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Keywords = liver and lung carcinomas

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21 pages, 5818 KiB  
Article
Azvudine Suppresses Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Targeting the Notch–HEY Signalling Pathway
by Yao Meng, Peiyi Sun, Yixin Ren, Guoqing Li, Xiujun Liu, Chunjie Xu, Luyao Dong, Hanhan Li, Zhonghui Zheng, Xuefu You and Xinyi Yang
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(11), 5127; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26115127 - 27 May 2025
Viewed by 480
Abstract
Azvudine (FNC) is a novel cytidine analogue that is widely used in the treatment of infectious diseases such as AIDS and COVID-19. Previous studies have demonstrated its anticancer activity in various cancer cell lines, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas and lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. However, [...] Read more.
Azvudine (FNC) is a novel cytidine analogue that is widely used in the treatment of infectious diseases such as AIDS and COVID-19. Previous studies have demonstrated its anticancer activity in various cancer cell lines, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas and lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. However, its effects on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the anti-epithelial–mesenchymal transition (anti-EMT) activity of FNC and evaluate its potential application in HCC treatment. We found that FNC significantly inhibits the migration of the liver cancer cell line Huh7 by downregulating key EMT markers, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and E-cadherin, at both the transcriptional and protein expression levels. Notably, we found that FNC inhibits HEY proteins, particularly HEY1, a transcriptional regulator of the Notch signalling pathway that is overexpressed in approximately 50% of HCC patients. To identify the primary target of FNC, microscale thermophoresis (MST) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed, revealing that FNC directly binds to Jagged1. This study provides valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of FNC in HCC treatment and elucidates its underlying mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Anti-Cancer Agents: Advances in Chemistry and Analysis)
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12 pages, 3069 KiB  
Case Report
Unusual Presentation of Metastatic Testicular Mixed-Germ Cell Tumor with Intracardiac Extension: A Case Report
by Marlon Rojas-Cadena, Felipe Rodríguez-Arcentales, Williams Lata, Karla Mera Sacoto, Luis Guerrero, Katherin Narváez Inca, Marlon Arias-Intriago, Esteban Ortiz-Prado and Juan S. Izquierdo-Condoy
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(10), 3564; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14103564 - 20 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 853
Abstract
Background: Testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) are highly curable malignancies, particularly when diagnosed early. However, cardiac metastases are exceedingly rare—occurring in less than 1% of cases—and pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Intracardiac involvement is exceptionally uncommon and typically necessitates a multidisciplinary approach [...] Read more.
Background: Testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) are highly curable malignancies, particularly when diagnosed early. However, cardiac metastases are exceedingly rare—occurring in less than 1% of cases—and pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Intracardiac involvement is exceptionally uncommon and typically necessitates a multidisciplinary approach for optimal management. Objective: To present a rare case of metastatic testicular GCT with intracardiac extension in a young male, underscoring the diagnostic complexity and therapeutic considerations of this unusual clinical scenario. Case Report: A 23-year-old male presented with diffuse abdominal pain, dyspnea, and a palpable right testicular mass. Imaging revealed a testicular tumor with metastases to the lungs, liver, retroperitoneal lymph nodes, and a large intracardiac mass extending from the inferior vena cava into the right atrium. Histopathology confirmed a mixed-germ cell tumor consisting of 75% seminoma, 20% embryonal carcinoma, and 5% teratoma. The patient underwent radical right orchiectomy followed by chemotherapy with the BEP regimen (bleomycin, etoposide, cisplatin). Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the intracardiac mass, which significantly decreased in size after treatment. Serum tumor markers (AFP and β-hCG) also showed substantial post-treatment declines, corresponding with clinical improvement. Conclusions: This case highlights a rare presentation of metastatic testicular GCT with intracardiac involvement, emphasizing the importance of recognizing atypical metastases. Despite its complexity, the patient responded well to chemotherapy, reinforcing the effectiveness of current treatments. Long-term follow-up and a multidisciplinary approach are essential for monitoring recurrence and complications, contributing to the understanding of rare metastatic patterns and the need for further research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)
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25 pages, 345 KiB  
Review
Oncological Complications of Liver Transplantation: A Narrative Review on De Novo and Donor-Transmitted Cancers
by Tancredi Vincenzo Li Cavoli, Armando Curto, Erica Nicola Lynch and Andrea Galli
Transplantology 2025, 6(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/transplantology6020015 - 16 May 2025
Viewed by 1004
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) has deeply transformed the treatment of end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma, offering the most effective therapy for many liver conditions. However, LT carries inherent risks, including the development of cancers, which can arise from the transmission of neoplastic cells [...] Read more.
