Hosttumor

Hosttumor, often described as host-tumor biology or host-tumor interactions, denotes the set of biological processes that occur between a developing or established tumor and the organism that harbors it. This concept emphasizes that cancer is not only a property of malignant cells but also a product of interactions with the host's genetics, immune system, metabolism, and organ physiology. Host factors can influence tumor initiation, growth, metastatic potential, and response to therapy, while tumors can induce systemic and local changes in the host.

Key components include immune surveillance and evasion, inflammatory signaling, the activity of the tumor microenvironment (including cancer-associated fibroblasts and endothelial cells), metabolic competition for nutrients, and hormonal or endocrine influences. The host microbiome and overall physiological state can also modulate tumor behavior and treatment tolerance. Tumor burden can cause systemic effects such as cachexia, anemia, and thrombosis, highlighting the bidirectional nature of host-tumor interactions.

Research approaches encompass in vivo models (syngeneic and humanized mouse models, xenografts), patient-derived xenografts, and in vitro co-culture systems that integrate immune and stromal components. Computational and systems biology methods are used to model host-tumor dynamics and predict responses to therapy.

Clinically, host-tumor biology informs prognosis and the effectiveness of treatments, particularly immunotherapies. Understanding host factors can guide personalized strategies and management of treatment-related adverse effects. Related topics include tumor microenvironment, cancer immunology, and cancer metabolism.