Xingmin Chen’s research while affiliated with University of Electronic Science and Technology of China and other places

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key players in cancer development and therapy, and they exhibit multifaceted roles in the tumor microenvironment (TME). From their diverse cellular origins, CAFs undergo phenotypic and functional transformation upon interacting with tumor cells and their presence can adversely influence treatment outcomes and the severity of the cancer. Emerging evidence from single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) studies have highlighted the heterogeneity and plasticity of CAFs, with subtypes identifiable through distinct gene expression profiles and functional properties. CAFs influence cancer development through multiple mechanisms, including regulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, direct promotion of tumor growth through provision of metabolic support, promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to enhance cancer invasiveness and growth, as well as stimulating cancer stem cell properties within the tumor. Moreover, CAFs can induce an immunosuppressive TME and contribute to therapeutic resistance. In this review, we summarize the fundamental knowledge and recent advances regarding CAFs, focusing on their sophisticated roles in cancer development and potential as therapeutic targets. We discuss various strategies to target CAFs, including ECM modulation, direct elimination, interruption of CAF-TME crosstalk, and CAF normalization, as approaches to developing more effective treatments. An improved understanding of the complex interplay between CAFs and TME is crucial for developing new and effective targeted therapies for cancer. Graphical abstract

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) represents a targeted approach for cancer treatment that employs light and photosensitizers (PSs) to induce the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, PDT faces obstacles including insufficient PS localization, limited light penetration, and treatment resistance. A potential solution lies in nanogenerators (NGs), which function as self-powered systems capable of generating electrical energy. Recent progress in piezoelectric and triboelectric NGs showcases promising applications in cancer research and drug delivery. Integration of NGs with PDT holds the promise of enhancing treatment efficacy by ensuring sustained PS illumination, enabling direct electrical control of cancer cells, and facilitating improved drug administration. This comprehensive review aims to augment our comprehension of PDT principles, explore associated challenges, and underscore the transformative capacity of NGs in conjunction with PDT. By harnessing NG technology alongside PDT, significant advancement in cancer treatment can be realized. Herein, we present the principal findings and conclusions of this study, offering valuable insights into the integration of NGs to overcome barriers in PDT.