Figure 1.

Current vision of the relationship between MCs and malignant tumors. Tissue-resident MCs and probably MCs precursors are incorporated to the sites of tumor growth through the action of distinct chemokines and active lipids. Under the influence of the TME, MCs modify their phenotype towards TAMCs and secrete mediators that contribute to the generation of new blood and lymphatic vessels, the recruitment of distinct immune cell lineages and the fibrosis of tumor mass. Mediators can also promote metastasis of primary tumors. The final consequences of MCs’ activation can be considered pro-or anti-tumorigenic, depending on still undefined conditions. Figure made using BioRender, accessed on 7 January 2022, agreement number HV23G71UG7.