Advanced Research in Oncology in 2025

A special issue of Cancers (ISSN 2072-6694).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 October 2025 | Viewed by 6020

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Guest Editor
Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, 2301 Erwin Rd, Durham, NC, USA
Interests: transplantation; surgical oncology; Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) surgery
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce a Special Issue entitled “Advanced Research in Oncology in 2025”, which will be the New Year Special Issue Series of Cancers.

For this Special Issue, we are seeking comprehensive review papers from all oncology-related fields from our Editorial Board Members, societies, authors, and reviewers. The papers in this Special Issue will be published via our open access platform after a thorough peer review.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Dimitrios Moris
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Cancers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • cancer
  • tumour
  • oncology

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Review

23 pages, 7031 KiB  
Review
Current Perspectives on Mesenchymal Dendritic Cell Neoplasms of Lymphoid Tissue: Insights into Ontogeny, Updates on Classification, and Clinicopathologic Characteristics
by Neha Seth, Jithma P. Abeykoon, Gaurav Goyal, Ronald S. Go, Steven Tessier, Rebecca L. King and Aishwarya Ravindran
Cancers 2025, 17(12), 2055; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17122055 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 460
Abstract
Mesenchymal dendritic cell neoplasms represent a distinct category of hematologic malignancies that challenge traditional classifications of histiocytic and classical dendritic/Langerhans cell neoplasms. Historically grouped under the broader umbrella of dendritic cell neoplasms, these entities differ significantly in their ontogeny, histopathologic features, molecular alterations, [...] Read more.
Mesenchymal dendritic cell neoplasms represent a distinct category of hematologic malignancies that challenge traditional classifications of histiocytic and classical dendritic/Langerhans cell neoplasms. Historically grouped under the broader umbrella of dendritic cell neoplasms, these entities differ significantly in their ontogeny, histopathologic features, molecular alterations, and clinical behavior. They are categorized into three main subtypes including follicular dendritic cell sarcoma, fibroblastic reticular cell tumor, and EBV-positive inflammatory follicular dendritic cell sarcoma/fibroblastic reticular cell tumor. They originate from mesenchymal stromal cells, and genetic alterations activating the NF- κβ pathway are frequent in follicular dendritic cell sarcomas. Immunophenotypic characterization is critical to distinguish these from other hematologic malignancies including histiocytic and classical dendritic/Langerhans cell neoplasms and other solid (non-hematopoietic) cancers. This review recapitulates current knowledge on existing classifications, details their diverse ontogeny from classical dendritic cell neoplasms, and provides insights into their clinicopathologic characteristics to improve diagnostic accuracy. We detail two case studies that demonstrate the challenges involved in the histopathologic diagnosis of these rare tumors, necessitating a comprehensive workup. Integrating developmental biology into practical diagnostic algorithms is essential to improve recognition and classification of these underdiagnosed neoplasms, ultimately guiding timely management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Oncology in 2025)
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23 pages, 8796 KiB  
Review
CT and MRI Key Features of Benign Tumors and Tumor-like Lesions of the Tongue: A Pictorial Review
by Michele Pietragalla, Emanuele Gattuso, Cosimo Nardi and Antonio Lo Casto
Cancers 2025, 17(10), 1695; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17101695 - 18 May 2025
Viewed by 812
Abstract
Benign neoplasms and tumor-like lesions of the tongue are relatively rare entities, encompassing a heterogeneous spectrum of morphological alterations. The recent literature focusing on benign tumors and tumor-like lesions of the tongue is relatively limited, which may lead to a gap in understanding [...] Read more.
Benign neoplasms and tumor-like lesions of the tongue are relatively rare entities, encompassing a heterogeneous spectrum of morphological alterations. The recent literature focusing on benign tumors and tumor-like lesions of the tongue is relatively limited, which may lead to a gap in understanding their specific imaging characteristics. Most benign tongue tumors usually appear as submucosal bulges located in the deep portion of the tongue. Both computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are essential for the comprehensive diagnostic evaluation of these entities. Cross-sectional imaging plays a pivotal role in narrowing the differential diagnosis and, in selected cases, may suggest a specific histopathological entity. The benign tumors and tumor-like lesions included in this review comprise schwannoma, lipoma, angiomyolipoma, hemangioma, vascular malformations, dermoid cysts, and thyroglossal duct remnants (including cystic formations and ectopic thyroid tissue). Additionally, certain non-neoplastic conditions—such as lingual abscesses, infectious mononucleosis complicated by lingual tonsillitis, and fatty atrophy of the tongue—can mimic neoplastic processes and present as mass-like lesions; these have also been addressed in this pictorial essay. The purpose of this work is to illustrate the key CT and MRI features of the aforementioned benign lingual lesions, with the aim of improving diagnostic confidence and accuracy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Oncology in 2025)
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Graphical abstract

