Journal Description
Cancers
Cancers
is a peer-reviewed, open access journal of oncology, published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Irish Association for Cancer Research (IACR), Spanish Association for Cancer Research (ASEICA), Biomedical Research Centre (CIBM), British Neuro-Oncology Society (BNOS) and Spanish Group for Cancer Immuno-Biotherapy (GÉTICA) are affiliated with Cancers and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Oncology) / CiteScore - Q1 (Oncology)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 17.9 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Sections: published in 18 topical sections.
- Companion journals for Cancers include: Radiation and Onco.
Impact Factor:
5.2 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
5.6 (2022)
Latest Articles
Reconstruction of Partial Hypopharyngeal Defects following Total Laryngectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1804; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101804 (registering DOI) - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Various operative techniques exist to reconstruct partial hypopharyngeal defects following total laryngectomy. The current study aimed to investigate and compare complications and functional results following commonly used reconstructive techniques. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed using studies that investigated outcomes
[...] Read more.
Background: Various operative techniques exist to reconstruct partial hypopharyngeal defects following total laryngectomy. The current study aimed to investigate and compare complications and functional results following commonly used reconstructive techniques. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed using studies that investigated outcomes after the reconstruction of a partial hypopharyngeal defect. The outcomes of interest were fistulas, strictures, flap failure, swallowing function and postoperative speech. Results: Of the 4035 studies identified, 23 were included in this review. Four common reconstructive techniques were reported, with a total of 794 patients: (1) pectoralis major myocutaneous and (2) myofascial flap, (3) anterolateral thigh free flap and (4) radial forearm free flap. Fistulas occurred significantly more often than pectoralis major myocutaneous flaps (34%, 95% CI 23–47%) compared with other flaps (p < 0.001). No significant differences in the rates of strictures or flap failure were observed. Pectoralis major myofascial flaps were non-inferior to free-flap reconstructions. Insufficient data were available to assess speech results between flap types. Conclusion: Pectoralis myocutaneous flaps should not be the preferred method of reconstruction for most patients, considering their significantly higher rate of fistulas. In contrast, pectoralis major myofascial flaps yield promising results compared to free-flap reconstructions, warranting further investigation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Surgery of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma)
►
Show Figures
Open AccessArticle
Liver Transplantation from Elderly Donors (≥85 Years Old)
by
Pierluigi Romano, Luis Cano, Daniel Pietrasz, Nassiba Beghdadi, Marc-Antoine Allard, Chady Salloum, Frédérique Blandin, Oriana Ciacio, Gabriella Pittau, René Adam, Daniel Azoulay, Antonio Sa Cunha, Eric Vibert, Luciano De Carlis, Alessandro Vitale, Umberto Cillo, Daniel Cherqui and Nicolas Golse
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1803; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101803 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Despite the ongoing trend of increasing donor ages in liver transplantation (LT) setting, a notable gap persists in the availability of comprehensive guidelines for the utilization of organs from elderly donors. This study aimed to evaluate the viability of livers grafts from
[...] Read more.
Background: Despite the ongoing trend of increasing donor ages in liver transplantation (LT) setting, a notable gap persists in the availability of comprehensive guidelines for the utilization of organs from elderly donors. This study aimed to evaluate the viability of livers grafts from donors aged ≥85 years and report the post-LT outcomes compared with those from “ideal” donors under 40 years old. Methods: Conducted retrospectively at a single center from 2005 to 2023, this study compared outcomes of LTs from donors aged ≥85 y/o and ≤40 y/o, with the propensity score matching to the recipient’s gender, age, BMI, MELD score, redo-LT, LT indication, and cause of donor death. Results: A total of 76 patients received grafts from donors ≥85 y/o and were compared to 349 liver grafts from donors ≤40 y/o. Prior to PSM, the 5-year overall survival was 63% for the elderly group and 77% for the young group (p = 0.002). After PSM, the 5-year overall survival was 63% and 73% (p = 0.1). A nomogram, developed at the time of graft acceptance and including HCC features, predicted 10-year survival after LT using a graft from a donor aged ≥85. Conclusions: In the context of organ scarcity, elderly donors emerge as a partial solution. Nonetheless, without proper selection, LT using very elderly donors yields inferior long-term outcomes compared to transplantation from very young donors ≤40 y/o. The resulting nomogram based on pre-transplant criteria allows for the optimization of elderly donor/recipient matching to achieve satisfactory long-term results, in addition to traditional matching methods.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Future Developments in Liver Transplantation for Cancers)
Open AccessArticle
Real-World Safety and Outcome of First-Line Pembrolizumab Monotherapy for Metastatic NSCLC with PDL-1 Expression ≥ 50%: A National Italian Multicentric Cohort (“PEMBROREAL” Study)
by
Alessandro Cafaro, Flavia Foca, Oriana Nanni, Marco Chiumente, Marina Coppola, Alberto Russi, Elena Svegliati, Paolo Baldo, Sabrina Orzetti, Fiorenza Enrico, Federico Foglio, Davide Pinnavaia, Vito Ladisa, Claudia Lauria Pantano, Rosa Lerose, Patrizia Nardulli, Simona Ferraiuolo, Piera Maiolino, Immacolata De Stasio, Federica Gradellini, Anna Rita Gasbarro, Rossella Santeramo, Gisella Carrucciu, Riccardo Provasi, Mario Cirino, Paola Cristina Cappelletto, Elisabetta Fonzi, Alessandra Pasqualini, Stefano Vecchia, Marianna Veraldi, Adele Emanuela De Francesco, Lucio Crinò, Angelo Delmonte and Carla Masiniadd
Show full author list
remove
Hide full author list
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1802; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101802 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Results from the phase III Keynote-024 clinical trial established pembrolizumab monotherapy as the first-line standard of care for patients with metastatic NSCLC who have PD-L1 expression ≥ 50%, EGFR, and ALK wild-type tumors. However, given the differences between patients treated in routine
[...] Read more.
