Targeting neural components in the tumor microenvironment as a novel therapeutic approach

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in humans, yet many types of cancer currently lack effective treatments. Cancers develop within intricate microenvironments that are essential for their sustained growth, invasion, and metastasis. The nervous system regulates tissue stem cells and precursor cells throughout the life cycle. In recent years, numerous studies have revealed that neural components within the tumor microenvironment, such as neurons and nerve fibers, actively contribute to the onset and progression of diverse tumors. Neurons and nerve fibers regulate malignant cells through various neurotransmitters and nutritional factors. In some cases, neurons can form direct synaptic connections with cancer cells, and these mechanisms can affect the proliferation and metastasis of tumor cells. Therefore, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the nervous system’s influence on tumors and developing targeted therapies aimed at neural components within the tumor microenvironment could be a promising approach to enhancing cancer treatment effectiveness.