Announcements

We are pleased to share a selection of papers published in 2024 on the topic of innovations and emerging insights in prostate cancer, in the journal Cancers (ISSN: 2072-6694). Below is a list of high-quality articles that we believe you will find insightful and engaging.

1. “Development and Validation of an Explainable Radiomics Model to Predict High-Aggressive Prostate Cancer: A Multicenter Radiomics Study Based on Biparametric MRI”
by Giulia Nicoletti, Simone Mazzetti, Giovanni Maimone, Valentina Cignini, Renato Cuocolo, Riccardo Faletti, Marco Gatti, Massimo Imbriaco, Nicola Longo, Andrea Ponsiglione et al.
Cancers 2024, 16(1), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16010203
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/1/203

2. “Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen-Targeted Therapy in Prostate Cancer: History, Combination Therapies, Trials, and Future Perspective”
by Francesco Mattana, Lorenzo Muraglia, Antonio Barone, Marzia Colandrea, Yasmina Saker Diffalah, Silvia Provera, Alfio Severino Cascio, Emanuela Omodeo Salè and Francesco Ceci
Cancers 2024, 16(9), 1643; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16091643
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/9/1643

3. “Can the Epstein–Barr Virus Play a Role in the Development of Prostate Cancer?”
by Jacek Kiś, Magdalena Góralczyk, Dominika Sikora, Ewa Stępień, Bartłomiej Drop and Małgorzata Polz-Dacewicz
Cancers 2024, 16(2), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16020328
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/2/328

4. “From Diabetes to Oncology: Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonist’s Dual Role in Prostate Cancer”
by Abdulrahman Alhajahjeh, Raad Al-Faouri, Hisham F. Bahmad, Taima’ Bader, Ryan W. Dobbs, Ahmed A. Abdulelah, Wassim Abou-Kheir, Elai Davicioni, David I. Lee and Mohammed Shahait
Cancers 2024, 16(8), 1538; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16081538
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/8/1538

5. “Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy by the Hugo Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS) System and the da Vinci System: A Comparison between the Two Platforms”
by Hsien-Che Ou, Lucian Marian, Ching-Chia Li, Yung-Shun Juan, Min-Che Tung, Hung-Jen Shih, Chin-Po Chang, Jian-Ting Chen, Che-Hsueh Yang and Yen-Chuan Ou
Cancers 2024, 16(6), 1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16061207
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/6/1207

6. “Focal Minimally Invasive Treatment in Localized Prostate Cancer: Comprehensive Review of Different Possible Strategies”
by Eliodoro Faiella, Domiziana Santucci, Giulia D’Amone, Vincenzo Cirimele, Daniele Vertulli, Amalia Bruno, Bruno Beomonte Zobel and Rosario Francesco Grasso
Cancers 2024, 16(4), 765; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16040765
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/4/765

7. “Insight into Recent Advances in Degrading Androgen Receptor for Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer”
by Qiao-Hong Chen, Erick Munoz and Dennis Ashong
Cancers 2024, 16(3), 663; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16030663
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/3/663

8. “Glutamine Metabolism and Prostate Cancer”
by Holger H. H. Erb, Nikita Polishchuk, Oleh Stasyk, Uğur Kahya, Matthias M. Weigel and Anna Dubrovska
Cancers 2024, 16(16), 2871; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16162871
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/16/2871

You can view and submit relevant papers to Cancers via https://www.mdpi.com/journal/cancers.

Cancers Editorial Office

We are honored to introduce the award committee for the 2024 Tu Youyou Award, composed of distinguished scientists from around the world whose research covers diverse areas of natural product chemistry, pharmacognosy, and drug discovery. Their broad expertise and pioneering contributions have significantly advanced medicinal and natural products research.

Through their collective insights, rigorous evaluation, the committee has carefully selected this year’s award recipients, recognizing exceptional achievements in the field.

We sincerely thank these distinguished scholars for their efforts and dedication to upholding the standards of the Tu Youyou Award.  Below is the list of committee members. For more information about the Tu Youyou Award, please visit https://tuyouyouprize.org/. 

Chair:

Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn Ohio State University, USA

Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn is a leading expert in pharmacognosy and natural products research. He is recognized for his key contributions to discovering bioactive compounds from plants, especially in anticancer, cancer chemopreventive, and substances with a sweet taste and taste-modifying agents. His prolific contributions include over 590 peer-reviewed works and book chapters and edited or co-edited 40 scientific volumes.

