Figure 1
From: Extracellular matrix macromolecules: potential tools and targets in cancer gene therapy
Schematic representation of the desired effects of ECM-based gene therapies in cancer. 1. Degradation or reorganization of ECM macromolecules in the TME enables more efficient drug delivery to the tumour. 2. Degradation of ECM macromolecules, e.g. degradation of HA formed halos around cancer cells can enhance action of immune cells. 3. Encapsulation of the tumour mass with specific ECM macromolecules could inhibit tumour growth and metastasis. 4. Diminished tumour angiogenesis and lympangiogenesis can cause tumour necrosis and prevent metastasis. 5. Manipulation of 3D structure of the ECM in TME can decrease cancer cell tumourigenesis via various mechanisms. TME: tumour microenvironment.