Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs)

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are specialized cells found in the environment around tumors. They originate from normal connective tissue cells but change in response to cancer, supporting tumor growth and spread. CAFs produce growth factors, modify the surrounding tissue, and help create conditions that make it easier for cancer cells to grow, invade nearby tissues, and resist treatment. While they are part of the body's natural tissue framework, in cancer, they become co-opted, unintentionally aiding the progression of the disease. Understanding CAFs helps researchers develop treatments that may better target and disrupt the tumor-supporting environment.