Stiffer tumor tissue may accelerate cancer spread and rewire nearby cells

The stiffness of tumor tissue plays a role in how cancer spreads. Furthermore, stiff tumor tissue leaves traces in the affected cells, according to two recent research studies from Lund University. "This helps us to better understand how the mechanical properties of the tumor microenvironment actively drive cancer development and spread," says Vinay Swaminathan, senior lecturer at Lund University.