Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma patient-derived Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts undergo senescence while retaining pro-tumorigenic properties after ex vivo irradiation

Key Points

• Irradiated cancer-associated fibroblasts retain pro-tumorigenic properties, emphasizing their role in tumor progression.
• Key evidence indicates that these fibroblasts undergo senescence, which may complicate treatment outcomes in head and neck cancer.
• Observational analysis across patient-derived models highlights the need for additional therapies targeting these fibroblasts alongside radiotherapy.
• Enhancing treatment strategies around fibrotic tissues may improve therapeutic responses; further studies are needed.