Cancer ecosystems: A dynamic interplay across scales
Summary
Tumors evolve within complex, adaptive ecosystems that operate across spatial, temporal, and systemic scales. Within each tumor microenvironment, numerous diverse cell populations assemble into specialized niches that are continually shaped by systemic physiology, environmental inputs, and therapeutic pressure. Beyond the local microenvironment, cancer progression is governed by the host macroenvironment, where intrinsic biological determinants intersect with modifiable factors to collecti
Content
# Cancer ecosystems: A dynamic interplay across scales
*Published: 2026 Apr 16*
Tumors evolve within complex, adaptive ecosystems that operate across spatial,
temporal, and systemic scales. Within each tumor microenvironment, numerous
diverse cell populations assemble into specialized niches that are continually
shaped by systemic physiology, environmental inputs, and therapeutic pressure.
Beyond the local microenvironment, cancer progression is governed by the host
macroenvironment, where intrinsic biological determinants intersect with
modifiable factors to collectively impact physiological fitness and tissue
resilience. Here, we propose a multi-scale framework that unites tumor biology
with organismal physiology and reframes therapy from eliminating malignant cells
in isolation to reprogramming the cellular, vascular, and systemic networks that
sustain disease. We highlight emerging approaches that aim to restore
physiological equilibrium, spanning from spatial multi-omics and AI-driven
pathology to immune-vascular normalization and physiological conditioning.
Together, these dimensions define an integrative vision for precision oncology
that bridges discovery and intervention to achieve durable and ultimately
curative cancer therapy.
DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2026.03.003