Liver transplantation (LT) has deeply transformed the treatment of end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma, offering the most effective therapy for many liver conditions. However, LT carries inherent risks, including the development of cancers, which can arise from the transmission of neoplastic cells from the donor, the recurrence of pre-existing cancers, or as a long-term effect of the transplant, originating from the recipient’s own cells. The development of cancer in LT recipients is influenced by a variety of factors, such as age, gender, race, the underlying cause of liver disease, lifestyle factors (like alcohol use and smoking), and the use of immunosuppressive therapy. These combined factors increase the susceptibility of LT recipients to several types of cancer, including skin cancers, gastrointestinal malignancies, and lymphoproliferative disorders. While long-term survival after LT has significantly improved, there has been a notable increase in the incidence of de novo malignancies, which underscores the importance of diligent cancer screening and monitoring in transplant recipients, especially as they age. To manage this increased risk, various screening programs are recommended, including annual skin exams, colonoscopies for patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and lung cancer screening with low-dose CT for former smokers. When cancer is detected in LT recipients, reducing immunosuppression is a crucial strategy. Decreasing calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) and integrating mTOR inhibitors (mTORis) provide promising avenues for balancing immunological control with oncological risk. Understanding these risk factors and adjusting immunosuppression appropriately is vital for improving cancer outcomes in LT recipients. Although evidence from LT-specific studies remains limited, insights from other solid organ transplant (SOT) settings, especially kidney transplants, offer valuable guidance in managing cancer risks in LT recipients. This narrative review focuses on the prevention and management of de novo and donor-transmitted malignancies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Solid Organ Transplantation)
19 pages, 7417 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Detection of Circulating Tumor Cells in Breast Cancer: Unveiling New Markers for Clinical Applications
by Amira Mehtar, Janine Wechsler, Christophe Desterke, Julien Giron-Michel, Amira Bouzidi, Aude Burlion, Fawzia Louache, Samira Kahia-Tani, Georges Uzan and Sina Naserian
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(10), 4714; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26104714 - 14 May 2025
Viewed by 2654
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a heterogeneous disease with high metastasis potential, especially in the bones, liver, and lungs. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs), which emerge from active tumors, represent an early step toward metastasis and are associated with poor prognosis. CTCs of carcinoma origin [...] Read more.
