Tumor Microenvironment and Tumor Immunology: Implications for Clinical Practice

Abstract

The tumor microenvironment (TME) represents a complex ecosystem composed not only of cancer cells but also stromal and immune cells, extracellular matrix, and intricate signaling networks. Recent advances have highlighted the pivotal role of the TME in cancer progression, metastasis, and therapeutic response. Tumor immunology has elucidated mechanisms of immune surveillance and immune evasion, leading to the emergence of immunotherapies in clinical practice. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive cell therapies, and tumor vaccines have now become integral parts of standard treatment in various malignancies. This review summarizes the biological basis of the TME and its interactions with immune responses, while also discussing current clinical applications and future perspectives.