Journal Of Cancer Research And Clinical Oncology[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Active surveillance for CIN2: biomarkers show promise, but real-world implementation faces unresolved barriers-a comment on Frayle et al.
Zhou S, Ke Q
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 May · PMID 42069936 · Full text
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
HDHD5 promotes triple-negative breast cancer growth and drives EMT-associated phenotypes via regulating S100A4.
Cai JY, Zhang YL, Zhang FL … +3 more , Zhao Q, Ma MK, Shao ZM
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42056314 · Full text
PURPOSE: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) displays an aggressive clinicopathological profile. Despite cytotoxic chemotherapy being the primary systemic therapy, complete responses are achieved in fewer than 30% of pa...
PURPOSE: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) displays an aggressive clinicopathological profile. Despite cytotoxic chemotherapy being the primary systemic therapy, complete responses are achieved in fewer than 30% of patients, highlighting the need for new therapeutic targets and a deeper understanding of disease-driving mechanisms. METHODS: This study identified key oncogenic factors in TNBC through multi-omics differential analyses. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities were assessed using CCK-8, colony formation, and transwell migration and invasion assays. Quantitative proteomics was applied to profile downstream protein alterations following HDHD5 knockdown. Western blotting and RT-qPCR were used to examine expression levels in different samples. Xenograft tumor model was employed to investigate the in vivo functions of HDHD5. RESULTS: HDHD5 was highly expressed in TNBC and its elevated expression was associated with poor patient prognosis. Functional studies demonstrated that HDHD5 promotes TNBC cell proliferation and colony formation, as well as enhances cell migration and invasion. Mechanistically, HDHD5 facilitates epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) associated phenotypes and promotes migratory and invasive capacities in TNBC cell lines, at least in part, through regulation of S100A4. Consistently, HDHD5 promoted TNBC tumor growth both in vitro and in vivo via S100A4. CONCLUSION: Our study reveals HDHD5 as a previously unrecognized driver of tumor progression in TNBC and highlights its potential as a therapeutic target and prognostic biomarker for this aggressive breast cancer subtype.
General health versus tumor stage: determinants of survival in Merkel cell carcinoma assessed by sentinel lymph node biopsy.
Gambichler T, Heinzer E, Abu Rached N … +13 more , Schulze HJ, Noah K, Hofmann SC, Wesselmann U, Gutzmer R, Boms S, Susok L, Weyer-Fahlbusch SS, Kreuter A, Hyun J, Müller VL, Auer R, Becker JC
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42050004 · Full text
PURPOSE: Overall survival (OS) of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) patients is strongly influenced by health. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is recommended for staging. We evaluated whether SLNB is associated with OS in cl...
PURPOSE: Overall survival (OS) of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) patients is strongly influenced by health. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is recommended for staging. We evaluated whether SLNB is associated with OS in clinically node-negative MCC and contrasted tumor factors with patient frailty. METHODS: STROBE-compliant cohort across eight centers in Germany (2004–2024). We included 271 primary stage I–II MCC; 167 underwent SLNB and 104 did not. The primary outcome was OS; disease-specific survival (DSS) and progression-free probability (PFP) were secondary. Kaplan–Meier and Cox models were used. Confounding by indication was addressed with 1:1 propensity score matching and sensitivity analyses. RESULTS: Patients receiving SLNB were younger (median 74 vs 82 years; p < 0.001) and less comorbid (Charlson 4 vs 5). Ten-year OS was 69.5% with SLNB versus 45.2% without (log-rank p < 0.0001); unadjusted HR 0.34 (95% CI 0.20–0.59). In the matched cohort, SLNB remained associated with lower all-cause mortality (HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.34–0.93; p = 0.024). DSS did not differ (HR 1.09, 95% CI 0.55–2.13; p= 0.81). For PFP, unadjusted curves favored SLNB (p=0.0045), but the matched analysis was not significant (HR 0.53, 95% CI 0.23–1.26). Sensitivity analyses suggested benefit: overlap weighting HR 0.49 (95% CI 0.33–0.73; p = 0.00045) and a stage-restricted match HR 0.36 (95% CI 0.13–0.99; p= 0.048). CONCLUSIONS: SLNB was associated with improved OS after adjustment, supporting its role in staging and risk stratification. The absence of DSS and matched PFP differences highlights the influence of overall health; residual confounding by indication cannot be excluded.
Epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma of the lung: a case report and literature review.
Duan H, Xie MY, Chen LH … +2 more , Luo BT, Qi Y
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42045647 · Full text
Epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma (EMC), an uncommon neoplasm with low-grade malignancy, develops in tissues resembling those of the salivary glands. Pulmonary EMC (P-EMC) exhibits biphasic differentiation. The inner li...
Epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma (EMC), an uncommon neoplasm with low-grade malignancy, develops in tissues resembling those of the salivary glands. Pulmonary EMC (P-EMC) exhibits biphasic differentiation. The inner lining has epithelial-type cells, while the outer zone contains myoepithelial elements. This report describes the case of a 68-year-old man with P-EMC who presented with fever and a cough. Imaging revealed a pulmonary mass in the left lower lobe. Computed tomography revealed a mass with irregular borders and heterogeneous enhancement, suggesting a malignant tumor. The patient underwent radical surgery. Histopathological examination of the tumor revealed clear biphasic differentiation, including epithelial and myoepithelial cells. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated neoplastic cells expressing CK7, EMA, SMA, and p63, and negative for other lung cancer markers, leading to a diagnosis of P-EMC. The Ki-67 proliferation index was 30%, and no lymph node metastasis was detected. Additionally, we reviewed 46 published case reports on P-EMC. Although P-EMC has low malignant potential, accurate differentiation from other lung tumors and ongoing surveillance are essential for monitoring recurrence and metastasis. Early detection and timely intervention improves the prognosis.
Knowledge mapping and bibliometric insights of scientific research on targeted protein degradation in oncology.
Sweileh MW
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42045515 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Disruption of cellular proteostasis leads to the accumulation and persistence of pathogenic proteins that drive oncogenesis. Key oncogenic and tumor suppressor proteins are frequently dysregulated in cancer,...
BACKGROUND: Disruption of cellular proteostasis leads to the accumulation and persistence of pathogenic proteins that drive oncogenesis. Key oncogenic and tumor suppressor proteins are frequently dysregulated in cancer, yet remain challenging to target by conventional small-molecule inhibitors. Targeted protein degradation (TPD), particularly through Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) and molecular glues, has emerged as a transformative strategy that enables catalytic and selective elimination of disease-driving proteins. This study aimed to systematically map the global scientific landscape of TPD research in oncology using bibliometric methods. METHODS: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Scopus database covering articles published between January 2000 and December 2025. Bibliometric indicators including publication trends, compound annual growth rate (CAGR), citations, H-index, authorship pattern, and institutional contributions were analyzed. Network visualization of keyword co-occurrence, chronological evolution, and international collaboration were performed using VOSviewer. RESULTS: A total of 1334 publications were identified, demonstrating exponential growth, particularly after 2018, with a CAGR of 51.9% (2016–2025). The field is highly interdisciplinary, dominated by biochemistry, pharmacology, and chemistry. The dataset exhibited a high H-index (111), reflecting rapid intellectual maturation. Authorship analysis revealed a median of 10 authors per article, underscoring extensive collaboration. China and the United States emerged as dominant contributors, forming central hubs in the global research network. PROTAC technology represented the primary research focus, with strong association to ubiquitin–proteasome mechanisms and oncogenic targets such as BRD4, MYC, androgen receptor, and estrogen receptor. Highly cited articles were predominantly methodological, highlighting foundational advances in degrader design and mechanism. TPD research is rapidly evolving toward clinically driven innovations with emerging focus on advanced delivery systems, lysosome-targeting strategies, next-generation degrader design strategies, and combination therapies to overcome pharmacokinetic and therapeutic limitations. CONCLUSION: TPD research in oncology is undergoing rapid expansion and transitioning from conceptual innovation to translational application. PROTACs dominate the field due to their modularity and catalytic efficiency, although challenges remain, including pharmacokinetic limitations, restricted E3 ligase diversity, and potential resistance mechanisms. Overall, TPD represents a paradigm shift toward event-driven pharmacology with significant potential to transform precision oncology by enabling the therapeutic elimination of previously intractable targets.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis predicts local recurrence following surgery in patients with non-small cell lung cancer.