Results from the phase III Keynote-024 clinical trial established pembrolizumab monotherapy as the first-line standard of care for patients with metastatic NSCLC who have PD-L1 expression ≥ 50%, EGFR, and ALK wild-type tumors. However, given the differences between patients treated in routine clinical practice and those treated in a clinical trial, real-world data are needed to confirm the treatment benefit in standard practice. Given the lack of data on large cohorts of patients with long follow-ups, we designed an observational retrospective study of patients with metastatic NSCLC who were treated with pembrolizumab, starting from its reimbursement eligibility until December 2020. The primary endpoints were PFS and OS, determined using the Kaplan–Meier method. Response and safety were also evaluated. We followed 880 patients (median follow-up: 35.1 months) until February 2022. Median PFS and OS were 8.6 months (95% CI: 7.6–10.0) and 25.5 months (95% CI: 21.8–31.6), respectively. We also found that ECOG PS, PD-L1 expression, and habitual smoking were prognostic factors for PFS, while age, sex, ECOG PS, habitual smoking and histology had an impact on OS. Multivariable analysis confirms the prognostic role of PD-L1 for PFS and of ECOG for both PFS and OS. 39.9% of patients reported an adverse event, but only 6.3% of patients discontinued therapy due to toxicity. Our results suggest a long-term benefit of pembrolizumab in the first-line setting, as well as a safety profile consistent with the results of Keynote-024. Many collected variables appear to influence clinical outcome, but results from these exploratory unadjusted analyses should be interpreted with caution.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evidence from the Real World Provides New Insights into the Evolving Landscape of Cancer Immunotherapy)
Open AccessReview
Current Status and Future Perspectives of Antibody–Drug Conjugates in Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer
by
Maria Grammoustianou, Foteinos-Ioannis Dimitrakopoulos and Angelos Koutras
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1801; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101801 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer type in women. The vast majority of breast cancer patients have hormone receptor-positive (HR+) tumors. In advanced HR+ breast cancer, the combination of endocrine therapy with cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors is considered the standard of
[...] Read more.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer type in women. The vast majority of breast cancer patients have hormone receptor-positive (HR+) tumors. In advanced HR+ breast cancer, the combination of endocrine therapy with cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors is considered the standard of care in the front-line setting. Nevertheless, resistance to hormonal therapy and CDK4/6 inhibitors eventually occurs, leading to progression of the disease. Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) comprise a promising therapeutic choice with significant efficacy in patients with HR+ breast cancer, which is resistant to endocrine treatment. ADCs typically consist of a cytotoxic payload attached by a linker to a monoclonal antibody that targets a specific tumor-associated antigen, offering the advantage of a more selective delivery of chemotherapy to cancer cells. In this review, we focus on the ADC mechanisms of action, their toxicity profile and therapeutic uses as well as on related biomarkers and future perspectives in advanced HR+ breast cancer.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition: Estrogen Receptor-Positive (ER+) Breast Cancers)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: An Updated Review
by
Rina Jiang, Mike Fritz and Syril Keena T. Que
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1800; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101800 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Representing the second most common skin cancer, the incidence and disease burden of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) continues to increase. Surgical excision of the primary site effectively cures the majority of cSCC cases. However, an aggressive subset of cSCC persists with clinicopathological
[...] Read more.
Representing the second most common skin cancer, the incidence and disease burden of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) continues to increase. Surgical excision of the primary site effectively cures the majority of cSCC cases. However, an aggressive subset of cSCC persists with clinicopathological features that are indicative of higher recurrence, metastasis, and mortality risks. Acceleration of these features is driven by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The past several years have seen remarkable progress in shaping the treatment landscape for advanced cSCC. Risk stratification and clinical management is a top priority. This review provides an overview of the current perspectives on cSCC with a focus on staging, treatment, and maintenance strategies, along with future research directions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Skin Cancers)
Open AccessReview
CXCR4: From Signaling to Clinical Applications in Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
by
David Sanchis-Pascual, María Isabel Del Olmo-García, Stefan Prado-Wohlwend, Carlos Zac-Romero, Ángel Segura Huerta, Javier Hernández-Gil, Luis Martí-Bonmatí and Juan Francisco Merino-Torres
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1799; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101799 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
There are several well-described molecular mechanisms that influence cell growth and are related to the development of cancer. Chemokines constitute a fundamental element that is not only involved in local growth but also affects angiogenesis, tumor spread, and metastatic disease. Among them, the
[...] Read more.
