New insights in the importance of fibroblasts for skin tumour development

It is well-known that chronic wounds and associated inflammation are risk factors for tumor formation in various tissues, including the skin. Fibroblasts are a key type of cells involved in this phenomenon. They are essential for wound healing, but can cause scarring and are important components of solid tumours.

In cancer-associated fibroblasts of wound-induced tumours, Prof. Esther Hoste, Lisette Van Hove and colleagues found that many proteins involved in scarring of the skin were highly expressed. Their work as such demonstrates that enzymes involved in scarring can influence tumor development and should be considered as potential therapeutic targets in cancer treatment.

Their research was featured on the cover of the journal EMBO reports.

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