Prof. Angelo Fontana University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy	Angelo Fontana is a Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Naples “Federico II” in Italy and serves as Director of the Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry at the National Research Council (CNR). His research focuses on bioactive small molecules derived from marine eukaryotes, with a particular interest on their pharmaceutical applications in immunology and oncology. He also explores their potential as molecular tools for probing and modulating complex biological systems. Prof. Fontana is a co-founder of BioSEArch SRL and has been recognized with numerous grants and honors, including the Apivita Award from the Phytochemical Society of Europe.
Prof. Binghe Wang Georgia State University, USA	Prof. Binghe Wang’s lab works on drug design, drug delivery, click chemistry, chemical biology, new diagnostics, and gaseous signaling molecules such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide. His interdisciplinary research supports advances in cancer, infectious diseases, organ protection, inflammation, and other areas.
Dr. Diana Pinto University of Aveiro, Portugal	Dr. Diana Pinto, an Associate Professor at the University of Aveiro, specializes in organic synthesis of bioactive heterocyclic compounds, sustainable catalysis (organo-, heterogeneous, and biocatalysis), and natural product research, including isolation, characterization, and total synthesis.
Prof. Hideaki Kakeya Kyoto University, Japan	Prof. Hideaki Kakeya conducts cutting-edge research in chemical biology, high-throughput screening, and biosynthesis of bioactive natural products for system chemotherapy and other therapeutic applications.
Dr. RuAngelie Edrada-Ebel University of Strathclyde, UK	Prof. RuAngelie Edrada-Ebel heads the Natural Products Metabolomics Group (NPMG), specializing in marine natural products discovery and metabolomics-driven drug development. A recognized expert in bioactive metabolites, she collaborates with industry and academia to address antimicrobial resistance and sustainable bioprospecting. She serves on the Editorial Board of Marine Drugs and holds two patents in the field.
Prof. Thomas Prisinzano University of Kentucky, USA	Prof. Thomas Prisinzano combines medicinal and natural product chemistry to explore neurotransmitter systems and develop treatments for drug abuse and pain. He has received several prestigious awards, including the Innovator Award from the College on Problems of Drug Dependence.
Prof. Wei Li University of Tennessee Health Science Center, USA	A distinguished professor and Director of the Drug Discovery Center, Prof. Wei Li is also the founder of SEAK Therapeutics, and the 2025 Chair-Elect of the Drug Discovery and Development Division of the American Society of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET). His work focuses on medicinal chemistry and small molecule drug discovery, with over 200 publications and 15 issued US patents.

We are pleased to announce that the 2024 Tu Youyou Award has been conferred upon Richard DiMarchi and Rolf Müller, in recognition of their significant contributions to natural products chemistry and medicinal chemistry.

Richard DiMarchi Indiana University, USA	Prof. Richard DiMarchi is a Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Gill Chair in Biomolecular Sciences at Indiana University, USA. He is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Inventors Hall of Fame. Dr. DiMarchi is a former Group Vice President at Eli Lilly and later at Novo Nordisk. He is recognized for his contributions to the discovery and development of rDNA-derived Humulin®, Humalog®, rGlucagon®, and Forteo®. His academic research has broadened the understanding of glucagon and incretin physiology and pioneered the discovery of single-molecule multi-mechanism agonists for the treatment of diabetes and obesity. The central element to success has been the chemical vision and technology to install within single molecules simultaneous agonism at related G-protein coupled receptors, coupled to the counter-intuitive discovery that glucagon and GIP agonism could synergize the therapeutic efficacy of GLP-1. These peptides and their conceptual approach have transformed the management of excessive body weight to a condition comparable to how hypertension, adult-onset diabetes, and excess cholesterol are medicinally managed.
“Professor DiMarchi was recognized by the 2024 Tu Youyou Award Committee members as being an exceptional leader in the medicinal chemistry of peptides and proteins of natural origin, and as a pioneer in the field of chemical biotechnology. His very important discoveries have led to breakthroughs in new drugs related to the therapy of diabetes and obesity. He has been named as an inventor on a very large number of patents, and he has had initially a highly successful scientific and administrative career in industry, which was followed by over two decades in academia as a distinguished professor.” —Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn, Chair of the Award Committee
Rolf Müller Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Germany; Helmholtz Centre for Infections Research (HZI), Germany; Saarland University, Germany	Prof. Rolf Müller is the Founding and Managing Director of the Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) and Professor of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology at Saarland University, Germany. Having received his training from the University of Bonn, he held research positions at the University of Washington, USA, and Braunschweig University of Technology, Germany, prior to his appointment as professor to Saarland University. His laboratory has dedicated itself to the exploration of bacterial natural-product biosynthetic pathways for more than 20 years and has extensive experience in working with myxobacteria and other microbial producer strains. Starting from the isolation and characterization of new microorganisms, the scope of work includes microbiology-, biotechnology-, bioinformatics-, and chemistry-based approaches to exploit these isolates as sources of new drugs with a special focus on novel anti-infectives. Müller and his team apply a variety of state-of-the-art analytical methods and biological assays to perform biological and chemical characterizations of the identified compounds. Prof. Müller has received several awards, including the prestigious Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize, the PHOENIX Pharmacy Research Award, the DECHEMA Prize, and the Inhoffen Medal, as well as being an elected member of acatech, Leopoldina, and the German Academy of Sciences and Literature.
“The 2024 Tu Youyou Award Committee members were highly impressed by the truly outstanding past and ongoing contributions of Professor Müller in both microbial natural products isolation chemistry and in biosynthesis, as well as in the development of lead compounds for their potential in treating human diseases, through his global connections with various major funding agencies. He is also a dedicated teacher who has trained numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, and he has lectured on his research in countries all over the world.” —Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn, Chair of the Award Committee