Maeda R, Inomata M, Hazemoto T … +1 more , Yamada R
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42034855 · Full text
PURPOSE: The prognosis of lung cancer patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is reported to be worse than that of those without IPF. Herein, we investigated the prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)...
PURPOSE: The prognosis of lung cancer patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is reported to be worse than that of those without IPF. Herein, we investigated the prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with and without IPF who underwent resection, and established a new postoperative therapeutic strategy for NSCLC patients with IPF. METHODS: Between 2011 and 2020, 437 consecutive patients with pathological stage I NSCLC who underwent complete resection with systematic lymph node dissection were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS: Of 437 patients, post-propensity score matching analysis showed the five-year recurrence-free probability was significantly lower for patients with IPF than for those without IPF (32.3% and 76.1%, respectively; p < 0.001). Compared to those without IPF, postoperative lung metastasis was more frequently encountered in patients with IPF. We then hypothesized that the lung microenvironment of IPF facilitates pulmonary tumor recurrence. In an in vivo mouse model of bleomycin (BLM)-induced IPF, the lung microenvironment of IPF promoted lung metastasis of lung cancer cells which was inhibited by the pharmacological treatment of IPF with pirfenidone (PFD). CONCLUSION: The results of our in vivo model illustrated that the microenvironment of BLM-induced interstitial pneumonia facilitated the development of postoperative lung metastasis.
Correction: Investigating the role of the Pon1-rs854560 (L55M) SNP in colorectal Cancer susceptibility.
Wei X, Qin R, Yin L … +4 more , Iqbal MA, Shaibu Z, Li G, Wu T
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42034828 · Full text
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Radiomics based on multiphasic contrast-enhanced CT combined with clinical features for differentiating hypovascular pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
Xia F, Yu J, Wang J … +1 more , Wang Z
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42034788 · Full text
PURPOSE: To evaluate the value of a combined model based on multiphase contrast-enhanced CT radiomics and clinical features for differentiating hypovascular pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (hypo-PNETs) from pancreatic d...
PURPOSE: To evaluate the value of a combined model based on multiphase contrast-enhanced CT radiomics and clinical features for differentiating hypovascular pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (hypo-PNETs) from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). METHODS: A total of 297 patients with pathologically confirmed pancreatic tumors, including 99 hypo-PNETs and 198 PDACs, were retrospectively enrolled. Radiomics features were extracted from non-contrast, arterial-phase, venous-phase, and combined three-phase CT images. After feature selection, radiomics models were established using multiple machine-learning classifiers. Independent clinical predictors were identified by logistic regression and integrated with the optimal radiomics signature to construct a combined model. Model performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic analysis, calibration curves, decision curve analysis, net reclassification improvement, and integrated discrimination improvement. RESULTS: Pancreatic duct dilatation, tumor composition, age, and maximum tumor diameter were identified as independent predictors. Among the radiomics models, the combined three-phase SVM model achieved the best performance, with AUCs of 0.814 and 0.812 in the training and test sets, respectively. The combined model yielded the highest AUCs (0.886 in the training set and 0.849 in the test set); however, because several between-model comparisons in the test set did not reach statistical significance, its advantage should be interpreted as a potential incremental benefit rather than definitive superiority. CONCLUSION: A combined model integrating multiphasic CT radiomics and clinical features showed promising performance for differentiating hypo-PNETs from PDAC. This model may provide complementary support for preoperative diagnosis, although its incremental value over the radiomics-only model requires further validation.
LncRNA-LINC01281 exerts anti-cancer functions via the MYC/VEGF pathway in the progression of cervical cancer.
Shuqian Z, Zhi C, Ain Q … +5 more , Yan L, Chengfang L, Xiaoxu B, Song Z, Jiayin G
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42029984 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women and remains a major global health issue. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial role in tumor biology regulation. This study investigates the...
INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women and remains a major global health issue. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial role in tumor biology regulation. This study investigates the role of LINC01281 in cervical cancer. METHODS: LncRNAs were identified from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, focusing on LINC01281 for detailed analysis. GSEA revealed MYC-mediated VEGF signaling as a potential pathway. Functional assays in HeLa cells assessed the impact of LINC01281 overexpression and knockdown on proliferation, migration, and the MYC-VEGFA pathway. RESULTS: LINC01281 is identified as a unique prognostic marker for cervical cancer. GSEA indicated participation in VEGF signaling through MYC modulation. LINC01281 overexpression inhibited MYC expression, leading to reduced cell proliferation and migration. MYC silencing led to a decreased expression of VEGFA at both transcript and protein levels. LINC01281 encodes a 42-amino acid peptide, highlighting its biological significance. CONCLUSION: LINC01281 influences cervical cancer progression via the MYC-VEGFA pathway and may serve as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target. The lncRNA and its peptide show promise for use in cervical cancer treatment.
Castleman disease arising from the pleura: a case report and literature review.
Yang H, Ning M, Li P … +3 more , Qiu J, Huang Y, Chen Y
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42029937 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Castleman disease (CD) is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder that commonly involves the abdomen, head and neck, and mediastinum. Primary involvement of the pleura is rare and prone to misdiagnosis. CASE PRES...
BACKGROUND: Castleman disease (CD) is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder that commonly involves the abdomen, head and neck, and mediastinum. Primary involvement of the pleura is rare and prone to misdiagnosis. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of an asymptomatic 58-year-old male presenting with an incidental left pleural mass detected during a physical examination. While imaging studies initially suggested a solitary fibrous tumor or vascular neoplasm, definitive diagnosis of pleural hyaline vascular unicentric Castleman disease (UCD) was confirmed via pathological and immunohistochemical evaluation following surgical resection. The patient exhibited a favorable recovery after the surgical intervention. CONCLUSION: Based on this case and literature review, the disease predominantly affects young to middle-aged individuals and seems to have no significant gender predilection. About half of patients with pleural UCD present with clinical symptoms, a relatively high proportion. Imaging and laboratory tests have limited diagnostic value for this condition, definitive diagnosis relies on histopathological examination, and surgical resection typically leads to a favorable prognosis. It is recommended to consider rare diseases such as CD in the differential diagnosis of pleural masses.
Artificial intelligence construction: a review of the bridge between CT imaging features of lung ground-glass nodules adenocarcinoma and carcinogenic driver genes.
Xue W, Chen J
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42017975 · Full text
Lung ground-glass nodules (GGNs) represent a critical early imaging manifestation of lung adenocarcinoma, and exploring the relationship between their CT imaging features and oncogenic driver genes holds significant prom...
Lung ground-glass nodules (GGNs) represent a critical early imaging manifestation of lung adenocarcinoma, and exploring the relationship between their CT imaging features and oncogenic driver genes holds significant promise for precision diagnosis and personalized treatment. In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, particularly deep learning and machine learning methods, have demonstrated remarkable potential in the integrative analysis of radiomic and genomic data. This review summarizes the current advances in AI applications for extracting CT imaging features of lung GGNs, identifying oncogenic driver genes, and analyzing their correlations. Key AI-driven techniques enabling the construction of a bridge between imaging phenotypes and genetic alterations are discussed, alongside challenges such as data heterogeneity, limited annotated datasets, and interpretability. Future research directions emphasize the development of robust, explainable AI models and multi-omics integration to enhance early lung cancer diagnosis and therapeutic strategies. By providing a comprehensive overview of the intersection between AI, radiomics, and genomics in lung GGN adenocarcinoma, this article aims to offer theoretical insights and technical references to advance early detection and precision oncology.
Preoperative computed tomography for assessment of bone invasion in oral squamous cell carcinoma: diagnostic accuracy and anatomical subsite dependency.
Ketschau J, Leonhardt Y, Grabenhorst A … +8 more , Singer H, Kram H, Krautkremer N, Leopold C, Mohr J, Stimmer H, Wolff KD, Ritschl LM
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42017973 · Full text
PURPOSE: Accurate preoperative assessment of bone invasion is crucial in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), because it directly influences staging and surgical planning. Computed tomography (CT) is widely used, but its...
