Asian Pacific Journal Of Cancer Prevention[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
The Interplay of PD-L1, Kynurenine Pathway, and Vitamin D Shapes an Immunosuppressive Microenvironment in Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Choudhary A, Ramesh R, Kar R … +6 more , Narasimhan PB, Ganesan P, Dubashi B, Ng R, R S, Kayal S
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945941 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a genetically heterogeneous malignancy. However, the immune microenvironment-including immune checkpoint pathways and metabolic regulators also plays a pivotal role in disease...
BACKGROUND: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a genetically heterogeneous malignancy. However, the immune microenvironment-including immune checkpoint pathways and metabolic regulators also plays a pivotal role in disease progression. AIMS: To investigate the immune-metabolic landscape of newly diagnosed AML patients, focusing on the PDL1-PD1 and IDO-Kynurenine-AhR pathways, and their association with vitamin D levels. SETTING: A prospective, observational study conducted at a tertiary care academic hospital. MATERIALS: A total of 127 newly diagnosed AML patients were enrolled. Flow cytometry was used to assess PD-L1 expression on blasts and immune T cell subsets. Serum levels of tryptophan, kynurenine, and vitamin D were measured using enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA). STATISTICS: Correlation analysis and chi-square test/Mann-Whitney U test were applied. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: PDL1 expression on blasts inversely correlated with CD8+ T cells (p=0.044), indicating immune evasion. CD3+ positively correlated with CD8+ T cells (p=0.007), while CD4+ negatively correlated with CD8+ T cells (p<0.001), suggesting divergent immune roles. Elevated tryptophan/kynurenine correlated with increased PD1+CD4+ T cells (p=0.039), which in turn were associated with higher Treg frequencies (p=0.001). Low vitamin D levels were associated with higher odds of aTregs (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1-7). CONCLUSIONS: An immunosuppressive microenvironment in AML is driven by PD-L1 expression, kynurenine pathway activation, and low vitamin D levels. These findings suggest potential immunotherapeutic targets and highlight vitamin D's immunomodulatory role.
Factors Impeding the Timely Pathologic Diagnosis of Malignant Small Round Blue Cell Tumors in a Pediatric Tertiary Care Center in the Philippines: Identifying Opportunities to Optimize Pediatric Cancer Management.
Armada GL, Matabang CC, Sionzon M … +4 more , Lo R, Ilagan C, Putra J, Carreon CK
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945940 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the turnaround time (TAT) of histopathology reports for pediatric small round blue cell tumors (PSRBCTs) at the largest pediatric tertiary care center in the Philippines, and to id...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the turnaround time (TAT) of histopathology reports for pediatric small round blue cell tumors (PSRBCTs) at the largest pediatric tertiary care center in the Philippines, and to identify the factors affecting TAT. Additionally, the reasons for the inability to accurately diagnose cases were investigated. METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 232 tumor cases from 2018 to 2022. The overall mean TAT, as well as the TAT for specific phases (pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical), was determined. Factors contributing to delays in diagnosis were analyzed. Multivariate analysis was used to assess associations between these factors, and Spearman correlation was applied to explore the relationship between the number of consultant pathologists who reviewed a case and the mean TAT. RESULT: The overall mean TAT for PSRBCT histopathology reports was 13.39 days. The pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases had TATs of 1.89, 11.56, and 4.53 days, respectively. Unavailability of immunohistochemical stains significantly increased TAT (95% CI, p-value < 0.01). A significant reduction in TAT was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic (95% CI, p-value < 0.01). A direct correlation was found between the number of consultant pathologists reviewing a case and the mean TAT (95% CI, p-value < 0.01). The main barrier to rendering a specific diagnosis was the lack of access to molecular tests. CONCLUSION: Prolonged TAT reflects underlying issues that delay the accurate diagnosis of PSRBCTs. The identified deficiencies, including limited access to ancillary tests and specialized expertise, offer opportunities to improve pediatric cancer care in the Philippines.
Genetic Polymorphisms in Genes Involved in Oxidative Stress and Their Association with Radiotherapy Toxicity among Head and Neck Cancer Patients.
Gudur AK, Bhosale SJ, Gudur RA … +1 more , Datkhile KD
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945939 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The present study was planned to examine the possible association of polymorphisms in the superoxide dismutase and catalase genes with adverse normal tissue effects or injury resulting from radiotherapy in HN...
