Dear Colleagues,

We are excited to announce the launch of the Special Issue titled "The Tumor Microenvironment (TME): New Frontiers in Immuno-Oncology," scheduled for publication in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Research (JCTR).

This Special Issue aims to explore the intricate interactions within the TME and their implications for cancer treatment, particularly immunotherapy. Historically, the TME has been recognized as a crucial player in tumor progression and response to therapy, characterized by complex interactions among immune and stromal cells, signaling molecules such as cytokines and chemokines, and other soluble factors that influence both immune evasion and therapeutic resistance.

This issue will delve into cutting-edge research topics, including the roles of immune and stromal cells in modulating immune responses, the importance of extracellular vesicles in cell communication, and innovative methodologies such as spatial transcriptomics that enable detailed mapping of the TME. Additionally, it will explore lipidomics and metabolomics, which provide insights into metabolic alterations within the tumor and its microenvironment. The mechanisms of neoangiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels, will also be examined, highlighting their critical role in tumor growth and development.

By integrating these diverse topics, this Special Issue seeks to foster a comprehensive understanding of the TME’s role in shaping immuno-oncological strategies, ultimately paving the way for novel therapeutic approaches and improved patient outcomes.