Breast cancer (BC) is a heterogeneous disease with high metastasis potential, especially in the bones, liver, and lungs. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs), which emerge from active tumors, represent an early step toward metastasis and are associated with poor prognosis. CTCs of carcinoma origin are believed to express EpCAM and cytokeratins (CKs), common epithelial markers that are frequently used to identify them. However, in practice, the most aggressive CTCs lose the expression of those markers, leading to the partial loss of important information. Thus, finding some novel markers that identify CTCs regardless of their heterogeneity is crucial. A specific bioinformatics workflow integrating primary tumor and diverse BC cell lines transcriptomic expression analysis was developed and compared with single CTC transcriptomic analyses. We have identified a set of genes that are overexpressed in primary BC cells and are commonly upregulated among BC cell lines. Fifty of them were also found to be expressed in BC CTCs by single-cell transcriptomic analysis. Further in silico sorting narrowed this list to 12 genes. Using ScreenCell technology to isolate cancer cells spiked into normal blood, we tested the protein expression of all corresponding genes in vitro using the double immunocytochemistry method and validated MARCKSL1, SLC9A3R1, and RHOD as the most expressed markers. We then isolated the CTCs of 40 LN-invaded BC patients and 18 healthy donors using ScreenCell technology and showed that the combination of these three markers resulted in significantly better recognition of CTCs compared to EpCAM and CK conventional markers. Employing these novel markers, we found a clear distinction between blood samples from patients and healthy donors. In conclusion, through a specific bioinformatics workflow, in addition to in vitro and further clinical validations, we found three novel markers to precisely identify CTCs. These markers, when used together, enable a significantly more efficient identification of CTCs compared to conventional epithelial markers. Full article
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11 pages, 3732 KiB  
Case Report
Involvement of Pruritus, Gut Dysbiosis and Histamine-Producing Bacteria in Paraneoplastic Syndromes
by Doina Georgescu, Daniel Lighezan, Mihai Ionita, Paul Ciubotaru, Gabriel Cozma, Alexandra Faur, Ioana Suceava, Oana Elena Ancusa and Roxana Buzas
Biomedicines 2025, 13(5), 1036; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13051036 - 25 Apr 2025
Viewed by 2790
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Paraneoplastic syndromes (PNS), characterized by a large diversity of symptoms, may sometimes be the first clinical feature of a severe underlying disorder such as cancer. Methods: We report the case of a middle-aged male patient with no significant previous medical history, a [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Paraneoplastic syndromes (PNS), characterized by a large diversity of symptoms, may sometimes be the first clinical feature of a severe underlying disorder such as cancer. Methods: We report the case of a middle-aged male patient with no significant previous medical history, a nonsmoker or alcohol heavy drinker, complaining about generalized, recently onset itch. Given no reasonable explanation of pruritus after dermatological consultation and the unsatisfactory response to treatment, the patient was referred to gastroenterology with the suspicion of a cholestatic liver disease. Results: The abdominal ultrasound examination revealed gallstones and no dilation of the biliary tree. Numerous tests were run and came out negative, except for the slight elevation of C-reactive protein, mild dyslipidemia, and positivity for H. pylori antigen. The gut microbiota displayed important dysbiosis with a significant increase in the histamine-producing bacteria. Given this chronic pruritus became suspicious, thorax and abdominal CT were recommended and performed soon after. A large right mid-thoracic tumor image was found. Bronchoscopy came out negative for a tumor. After the CT-guided biopsy, the tumor turned out not to be a lymphoma, but a non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). Conclusions: Chronic pruritus was not associated with cholestasis in a patient with gallstone disease, but rather with a PNS, as the first clinical manifestation of NSCLC, triggering many diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Full article
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18 pages, 1930 KiB  
Review
Gastroesophageal Neuroendocrine Tumors: Outcomes and Management
by Christine Son, Joshua Kalapala, Jeff Leya, Michelle Marion Popadiuk, Mohammed K. Atieh, Daniel Havlichek, Lawrence Feldman, Paul Roach and Promila Banerjee
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(7), 2148; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14072148 - 21 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1174
