A comprehensive analysis of tumor-stromal collagen in relation to pathological, molecular, and immune characteristics and patient survival in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND: Abundant collagen deposition is a hallmark of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs). This study clarified the interactive relationship between tumor-stromal collagen, molecular and immune characteristics, and tumor pr ogression in human PDAC. METHODS: TILs, and tertiary lymphoid structures), and patient prognosis. RESULTS: TILs (P = 0.09), and tertiary lymphoid structures (P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Tumor-stromal collagen deposition may play a crucial role in modulating tumor-immune microenvironment and determining response to adjuvant chemotherapy and patient survival outcomes.