PURPOSE: Accurate preoperative assessment of bone invasion is crucial in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), because it directly influences staging and surgical planning. Computed tomography (CT) is widely used, but its diagnostic performance may vary with tumor localization and image quality. METHODS: In this retrospective study, patients with OSCC who underwent preoperative CT imaging and subsequent surgical resection with histopathological evaluation were identified. Bone invasion was assessed on CT using a graded and dichotomous classification. Histopathology served as reference standard. Diagnostic performance was analyzed overall and stratified by tumor localization, radiological severity, and image quality. RESULTS: 572 patients were included. Histologically confirmed bone invasion was present in 134 cases (23.6%). Overall, CT demonstrated a sensitivity of 63.4% and a specificity of 90.8%, with an overall diagnostic accuracy of 84.3%. The probability of bone invasion increased stepwise with increasing radiological severity (p < 0.001). Diagnostic performance varied by tumor localization, with significant differences in specificity and overall accuracy (p < 0.001), while sensitivity did not differ significantly (p = 0.597). Radiological grading correlated with pathological stage; nevertheless, 12.3% of pT2 tumors were interpreted as showing bone involvement, while 36.6% of histologically confirmed pT4 tumors remained radiologically occult. Exclusion of cases with relevant imaging artifacts resulted in improved diagnostic performance (AUC 0.80 vs. 0.78). CONCLUSION: Preoperative CT provides clinically relevant information for assessing bone invasion in OSCC. However, diagnostic performance varies across anatomical subsites, as well as radiological severity and image quality. A localization-aware interpretation may help to avoid under- and overtreatment.
Same day discharge (SDD) after surgery for gynecologic cancer patients in Germany?
Petzel A, Jütte H, Voss H … +6 more , Eckert N, Richter N, Welcker T, Richter R, Wolff N, Schneider A
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42012538 · Full text
AIM: Ambulatory surgery is well established outside Europe for women diagnosed with gynecologic cancer. Increasing pressure on hospital staff, the rise of multi-resistant nosocomial infections, and the risk of future pan...
AIM: Ambulatory surgery is well established outside Europe for women diagnosed with gynecologic cancer. Increasing pressure on hospital staff, the rise of multi-resistant nosocomial infections, and the risk of future pandemics support the concept of same day discharge (SDD). Why is this option not offered to patients in Germany? Can a deficit in surgical or anesthesiological expertise explain this phenomenon? PATIENTS AND METHODS: In a prospective case-series, 83 consecutive cancer patients underwent outpatient surgery at Eviamed Oncology Center between April 2024 and December 2025. We hypothesized that complication rates would be at least equal to those observed in our hospital-based experience. Most patients were diagnosed with cervical cancer (n = 41), followed by vulvar cancer (n = 27), corpus uteri (n = 8), vaginal cancer (n = 5), and borderline of the ovary (n = 1). Major surgery was performed laparoscopically in 35 patients by lymphadenectomy (LNE) alone or vaginal-assisted simple (LAVH) or radical hysterectomy (VALRH) and in 15 patients by inguinal LNE combined with vulvectomy. Pre- and postoperative findings were presented and discussed in an interdisciplinary tumor board. Postoperatively, all patients were contacted by telephone and underwent clinical follow-up with the responsible surgeon. Adequate family support was insured for at least five postoperative days. RESULTS: In the laparoscopy group, mean age was 49 years (range 24–87) and mean BMI was 27.3 (range 18.8–43.8). Mean operative time was 147 min (range 70–288), anaesthesia duration 183 min (range 90–338), and postoperative observation time 151 min (range 83–260). Patients diagnosed with vulva cancer were, on average, 18 years older, with similar BMI but up to 40% shorter procedure times. There were no intraoperative complications, no conversion to laparotomy, no blood transfusion, and no hospital admission within 30 days post surgery which was identical to our experience with hospital-based treatment. Postoperative complications included one ureteral leak, three symptomatic lymphoceles, and one urinary tract infection in the laparoscopy group, and one symptomatic lymphocele in the vulva group. A cost-utility analysis based on the current German reimbursement system revealed a substantial financial deficit as calculated for LAVH & LNE. CONCLUSION: The limited implementation of same-day discharge for gynecologic cancer surgery in Germany is not due to deficiencies in surgical or anesthesiological expertise, but rather to inadequate reimbursement structures within the healthcare system.