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) can arise in any organ and are most commonly found in the lungs and gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) system. GEP-NETs represent a small percentage of gastrointestinal cancers, and therefore, the standard treatment is not well-defined, especially for advanced disease. Our [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) can arise in any organ and are most commonly found in the lungs and gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) system. GEP-NETs represent a small percentage of gastrointestinal cancers, and therefore, the standard treatment is not well-defined, especially for advanced disease. Our objective is to review GI NETs among veterans and analyze their therapeutic outcomes. Methods: A total of 61 GI NET cases were identified from our institution from 2019–2024. In total, twenty-seven review papers, ten population-based/multicenter/outcome studies, six case reports, and one case series were reviewed for the literature review. Results: The incidence of GI NETs at our institution was higher than the known epidemiology of GI NETs. Small intestine NETs were one of the most common sites of GEP-NETs at our institution, with only one of nineteen cases being grade 3 poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma. All cases of colonic and rectal NETs had good clinical outcomes consistent with findings from the literature. Most of the gastric NETs were type 1 and had benign courses of disease, except for one case with an intermediate grade and metastatic liver lesions. One case of esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma (E-NEC) showed a complete response to chemotherapy despite a significant tumor burden on presentation and high-grade pathology, while another case of ENEC had recurrent disease despite systemic therapy. Conclusions: While the role of surgery or endoscopic resection is limited to localized tumors, combined treatment with chemoradiation can significantly improve patient outcomes, especially in high-grade, poorly differentiated tumors. Further studies are needed to establish systemic (i.e., chemotherapy and radiation) treatment strategies for poorly differentiated GI NETs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gastroesophageal Cancer: Outcomes and Therapeutic Management)
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27 pages, 7777 KiB  
Article
The Prognostic Value and Immunomodulatory Role of Spsb2, a Novel Immune Checkpoint Molecule, in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
by Lv Tian, Yiming Wang, Jiexin Guan, Lu Zhang and Jun Fan
Genes 2025, 16(3), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16030346 - 17 Mar 2025
Viewed by 881
Abstract
Background: Liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), ranks as the second most common cause of cancer-related fatalities globally. Moreover, the occurrence rate of LIHC is steadily increasing. A recently identified gene, SPSB2, has been implicated in cell signaling, impacting the development and [...] Read more.
Background: Liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), ranks as the second most common cause of cancer-related fatalities globally. Moreover, the occurrence rate of LIHC is steadily increasing. A recently identified gene, SPSB2, has been implicated in cell signaling, impacting the development and progression of non-small cell lung cancer. Nevertheless, studies on the role of SPSB2 in the pathogenesis of LIHC are lacking. Methods: Using the TCGA, GTEx, and GEO databases, we obtained differentially expressed genes that affect the prognosis of patients with LIHC. We utilized the Kruskal–Wallis test, along with univariate and multivariate COX regression analyses, to determine the correlation between SPSB2 and patient clinical indicators. Potential biological functions of SPSB2 in LIHC were explored by enrichment analysis, ssGSEA, and Spearman correlation analysis. Finally, LIHC cell lines Huh7 and SMMC-7721 were used to validate the biological function of SPSB2. Results: The results showed LIHC patients with higher SPSB2 expression had a poorer prognosis, and SPSB2 expression was significantly correlated with LIHC patients’ Histologic grade, Pathologic T stage, Prothrombin time, Pathologic stage, BMI, weight, adjacent hepatic tissue inflammation, AFP level, and OS event (p < 0.05). SPSB2 shows notable enrichment in pathways linked to tumorigenesis and the immune system. Moreover, its expression is strongly connected to immune cells and immune checkpoints. Knockdown of SPSB2 expression in Huh7 cells and SMMC-7721 cells inhibits SPSB2’s biological functions, including proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and other phenotypes. Conclusions: SPSB2 plays a crucial role in the development of LIHC. It is related to the immune response and unfavorable outcomes. SPSB2 may function as a clinical biomarker for prognosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)
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15 pages, 14523 KiB  
Article
Porcine Recombinant NK-Lysin Inhibits the Growth and Metastasis of Murine Hepatocellular Carcinoma In Vivo
by Kuohai Fan, Zhiwei Feng, Dahai Zhao, Xiaozhong Zheng, Wei Yin, Na Sun, Panpan Sun and Hongquan Li
Molecules 2025, 30(6), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30061234 - 10 Mar 2025
Viewed by 816
Abstract
Porcine recombinant NK-lysin (prNK-lysin) has been shown to inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells in vitro. However, its effects on the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells in vivo remain unclear. In this study, an allograft murine model using [...] Read more.