The achievements of Richard DiMarchi and Rolf Müller highlight the transformative impact of natural products chemistry and medicinal chemistry. We congratulate them and invite the global academic community and public to join us in celebrating their significant contributions.

2024 Award Committee
Committee Chair:

• Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn, Ohio State University, USA.
  

Committee Members (listed in alphabetical order):

• Prof. Angelo Fontana, University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy;
• Prof. Binghe Wang, Georgia State University, USA;
• Dr. Diana Pinto, University of Aveiro, Portugal;
• Prof. Hideaki Kakeya, Kyoto University, Japan;
• Dr. RuAngelie Edrada-Ebel, University of Strathclyde, UK;
• Prof. Thomas Prisinzano, University of Kentucky, USA
• Prof. Wei Li, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, USA.

About the Tu Youyou Award:
The 2024 Tu Youyou Award includes a total monetary prize of 100,000 Swiss Francs and a medal for each recipient. Established in 2016 to honor the pioneering spirit of Nobel laureate Tu Youyou, the Tu Youyou Award is an international award honoring exceptional scholars dedicated to the fields of natural products chemistry and medicinal chemistry.

For further information about the award and the winners, please visit the Tu Youyou Award website.

We are pleased to announce that four new scholars have been appointed as Editorial Board Members (EBMs) of Cancers (ISSN: 2072-6694), joining in March 2025. We wish our new members success in both their research and their efforts to develop the journal.

Name: Prof. Neville F. Hacker
Affiliation: Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Royal Hospital for Women, School of Women’s and Children’s Health, Randwick 2031, Australia
Interests: gynaecological cancers ie ovarian; fallopian tube; peritoneal; uterine (including endometrial cancer or uterine sarcoma); cervical; vulvar; vaginal cancers

Name: Prof. Dr. Karl Dietrich Sievert
Affiliation: Department of Urology, Medical School and University Medical Center OWL, Klinikum Lippe, Bielefeld University, 32756 Detmold, Germany
Interests: urologic oncology; neuro-urology; incontinence and reconstructive urology

Name: Prof. Dr. Marcello F. Maida
Affiliation: Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Enna ‘Kore’, Enna, Italy
Interests: gastroenterology; endoscopy; gastrointestinal oncology; artificial intelligence

Name: Dr. Jean C. Emond
Affiliation: Division of Liver Disease and Transplantation, Department of Surgery, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
Interests: liver transplantation; hepatocellular carcinoma treatment; complex liver and biliary surgery

Further details about the Editorial Board of Cancers can be found by clicking the following link: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/cancers/editors.

Cancers is recruiting scholars from around the world to join our Editorial Board.

• A full academic CV;
• A short cover letter detailing your interest in the position.

We are pleased to share a selection of papers published in 2024 on the topic of colorectal cancer: prevention, precision, and progress, in the journal Cancers (ISSN: 2072-6694). Below is a list of high-quality articles that we believe you will find insightful and engaging.