Treatment of retroperitoneal sarcoma in Germany between 2000 and 2022: a retrospective analysis from the German Cancer Registry Group.
Beck N, Goßmann F, Hohenberger P … +15 more , Kasper B, Menge F, Deinzer CKW, Franke B, Hendricks A, Klinkhammer-Schalke M, Rausch K, Reinwald F, Robers G, Kim-Wanner SZ, Schneider C, Wiegering A, Sabet-Rashedi M, Zeissig SR, Jakob J
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42012531 · Full text
PURPOSE: This study describes the treatment of retroperitoneal sarcoma (RPS) in Germany between 2000 and 2022, comparing it to existing recommendations and guidelines. METHODS: Data from the cancer registries of 13 out o...
PURPOSE: This study describes the treatment of retroperitoneal sarcoma (RPS) in Germany between 2000 and 2022, comparing it to existing recommendations and guidelines. METHODS: Data from the cancer registries of 13 out of 15 federal states was used. Included cases had a retroperitoneal localization (ICD) and histology (ICD-O) corresponding to soft tissue sarcoma. Descriptive analyses of treatment were conducted, focusing on surgical treatment including the development of local residual status and the number of organs resected. RESULTS: Surgery was the most common treatment for cases without metastases, being performed in 79% of cases with available grading data, while systemic therapy (7.6%) and radiotherapy (6.5%) were used less frequently; treatment information was missing for 17% of cases. The most frequent surgeries involved kidneys, intestines and the adrenal gland. In over a third of the cases (38%), multiple organs were resected, especially in cases of adipocytic tumors, where the rate was 46%. CONCLUSION: German cancer registry data allow to characterize treatment of rare diseases such as RPS by supplying detailed information on tumor site and histology. Data quality of German cancer registries improved over time. Treatment patterns of RPS in Germany appear to follow current recommendations regarding extent of surgery and multimodal treatment. The findings align with existing cohort studies from expert centers and (inter-) national guidelines, emphasizing surgery as the only curative option, with multivisceral resection being the preferred approach, especially for adipocytic tumors. Despite potential limitations due to underreporting, cancer registry data provides valuable insights into the medical care situation of the rare RPS.
Macrophage plasticity in the osteosarcoma tumor microenvironment: opportunities and challenges for immunotherapy.
Li H, Liu C, Zhang B … +2 more , Zhang Y, Liu Y
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41975053 · Full text
Osteosarcoma is an aggressive primary malignancy bone tumor, characterized by a complex immune microenvironment, which poses significant challenges for immunotherapy. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are pivotal immun...
Osteosarcoma is an aggressive primary malignancy bone tumor, characterized by a complex immune microenvironment, which poses significant challenges for immunotherapy. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are pivotal immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), exhibiting remarkable plasticity, enabling them to switch between pro-tumorigenic and anti-tumorigenic phenotypes. Their functional polarization critically influences tumor progression and therapeutic response. This comprehensive review outlines the immune environment of osteosarcoma and the underlying mechanisms of macrophage plasticity. In this paper, we discuss the therapeutic possibilities through modulation of macrophages, their reprogramming and depletion, and the issues related to clinical translation. We describe how recent advances create an opportunity to target tumor-associated macrophages to improve patient responses. By synthesizing current knowledge on macrophage phenotypes, macrophage polarization, and preclinical-to-clinical therapeutic interventions, we present a strategic framework for development of macrophage-centric immunotherapies, highlighting a promising yet challenging avenue in improving patient outcome in osteosarcoma.
Piezo channels in tumors.
Zhang W, Dai L, Shi H
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41964669 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Malignant tumors currently pose a significant threat to global health. Tumor progression is jointly regulated by genetic mutations and the mechanical properties of the tumor microenvironment (TME), includin...
