The double-positive cells in the tumor microenvironment

The tumor microenvironment substantially influences cancer progression by mediating complex interactions between immune cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and mesenchymal cells. Recent studies have identified a critical component of this ecosystem, double-positive cells (DPCs), which are characterized by simultaneously expressing two markers that are traditionally confined to completely different cell lineages or cell types. In this review, we demonstrated DPCs' formation principles, characterization, classification, functions, and clinical significance. We underscore the multifaceted contributions of DPCs in enhancing tumor invasiveness, facilitating immune evasion, and promoting drug resistance. Understanding the significance of targeting DPCs could open new avenues for therapeutic interventions in cancer treatment.