How do environmental toxicants interact with the tumor microenvironment?
Environmental toxicants can influence the TME by altering cellular functions and signaling pathways, potentially exacerbating tumorigenesis. For example, exposure to certain chemicals can induce oxidative stress and inflammation within the TME, promoting DNA damage and cancer progression. Understanding these interactions is vital for assessing cancer risk and developing strategies to mitigate the impact of environmental exposures on cancer development.