There are several well-described molecular mechanisms that influence cell growth and are related to the development of cancer. Chemokines constitute a fundamental element that is not only involved in local growth but also affects angiogenesis, tumor spread, and metastatic disease. Among them, the C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) and its specific receptor the chemokine C-X-C motif receptor 4 (CXCR4) have been widely studied. The overexpression in cell membranes of CXCR4 has been shown to be associated with the development of different kinds of histological malignancies, such as adenocarcinomas, epidermoid carcinomas, mesenchymal tumors, or neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). The molecular synapsis between CXCL12 and CXCR4 leads to the interaction of G proteins and the activation of different intracellular signaling pathways in both gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) and bronchopulmonary (BP) NENs, conferring greater capacity for locoregional aggressiveness, the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and the appearance of metastases. Therefore, it has been hypothesized as to how to design tools that target this receptor. The aim of this review is to focus on current knowledge of the relationship between CXCR4 and NENs, with a special emphasis on diagnostic and therapeutic molecular targets.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neuroendocrine Tumors: Clinical and Translational Research)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Gene Expression Profile of Benign, Intermediate, and Malignant Spitz and Spitzoid Melanocytic Lesions
by
Alessio Giubellino, Yuyu He, Sarah A. Munro, Yan Zhou, Kyu Young Song, Jose A. Plaza, Carlos A. Torres-Cabala and Andrew C. Nelson
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1798; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101798 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Spitz and Spitzoid lesions represent one of the most challenging melanocytic neoplasms in dermatopathology. Nosologic classification has been more recently improved by the discovery of novel molecular drivers, particularly translocations. In the current study, we aimed to use an unbiased approach to explore
[...] Read more.
Spitz and Spitzoid lesions represent one of the most challenging melanocytic neoplasms in dermatopathology. Nosologic classification has been more recently improved by the discovery of novel molecular drivers, particularly translocations. In the current study, we aimed to use an unbiased approach to explore the gene expression profile of a group of melanocytic Spitz and Spitzoid melanocytic lesions ranging from benign lesions to melanoma, including intermediate lesions such as SPARK nevi and atypical Spitz tumors/melanocytomas. Using unsupervised analysis of gene expression data, we found some distinct hierarchical clusters of lesions, including groups characterized by ALK and NTRK translocations. Few non-ALK translocated tumors demonstrated increased ALK expression, confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Spitz tumors with overlapping features of dysplastic nevi, so-called SPARK nevi, appear to have a common gene expression profile by hierarchical clustering. Finally, weighted gene correlation network analysis identified gene modules variably regulated in subtypes of these cases. Thus, gene expression profiling of Spitz and Spitzoid lesions represents a viable instrument for the characterization of these lesions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Melanoma: Pathology and Translational Research)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Tumor Regression Grade on Survival and Disease-Free Interval in Patients Operated on for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer
by
Fernando Mendoza-Moreno, Manuel Díez-Alonso, Belén Matías-García, Enrique Ovejero-Merino, Cristina Vera-Mansilla, Ana Quiroga-Valcárcel, Alma Blázquez-Martín, Rubén Jiménez-Martín, Inmaculada Lasa-Unzúe, Miguel A. Ortega, Melchor Alvarez-Mon and Alberto Gutiérrez-Calvo
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1797; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101797 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in both men and women in our population. In this regard, rectal cancer accounts for more than half of colorectal cancer deaths, and its incidence is expected to increase in the coming
[...] Read more.
Introduction: Colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in both men and women in our population. In this regard, rectal cancer accounts for more than half of colorectal cancer deaths, and its incidence is expected to increase in the coming years. There have been significant changes in neoadjuvant therapy regimens, with promising results, as demonstrated by the recent RAPIDO and PRODIGE23 studies. Around 40% of patients diagnosed with locally advanced rectal cancer show some degree of response to neoadjuvant treatment, with complete tumor regression observed in up to one in five patients. Materials and Methods: Retrospective observational study. A total of 181 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery were analyzed. Clinical and pathological data were collected from the patients, including assessment of tumor regression through histopathological studies after surgery. The Mandard tumor regression grading system was used to categorize tumor response into different grades. Results: The results showed a significant association between the degree of tumor regression and several important clinical outcomes. Specifically, patients with higher tumor regression had significantly better disease-free survival than those with less regression (p = 0.004). In addition, tumor regression was also correlated with the incidence of local recurrence (p = 0.018) and distant metastasis (p = 0.032). These associations suggest that tumor responsiveness to neoadjuvant therapy may influence the long-term progression of the disease. Regarding tumor deposits and the presence of lymphadenopathy, these factors were also found to be significantly associated with clinical outcomes. Patients with tumor deposits had a higher incidence of local recurrence (p = 0.025) and distant metastases (p = 0.041), while the presence of lymphadenopathy increased the risk of local recurrence (p = 0.013). These findings highlight the importance of evaluating not only tumor regression but also other pathological markers to predict prognosis and guide clinical management. Conclusions: The degree of tumor regression was not an independent predictor of survival compared to other variables such as nodal stage and presence of tumor deposits. This indicates that while tumor regression is an important factor, other elements also play a crucial role in determining the prognosis of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. This study provides additional evidence for the importance of tumor regression, tumor deposits, and lymphadenopathy as predictors of clinical outcomes in patients with rectal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Surgical Management of Colorectal Cancer)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Pepsinogen C Interacts with IQGAP1 to Inhibit the Metastasis of Gastric Cancer Cells by Suppressing Rho-GTPase Pathway
by
Hanxi Ding, Yingnan Liu, Xiaodong Lu, Aoran Liu, Qian Xu and Yuan Yuan
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1796; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101796 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Aim: This study systematically explored the biological effects and mechanisms of PGC on gastric cancer (GC) cells in vitro and in vivo. Method: The critical biological roles of PGC in GC were assessed via EdU staining, Hoechst staining, flow cytometry, mouse models, CCK-8,
[...] Read more.
