-suppressive cells, fibroblasts, and signaling factors. The TME shields the tumor, promotes metastasis, and suppresses immune responses. This review addresses how MM uses its microenvironment and explores new therapies against the TME, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, anti-angiogenic drugs, and fibroblast-disrupting therapy. By shifting focus from cancer cells to their milieu, researchers can uncover superior, multi-targeted therapies that improve MM patient outcomes and reimagine cancer treatment paradigms.
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