BACKGROUND: The present study was planned to examine the possible association of polymorphisms in the superoxide dismutase and catalase genes with adverse normal tissue effects or injury resulting from radiotherapy in HNC patients. METHODS: A total of two hundred and fifty head and neck cancer (HNC) patients undergoing therapeutic radiotherapy were enrolled in this study, wherein acute radiation induced toxicity and treatment response were systematically documented. The investigation aimed to assess the potential association between oxidative stress-related gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to acute skin toxicity. Specifically, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in SOD1 (A251G, rs2070424), SOD2 (C299T, rs1141718), SOD3 (G172A, rs2536512), and two SNPs in the CAT gene (A21T, rs7943316; C262T, rs1001179) were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methodology. RESULTS: The findings revealed a statistically significant negative association between both the combined variant genotype and the heterozygous SOD3 G172A genotype and the risk of acute radiation-induced skin toxicity, suggesting a potential protective effect (OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.26-0.88; p = 0.018). In contrast, the homozygous recessive SOD3 172A/A genotype demonstrated a strong positive correlation with the incidence of oral mucositis in HNC patients, exhibiting a markedly elevated risk (OR = 10.47, 95% CI: 4.48-24.44; p < 0.0001). Additionally, individuals carrying the heterozygous 172G/A genotype showed a 2.25-fold increased susceptibility to severe mucositis (OR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.21-4.17; p = 0.009). Furthermore, the heterozygous A21T genotype of the CAT gene (rs7943316) was significantly associated with an increased risk of oral mucositis following radiotherapy in HNC patients (OR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.00-3.22; p = 0.049). CONCLUSION: The analysis of genetic polymorphisms in extracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD3) revealed a statistically significant association with radiation-induced skin toxicity and mucositis among HNC patients in the studied population.
Enhancing Cervical Cancer Screening Among Northern Thai Women: Satisfaction with Self-Collected HPV DNA Testing under the National Program.
Dankai W, Thangvorathum P, Pukdee K … +5 more , Aithin P, Thongbai R, Noja J, Sriwangdaeng N, Lekawanvijit S
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945938 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women in Thailand. Despite the availability of national cervical cancer screening programs, participation rates remain low in...
BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women in Thailand. Despite the availability of national cervical cancer screening programs, participation rates remain low in Northern Thailand due to barriers such as limited accessibility and discomfort with clinical sample collection. Self-collected HPV DNA testing offers a promising alternative to traditional screening methods by addressing these barriers and improving access to care. OBJECTIVE: Cervical cancer is a major health burden in Thailand, yet participation in national screening programs remains low, particularly in Northern Thailand. This study evaluated satisfaction with self-collected HPV DNA testing and examined factors influencing screening acceptance to inform strategies for increasing uptake. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 299 women aged 30-60 years attending the national cervical cancer screening program at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital. Participants performed self-collection following a demonstration and completed a five-point Likert scale satisfaction survey. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to assess satisfaction and identify predictors of screening intention. RESULTS: Most participants (85.95%) strongly agreed that self-collected HPV DNA testing improved screening accessibility, and 100% found the process easy to follow. Mean satisfaction scores were high for accessibility (4.85/5), effectiveness (4.82/5), and reliability (4.81/5). No invalid samples were reported, and beta-globin Ct values confirmed high-quality sample collection (mean Ct = 29.00 ± 1.70). Education level significantly influenced screening intention (OR = 17.61, p = 0.039). CONCLUSION: Self-collected HPV DNA testing was highly satisfactory and could enhance national screening programs, especially in underserved populations.
Phytochemical Analysis and Apoptosis-Inducing Anticancer Activity of Buddleja polystachia Leaf Extract against HeLa Cell Lines.
A AM, M ZT, Tesfey T … +6 more , Mulaw G, Pantagada N, Konuku K, Ad NK, Tadege T, K KC
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945937 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of mortality in women globally, with its incidence increasing due to multidrug resistance (MDR) and adverse side effects associated with chemotherapeutic agents. Hen...
OBJECTIVE: Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of mortality in women globally, with its incidence increasing due to multidrug resistance (MDR) and adverse side effects associated with chemotherapeutic agents. Hence, this study was carried out to investigate the selective cytotoxicity and apoptotic induction potential of Buddleja polystachya leaf diethyl ether (BPL-DE) extract on cervical cancer HeLa cell lines. METHODS: The selective cytotoxicity of leaf extracts of B. polystachya was assessed by the MTT assay. The apoptotic induction potential of BPL-DE extract at IC₅₀ (20 µg/mL) was assessed by Acridine Orange/Ethidium Bromide (AO/EB) dual staining. Furthermore, qRT-PCR analysis was performed to study mRNA gene expression of pro-apoptotic (Bax, p53) and anti-apoptotic genes (Bcl-2, survivin), as well as caspase-9 and caspase-3 gene expression levels. RESULTS: The BPL-DE extract showed the highest selective cytotoxic effect against HeLa cells, with an IC₅₀ of 20 µg/mL, resulting in a selective index of 25.31. AO/EB dual-staining analysis revealed that the BPL-DE extract at IC₅₀ (20 µg/mL) significantly induced late apoptosis (p≤0.001). qRT-PCR results showed that the mRNA expression levels of Bax and p53 increased by 3.96-fold (p≤0.01) and 5-fold (p≤0.001), respectively. In contrast, Bcl-2 and survivin mRNA expression levels were significantly downregulated by 1.02-fold (p≤0.01) and 1.13-fold (p≤0.001), respectively, at two-fold IC50 (40 µg/mL). The BPL-DE extract also upregulated the mRNA expression of caspase-9 and caspase-3 by 32.07-fold (p≤0.001) and 15.06-fold (p≤0.01), respectively, at two-fold IC50. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study demonstrate that the BPL-DE extract significantly induced the p53-mediated intrinsic apoptotic pathway in HeLa cell lines and provides a potential alternative therapeutic agent for cervical cancer treatment by minimizing damage to normal cells.