Aim: This study systematically explored the biological effects and mechanisms of PGC on gastric cancer (GC) cells in vitro and in vivo. Method: The critical biological roles of PGC in GC were assessed via EdU staining, Hoechst staining, flow cytometry, mouse models, CCK-8, wound healing, transwell, and sphere-forming assays. The interaction study with IQ-domain GTPase-activating protein 1 (IQGAP1) was used by Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry co-immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence staining, CHX-chase assay, MG132 assay, and qRT-PCR. Results: PGC inhibited the proliferation, viability, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, migration, invasion, and stemness of GC cells and promoted GC cell differentiation. PGC suppressed subcutaneous tumor growth and peritoneal dissemination in vivo. The interaction study found PGC inhibits GC cell migration and invasion by downregulating IQGAP1 protein and IQGAP1-mediated Rho-GTPase signaling suppression. In addition, PGC disrupts the stability of the IQGAP1 protein, promoting its degradation and significantly shortening its half-life. Moreover, the expression levels of PGC and IQGAP1 in GC tissues were significantly negatively correlated. Conclusion: PGC may act as a tumor suppressor in the development and metastasis of GC. PGC can downregulate its interacting protein IQGAP1 and inhibit the Rho-GTPase pathway, thereby participating in the inhibition of GC cell migration and invasion.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Cancer Biology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Immunomodulatory Potential of Pancreatic Cancer-Derived Extracellular Vesicles through Proteomic and Functional Analyses
by
Anna Piro, Maria Concetta Cufaro, Paola Lanuti, Davide Brocco, Laura De Lellis, Rosalba Florio, Serena Pilato, Sara Pagotto, Simone De Fabritiis, Simone Vespa, Giulia Catitti, Fabio Verginelli, Pasquale Simeone, Damiana Pieragostino, Piero Del Boccio, Antonella Fontana, Antonino Grassadonia, Mauro Di Ianni, Alessandro Cama and Serena Veschi
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1795; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101795 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) has a poor prognosis and displays resistance to immunotherapy. A better understanding of tumor-derived extracellular vesicle (EV) effects on immune responses might contribute to improved immunotherapy. EVs derived from Capan-2 and BxPC-3 PC cells isolated by ultracentrifugation were characterized by
[...] Read more.
Pancreatic cancer (PC) has a poor prognosis and displays resistance to immunotherapy. A better understanding of tumor-derived extracellular vesicle (EV) effects on immune responses might contribute to improved immunotherapy. EVs derived from Capan-2 and BxPC-3 PC cells isolated by ultracentrifugation were characterized by atomic force microscopy, Western blot (WB), nanoparticle tracking analysis, and label-free proteomics. Fresh PBMCs from healthy donors were treated with PC- or control-derived heterologous EVs, followed by flow cytometry analysis of CD8+ and CD4+ lymphocytes. The proteomics of lymphocytes sorted from EV-treated or untreated PBMCs was performed, and the IFN-γ concentration was measured by ELISA. Notably, most of the proteins identified in Capan-2 and BxPC-3 EVs by the proteomic analysis were connected in a single functional network (p = 1 × 10−16) and were involved in the “Immune System” (FDR: 1.10 × 10−24 and 3.69 × 10−19, respectively). Interestingly, the treatment of healthy donor-derived PBMCs with Capan-2 EVs but not with BxPC-3 EVs or heterologous control EVs induced early activation of CD8+ and CD4+ lymphocytes. The proteomics of lymphocytes sorted from EV-treated PBMCs was consistent with their activation by Capan-2 EVs, indicating IFN-γ among the major upstream regulators, as confirmed by ELISA. The proteomic and functional analyses indicate that PC-EVs have pleiotropic effects, and some may activate early immune responses, which might be relevant for the development of highly needed immunotherapeutic strategies in this immune-cold tumor.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Cancer Biology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Angiogenesis Still Plays a Crucial Role in Human Melanoma Progression
by
Gerardo Cazzato, Giuseppe Ingravallo and Domenico Ribatti
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1794; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101794 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in tumor progression, particularly in melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the intricate interplay between angiogenesis and tumor microenvironment (TME) in melanoma progression. Pro-angiogenic factors, including VEGF, PlGF, FGF-2, IL-8, Ang,
[...] Read more.
Angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in tumor progression, particularly in melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the intricate interplay between angiogenesis and tumor microenvironment (TME) in melanoma progression. Pro-angiogenic factors, including VEGF, PlGF, FGF-2, IL-8, Ang, TGF-β, PDGF, integrins, MMPs, and PAF, modulate angiogenesis and contribute to melanoma metastasis. Additionally, cells within the TME, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, mast cells, and melanoma-associated macrophages, influence tumor angiogenesis and progression. Anti-angiogenic therapies, while showing promise, face challenges such as drug resistance and tumor-induced activation of alternative angiogenic pathways. Rational combinations of anti-angiogenic agents and immunotherapies are being explored to overcome resistance. Biomarker identification for treatment response remains crucial for personalized therapies. This review highlights the complexity of angiogenesis in melanoma and underscores the need for innovative therapeutic approaches tailored to the dynamic TME.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Pathophysiology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Partial Hepatectomy Promotes the Development of KRASG12V-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Zebrafish
by
Mingkai Zhu, Yan Li, Dong Liu and Zhiyuan Gong
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1793; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101793 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of PH on the development of oncogenic krasG12V-induced HCC in zebrafish. The inducible HCC model in Tg(fabp10a:rtTA2s-M2; TRE2:EGFP-krasG12V) zebrafish was used. PH or sham surgery was
[...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of PH on the development of oncogenic krasG12V-induced HCC in zebrafish. The inducible HCC model in Tg(fabp10a:rtTA2s-M2; TRE2:EGFP-krasG12V) zebrafish was used. PH or sham surgery was performed before the induction of oncogenic krasG12V expression in the livers of transgenic zebrafish. Histological analysis was carried out to determine the progression of HCC and other HCC-associated features including hepatocyte proliferation, extracellular matrix production, and local oxidative stress. The similarity between the process of PH-induced liver regeneration and that of krasG12V-induced HCC development was further compared by RNA-Seq analysis. The results show that PH promotes the development of krasG12V-induced HCC in zebrafish possibly through enhancing neutrophil-mediated oxidative stress and promoting the upregulation of s100a1, and the downregulation of ribosome biogenesis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Surgical Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Novel Imaging Approaches for Glioma Classification in the Era of the World Health Organization 2021 Update: A Scoping Review
by
Vivien Richter, Ulrike Ernemann and Benjamin Bender
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1792; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101792 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
The 2021 WHO classification of CNS tumors is a challenge for neuroradiologists due to the central role of the molecular profile of tumors. The potential of novel data analysis tools in neuroimaging must be harnessed to maintain its role in predicting tumor subgroups.
[...] Read more.
The 2021 WHO classification of CNS tumors is a challenge for neuroradiologists due to the central role of the molecular profile of tumors. The potential of novel data analysis tools in neuroimaging must be harnessed to maintain its role in predicting tumor subgroups. We performed a scoping review to determine current evidence and research gaps. A comprehensive literature search was conducted regarding glioma subgroups according to the 2021 WHO classification and the use of MRI, radiomics, machine learning, and deep learning algorithms. Sixty-two original articles were included and analyzed by extracting data on the study design and results. Only 8% of the studies included pediatric patients. Low-grade gliomas and diffuse midline gliomas were represented in one-third of the research papers. Public datasets were utilized in 22% of the studies. Conventional imaging sequences prevailed; data on functional MRI (DWI, PWI, CEST, etc.) are underrepresented. Multiparametric MRI yielded the best prediction results. IDH mutation and 1p/19q codeletion status prediction remain in focus with limited data on other molecular subgroups. Reported AUC values range from 0.6 to 0.98. Studies designed to assess generalizability are scarce. Performance is worse for smaller subgroups (e.g., 1p/19q codeleted or IDH1/2 mutated gliomas). More high-quality study designs with diversity in the analyzed population and techniques are needed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Brain Tumor)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Overall Survival and Prognostic Factors in Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A National Cancer Database Analysis
by
Meghana Kesireddy, Lina Elsayed, Valerie K. Shostrom, Priyal Agarwal, Samia Asif, Amulya Yellala and Jairam Krishnamurthy
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1791; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101791 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is aggressive with poor median overall survival (OS) ranging from 8 to 13 months. There exists considerable heterogeneity in survival at the individual patient level. To better understand the survival heterogeneity and improve risk stratification, our study
[...] Read more.
Background: Metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is aggressive with poor median overall survival (OS) ranging from 8 to 13 months. There exists considerable heterogeneity in survival at the individual patient level. To better understand the survival heterogeneity and improve risk stratification, our study aims to identify the factors influencing survival, utilizing a large patient sample from the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Methods: Women diagnosed with metastatic TNBC from 2010 to 2020 in the NCDB were included. Demographic, clinicopathological, and treatment data and overall survival (OS) outcomes were collected. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to estimate OS. The log-rank test was used to identify OS differences between groups for each variable in the univariate analysis. For the multivariate analysis, the Cox proportional hazard model with backward elimination was used to identify factors affecting OS. Adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals are presented. Results: In this sample, 2273 women had a median overall survival of 13.6 months. Factors associated with statistically significantly worse OS included older age, higher comorbidity scores, specific histologies, higher number of metastatic sites, presence of liver or other site metastases in those with only one metastatic site (excluding brain metastases), presence of cranial and extra-cranial metastases, lack of chemotherapy, lack of immunotherapy, lack of surgery to distant sites, lack of radiation to distant sites, and receipt of palliative treatment to alleviate symptoms. In the multivariate analysis, comorbidity score, histology, number of metastatic sites, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy had a statistically significant effect on OS. Conclusions: Through NCDB analysis, we have identified prognostic factors for metastatic TNBC. These findings will help individualize prognostication at diagnosis, optimize treatment strategies, and facilitate patient stratification in future clinical trials.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Research of Cancer)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Radiation Safety Assessment in Prostate Cancer Treatment: A Predictive Approach for I-125 Brachytherapy
by
Ho-Da Chuang, Yu-Hung Lin, Chin-Hsiung Lin, Yuan-Chun Lai, Chin-Hui Wu and Shih-Ming Hsu
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1790; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101790 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
This study uses Monte Carlo simulation and experimental measurements to develop a predictive model for estimating the external dose rate associated with permanent radioactive source implantation in prostate cancer patients. The objective is to estimate the accuracy of the patient’s external dose rate
[...] Read more.
This study uses Monte Carlo simulation and experimental measurements to develop a predictive model for estimating the external dose rate associated with permanent radioactive source implantation in prostate cancer patients. The objective is to estimate the accuracy of the patient’s external dose rate measurement. First, I-125 radioactive sources were implanted into Mylar window water phantoms to simulate the permanent implantation of these sources in patients. Water phantom experimental measurement was combined with Monte Carlo simulation to develop predictive equations, whose performance was verified against external clinical data. The model’s accuracy in predicting the external dose rate in patients with permanently implanted I-125 radioactive sources was high (R2 = 0.999). A comparative analysis of the experimental measurements and the Monte Carlo simulations revealed that the maximum discrepancy between the measured and calculated values for the water phantom was less than 5.00%. The model is practical for radiation safety assessments, enabling the evaluation of radiation exposure risks to individuals around patients with permanently implanted I-125 radioactive sources.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Therapy)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Factors Influencing Long-Term Local Recurrence, Distant Metastasis, and Survival in Patients with Soft Tissue Sarcoma of the Extremities Treated with Radiotherapy
by
Arthur Lebas, Clara Le Fevre, Waisse Waissi, Isabelle Chambrelant, David Brinkert and Georges Noel
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1789; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101789 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: The prognostic factors for extremity soft-tissue sarcomas (ESTSs) treated with multimodal surgery and radiotherapy (RT) remain a subject of debate across diverse and heterogeneous studies. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed nonmetastatic ESTS patients treated with RT between 2007 and 2020 in Strasbourg, France.
[...] Read more.
Introduction: The prognostic factors for extremity soft-tissue sarcomas (ESTSs) treated with multimodal surgery and radiotherapy (RT) remain a subject of debate across diverse and heterogeneous studies. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed nonmetastatic ESTS patients treated with RT between 2007 and 2020 in Strasbourg, France. We assessed local control (LC), distant control (DC), overall survival (OS), and complications. Results: A total of 169 patients diagnosed with localized ESTS were included. The median age was 64 years (range 21–94 years). ESTS primarily occurred proximally (74.6%) and in the lower limbs (71%). Most tumors were grade 2–3 (71.1%), deep-seated (86.4%), and had R0 margins (63.9%). Most patients were treated with helical tomotherapy (79.3%). The median biologically effective dose (BED) prescribed was 75 BEDGy4 (range 45.0–109.9). The median follow-up was 5.5 years. The 5- and 10-year LC, DC, and OS rates were 91.7%, 76.8%, and 83.8% and 84.2%, 74.1%, and 77.6%, respectively. According to the univariate analysis, LC was worse for patients who received less than 75 BEDGy4 (p = 0.015). Deep tumors were associated with worse OS (p < 0.05), and grade 2–3 and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) were linked to both shorter DC and shorter OS (p < 0.05). IMRT was associated with longer LC than 3DRT (p = 0.018). Multivariate analysis revealed that patients with liposarcoma had better OS (p < 0.05) and that patients with distant relapse had shorter OS (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: RT associated with surgical resection was well tolerated and was associated with excellent long-term rates of LC, DC, and OS. Compared with 3DRT, IMRT improved local control. Liposarcoma was a favorable prognostic factor for OS. Intermediate- and high-grade tumors and deep tumors were associated with lower DC and OS.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multimodality Management of Sarcomas)
Open AccessArticle
Osteosarcoma-Induced Pain Is Mediated by Glial Cell Activation in the Spinal Dorsal Horn, but Not Capsaicin-Sensitive Nociceptive Neurons: A Complex Functional and Morphological Characterization in Mice
by
Noémi Bencze, Bálint Scheich, Éva Szőke, Imola Wilhelm, Sándor Körmöndi, Bálint Botz and Zsuzsanna Helyes
Cancers 2024, 16(10), 1788; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16101788 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
Bone cancer and its related chronic pain are huge clinical problems since the available drugs are often ineffective or cannot be used long term due to a broad range of side effects. The mechanisms, mediators and targets need to be identified to determine
[...] Read more.
