431eP EGCG inhibits chronic smoking exposure-induced lung cancer stem cell-like properties via macrophage-to-myofibroblast transition

Tumor microenvironment (TME) plays key role in the occurrence and development of lung cancer. Cigarette smoke is the most important factor for lung cancer, which reshapes lung cancer TME. However, it is unclear whether smoking can induce macrophage-to-myofibroblast transition (MMT) and promote the stem-like characteristics of lung cancer cells. This study aimed to unravel the impact and molecular mechanisms of smoking-induced MMT, as well as the interventional action of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the most abundant bioactive component from tea.