Diagnostic Efficacy of Serum Biomarkers for Oral Cancer: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Anusikha A, Chinnannavar SN, Mishra S … +3 more , Bajoria AA, Pathi J, Nahar N
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945936 · Publisher ↗
AIM: Evaluating Diagnostic Ability Of Various Serum Biomarkers For Oral Cancer (OSCC). METHODS: Review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses - Diagnostic...
AIM: Evaluating Diagnostic Ability Of Various Serum Biomarkers For Oral Cancer (OSCC). METHODS: Review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses - Diagnostic Test Accuracy (PRISMA-DTA) checklist, and the review protocol was registered under PROSPERO (CRD42024625802). Databases were searched from January 2000 to December 2024 to identify the diagnostic potential of various serum biomarkers. Quality assessment was evaluated based on the QUADAS-2 (Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies) tool, and meta-analysis was performed in Meta-Disc 1.4 software and Review Manager 5.3 for pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (+PLR), negative likelihood ratio (-NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curves. RESULTS: Twenty-three studies were included in the review, with data evaluated from 3,309 subjects (diseased - 2,069 and 1,240 - controls). The included studies showed a moderate to high risk of bias. Various biomarkers such as CYFRA 21-1, E-cadherin, interleukins (IL-6, IL-8), protein peaks, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-9), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), galectins (1, 3), and various RNA biomarkers were evaluated, belonging to the protein and microRNA classes of biomarkers. It was found that these biomarkers had sensitivity and specificity ranging from 16% to 94% and 37% to 100%, respectively, with the highest accuracy shown by IL-8, which had a mean sensitivity and specificity of 86.5% and 98%. The highest AUC was observed for CYFRA 21-1 (0.53), suggesting that the overall diagnostic accuracy of these serum biomarkers is moderate to good in diagnosing the desired condition. CONCLUSION: Serum biomarkers are a valid tool and, overall, have good diagnostic potential in identifying the target condition. They can be used as an alternative adjunct to histopathology. Serum biomarkers also have significant potential in predicting and diagnosing disease outcomes, and they can improve the quality and reach of early screening and detection of OSCC. Serum biomarkers can be employed for early diagnosis and prompt treatment under the secondary level of prevention.
Tumor Lysis Syndrome in Lung Cancer Patients: A Review of the Literature.
Siddiqui Z, Schab AR, Paracha A … +8 more , Abid A, Rifai K, Huba M, Arshad M, Paracha M, Durrani U, Nair H, Ahmed B
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945935 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) in patients with lung cancer (LC) is poorly characterized, due to its predominance in hematologic malignancies, creating a gap in both recognition and management strategies. METHODS...
BACKGROUND: Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) in patients with lung cancer (LC) is poorly characterized, due to its predominance in hematologic malignancies, creating a gap in both recognition and management strategies. METHODS: We reviewed the literature to identify features that distinguish patients with lung cancer (LC) at high risk for tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) and poor prognosis, and to evaluate treatment outcomes. The PubMed database was queried through February 2025 in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Twenty-nine case reports, including clinical courses and biochemical data of LC patients who developed TLS, were analyzed and appraised. RESULTS: Risk factors for tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) included elevated uric acid and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) at baseline, along with dyspnea, oliguria, and lethargy. Factors associated with increased mortality included high baseline LDH, symptomatic TLS, the need for renal replacement therapy, liver metastasis, and widespread metastatic disease. Rasburicase was associated with improved survival in a limited subset. Mortality in patients with lung cancer (LC) and TLS rivaled that observed in hematologic malignancies. CONCLUSION: For patients with high-risk lung cancer (LC), proactive initiation of urate-lowering therapy and hydration along with rasburicase and continued hydration for those who develop tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) may reduce mortality. Further multicenter studies may influence diagnostic criteria, risk assessment, and prophylactic guidelines for TLS to better account for high-risk LC and other solid tumor patients.
