RCAS1, MT, and vimentin as potential markers of tumor microenvironment remodeling

Abstract

A tumor stimulates the remodeling of its microenvironment for its own survival. To protect its own growth and induce angiogenesis, the tumor changes the structure of extracellular matrix and the function of existing cells; it thus chemo-attracts immune system cells altering their function. In our study, we discuss the potential markers of tumor microenvironment remodeling. For instance, RCAS1 is a protein responsible for tumor escape from host immunologic surveillance that additionally seems to be involved in the remodeling of the microenvironment. Another protein, metallothionein, which is both anti-apoptotic and pro-proliferative, is also responsible for modulating the response of immune system cells. Most likely, the expression of this protein by the fibroblasts of tumor microenvironment is related to the remodeled phenotype of these cells because of the tumor influence on cancer-associated fibroblasts. Lastly, vimentin is a protein that would appear to be the marker for the mesenchymal transition of cells from the epithelial phenotype. These cells seem to acquire the mesenchymal phenotype to migrate so that they can facilitate the development of metastases. Interestingly, the expression of vimentin has also been observed in the tumor microenvironment as well and may serve as a marker of a remodeled stroma in the process of facilitating tumor spread.