1. “Recent Advances in Therapeutic Strategies to Improve Colorectal Cancer Treatment”
by William H. Gmeiner
Cancers 2024, 16(5), 1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16051029
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/5/1029

2. “The Impact of the Gut Microbiome, Environment, and Diet in Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer Development”
by Rui Dai, Bridget N. Kelly, Amarachi Ike, David Berger, Andrew Chan, David A. Drew, David Ljungman, David Mutiibwa, Rocco Ricciardi, Gerald Tumusiime et al.
Cancers 2024, 16(3), 676; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16030676
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/3/676

3. “Cetuximab as a Key Partner in Personalized Targeted Therapy for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer”
by Nadia Saoudi González, Javier Ros, Iosune Baraibar, Francesc Salvà, Marta Rodríguez-Castells, Adriana Alcaraz, Ariadna García, Josep Tabernero and Elena Élez
Cancers 2024, 16(2), 412; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16020412
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/2/412

4. “Therapeutic Potential for Sphingolipids in Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Colorectal Cancer”
by Keila S. Espinoza and Ashley J. Snider
Cancers 2024, 16(4), 789; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16040789
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/4/789

5. “Obesity and Inflammatory Factors in the Progression of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer”
by Alexandra N. Jones, Katharina M. Scheurlen, Anne Macleod, Hillary L. Simon and Susan Galandiuk
Cancers 2024, 16(7), 1403; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16071403
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/7/1403

6. “Current Applications and Future Directions of Circulating Tumor Cells in Colorectal Cancer Recurrence”
by Kun-Yu Tsai, Po-Shuan Huang, Po-Yu Chu, Thi Ngoc Anh Nguyen, Hsin-Yuan Hung, Chia-Hsun Hsieh and Min-Hsien Wu
Cancers 2024, 16(13), 2316; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16132316
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/13/2316

7. “Next-Generation CEA-CAR-NK-92 Cells against Solid Tumors: Overcoming Tumor Microenvironment Challenges in Colorectal Cancer”
by Alexander Sebastian Franzén, Abdelhadi Boulifa, Clarissa Radecke, Sebastian Stintzing, Martin J. Raftery and Gabriele Pecher
Cancers 2024, 16(2), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16020388
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/2/388

8. “Blood Vessel-Targeted Therapy in Colorectal Cancer: Current Strategies and Future Perspectives”
by Anne Jacobsen, Jürgen Siebler, Robert Grützmann, Michael Stürzl and Elisabeth Naschberger
Cancers 2024, 16(5), 890; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16050890
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/5/890

You can view and submit relevant papers to Cancers via https://www.mdpi.com/journal/cancers.

Cancers Editorial Office

We are pleased to announce the winner of the Cancers 2024 Outstanding Reviewer Award, Dr. Mohammad Hasanain.

The following is a short interview with Dr. Mohammad Hasanain:

1. Could you give us a brief introduction of yourself to the readers?
I was born and raised in Jaunpur, a small town in Uttar Pradesh, India. Growing up, I was always curious about how things work, especially the human body and diseases like cancer.
I completed my undergraduate studies in life sciences and began my scientific journey with a strong interest in the molecular mechanisms behind cancer progression. I pursued my Ph.D. in India, where I focused on studying the mechanism of action of novel anticancer compounds identified through screening. My research emphasized the roles of apoptosis and autophagy in promoting cancer cell death, specifically how the crosstalk between these two processes could be harnessed to develop more effective chemotherapeutic strategies. In January 2020, after completing my Ph.D., I moved to the United States to join the laboratories of Dr. Antonio Iavarone and Dr. Anna Lasorella at the Institute for Cancer Genetics, Columbia University, New York. There, I expanded my research into glioblastoma, aiming to understand the molecular landscape and tumor microenvironment that support this highly aggressive brain cancer. In September 2022, I continued working with the same group at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Health System, following their relocation. Since then, my research has focused on investigating the self-renewing properties of glioma stem cells and the key drivers of glioblastoma growth and progression. I use advanced in vivo models to study the tumor microenvironment and its contribution to therapy resistance. My long-term research goals include developing robust mouse models of glioblastoma, identifying critical pathways involved in tumor initiation and progression, and translating these findings into novel therapeutic strategies for patients affected by this devastating disease.

2. What is your current research, and why did you choose this research field?
Right now, my research is focused on glioblastoma, a very aggressive and heartbreaking form of brain cancer. I am particularly interested in the glioma stem cells, which are a small population of cells within the tumor that can self-renew, resist treatment, and are often responsible for tumor recurrence. I am also studying the tumor microenvironment—basically, how the surroundings of the tumor help it survive and grow, even in the face of therapies. I chose this field because of urgent clinical need. Despite significant advances in cancer treatment, glioblastoma remains a disease with a very poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Although the complexity of the tumor, especially its heterogeneity and adaptability, presents a major challenge, it also serves as an opportunity to uncover novel insights that could lead to meaningful breakthroughs. I was drawn to this area not only for its scientific challenges but also for the potential impact our findings could have on patient care. Working in this field allows me to combine advanced techniques in cancer biology, stem cell research, and in vivo modeling to address questions that are both fundamental and translational. Ultimately, my goal is to identify new vulnerabilities in GBM that can be targeted with more effective therapies.