Porcine recombinant NK-lysin (prNK-lysin) has been shown to inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells in vitro. However, its effects on the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells in vivo remain unclear. In this study, an allograft murine model using the murine HCC cell line Hepa1-6 was employed to investigate the anticancer effects of prNK-lysin. Initially, the in vitro anticancer efficacy of prNK-lysin was evaluated in Hepa1-6 cells, demonstrating that prNK-lysin effectively inhibited both proliferation and metastasis. These effects were mediated through the induction of oncosis and suppression of Fascin-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 protein expressions. Subsequently, the in vivo anticancer efficacy of prNK-lysin was assessed using a mouse liver orthotopic implantation model and a lung metastasis model of Hepa1-6 cells in BALB/cA-nu mice. The administration of 13 mg/kg of prNK-lysin could inhibit tumor growth in the liver and metastasis to the lungs. Our results demonstrate that prNK-lysin possesses strong anti-HCC effects both in vitro and in vivo, with the induction of oncosis and the inhibition of Fascin-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 protein expressions as potential molecular mechanisms for its anticancer activity. Full article
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19 pages, 1575 KiB  
Article
Characteristics and Outcomes of T1a Renal Cell Carcinoma Presenting with Metastasis
by Luke Wang, Melis Guer, Dhruv Puri, Franklin Liu, Sohail Dhanji, Margaret F. Meagher, Aastha Shah, Saeed Ghassemzadeh, Juan Javier-DesLoges, James Brugarolas, Payal Kapur, Aditya Bagrodia, Brent Rose, James D. Murphy, Ithaar H. Derweesh and Rana R. McKay
Cancers 2025, 17(3), 364; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17030364 - 23 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1741
Abstract
Objectives: The incidence of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has been rising, largely due to increased incidental detection from widespread imaging. Although synchronous distant metastasis (SM) with a primary renal tumor measuring <4 cm (cT1a) is uncommon, its presence may influence survival outcomes and [...] Read more.
Objectives: The incidence of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has been rising, largely due to increased incidental detection from widespread imaging. Although synchronous distant metastasis (SM) with a primary renal tumor measuring <4 cm (cT1a) is uncommon, its presence may influence survival outcomes and the utility of cytoreductive nephrectomy. We sought to investigate clinical characteristics, metastatic patterns, treatments, and survival outcomes of patients with T1a RCC. Methods: All patients aged ≥18 years diagnosed with RCC between 2004 and 2019 were extracted from the National Cancer Database. The Cochran–Armitage test was used for trend analysis, while multivariable analyses were conducted to identify variables associated with SM and to assess the impact of cytoreductive surgery on mortality across isolated metastatic sites. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed to compare survival outcomes. Results: A total of 263,911 individuals diagnosed with T1a RCC were analyzed in the study. Among them, 114,661 patients (43.4%) were classified as having cT1a tumor stage, and of these patients with cT1a RCC, 2275 (2.0%) exhibited SM. The proportion of SM cT1a was 3.39% in 2004 and 2.08% in 2019, with an Average Annual Percent Change (AAPC) of −0.037% (p = 0.830). The most common sites of metastasis were bone (59%), followed by lung (35%), liver (16%), and brain (12%). Resection of the primary tumor and receipt of systemic therapy were significantly associated with reduced mortality among all metastatic sites, especially in individuals with lung-only metastases (HR = 0.02, p = 0.013). Metastasectomy was associated with improved survival in patients with brain-only metastases (HR = 0.26, p = 0.006) but did not demonstrate the same benefit in patients with bone-, lung- or liver-only metastases. The worst 5-year OS rate was observed in cases with metastasis to multiple sites, whereas isolated metastases had similar survival rates (p < 0.0001). Our findings are limited by retrospective study design. Conclusions: This comprehensive analysis of T1a RCC patients reveals that while synchronous metastasis is relatively uncommon (2.0%), it presents significant clinical challenges, with bone as the most common metastatic site, contrasting with the typical lung predominance in larger tumors. Primary tumor resection showed survival benefit in patients with isolated metastases, especially for lung-only metastasis. These findings highlight the heterogeneous nature of tumor biology in small renal masses and underscore the importance of tailored, multimodal treatment strategies for the effective management of SM T1a RCC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Locally Advanced and Metastatic Kidney Cancer)
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14 pages, 1267 KiB  
Article
The Role of Radiotherapy to the Primary Site in Oropharyngeal Cancer with Limited Metastases—An Analysis of a Hospital-Based Registry
by Michael Kharouta, F. Jeffrey Lorenz, Sean Mahase, Hongyun Shi, Neerav Goyal and Min Yao
Cancers 2024, 16(24), 4130; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16244130 - 11 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1006
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Limited metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (OPC) lacks clear management guidelines, especially for HPV-associated disease. The objective of this study was to investigate if primary site radiotherapy (RT) benefits overall survival in limited metastatic OPC. Methods: Utilizing the National Cancer [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Limited metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (OPC) lacks clear management guidelines, especially for HPV-associated disease. The objective of this study was to investigate if primary site radiotherapy (RT) benefits overall survival in limited metastatic OPC. Methods: Utilizing the National Cancer Database (NCDB), patients aged 18–90 with OPC presenting as cM1 with limited metastatic disease to one distant site were identified. Propensity score matching, Cox-proportional hazards models, and Kaplan–Meier estimates were employed to assess factors associated with overall survival. Results: In this study, 1056 patients were included with metastases involving bone (19.0%), brain (0.8%), lung (52.9%), liver (10.1%), and lymph nodes (20.4%). Treatment modalities included 54.6% receiving primary site RT, 45.4% receiving no RT, and 69.9% undergoing systemic therapy. For HPV-positive patients, RT (HR 0.64, p = 0.0026) and receipt of chemotherapy (HR = 0.57, p = 0.0057) were associated with improved overall survival, while bone and lung metastases were associated with decreased survival (HR = 1.75 and 1.39, p = 0.0041 and 0.041, respectively). In HPV-negative cases, survival also correlated with RT (HR = 0.65, p = 0.0047), receipt of chemotherapy (HR = 0.45, p < 0.001), clinical T4 disease (HR = 1.99, p = 0.012), presence of bone metastases (HR = 2.52, p < 0.001), lung metastases (HR = 1.49, p = 0.035), and lymphovascular invasion (HR = 1.10, p < 0.001). Overall, patients who received RT showed increased median overall survival from 9.9 to 16.1 months (p < 0.001) compared to those who did not. When stratified by RT and HPV status, there was higher median survival for both HPV-positive (from 17.1 to 24.9 months, p < 0.001) and HPV-negative patients (from 8.4 to 12.9 months, p = 0.0016) who received RT compared to those who did not. Conclusions: Primary-site radiotherapy may positively impact overall survival in limited metastatic OPC, irrespective of HPV status. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer)
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21 pages, 10653 KiB  
Article
5-Hydroxytryptamine G-Protein-Coupled Receptor Family Genes: Key Players in Cancer Prognosis, Immune Regulation, and Therapeutic Response
by Simeng Liu, Mingang He, Hefen Sun, Yi Wu and Wei Jin
Genes 2024, 15(12), 1541; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes15121541 - 28 Nov 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1497
Abstract
Background: Firstly, 5-hydroxytryptamine G-protein-coupled receptors (HTGPCRs) are a family of 13 genes associated with cancer progression. Nevertheless, a comprehensive understanding of HTGPCRs in cancer remains largely lacking. Method: We tested the gene expression levels and prognostic values for the HTGPCRs in [...] Read more.