15 pages, 291 KiB  
Review
Recent Strategies to Attenuate Hepatocellular Carcinoma Recurrence After Liver Transplantation: A Narrative Review
by Yutaka Endo, Yuki Bekki, Roberto Hernandez-Alejandro and Koji Tomiyama
Cancers 2025, 17(10), 1650; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17101650 - 13 May 2025
Viewed by 606
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of liver transplant worldwide. While liver transplantation offers a survival advantage for early-stage HCC patients, post-transplant recurrence remains a significant concern, affecting up to 15% of recipients. We sought to conduct a comprehensive review [...] Read more.
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of liver transplant worldwide. While liver transplantation offers a survival advantage for early-stage HCC patients, post-transplant recurrence remains a significant concern, affecting up to 15% of recipients. We sought to conduct a comprehensive review related to HCC recurrence after liver transplant. Tumor-related factors such as poor differentiation, vascular invasion, and elevated tumor biomarkers like alpha-fetoprotein are key predictors of recurrence. Donor-related factors, including graft type and surgical procedures, can also influence outcomes, though their effects are less conclusive. Advancements in patient selection criteria and scoring systems, such as the Milan Criteria and RETREAT score, have improved risk stratification by incorporating tumor size, biomarkers, and response to pre-transplant treatment. Despite these measures, recurrent HCC after transplantation poses treatment challenges. Curative approaches such as resection are feasible for localized or oligometastatic recurrence and offer the best outcomes when applicable. Locoregional treatments, including ablation and transarterial chemoembolization, provide options for unresectable cases but have limited long-term efficacy. Systemic therapies, including targeted agents like sorafenib, regorafenib, and lenvatinib, have shown modest benefits in managing advanced recurrent HCC. Emerging immunotherapy approaches hold promise but face unique challenges due to the required immunosuppression in transplant recipients. Multidisciplinary evaluation remains essential for tailoring treatment plans. Future efforts should focus on refining predictive tools and exploring novel therapies to improve survival outcomes for patients with recurrent HCC after liver transplantation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Oncology in 2025)
21 pages, 2050 KiB  
Review
Immunometabolism of Innate Immune Cells in Gastrointestinal Cancer
by Izabela Siemińska and Marzena Lenart
Cancers 2025, 17(9), 1467; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17091467 - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 787
Abstract
Cancer cells are often described as voracious consumers of nutrients, with glucose frequently cited as a key energy source; however, their metabolic plasticity allows them to adapt and utilize various substrates, including lipids and amino acids, to sustain growth and survival. However, the [...] Read more.
Cancer cells are often described as voracious consumers of nutrients, with glucose frequently cited as a key energy source; however, their metabolic plasticity allows them to adapt and utilize various substrates, including lipids and amino acids, to sustain growth and survival. However, the metabolic demands of immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) are less commonly discussed despite their critical role in shaping the immune response. In this review, we explored the intricate interplay between immunometabolism and innate immunity cells in gastrointestinal cancers. We focused on how metabolic pathways, including glycolysis, fatty acid oxidation, and amino acid metabolism, drive the immunosuppressive functions of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and innate lymphocyte subsets such as NK cells. These cells contribute to a hostile immune landscape, supporting tumor growth and evasion from immune surveillance in a phenomenon of tumor-derived immunosuppression. Additionally, we investigated the influence of dietary interventions on the metabolic reprogramming of these immune cells, highlighting how nutrition can modulate the TME. Finally, we discussed emerging therapeutic strategies that target metabolic vulnerabilities in MDSCs, TANs, NK cells, and monocytes, offering a novel avenue for enhancing antitumor immunity. By dissecting these mechanisms, we aim to provide insights into how metabolic pathways can be harnessed to improve cancer treatment outcomes. This review underscores the importance of understanding immunometabolism not only as a driver of immune suppression but also as a potential therapeutic target in gastrointestinal cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Oncology in 2025)
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Graphical abstract