3. What are your opinions about the scientific publication market, and what do you think about the open access model?
Honestly, the scientific publishing world is a bit of a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it is how we share our hard-earned discoveries with the world. But on the other hand, it can feel like a system that is not always built for the benefit of science or scientists, especially when important research gets locked behind expensive paywalls. Traditional subscription-based models often limit access, creating barriers for researchers in underfunded institutions or developing countries, which ultimately slows down scientific progress and collaboration. That is why I strongly support the open access model. I think knowledge should be freely available to anyone who is curious, whether that is a scientist in a well-funded lab or a student in a small town with big dreams. Open access makes research more visible, more shareable, and ultimately, more impactful. And in fields like cancer research, where lives are literally on the line, we cannot afford delays in access to information. However, the current open access model still comes with its own set of challenges. The high article processing charges (APCs) required by many journals can be a major barrier, especially for early career researchers or those without strong financial support. It is not always fair that researchers have to pay so much just to share their work. We need better support systems and alternative funding mechanisms to make open access more inclusive and sustainable, not just for those with big grants or institutional backing. Furthermore, science is about discovery, collaboration, and hope. The more open we are with our knowledge, the faster we can move toward breakthroughs that truly make a difference. That is the future I want to be part of; one where science is accessible, equitable, and driven by the needs of people, not just the publishing industry.

4. Have you ever encountered any difficulties when you conduct research? How did you overcome them?
Absolutely, challenges in experimental setups are something every researcher faces, but I have come to understand that these moments are not exceptions in science; they are science. Especially in cancer research, where the biological systems we study are so complex and every patient sample is unique, difficulties are part of the process. I am working with primary patient-derived glioma models in vitro and in vivo, which can be unpredictable and sensitive. There were moments when experiments failed repeatedly, and it felt like the work was stuck. But those are the moments that really bring out the deeper values of science. The way I overcame those challenges was not by trying harder alone; it was through adopting a scientific temperament rooted in problem-solving, collaboration, and patience. What helped me overcome these challenges was developing a balanced approach, scientifically, mentally, and even physically. Meticulously, I took a step back and broke the problem down into smaller pieces, methodically troubleshooting each part. I documented everything carefully, repeated tests, and, most importantly, engaged with peers. I asked for input, shared what I was facing, and welcomed criticism and suggestions. That openness to feedback and willingness to learn from others always makes the difference. What is special about the scientific community is that we are united by a shared mission. We all want to understand disease better, to find answers, to improve lives. When I struggled in the lab, I was never truly alone; instead, I was part of a larger ecosystem of researchers, mentors, and even patients who believed in the same goal. That collective mindset helped me stay motivated. It turned frustration into curiosity and setbacks into learning experiences. What drives me, and I think many of us in this field, is knowing that our work has real meaning. We are not just moving pipettes and analyzing graphs; we are trying to give hope to people who are in some of the hardest battles of their lives. That understanding adds a layer of purpose that keeps me grounded and driven, even when the path gets tough. Science is not always fast or easy, but it is influential. And when we approach it with persistence, humility, and compassion for each other and for those we hope to help, we will always find a way forward.

5. What qualities do you think young scientists need? What qualities do you think reviewers need?
That is a great question, and if there is one thing I believe deeply, it is this: science is not just about data and discoveries; it is about individuals. The mindset we bring into the lab and the values we uphold as a community matter just as much as the results we publish. For young scientists, I would say the most important quality is inquisitiveness. It is that spark—the constant desire to ask “why,” to explore the unknown, and to challenge what we think we already understand. But along with curiosity, you need flexibility. Research is full of failure. Experiments do not always work. Papers get rejected. Grants do not come through. And that can be tough, especially early on. But these challenges are all part of the journey. What matters is how you respond, how you grow from those moments. Another quality I really value is humility. No one knows everything. Being open to learning, listening to others, and asking for help when you need it, that is what makes a good scientist even better. And of course, thirst—that deep, personal commitment to the work you are doing. Because when the days get long, and they will, it is that passion that keeps you going.
Now when it comes to reviewers, I think we sometimes forget how powerful that role is. Reviewers shape the tone of the scientific conversation. So, the essential thing we need is impartiality. A good review should be objective and based on the science, not personal bias. Then, there is productivity. It is easy to criticize, but it is much more meaningful to offer suggestions for improvement. We are not just gatekeepers—we are mentors at that moment, even if we never meet the authors. And conclusively, compassion. Behind every manuscript is a person, or a team, who worked incredibly hard. A little encouragement can go a long way, especially for young researchers who are just stepping into the field. We need a culture in science that lifts each other up. One that challenges everyone, yes, but with kindness, with rigor, and with the shared belief that we are all working toward something bigger than ourselves. Because at the end of the day, science is not a competition. It is a collective mission. And the more we support each other, the further we all go.

The 2025 Annual Congress of the European Association for Cancer Research (EACR 2025) is a four-day congress dedicated to basic, preclinical, and translational cancer research across a wide breadth of topics. The conference will highlight the latest research and bring together members of the cancer research community to stimulate innovation and build knowledge, connections, and collaborations.

The following MDPI journals will be represented at the conference:

• Cancers;
• IJMS;
• Marine Drugs;
• Biomedicines;
• Healthcare;
• CIMB;
• Cells;
• Current Oncology;
• JPM;
• Neurology International;
• DNA.

If you are planning to attend the above conference, please feel free to start an online conversation with us. Our delegates look forward to meeting you in person at booth #86 and answering any questions that you may have.

For more information about the conference, please visit the following website: https://2025.eacr.org.

We are pleased to share a selection of papers from the 2024 collection on the topic “Advances and Challenges in the Precision Management of Breast Cancer”, published in the journal Cancers (ISSN: 2072-6694). Below is a list of high-quality articles that we believe you will find insightful and engaging.

1. “Therapies for the Treatment of Advanced/Metastatic Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer: Current Situation and Future Directions”
by Rohan Kalyan Rej, Joyeeta Roy and Srinivasa Rao Allu
Cancers 2024, 16(3), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16030552
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/3/552

2. “Gender-Specific Genetic Predisposition to Breast Cancer: BRCA Genes and Beyond”
by Virginia Valentini, Agostino Bucalo, Giulia Conti, Ludovica Celli, Virginia Porzio, Carlo Capalbo, Valentina Silvestri and Laura Ottini
Cancers 2024, 16(3), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16030579
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/3/579

3. “The Impact of Different Patterns of Residual Disease on Long-Term Oncological Outcomes in Breast Cancer Patients Treated with Neo-Adjuvant Chemotherapy”
by Corrado Tinterri, Bethania Fernandes, Alberto Zambelli, Andrea Sagona, Erika Barbieri, Simone Di Maria Grimaldi, Shadya Sara Darwish, Flavia Jacobs, Camilla De Carlo, Martina Iuzzolino et al.
Cancers 2024, 16(2), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16020376
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/2/376

4. “Head-to-Head Comparison of [18F]PSMA-1007 and [18F]FDG PET/CT in Patients with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer”
by Natalia Andryszak, Daria Świniuch, Elżbieta Wójcik, Rodryg Ramlau, Marek Ruchała and Rafał Czepczyński
Cancers 2024, 16(3), 667; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16030667
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/3/667

5. “De-Escalation Surgery in cT3-4 Breast Cancer Patients after Neoadjuvant Therapy: Predictors of Breast Conservation and Comparison of Long-Term Oncological Outcomes with Mastectomy”
by Corrado Tinterri, Erika Barbieri, Andrea Sagona, Alberto Bottini, Giuseppe Canavese and Damiano Gentile
Cancers 2024, 16(6), 1169; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16061169
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/6/1169

6. “High Numbers of CD163+ Tumor-Associated Macrophages Predict Poor Prognosis in HER2+ Breast Cancer”
by Minna M. Jääskeläinen, Ritva Tumelius, Kirsi Hämäläinen, Kirsi Rilla, Sanna Oikari, Aino Rönkä, Tuomas Selander, Arto Mannermaa, Satu Tiainen and Päivi Auvinen
Cancers 2024, 16(3), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16030634
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/3/634

7. “Triple-Negative Breast Cancer and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies: ATR and CHK1/2 as Promising Targets”
by Amalia Sofianidi, Ecaterina E. Dumbrava, Konstantinos N. Syrigos and Azadeh Nasrazadani
Cancers 2024, 16(6), 1139; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16061139
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/6/1139

8. “Systemic and Local Strategies for Primary Prevention of Breast Cancer”
by Erin K. Zaluzec and Lorenzo F. Sempere
Cancers 2024, 16(2), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16020248
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/2/248

You can view and submit relevant papers to Cancers via https://www.mdpi.com/journal/cancers.