INTRODUCTION: Malignant tumors currently pose a significant threat to global health. Tumor progression is jointly regulated by genetic mutations and the mechanical properties of the tumor microenvironment (TME), including increased tissue stiffness, elevated fluid pressure, and mechanical compression experienced by circulating tumor cells (CTCs) within microvessels. These mechanical signals are transmitted through mechanosensitive pathways, with the Piezo channel family (Piezo1/Piezo2) serving as a core mediator.With their propeller-like trimeric structure, Piezo channels sense membrane tension, mediate calcium influx, and activate downstream signaling pathways (e.g., MAPK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, YAP/TAZ), thereby regulating tumor cell proliferation, migration, immune microenvironment remodeling, and cancer stem cell-like transformation. Its expression exhibits tissue specificity and correlates with tumor staging, invasiveness, and pro gnosis. RESULTS: Piezo1 is upregulated in breast, esophageal, colorectal, glioma, and prostate cancers to promote tumor progression, while its downregulation in lung cancer enhances malignancy.Notably, the Piezo1 channel can be activated by mechanical compression in microcapillaries, subsequently promoting circulating tumor cells to acquire stem cell-like properties through calcium signaling pathways, thereby enhancing their metastatic potential. This discovery not only reveals the pivotal role of mechanical forces in tumor metastasis but also positions the Piezo channel as a promising biomarker for tumor diagnosis and prognostic assessment. Currently, targeted strategies for the Piezo channel-including small-molecule modulators and treatments based on piezoelectric materials-are gradually opening new avenues for precision cancer therapy, although issues such as tissue specificity of function and drug selectivity require further exploration. CONCLUSION: Overall, as a vital bridge linking mechanical signals in the tumor microenvironment to cellular biological behavior, Piezo channels hold significant importance for deepening our understanding of tumor mechanisms, developing novel biomarkers, and optimizing therapeutic strategies.
The efficacy and toxicity of TRT on metastatic NSCLC in patients treated with targeted therapy and chemoimmunotherapy.
Xue L, Yao J, Xu Q … +3 more , Geng Y, Tang N, Teng F
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961169 · Full text
PURPOSE: The role of thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) combined with first-line systemic therapy for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains controversial. Its application is not routinely recommended due to inco...
PURPOSE: The role of thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) combined with first-line systemic therapy for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains controversial. Its application is not routinely recommended due to inconsistent efficacy and toxicity risks. This study aims to identify specific patients most likely to benefit from TRT in advanced NSCLC. METHODS: A cohort included 523 patients with metastatic NSCLC from 2019–2024. Kaplan–Meier curves and log-rank tests were used to analyze progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Risk factors were identified using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis. RESULTS: The entire cohort median OS was 60 months and median PFS was 22 months. TRT improved both PFS (25 vs. 13 months, P < 0.001) and OS (Not Reached [NR] vs. 46 months, P < 0.001). In the targeted therapy group, TRT improved PFS (27 vs. 13 months, P < 0.001) and OS (NR vs. 47 months, P < 0.001). In the chemoimmunotherapy group, TRT improved OS (NR vs. 41 months, P = 0.042) but not PFS (18 vs. 14 months, P = 0.115). Exploratory analysis found TRT increased hematologic toxicity (e.g., ≥ grade 2 lymphopenia: 67.18% vs. 11.33%, P < 0.001) and pneumonitis (any grade: 71.31% vs. 17.68%; ≥ grade 2: 17.83% vs. 4.88%, both P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified Planning target volume (PTV) as an independent negative predictor for PFS in the TRT group (P = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Adding TRT to first-line systemic therapy improves survival in metastatic NSCLC. Treatment strategies should be personalized based on molecular subtype and toxicity risk.
High serum ferritin is associated with genetic instability in myelodysplastic neoplasms.
Ganster C, Treiber H, Westhofen G … +11 more , Beier F, Rassaf T, Al-Ali HK, Stuhlmann R, Glass B, Bacher U, Shirneshan K, Brümmendorf TH, Germing U, Gattermann N, Haase D
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41957292 · Full text
PURPOSE: Serum ferritin is an independent prognostic marker in myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) and serves as a surrogate parameter for iron overload. Oxidative stress derived from iron overload may induce genomic damage,...