33 pages, 3961 KiB  
Review
TAMing Gliomas: Unraveling the Roles of Iba1 and CD163 in Glioblastoma
by Haneya Fuse, Yuqi Zheng, Islam Alzoubi and Manuel B. Graeber
Cancers 2025, 17(9), 1457; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17091457 - 26 Apr 2025
Viewed by 662
Abstract
Gliomas, the most common type of primary brain tumor, are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Glioblastoma, a highly malignant subtype, is particularly common, aggressive, and resistant to treatment. The tumor microenvironment (TME) of gliomas, especially glioblastomas, is characterized by a [...] Read more.
Gliomas, the most common type of primary brain tumor, are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Glioblastoma, a highly malignant subtype, is particularly common, aggressive, and resistant to treatment. The tumor microenvironment (TME) of gliomas, especially glioblastomas, is characterized by a distinct presence of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which densely infiltrate glioblastomas, a hallmark of these tumors. This macrophage population comprises both tissue-resident microglia as well as macrophages derived from the walls of blood vessels and the blood stream. Ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba1) and CD163 are established cellular markers that enable the identification and functional characterization of these cells within the TME. This review provides an in-depth examination of the roles of Iba1 and CD163 in malignant gliomas, with a focus on TAM activation, migration, and immunomodulatory functions. Additionally, we will discuss how recent advances in AI-enhanced cell identification and visualization techniques have begun to transform the analysis of TAMs, promising unprecedented precision in their characterization and providing new insights into their roles within the TME. Iba1 and CD163 appear to have both unique and shared roles in glioma pathobiology, and both have the potential to be targeted through different molecular and cellular mechanisms. We discuss the therapeutic potential of Iba1 and CD163 based on available preclinical (experimental) and clinical (human tissue-based) evidence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Oncology in 2025)
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30 pages, 1064 KiB  
Review
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors and Targeted Therapies in Early-Stage Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: State-of-the-Art and Future Perspectives
by Lucrezia Barcellini, Simone Nardin, Gianluca Sacco, Michele Ferrante, Giovanni Rossi, Giulia Barletta, Elisa Bennicelli, Chiara Dellepiane, Marco Tagliamento, Beatrice Ramella Pollone, Luca Lucente, Simona Coco, Silvia Marconi, Sara Santamaria, Gian Luca Pariscenti and Carlo Genova
Cancers 2025, 17(4), 652; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17040652 - 14 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1890
Abstract
Background: Approximately 25–30% of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients are diagnosed when the disease is still resectable, although the risk of recurrence is significant. Recently, approaches based on targeted agents or immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have modified the management of such patients. [...] Read more.
Background: Approximately 25–30% of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients are diagnosed when the disease is still resectable, although the risk of recurrence is significant. Recently, approaches based on targeted agents or immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have modified the management of such patients. However, some questions remain unanswered. Objectives: Our aim is to assess the current evidence on approaches involving targeted agents and ICIs in resectable NSCLC, to provide an up-to-date overview of the subject, and to identify areas of current debate, Methods: We analyzed randomized trials on ICIs and targeted therapies in early-stage NSCLC, published or presented at international oncology meetings throughout the last 5 years. Results: Osimertinib and alectinib have shown robust results in the adjuvant setting for molecularly identified patient subgroups, while ICIs have achieved robust data in the neoadjuvant/perioperative setting, with less consistent data on the pure adjuvant approach. Circulating tumor DNA levels may offer a possible biomarker for therapeutic decisions, albeit more prospective data are needed. Conclusions: Targeted agents and ICIs are revolutionizing early-stage NSCLC, similarly to what was observed in advanced disease. Prospective studies designed to compare neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and perioperative approaches and to assess the role of circulating biomarkers are warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Oncology in 2025)
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