Bone cancer and its related chronic pain are huge clinical problems since the available drugs are often ineffective or cannot be used long term due to a broad range of side effects. The mechanisms, mediators and targets need to be identified to determine potential novel therapies. Here, we characterize a mouse bone cancer model induced by intratibial injection of K7M2 osteosarcoma cells using an integrative approach and investigate the role of capsaicin-sensitive peptidergic sensory nerves. The mechanical pain threshold was assessed by dynamic plantar aesthesiometry, limb loading by dynamic weight bearing, spontaneous pain-related behaviors via observation, knee diameter with a digital caliper, and structural changes by micro-CT and glia cell activation by immunohistochemistry in BALB/c mice of both sexes. Capsaicin-sensitive peptidergic sensory neurons were defunctionalized by systemic pretreatment with a high dose of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) agonist resiniferatoxin (RTX). During the 14- and 28-day experiments, weight bearing on the affected limb and the paw mechanonociceptive thresholds significantly decreased, demonstrating secondary mechanical hyperalgesia. Signs of spontaneous pain and osteoplastic bone remodeling were detected both in male and female mice without any sex differences. Microglia activation was shown by the increased ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba1) immunopositivity on day 14 and astrocyte activation by the enhanced glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive cell density on day 28 in the ipsilateral spinal dorsal horn. Interestingly, defunctionalization of the capsaicin-sensitive afferents representing approximately 2/3 of the nociceptive fibers did not alter any functional parameters. Here, we provide the first complex functional and morphological characterization of the K7M2 mouse osteosarcoma model. Bone-cancer-related chronic pain and hyperalgesia are likely to be mediated by central sensitization involving neuroinflammation via glial cell activation in the spinal dorsal horn, but not the capsaicin-sensitive sensory neuronal system.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cancer Pain: From Basic Research to Drug Discovery and Clinical Studies)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Expression of Potential Antibody–Drug Conjugate Targets in Cervical Cancer
by
Michael R. Mallmann, Sina Tamir, Katharina Alfter, Dominik Ratiu, Alexander Quaas and Christian M. Domroese
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1787; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091787 - 6 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: There is a huge unmet clinical need for novel treatment strategies in advanced and recurrent cervical cancer. Several cell membrane-bound molecules are up-regulated in cancer cells as compared to normal tissue and have revived interest with the introduction of antibody–drug conjugates
[...] Read more.
(1) Background: There is a huge unmet clinical need for novel treatment strategies in advanced and recurrent cervical cancer. Several cell membrane-bound molecules are up-regulated in cancer cells as compared to normal tissue and have revived interest with the introduction of antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs). (2) Methods: In this study, we characterize the expression of 10 potential ADC targets, TROP2, mesotheline, CEACAM5, DLL3, folate receptor alpha, guanylatcyclase, glycoprotein NMB, CD56, CD70 and CD138, on the gene expression level. Of these, the three ADC targets TROP2, CEACAM5 and CD138 were further analyzed on the protein level. (3) Results: TROP2 shows expression in 98.5% (66/67) of cervical cancer samples. CEACAM5 shows a stable gene expression profile and overall, 68.7% (46/67) of cervical cancer samples are CEACAM-positive with 34.3% (23/67) of cervical cancer samples showing at least moderate or high expression. Overall, 73.1% (49/67) of cervical cancer samples are CD138-positive with 38.8% (26/67) of cervical cancer samples showing at least moderate or high expression. (4) Conclusions: TROP2, CEACAM5 or CD138 do seem suitable for further clinical research and the data presented here might be used to guide further clinical trials with ADCs in advanced and recurrent cervical cancer patients.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomarkers for Treatment Prediction, Prognosis and Early Detection of Gynecologic Cancer)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Phytochemical Modulation of Ion Channels in Oncologic Symptomatology and Treatment
by
Rohan Rao, Caroline Mohammed, Lise Alschuler, Daniel A. Pomeranz Krummel and Soma Sengupta
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1786; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091786 - 6 May 2024
Abstract
Modern chemotherapies offer a broad approach to cancer treatment but eliminate both cancer and non-cancer cells indiscriminately and, thus, are associated with a host of side effects. Advances in precision oncology have brought about new targeted therapeutics, albeit mostly limited to a subset
[...] Read more.
