Breaking Barriers: The Role of the Bone Marrow Microenvironment in Multiple Myeloma Progression
Aleksandra Agafonova, Chiara Prinzi, Angela Trovato Salinaro, Caterina Ledda, Alessia Cosentino, Maria Teresa Cambria, Carmelina Daniela Anfuso, Gabriella Lupo
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable malignancy characterized by the proliferation of abnormal plasma cells within the bone marrow, followed by potential dissemination to extramedullary sites. The bone marrow barrier (BMB) plays a pivotal role in plasma cell homing and disease progression. Bone marrow endothelial cells (BMECs) and bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs), through their interactions with MM cells, secrete adhesion molecules, angiogenic cytokines, anti-apoptotic factors, and growth-promoting signals that support MM cell survival and proliferation. This review examines the components of the BMB and the major pathways involved in MM pathogenesis. Targeting the interactions between MM cells and the BMB may offer novel therapeutic opportunities.