Tumour microenvironment: informing on minimal residual disease in solid tumours

Patients with resectable solid tumours can harbour minimal residual disease (MRD) after initial treatment, which is a potential source for subsequent metastatic relapse. The interaction between disseminated tumour cells (DTCs) and the new microenvironment in which they reside determines whether DTCs remain dormant or progress into overt metastases. We highlight the promise of liquid biopsies to inform on MRD.