Modern chemotherapies offer a broad approach to cancer treatment but eliminate both cancer and non-cancer cells indiscriminately and, thus, are associated with a host of side effects. Advances in precision oncology have brought about new targeted therapeutics, albeit mostly limited to a subset of patients with an actionable mutation. They too come with side effects and, ultimately, ‘self-resistance’ to the treatment. There is recent interest in the modulation of ion channels, transmembrane proteins that regulate the flow of electrically charged molecules in and out of cells, as an approach to aid treatment of cancer. Phytochemicals have been shown to act on ion channels with high specificity regardless of the tumor’s genetic profile. This paper explores the use of phytochemicals in cancer symptom management and treatment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Emerging Role of Ion Channels in Cancer Treatment)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Programmed Death Ligand 1 Expression in Circulating Tumor Cells as a Predictor and Monitor of Response to Atezolizumab plus Bevacizumab Treatment in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
by
Takuto Nosaka, Yosuke Murata, Yu Akazawa, Tomoko Tanaka, Kazuto Takahashi, Tatsushi Naito, Hidetaka Matsuda, Masahiro Ohtani, Yoshiaki Imamura and Yasunari Nakamoto
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1785; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091785 - 6 May 2024
Abstract
There remains no reliable biomarker of therapeutic efficacy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for the PD-L1 inhibitor atezolizumab and bevacizumab (Atezo/Bev). Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) enable the serial collection of living tumor cells. Pre-treatment and serial CTC gene expression changes and tumor histology were
[...] Read more.
There remains no reliable biomarker of therapeutic efficacy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for the PD-L1 inhibitor atezolizumab and bevacizumab (Atezo/Bev). Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) enable the serial collection of living tumor cells. Pre-treatment and serial CTC gene expression changes and tumor histology were evaluated to identify predictors of response to Atezo/Bev. Peripheral blood from 22 patients with HCC treated with Atezo/Bev and 24 patients treated with lenvatinib was serially collected. The RNA expression in CTCs was analyzed using qRT-PCR. Higher PD-L1 expression in pre-treatment CTCs was associated with response and improved prognosis with Atezo/Bev treatment, but not with lenvatinib. There was no correlation between PD-L1 expression in CTCs and that in liver tumor biopsy specimens scored using imaging software. Furthermore, PD-L1 RNA expression in CTCs was dynamically altered by Atezo/Bev, decreasing during effective response and increasing upon progression. CTC-derived RNA collected during Atezo/Bev indicates that patients with higher PD-L1 expression in CTCs at baseline were 3.9 times more responsive to treatment. Therefore, PD-L1 RNA levels in CTCs are an accurate response predictor and may be a monitorable biomarker that changes dynamically to reflect the response during Atezo/Bev treatment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circulating Cancer Biomarkers: Progress, Challenges and Opportunities)
►▼
Show Figures
Graphical abstract
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Cancers Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Bioengineering, Biomolecules, Cancers, Diseases, Nanomaterials, Pharmaceutics
Dynamic Nano-Biomaterials in Tissue Regeneration and Cancer Therapies
Topic Editors: Ramar Thangam, Heemin Kang, Bibin G. Anand, Ramachandran Vijayan, Venugopal KrishnanDeadline: 15 May 2024
Topic in
Biomedicines, Cancers, JFB, Nanomaterials, Polymers
Advanced Functional Materials for Regenerative Medicine
Topic Editors: Antonino Morabito, Luca ValentiniDeadline: 6 June 2024
Topic in
Biology, Cancers, Current Oncology, Diseases, JCM, Pathogens
Pathogenetic, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Perspectives in Head and Neck Cancer
Topic Editors: Shun-Fa Yang, Ming-Hsien ChienDeadline: 20 June 2024
Topic in
Cancers, Cells, JCM, Radiation, Pharmaceutics, Applied Sciences, Nanomaterials, Current Oncology
Innovative Radiation Therapies
Topic Editors: Gérard Baldacchino, Eric Deutsch, Marie Dutreix, Sandrine Lacombe, Erika Porcel, Charlotte Robert, Emmanuelle Bourneuf, João Santos Sousa, Aurélien de la LandeDeadline: 30 June 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Cancers
Treatment of Hepatopancreatobiliary Cancers: Open Question, Challenge, and Future Directions
Guest Editors: Francesco Giovinazzo, Stijn van LaarhovenDeadline: 10 May 2024
Special Issue in
Cancers
Molecular and Cellular Heterogeneity in an Evolving Tumor Landscape: When Diversity Gives Rise to Aggressive and Drug Resistant Cells
Guest Editor: Michelle R. DawsonDeadline: 20 May 2024
Special Issue in
Cancers
Innovations in Soft Tissue Sarcoma Diagnosis and Treatment
Guest Editors: Erlinda M. Gordon, Sant P. Chawla, Frederick L. HallDeadline: 30 May 2024
Special Issue in
Cancers
Perioperative Care and Pain Management in Cancer Patients: From Basic Science to Clinical Practice
Guest Editors: Dario Bugada, Juan P. CataDeadline: 20 June 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Cancers
Drug Resistance and Novel Therapies in Cancers
Collection Editor: Zhixiang Wang