Cancer Vaccines: Mobilizing Immunity for Targeted Cancer Therapy.
Yilmaz V
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945934 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Cancer remains the leading cause of mortality in economically developed nations, presenting a major global health burden. Conventional anti-cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, often fall s...
OBJECTIVE: Cancer remains the leading cause of mortality in economically developed nations, presenting a major global health burden. Conventional anti-cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, often fall short of providing safe, targeted, and long-lasting treatments, particularly for aggressive and metastatic cancer types. METHOD: In recent years, cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a promising alternative that harnesses the patient's own immune system to recognize and eliminate malignant cells. Among the various immunotherapeutic strategies, cancer vaccines represent a dynamic and rapidly evolving field. These vaccines aim to stimulate or enhance tumor-specific immune responses and are tailored to target the diverse molecular and immunological hallmarks of cancer. RESULT: While several cancer vaccines have gained regulatory approval and entered clinical use, many others remain under investigation, requiring further optimization and evaluation through clinical trials. CONCLUSION: This review provides an overview of both clinically approved and emerging cancer vaccine strategies. Additionally, it examines the underlying factors that influence their clinical efficacy and translational potential, including immune evasion, delivery challenges, and patient-specific variables.
Performance of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI PET in Breast, Ovarian, and Cervical Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Gabdullina M, Ainakulova A, Elboga U … +5 more , Karibayeva I, Alisherov G, Zhakenova Z, Amankulov J, Zholdybay Z
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945933 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI PET imaging in breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers by conducting a systematic review of the existing literature. METHODS: A system...
OBJECTIVE: This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of [68Ga]Ga-FAPI PET imaging in breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers by conducting a systematic review of the existing literature. METHODS: A systematic review of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases, following by a meta-analysis of the included studies, was performed using a random-effects statistical model. RESULT: Ten eligible studies that described the effectiveness of [⁶⁸Ga]Ga-FAPI PET imaging in breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers were included in this review. The total number of participants was 253 females. Aggregated data from nine studies indicate a remarkably high diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of 48.69 (95% CI: [16.94-139.96]) for detecting primary tumors, and a DOR of 207.50 (95% CI: [46.18-932.34]) from seven studies for detecting lymph node metastasis. [⁶⁸Ga]Ga-FAPI PET demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy in identifying both primary lesions and metastatic lymph nodes in breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers. CONCLUSION: [68Ga]Ga-FAPI PET imaging could function as a supplementary technique to [18F]F-FDG PET imaging modalities, offering a more comprehensive evaluation for cancer staging, assessment of treatment response, and guidance in radiation therapy planning.
Chemotherapy Supports Cancer Cell Dissemination in a Melanoma Preclinical Model.
Lapkina E, Ruksha T
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945932 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to determine how the chemotherapeutic alkylating agent dacarbazine, together with the application of the miR-204-5p mimic in vivo, affects the presence of disseminated melanoma cells i...
OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to determine how the chemotherapeutic alkylating agent dacarbazine, together with the application of the miR-204-5p mimic in vivo, affects the presence of disseminated melanoma cells in distant organs - the lungs and liver. METHODS: The study was carried out on B16 melanoma-bearing mice (n = 48). The animals were treated with dacarbazine (50 mg/kg) or dacarbazine combined with the microRNA miR-204-5p mimic (5 nM). Real-time PCR was used to evaluate the expression of miR-204-5p target genes following miR-204-5p mimic application. The presence of melanoma cells in distant organs was assessed by immunovisualization of the melanocyte marker PMEL using an immunohistochemical assay and by evaluating the expression of the melanocyte-specific protein tyrosinase via real-time PCR. RESULT: The level of PMEL expression increased twofold in the lungs of mice treated with dacarbazine (p = 0.014) and 4.2-fold in the group of animals treated with a combination of dacarbazine and the miR-204-5p mimic (p = 0.001), as compared to the control group. However, tyrosinase expression was detected in the lungs of B16 melanoma-bearing mice treated with dacarbazine and the negative control only, due to the sporadic presence of melanoma cells in distant organs. CONCLUSION: Taken together, dacarbazine and the miR-204-5p mimic favor the dissemination of B16 melanoma cells in the lungs, which may support further metastatic development. Although miR-204-5p has been described as a tumor-suppressive microRNA in melanoma, the application of a synthetic mimic to overexpress it in distant organs promoted tumor cell dissemination.
Surveilling Care, Protecting People: Legal Reforms for the Data-Driven Clinic.
Jung M
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945931 · Publisher ↗
UNLABELLED: This study explores the concept and potential applications of healthcare big data, focusing on the legal and institutional challenges arising from the imperative to protect personal information. Healthcare bi...
