Role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the proliferation，invasion， and treatment of thyroid cancer

Abstract:

Thyroid cancer is one of the most common endocrine malignancies. Cancer-associated fibroblasts（CAFs） are important cellular components in the tumor microenvironment of thyroid cancer，with heterogeneities in their cell origins，phenotypes，and functions. CAFs promote tumor progression through its interactions with tumor cells. CAFs can directly or indirectly promote the development and progression of thyroid cancer by altering the structure and function of the extracellular matrix，promoting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition，and enhancing cytokine secretion and release. Based on the characteristics of CAFs in thyroid cancer，some possible treatment strategies have been proposed. This article reviews the research advances in CAFs and thyroid cancer progression based on the relevant literature.