Chung-Jung Liu

*Interests*: Microbiota; Mesenchymal stem cell; Cancer-associated fibroblasts; Cancer target identification; Cancer metastasis; Mitochondria transfer; Mitochondria-related metabolism; Molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways; Anti-cancer natural component. Accumulation of genetic and epigenetic changes in cells finally induces the formation of cancer cells. These changes may be induced and influenced by tumor microenvironment (TME). TME plays an important role for the tumor growth, angiogenesis and metastasis. Occurrence of inflammation, and recruitment of mesenchymal stem cells, fibroblasts and immune cells et al. are shown to provide a favorable environment for the tumor progression. Tumor cells interact with these cells and/or their surrounding tissues become the important issues for the maturation of tumor environment and malignant tumor. Transfer of mitochondria and metabolites between tumor cells and surrounding stromal cells promote the altered tumor metabolism, disease progression and altered treatment responses in tumors. Besides, microbiota that influence inflammation and immunity are reported to regulate TME and the response to various types of cancer chemotherapy by affecting their mechanism of action and toxicity. Natural compounds against cancer cells and their microenvironment are considered as an auxiliary treatment. So far, the mechanisms behind microenvironment-mediated tumor progression are largely unknown. Recently, more information regarding their potential role in tumor development is becoming available. Therefore, understanding and recreating a signaling environment to control tumor cell development is critical stepping-stone of translation medicine research in cancer treatment.