UNLABELLED: This study explores the concept and potential applications of healthcare big data, focusing on the legal and institutional challenges arising from the imperative to protect personal information. Healthcare big data holds transformative promise across multiple domains, including precision medicine, public health policymaking, and drug development, contributing to enhanced population health and medical innovation. However, ongoing legal tensions between data utilization and privacy protection persist, largely due to the sensitive nature of medical data and the inherent risk of re-identification. METHOD: This paper conducts a comparative legal analysis to examine the consistency of legal frameworks governing healthcare big data. It analyzes U.S. laws specifically, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the 21st Century Cures Act alongside corresponding Korean statutes, including the Medical Service Act and the Bioethics and Safety Act. RESULTS: The comparative analysis identifies ongoing legal tensions between data utilization and privacy protection. These tensions arise from ambiguous definitions of pseudonymized and anonymized data, the limited flexibility of consent mechanisms for data subjects, and inconsistent de-identification standards. Additionally, although technology-based security safeguards are advancing, legal frameworks have not evolved at the same pace, resulting in regulatory gaps that hinder effective governance of healthcare big data. CONCLUSION: This paper proposes several key reforms: refining the legal definitions of pseudonymized and anonymized data, introducing more flexible consent mechanisms for data subjects, enhancing de-identification standards, and strengthening technology-based security safeguards. The paper emphasizes the urgent need to reconcile conflicts and inconsistencies among these laws. For healthcare big data to serve as a trust-based public resource, a regulatory environment that ensures both robust privacy protections and the responsible use of data must be established.
Blockchain in Cancer Care: Toward Evidence-Based and Inclusive Practice.
Shukla S, Jena PK
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Apr · PMID 41945930 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Prognostic Significance of miR-145, NANOG, OCT4, and KLF4 in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer.
Sameh R, Hussein S, Ibrahim AA … +5 more , Waley AB, Ibrahim SM, Bedawy AM, Siam M, Abdelgeleel HM
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793693 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Among women, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. OCT4, NANOG, and KLF4 are markers of cancer stem cells. miR-145 is a tumor suppressor in many cancers. We aimed to estimate the expres...
BACKGROUND: Among women, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. OCT4, NANOG, and KLF4 are markers of cancer stem cells. miR-145 is a tumor suppressor in many cancers. We aimed to estimate the expression of miR-145 and cancer stem cell markers in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and to investigate their correlations with clinicopathological characteristics and outcomes in these patients. METHODS: The study included 90 female patients with TNBC. Grade III represented 64.4% of cases, while Grades I and II represented 11.1% and 24.4%, respectively. Seventy-two patients (80%) had lymph node involvement. Breast tissues from malignant and adjacent control tissues were used for RNA extraction and subsequent analysis of miR-145 expression. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were also performed. RESULTS: It was found that lymph node (LN)-positive tumors exhibited higher OCT4 levels compared to LN-negative tumors (P = 0.039). Additionally, tumors with extensive intraductal invasion and relapse showed lower KLF4 levels (P = 0.02 and <0.001, respectively). Downregulated miR-145 expression was associated with higher stages, relapse, and mortality (P < 0.001 for each), LN involvement (P = 0.002), and capsular invasion (P = 0.02). There were significant strong positive correlations between miR-145 and DFS (r = 0.920, P < 0.001) and OS (r = 0.813, P < 0.001). However, significant weak negative correlations were found with KLF4 (r = -0.242, P = 0.022), NANOG (r = -0.305, P = 0.009), OCT4 (r = -0.255, P = 0.014), tumor size (r = -0.247, P = 0.019), and the number of positive LNs (r = -0.481, P < 0.001). OCT4 levels showed significant positive correlations with NANOG (r = 0.328, P = 0.002) and KLF4 expression (r = 0.344, P = 0.001). Moreover, a significant positive correlation was detected between KLF4 levels and DFS (r = 0.255, P = 0.015). The log-rank test showed a significant association of KLF4 with DFS (P = 0.005). CONCLUSION: miR-145 and KLF4 are possible prognostic markers in TNBC. This was reflected by the positive correlations between miR-145 and both DFS and OS, and between KLF4 levels and DFS.
Schlafen 11 (SLFN11) And Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TILs): Dual Predictive Biomarkers In Ovarian Serous Carcinoma.
Michael SR, Badary DM, Abou-Taleb HA … +4 more , Gamal DA, Mumdouh RM, Nazeer YAF, Nassar MI
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793692 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the clinicopathological significance and prognostic impact of SLFN11 expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in high-grade and low-grade ovarian serous carcinoma. M...
OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the clinicopathological significance and prognostic impact of SLFN11 expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in high-grade and low-grade ovarian serous carcinoma. METHODS: A total of 70 patients diagnosed with high-grade and low-grade serous carcinoma were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical data, including age, Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS), CA125 levels, treatment details, and survival outcomes, were collected. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess SLFN11 expression in tumor cells and TILs. Statistical correlations were performed with chemotherapy response, recurrence, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). RESULTS: High SLFN11 expression was significantly associated with better response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.003), higher histopathologic chemotherapy response score (p = 0.026), lower recurrence rate (p = 0.037), and improved survival outcomes (p < 0.001). High SLFN11 expression had significantly longer PFS (median= 33.05 months) and OS (median= 66.91 months), compared to those with low SLFN11 expression (median PFS =7.60 and median OS = 31.50, p<0.001). Similarly, high TILs count was associated with improved response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.008) and higher response score (p = 0.007). TILs-high patients had longer median PFS (25.52 months) and median OS (68.24 months) than TILs-low patients (median PFS = 10.30 and median OS = 30.63 months, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight that immunohistochemical expression of SLFN11 and the density of TILs may serve as predictive biomarkers for chemotherapy response and survival in ovarian serous carcinoma, with potential implications for personalized treatment strategies.
Impact of Optimization Resolution and Dose Calculation Grid Size in Small-Field Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy Using Flattening-Filter-Free Beams for Hepatocellular Carcinoma.
Thirunavukkarasu M, Khanna D, Balaji K … +1 more , Ramachandran M
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793691 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the impact of optimization and calculation resolutions in SBRT for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using flattening-filter-free photon beams. METHODS: The SBRT plans were created in...
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the impact of optimization and calculation resolutions in SBRT for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using flattening-filter-free photon beams. METHODS: The SBRT plans were created in the Eclipse TPS using 6X-FFF and 10X-FFF MV photon beams, prescribed with a hypofractionated dose of 50 Gy in 5 fractions. A total of 4 plans were created for each energy with different combinations of optimization (O) and calculation (C) resolutions, viz. O1.25-C1.25, O1.25-C2.5, O2.5-C1.25, and O2.5-C2.5, using computed tomography (CT) images of fifteen HCC patients. The optimization and calculation times were noted for comparison among all plans. The plans were evaluated based on the PTV, organs at risk, and delivery efficiency dosimetric parameters, and a plan quality score was computed for each plan. RESULTS: This study revealed that the 10X-FFF beams provided better results compared to 6X-FFF. The integrated scoring method revealed that the O1.25-C1.25 plan achieved better results for OARs, while O1.25-C2.5 plan achieved better results for PTV. Further, the optimization and calculation times, and phantom study results were better with 2.5 mm resolution plans. CONCLUSION: The 1.25 mm resolution for both optimization and calculation was found to be better if the critical organs are in prioritized; otherwise, the 2.5 mm resolution setting is the optimal choice for liver SBRT using the 10X-FFF beam.
Adequate Tissue Submission from Transurethral Resection Specimens for Detecting Incidental Prostate Carcinoma: Diagnostic Accuracy and Cassette Utilization in Thailand.
Chaijitrawan P, Sammor A, Warnnissorn N … +4 more , Pisutpunya A, Atiroj N, Yawatta M, Vanichakarn D
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793690 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To identify an adequate amount of prostate chip submissions with optimal diagnostic accuracy and minimal cassette utilization for the detection of incidental prostate carcinoma (IPC). METHODS: We recruited con...
OBJECTIVE: To identify an adequate amount of prostate chip submissions with optimal diagnostic accuracy and minimal cassette utilization for the detection of incidental prostate carcinoma (IPC). METHODS: We recruited consecutive transurethral resection specimens from patients with bladder outlet obstruction related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and excluded patients with known or suspected prostatic carcinoma. Submission in the retrospective cohort depended on weight: either ≤12 g submitted entirely or >12 g submitted partially (initial 12 g with additional sampling). Submission was entire in the prospective cohort. The five different submissions (index test) were: initial 12 g, initial 12 g with additional cassettes per 10 g (12 g + q10 g), 12 g + q5 g, 20 g, and 20 g + q10 g. The diagnostic accuracy of the index test, compared to actual tissue submission (reference standard), was measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), with ≥95.0% considered acceptable. RESULTS: A total of 451 patients (384 retrospective and 67 prospective) were included. The specimens had a median weight of 22 (range: 1-235) g, corresponding to a median cassette use of 10 (1-48) blocks, resulting in 5,010 total blocks. The average weight per block in the prospective cohort was 2 g. IPC detection rates were 6.3% retrospectively, 9.0% prospectively, and 6.7% overall. The first cassette containing carcinoma appeared between the 1st and 24th. Only three tissue submission strategies achieved acceptable diagnostic accuracy using lower estimated cassette numbers: 12 g + q5 g: AUC 98.3%, using 4,362 blocks, 20 g + q10 g: AUC 98.3%, using 4,239 blocks, 20 g: AUC 95.0%, using 3,373 blocks. CONCLUSION: Submitting 20 g of prostatic chips offers excellent diagnostic accuracy for IPC detection with reduced cassette utilization.