PURPOSE: Serum ferritin is an independent prognostic marker in myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) and serves as a surrogate parameter for iron overload. Oxidative stress derived from iron overload may induce genomic damage, thereby promoting genetic instability and disease progression in MDS. We aimed to evaluate a possible association between iron overload via serum ferritin and various parameters for genetic instability in MDS. METHODS: Fifty-one patients with confirmed MDS were analyzed and divided into three groups based on ferritin levels: non-elevated (≤ 275 µg/L), moderately elevated (> 275 and < 1000 µg/L), and highly elevated (≥ 1000 µg/L). Genetic instability was assessed by cytogenetic analysis and somatic mutation profiling. DNA double-strand breaks were quantified by γH2AX-foci in CD34+ peripheral blood cells, and telomere length was measured by flow-FISH. RESULTS: Elevated serum ferritin was associated with increased cytogenetic abnormalities and somatic mutations at genomic regions commonly involved in MDS, higher levels of double-strand breaks, and shortened telomeres in granulocytes but not in lymphocytes. Markers of early-stage genetic instability, such as double-strand breaks and telomere shortening in granulocytes, were detectable at moderately elevated ferritin > 275 µg/L, whereas markers for advanced-stage genetic aberrations, including somatic mutations and cytogenetic aberrations, were more prominent at ferritin levels ≥ 1000 µg/L. CONCLUSION: These findings support the hypothesis that iron overload, reflected by elevated ferritin as surrogate parameter, may contribute to and/or increase genetic instability in MDS patients with ineffective hematopoiesis. Notably, correlations were observed at ferritin levels below current thresholds for initiating iron chelation therapy, indicating clinical relevance early in the disease course.
Clinicopathological features and prognostic analysis of 30 patients with laryngeal and hypopharyngeal adenoid cystic carcinoma: a single-center retrospective study.
Wang M, Zhou J, Ma T … +1 more , Chen X
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41951980 · Full text
PURPOSE: To evaluate clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes, and prognostic factors in patients with laryngeal and hypopharyngeal adenoid cystic carcinoma (LHACC). METHODS: This retrospective, single-institution st...
PURPOSE: To evaluate clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes, and prognostic factors in patients with laryngeal and hypopharyngeal adenoid cystic carcinoma (LHACC). METHODS: This retrospective, single-institution study (2013–2023) included patients with pathologically confirmed LHACC who underwent primary surgical treatment. Clinical and pathological variables were reviewed, and relevant gene alterations were extracted from cBioPortal. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were estimated using Kaplan–Meier curves and compared by the log-rank test. RESULTS: Thirty patients were analyzed (median follow-up, 36 months; range, 4–130). The cohort comprised 10 men and 20 women (mean age 51 years). Hoarseness (36.7%) was the most frequent symptom and correlated with poorer OS (P = 0.033). Locoregional recurrence occurred in 5 patients (16.7%), and distant metastases in 15 (50%). OS rates at 3, 5, and 10 years were 95.5%, 76.4%, and 38.2%; DFS rates were 79.2%, 49.4%, and 10.3%. Survival rates were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method, with 9 censored patients who had follow-up shorter than 3 or 5 years without tumor progression or death. Higher Ki-67 index (> 15%) predicted an unfavorable DFS (P = 0.041). Gene fusions (4 MYB–NFIB, 1 CTNNA3–NFIB) were detected in 50% of tested cases, highlighting molecular features of LHACC. CONCLUSIONS: Hoarseness and Ki-67 may help identify high-risk LHACC patients. Surgical resection remains the cornerstone of therapy, but individualized management and long-term follow-up are essential. Frequent MYB–NFIB fusions underscore the molecular basis of LHACC and may inform future prognostic assessment and therapeutic strategies.
Phosphorylated mTOR immunohistochemistry-guided use of temsirolimus in recurrent IDH-wildtype glioblastoma: a real-world retrospective series.
Teresa Schmidt, Surau M, Oster C … +16 more , Kizina K, Grieger J, Cappello G, Jekel L, Lazaridis L, Ahmadipour Y, Rauschenbach L, Guberina N, Pöttgen C, Keyvani K, Stuschke M, Kleinschnitz C, Sure U, Junker A, Glas M, Sied Kebir
J Cancer Res Clin Oncol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41946972 · Full text
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe