The role of cellular stiffness in tumorigenesis, progression and immune evasion

doi:10.19438/j.cjoms.2026.04.015

Abstract

Abstract: The progression of malignant tumors is closely linked to mechanical softening of cancer cells. Tissues and cells vary in stiffness, and tumor tissues exhibit pronounced heterogeneity, comprising clonal populations with diverse mechanical properties. Stiffness significantly affects critical cellular behaviors such as proliferation, metastasis, and immune evasion in tumor cells. This review examined the influence of stiffness, a critical biomechanical feature, on tumor initiation, progression and therapeutic response, and explored the associated molecular mechanisms and potential targeting strategies.

Key words: Cellular stiffness, Tumor microenvironment, Mechanotransduction, Immune evasion

CLC Number:

R739.8

Zeng Hui, Tian Guocai, Xu Qin, Zhang Zhiyuan. The role of cellular stiffness in tumorigenesis, progression and immune evasion[J]. China Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 2026, 24(4): 413-420.

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