Genomic Analysis and Clinical Correlation of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with Special Reference to Brain Metastasis.
Rudresha AH, Asutkar KG, Maleyur VB … +5 more , Babu MCS, Lokesh KN, Rajeev LK, Saldanha SC, G V G
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793689 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has improved genomic analysis depth in precision oncology. This study analyzed genomic biomarker testing in stage IV NSCLC, focusing on brain metastasis and clinicopathologica...
BACKGROUND: Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has improved genomic analysis depth in precision oncology. This study analyzed genomic biomarker testing in stage IV NSCLC, focusing on brain metastasis and clinicopathological correlations. OBJECTIVE: To study molecular markers and clinicopathological correlations in stage IV NSCLC patients, with and without brain metastasis. METHODS: A total of 169 stage IV NSCLC patients were studied from April 2023 to May 2025. Demographic data, clinical presentations, and mutation analyses were assessed using NGS on tissue blocks or liquid biopsies. RESULTS: Among 169 patients, 41.42% (n = 70) had brain metastasis (NSCLC-BM), while 58.58% (n = 99) had no brain metastasis (mNSCLC). Median ages were 51.5 and 56 years, respectively. Adenocarcinoma comprised 95.27% (n = 161) of cases. The cerebral hemisphere was the most common intracranial metastatic site, while skeletal involvement was the most common extracranial site. Headache was the predominant neurological symptom. EGFR mutations were the most common overall. EGFR > TP53 > ALK > other mutations were observed in NSCLC-BM, while EGFR > TP53 > KRAS > other mutations were seen in mNSCLC. Mutation analysis stratified by smoking history (χ²(1) = 1.347, p = 0.245) and sex (χ²(1) = 0.0302, p = 0.862) was not statistically significant. The benefit of gefitinib plus chemotherapy in EGFR exon 19 and exon 21 L858R mutations was greater in mNSCLC (log-rank χ²(1) = 10.813, p = 0.001) than in NSCLC-BM (log-rank χ²(1) = 3.100, p = 0.078). Median survival was 11 months (95% CI: 7.506-14.494) for NSCLC-BM versus 21 months (95% CI: 8.365-33.635) for mNSCLC, with a statistically significant difference (log-rank χ²(1) = 8.639, p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: NSCLC-BM showed higher genomic biomarker enrichment (80% vs. 68.68%) but poorer outcomes than mNSCLC. EGFR was the most common targetable mutation, followed by ALK in NSCLC-BM and KRAS in mNSCLC.
Analysis of In-Vivo Dose Measurement of Urethra Using Array MOSFET Detectors and TPS-Calculated Dose in High-Dose-Rate Interstitial Brachytherapy in Gynaecological Malignancies.
Sushma N, C R TP, Y S N … +5 more , Kaginelli S, Palanivel S, K R N, M V M, K M G
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793688 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: The urinary sub-structures, which lie in close proximity to the target, are often not contoured or evaluated during cervical cancer brachytherapy planning. This study aims to investigate the in vivo urethral d...
OBJECTIVE: The urinary sub-structures, which lie in close proximity to the target, are often not contoured or evaluated during cervical cancer brachytherapy planning. This study aims to investigate the in vivo urethral dose during High-Dose-Rate Interstitial Brachytherapy applications using an array of Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect-Transistor detectors, and to compare the urethral dose recorded during brachytherapy planning with that calculated by the treatment planning system. METHODS: Twenty patients with cancer of the cervix, vagina, or vault, from Stage IB to Stage IV, who were treated with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and interstitial brachytherapy, were included in the study. The high-risk clinical target volume and organs at risk, such as the urinary bladder, rectum, sigmoid colon, urethra, and periurethra, were delineated. The commercially available linear array MOSFET detector, with each detector and its reader module, was characterized and used in this study. The detector channel was inserted into the Foley's catheter until it reached the neck of the bladder. RESULTS: The maximum and mean doses received by the urethra were 486.32 ± 105.88 cGy and 246.73 ± 101.43 cGy per fraction, respectively, for the prescription dose of 700 cGy/fraction. The maximum dose received by the periurethra per fraction of brachytherapy was 697.43 ± 165.26 cGy, and the cumulative dose, in terms of Equivalent Dose at 200 cGy (EQD2) received by the periurethral region, including the EBRT dose, was found to be 13,406.1 ± 2,909.17 cGy. The urethral doses calculated by the Treatment Planning System (TPS) were compared with the doses measured by the detector per fraction of brachytherapy during treatment. CONCLUSION: The urethral doses calculated by the Treatment Planning System (TPS) were comparable to the doses measured by the MOSFET detector. Urethral dose measurement using an array of MOSFET detectors in patients treated with the Interstitial Brachytherapy (ISBT) technique proved its suitability and ease for measuring urethral dose. A good correlation was observed between the MOSFET-measured dose and the TPS-calculated dose, with a P-value > 0.05.