Cancers Editorial Office

We are thrilled to share the updated Exceptional Reviewers List 2025. This program was designed to recognize scholars who have consistently delivered exceptional review reports to our journal. Committed to fostering rigorous research and promoting knowledge exchange, Cancers (ISSN: 2072-6694) recognizes the significant role that our reviewers play in maintaining the quality and integrity of the articles that we publish. According to surveys conducted in 2024, 92% of our authors rate the peer-review process as good or excellent, which is thanks to our pool of excellent reviewers.

We wish to express our sincere appreciation to all the reviewers who have generously volunteered their time and expertise to assist Cancers’ peer-review process. Their dedication and attention to detail in evaluating manuscripts, offering valuable feedback and contributing to academic rigor, are truly commendable.

The Exceptional Reviewers List was introduced in April 2025. Each quarter, we select a group of outstanding reviewers, and we introduce them here.

Q1
Name: Dr. Mohammad Mofatteh
Affiliation: School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen’s University, Belfast, UK
Interests: neurosurgery; surgery; neuroscience; global health; medical education
“Engaging in peer-review sharpens my critical thinking, keeps me at the forefront of cutting-edge research, and strengthens the scientific community by ensuring rigorous quality assurance. I prioritize delivering constructive feedback to elevate the clarity, validity, and impact of each manuscript.”

Name: Dr. Radu O. Minea
Affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, Keck School of Medicine, USC, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
Interests: cancer biology; apoptosis; cell culture; cell signaling; cancer cell biology; cell proliferation; flow cytometry; gene expression; immunohistochemistry; Western blot analysis
“I have enjoyed working with the editors of the Cancers journal in my past interactions with them and I am committed to help with the peer-review process in the future.”

Name: Dr. Radoslaw Pach
Affiliation: Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
Interests: oncological surgery; colorectal cancer; gastric cancer; thyroid surgery; hernia; laparoscopy
“I review for journals using my clinical and research expertise to assess oncology studies, focusing on rigor, clarity, and impact, and providing constructive, evidence-based feedback.”

Name: Dr. Giovanni Colonna
Affiliation: Medical Informatics Unit, AOU L. Vanvitelli, University of Campania, Piazzetta Sant’Aniello a Caponapoli 2, 80138 Naples, Italy
Interests: cancer biology; bioinformatics and computational biology; enzymes; proteins; PCR;
protein purification; protein expression; evolution; critical thinking; cancer cell biology
“Cancer research faces significant obstacles in accurately modeling the complexity of human tumors with current preclinical systems. From observational data, we cannot directly obtain the deep molecular causes without specific experimental data.”

Name: Prof. Dr. Lars Martin Wagner
Affiliation: Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
Interests: pediatric sarcoma; young adult sarcoma; clinical trials; sarcoma biology; treatment response; rare cancers; translational research

Q2
Name: Dr. Yuki Arita
Affiliation: Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, United States
Interests: bladder urothelial carcinoma; prostate cancer; renal cell carcinoma; bladder cancer; rectal cancer; magnetic resonance machine learning deep learning medical imaging physics
“It is a privilege to contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge through constructive and timely peer review.”

Name:  Dr. Liviu Bilteanu
Affiliation: Department of Oncology at Institute of Oncology Bucharest, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 37, Dionisie Lupu Street, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: oncology; colorectal; lung; breast; diet; microbioma; omics
“Reviewing for MDPI has been a rewarding and enriching experience. First of all, the MPDI review platform has a user-friendly interface, which simplifies the evaluation process. MDPI encourages scientific rigor and transparency, stimulating constructive and fair peer review to improve the submitted paper quality. I am also grateful for the recognition of reviewers’ efforts through discount vouchers for future publications and inclusion in MDPI’s annual acknowledgment of reviewers. Reviewing for MDPI is a real opportunity to stay up-to-date with the latest research in my field and to enhance my own knowledge and critical analysis skills.”

Name: Dr. Abdul Karim Ghaith
Affiliation: Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
Interests: machine learning, spine, brain, neurology, neurosurgery, neuroradiology, artificial intelligence, tumors
“Reviewing for Cancers has been a rewarding experience and an opportunity to critically engage with cutting-edge oncology research and help uphold scientific rigor and research integrity.”

Name:  Dr. Borek Sehnal
Affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady and Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Srobarova 1150/50, Prague 10, 100 34, Czech Republic
Interests: gynecology; ectopic pregnancy; women; quality of life; surgical terminations of pregnancy; ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome; cervical cancer screening

Name: Dr. Maureen E. Canavan
Affiliation: Yale Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
Interests: non-small cell lung cancer; health management; end-of-life care

World Immunization Week, celebrated annually during the last week of April, is a global health awareness initiative highlighting the critical role of vaccines in protecting people of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases.

On this momentous occasion, we are thrilled to present a thoughtfully selected compilation of articles and Special Issues that focus on the pioneering research and cutting-edge strategies in immunology and vaccination. We encourage readers to delve into these scholarly contributions and stand with us in our commitment to preserving and enhancing global immunization health.

Join us as we explore the latest findings and innovative methods that are shaping the future of immunization. Together, we can strive towards a world where every individual has access to the life-saving benefits of vaccines.

We hope that the established journals in the fields of biology life sciences and medicine and pharmacology at MDPI will provide a communication platform for innovative ideas regarding prevention and treatment.

“Lifestyle and Biochemical Parameters That May Hamper Immune Responses in Pediatric Patients After Immunization with the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine”
by Anthie Damianaki, Antonios Marmarinos, Margaritis Avgeris, Dimitrios Gourgiotis, Elpis-Athina Vlachopapadopoulou, Marietta Charakida, Maria Tsolia and Lydia Kossiva
Diseases 2025, 13(3), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases13030078

“Evaluating the Potential of Herbal Extracts as Treatment in Immune Thrombocytopenia: A Review of Evidence and Limitations”
by Russell W. Wiggins, Jihoo Woo, John Nicholas Cauba and Shizue Mito
Appl. Biosci. 2025, 4(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/applbiosci4010001

“Immunotherapeutic Strategies for the Treatment of Glioblastoma: Current Challenges and Future Perspectives”
by Ilaria Salvato and Antonio Marchini
Cancers 2024, 16(7), 1276; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16071276

“Unveiling Extramedullary Hematopoiesis: A Case Report Highlighting the Causes, Symptoms, and Management Strategies”
by Konstantinos Manganas, Aikaterini Xydaki, Angeliki Kotsiafti, Olympia Papakonstantinou and Sophia Delicou
Thalass. Rep. 2024, 14(2), 26-32; https://doi.org/10.3390/thalassrep14020004

“Inhibitors of Immune Checkpoints: Small Molecule- and Peptide-Based Approaches”
by Natalie Fuchs, Longfei Zhang, Laura Calvo-Barreiro, Katarzyna Kuncewicz and Moustafa Gabr
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(1), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14010068

“Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia: Clinicopathologic Features and New Perspectives on Anti-PF4 Antibody-Mediated Disorders”
by Yi Zhang, Anna-Lise Bissola, Jared Treverton, Michael Hack, Mark Lychacz, Sarah Kwok, Addi Arnold and Ishac Nazy
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(4), 1012; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13041012

“Immune Response to Respiratory Viral Infections”
by Antonella Gambadauro, Francesca Galletta, Alessandra Li Pomi, Sara Manti and Giovanni Piedimonte
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 6178; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25116178

“Neutrophil Extracellular DNA Traps in Response to Infection or Inflammation, and the Roles of Platelet Interactions”
by William A. Chen and Danilo S. Boskovic
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(5), 3025; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25053025

“Host Immune Regulation in Implant-Associated Infection (IAI): What Does the Current Evidence Provide Us to Prevent or Treat IAI?”
by Zulipikaer Maimaiti, Zhuo Li, Chi Xu, Jun Fu, Li-Bo Hao, Ji-Ying Chen and Wei Chai
Bioengineering 2023, 10(3), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10030356

“Airborne Pollen Calendar of Toluca City, Mexico”
by Maria Cid del Prado, Osvaldo Zarco-Cid del Prado, Hilda Adriana Guerrero-Parra and Karla Elisa Juárez Contreras
Aerobiology 2023, 1(1), 54-69; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerobiology1010005

“Innovative Therapies and Management of Complications in Hemoglobinopathies”	“Peptide-Based Vaccines: An Efficient Alternative to Combat Infectious Diseases and Drug Resistance”
“Immunotherapy in the Management of Hematologic Malignancy”	“Feature Review for Applied Biosciences”
“Advances in Transfusion Medicine and Immunological Research”	“Advancements in Artificial Intelligence for Bioaerosol Detection, Characterization, and Modeling”