Background: Firstly, 5-hydroxytryptamine G-protein-coupled receptors (HTGPCRs) are a family of 13 genes associated with cancer progression. Nevertheless, a comprehensive understanding of HTGPCRs in cancer remains largely lacking. Method: We tested the gene expression levels and prognostic values for the HTGPCRs in relation to pan-cancer. A subsequent analysis examined the relationships among HTGPCR expression and clinical characteristics, immune subtypes, stemness scores, tumor microenvironments (TMEs), single-cell analyses, and drug sensitivity. Result: A significant difference in HTGPCR expression was found between normal tissues and tumors. HTR1D/2C expressed higher levels in breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA), colon adenocarcinoma, and liver hepatocellular carcinoma. HTGPCR gene expression was correlated with prognosis in many cancers. HTR1D/2C were associated with poorer overall survival for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. In addition, HTGPCR expression correlated significantly with the stemness scores of RNA and DNA, TMB, and MSI, as well as stromal and immune scores of pan-cancer patients. Additionally, the expression of HTR2A/2B/7 was correlated significantly with immune cells and immune checkpoint genes in a variety of cancers, such as BRCA, brain lower-grade glioma, and lung adenocarcinoma. Immune regulation and TME were both regulated by HTGPCRs. Using single-cell analysis, we found that the gene set of HTGPCRs correlated with many cancer-related functional states in retinoblastoma. Moreover, drug sensitivity and HTR4 were significantly correlated. Furthermore, we validated results in breast cancer and found knockdown of HTR1D inhibited breast cancer cell growth and metastasis. Conclusion: As prognostic indicators, HTGPCRs hold considerable promise and offer insights into the therapeutic targets for malignancy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Genomics and Genetic Diseases)
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15 pages, 3450 KiB  
Article
Ethyltoluenes Regulate Inflammatory and Cell Fibrosis Signaling in the Liver Cell Model
by Suryakant Niture, Sashi Gadi, Hieu Hoang, Leslimar Rios-Colon, Wanda Bodnar, Keith E. Levine and Deepak Kumar
Toxics 2024, 12(12), 856; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120856 - 27 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1386
Abstract
Crude oil naphtha fraction C9 alkylbenzenes consist of trimethylbenzenes, ethyltoluenes, cumene, and n-propylbenzene. The major fraction of C9 alkylbenzenes is ethyltoluenes (ETs) consisting of three isomers: 2-ethyltoluene (2-ET), 3-ethyltoluene (3-ET), and 4-ethyltoluene (4-ET). Occupational and environmental exposure to ETs can occur via inhalation [...] Read more.
Crude oil naphtha fraction C9 alkylbenzenes consist of trimethylbenzenes, ethyltoluenes, cumene, and n-propylbenzene. The major fraction of C9 alkylbenzenes is ethyltoluenes (ETs) consisting of three isomers: 2-ethyltoluene (2-ET), 3-ethyltoluene (3-ET), and 4-ethyltoluene (4-ET). Occupational and environmental exposure to ETs can occur via inhalation and ingestion and cause several health problems. Exposure to ETs causes eye and upper respiratory tract irritation, coughing, gagging, vomiting, griping, diarrhea, distress, and depressed respiration. Previous studies suggest that ETs target the respiratory tract and liver and produce several lesions in the nose, lungs, and liver areas. In the current study, we investigated the impact of low concentrations of ETs on cell metabolism, cell inflammation, steatosis, and fibrosis signaling in liver cell models in vitro. Dose-dependent exposure of 2-ET, 3-ET, and 4-ET to HepaRG and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) HepG2 and SK-Hep1 cells affects cell survival/real-time proliferation and increases ROS production. ETs induce inflammatory CAT, SOD1, CXCL8, IL1B, HMOX1, NAT1 (3), and STAT3 gene expression. Exposure of 2-ET, 3-ET, and 4-ET to HepaRG and HCC HepG2 and SK-Hep1 cells affects mitochondrial respiration/cellular energetics and upregulates metabolic CYP1-A1, CYP1-A2, CYP2-D6, CYP2-E1, CYP3-A4, CYP3-B4, and VEGFA gene expression. However, no significant change in lipogenesis-related gene expression and modulation of cell steatosis was observed after ET exposure. Acute exposure to induvial ETs and in combination or chronic 2-ET exposure alone modulates cell fibrosis markers such as AST, FGF-23, Cyt-7 p21, TGFβ, TIMP2, and MMP2 in liver cell models, suggesting that ETs target liver cells and may dysregulate liver function. Full article
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15 pages, 11633 KiB  
Article
Expression of Mutated BRAFV595E Kinase in Canine Carcinomas—An Immunohistochemical Study
by Annika Bartel, Heike Aupperle-Lellbach, Alexandra Kehl, Silvia Weidle, Leonore Aeschlimann, Robert Klopfleisch and Simone de Brot
Vet. Sci. 2024, 11(11), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci11110584 - 20 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2963
Abstract
Alterations of the BRAF gene and the resulting changes in the BRAF protein are one example of molecular cancer profiling in humans and dogs. We tested 227 samples of canine carcinomas from different anatomical sites (anal sac (n = 23), intestine ( [...] Read more.