3Es-Based Program to Enhance Safety Behaviors Among Fermented Fish Producers in Northeast Thailand: Implications for Liver Fluke and Cholangiocarcinoma Prevention.
Yokphochanachai C, Paengprakhon Y, Duangsri J … +1 more , Songserm N
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793687 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Consumption of fermented freshwater fish is common in Northeast Thailand but increases the risk of Opisthorchis viverrini (OV) infection, nitrosamine exposure, and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). This study evaluate...
OBJECTIVE: Consumption of fermented freshwater fish is common in Northeast Thailand but increases the risk of Opisthorchis viverrini (OV) infection, nitrosamine exposure, and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). This study evaluated a 3Es-based safety program designed to enhance knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and to reduce ergonomic risks among informal fish processors. METHODS: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 100 participants from two fishing communities in Ubon Ratchathani Province. The experimental group (n = 50) received a 13-week safety program based on engineering, education, and enforcement (3Es), while the comparison group (n = 50) received routine health services. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and an ergonomic assessment using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). Statistical analyses included t-tests and effect size estimation with Cohen's d. RESULTS: Post-intervention, the experimental group demonstrated significantly greater improvements than the comparison group in knowledge (mean difference = 2.09, p < 0.001, d = 2.69, very large effect), attitudes (mean difference = 0.39, p < 0.001, d = 3.88, very large effect), and behaviors (mean difference = 0.25, p < 0.001, d = 1.06, large effect). RULA scores also improved markedly, with fish sorting, drying, and packaging risk levels reduced from high to low, and cleaning and gutting reduced from very high to medium risk. CONCLUSION: The 3Es-based program significantly improved safety-related knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and reduced ergonomic risks. Large effect sizes confirm that these gains are both statistically and practically meaningful, supporting integration into community health services and local policies for sustainable OV and CCA prevention.
Mechanistic Exploration of the anticancer activity of Justicia adhatoda Plant Leaf Ethanolic Extract against Colon Cancer Cells: An in silico and in vitro Approach.
Ponnusamy B, Rajagopal P, Palanisamy CP … +2 more , Veeraraghavan VP, Jayaraman S
Asian Pac J Cancer Prev · 2026 Mar · PMID 41793686 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Being the 3rd most prevalent cancer, colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high rate of mortality, a poor prognosis, and a clinical outcome. Treatment with commercial synthetic anti-cancer drugs also imparts a number...
OBJECTIVE: Being the 3rd most prevalent cancer, colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high rate of mortality, a poor prognosis, and a clinical outcome. Treatment with commercial synthetic anti-cancer drugs also imparts a number of co-morbidities, further complicating the condition. Hence, there is a need to identify a potential anticancer agent to decrease the mortality rate and provide better clinical outcome in CRC patients. Pharmacologically active agents from natural sources are the currently recognized alternatives to synthetic drugs due to their minimal toxicity. In this study, a widely recognized plant, Justicia adhatoda (JA), traditionally used for treating respiratory ailments and rich in anti-inflammatory potential, was used to investigate its antiproliferative property against CRC. MATERIALS & METHODS: Preliminary phytochemical screening, GCMS, Antioxidant assay, anti-inflammatory assay, cell culture -MTT assay, fluorescence staining assay, and protein and gene expression analysis. RESULTS: The ethanolic extract of JA showed a strong cytotoxic effect on the cancer cells. The results of fluorescence staining show that the JA extract impart reactive oxygen species (ROS) -mediated apoptosis in proliferating cells by increasing ROS generation. This was further confirmed by evaluating the protein level of the antioxidant reservoirs and oxidative/inflammatory markers, which upon treatment were found to decrease and increase, respectively. This imbalance is attributed to the activation of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway, by altering the levels of pro- and anti- apoptotic genes in the cells and ultimately leading to cell death. The in silico analysis of pharmacokinetics, toxicity and molecular docking suggests that JA phytoconstituents show drug-like qualities and a promising activity against cancer. CONCLUSION: Overall, the findings suggest that JA ethanolic extract could be an effective anticancer agent against HT-29 colon adenocarcinoma cells.
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