Therapeutic Strategies for Targeting the ECM in TME

Relying on the technology platform of the tumor microenvironment center, Alfa Cytology offers a full range of solutions and services for investigating therapeutic strategies that for target extracellular matrix (ECM) in the tumor microenvironment (TME), helping researchers successfully achieve their research goals.

Introduction

A growing body of evidence suggests that extracellular matrix plays an extremely important role in tumor immunity and that targeting tumor-associated extracellular matrix (ECM) has the potential to improve tumor immunotherapy. However, the compositional and structural complexity of the ECM and the significant intra-tumor heterogeneity are not fully understood, which may limit the application of targeted therapies for ECM. Fortunately, advances in technologies such as multiplex immunohistochemistry, tissue decellularization techniques, single-cell sequencing and mass spectrometry are working to address these issues. In the future, strategies to modulate tumor-associated ECM are expected to yield novel approaches to further optimize therapeutic strategies for tumor immunotherapy and extend overall survival of cancer patients.

Fig. 1 Main metabolic and extracellular matrix (ECM) alterations in the tumor microenvironment (TME) during tumor progression. (Brassart-Pasco S, et al, 2020)

Solutions

Tumor-associated ECM can be targeted in a variety of ways, including targeting ECM molecules, ECM remodeling enzymes, altering the structural or physical properties of the stroma, or modulating fibroblast function. Alfa Cytology has established an innovative tumor microenvironment center technology platform and is developing several technologies designed to help global collaborators develop therapeutic strategies targeting the extracellular matrix (ECM) in tumor microenvironment (TME). We are vigorously developing novel multi-targeted drugs, with clinical emphasis on the integration of molecular targets, and conducting in-depth research on therapeutic strategies targeting the extracellular matrix (ECM) to provide clues and basis for individualized precision therapy.

Key strategies

Alfa Cytology offers key strategies for targeting extracellular matrix (ECM) including but not limited to:

• Targeting ECM molecules
• Targeting ECM remodeling enzymes
• Altering the structure or physical properties of the matrix
• Inhibit extracellular matrix degradation

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) degrade the extracellular matrix and allow endothelial cells to enter the tumor mesenchyme, thereby promoting tumor cell migration and tumor blood vessel formation. Natural and synthetic matrix metaloproteinase inhibitor (MMPI) can block MMP from degrading extracellular matrix components, thereby inhibiting tumor metastasis and neovascularization. There are several synthetic matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors (MMPI), such as batimastat, tanomastat, marimastat and prinomastat.

Note: The key strategies we focus on are always up to date, please contact us by email for more up-to-date and relevant information.

Alfa Cytology is committed to supporting scientists in making breakthrough scientific discoveries and developing new applications to accelerate new drug discovery and scientific diagnosis and treatment. Our high-performance scientific instruments and high-value solutions enable scientists to explore the mysteries of life at the tumor microenvironment level. Please tell us your project requirements, and we will provide you with a full service from solution to report. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Reference

1. Brassart-Pasco S, S Brézillon, Brassart B, et al. Tumor Microenvironment: Extracellular Matrix Alterations Influence Tumor Progression[J]. Frontiers in Oncology, 2020, 10.

All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.