Role and value of the tumor microenvironment in the progression and treatment resistance of gastric cancer (Review).

Gastric cancer (GC) is characterized by a complex and heterogeneous tumor microenvironment (TME) that significantly influences disease progression and treatment outcomes. The tumor stroma, which is composed of a variety of cell types such as cancer‑associated fibroblasts, immune cells and vascular components, displays significant spatial and temporal diversity. These stromal elements engage in dynamic crosstalk with cancer cells, shaping their proliferative, invasive and metastatic potential.