Fig. 1

Normal and tumor tissue stroma. Normal tissue stroma shows normal pattern of cell and ECM organizations with minimal distribution of immune cells and regular supply of oxygen and nutrients through blood vessels and capillaries. Tumor tissue stroma is more complex and rich in cell and ECM contents with irregular organization compared to normal tissue stroma. High infiltration of immune cells, cancer cells and CAFs/TAFs and increased ECM protein deposition in tissue stroma is characteristic of tumor microenvironment. Tumor activated area is perfused with high amount of blood supply whereas tumor necrotic area is lack of blood supply. Adipocytes in tumor stroma provide additional energy to the cells living in the microenvironment and actively participate in tumor progression