Alterations of the BRAF gene and the resulting changes in the BRAF protein are one example of molecular cancer profiling in humans and dogs. We tested 227 samples of canine carcinomas from different anatomical sites (anal sac (n = 23), intestine (n = 21), liver (n = 21), lungs (n = 19), mammary gland (n = 20), nasal cavity (n = 21), oral epithelium (n = 18), ovary (n = 20), prostate (n = 21), thyroid gland (n = 21), urinary bladder (n = 22)) with two commercially available primary anti-BRAFV600E antibodies (VE1 Ventana, VE1 Abcam). The immunohistochemical results were confirmed with droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). BRAFV595E-mutated cases were found in canine prostatic (16/21), urothelial (17/22), and oral squamous cell carcinomas (4/18), while other carcinoma types tested negative. Both antibodies showed consistent results, with intracytoplasmic immunolabeling of tumour cells, making them reliable tools for detecting the BRAFV595E mutation in canine carcinomas. In conclusion, identifying BRAF mutations from biopsy material offers a valuable opportunity to enhance cancer treatment strategies (BRAF inhibitors) in canine urothelial carcinomas, prostatic carcinomas, and oral squamous cell carcinomas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Focus on Tumours in Pet Animals)
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11 pages, 3642 KiB  
Case Report
Inflammatory Mesenteric Disease and Sarcoidosis-like Reaction in a Patient with Lung Adenocarcinoma Who Received Pembrolizumab: Paraneoplastic Syndrome, Secondary to Checkpoint Inhibitor or Chance Finding?
by Luis Posado-Domínguez, María Escribano-Iglesias, Lorena Bellido-Hernández, Johana Gabriela León-Gil, María Asunción Gómez-Muñoz, Felipe Gómez-Caminero López, María Martín-Galache, Sandra M. Inés-Revuelta and Emilio Fonseca-Sánchez
Curr. Oncol. 2024, 31(11), 7319-7329; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31110540 - 18 Nov 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1918
Abstract
Summary: Anti PD1/PD-L1 agents, including pembrolizumab, have revolutionized the oncological treatment of different types of cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer. The most frequent complications associated with this type of treatment are mild and are located at the thyroid, pulmonary or hepatic [...] Read more.
Summary: Anti PD1/PD-L1 agents, including pembrolizumab, have revolutionized the oncological treatment of different types of cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer. The most frequent complications associated with this type of treatment are mild and are located at the thyroid, pulmonary or hepatic level. Sarcoid like reaction and mesenteric panniculitis secondary to pembrolizumab treatment are two very rare adverse effects. We present the case of a patient with these complications. Purpose: the treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer has undergone a major change in the last 10 years, largely due to the advent of immunotherapy. Anti PD1 agents such as pembrolizumab have increased the median survival of these patients from 13 to 26 months. Most frequent immunorelated side effects are hypothyroidism, pneumonitis or elevated liver enzymes. However, there are other adverse effects, including sarcoid-like reaction and mesenteric panniculitis, which should be known by the professionals involved in the diagnosis and treatment of this type of patient. We present the case of a 62-year-old man with a history of unresectable and non-irradiable stage IIIB epidermoid lung carcinoma with a PD-L1 expression of 30% in whom pembrolizumab was discontinued after 4 cycles due to immunorelated arthritis. One year later he consulted for severe abdominal pain. A PET-CT scan was performed, showing hilar lymphadenopathy and inflammation of abdominal mesenteric fat. A biopsy of lesions in both areas showed non-necrotizing granulomatous lymphadenitis in hilar adenopathy and patchy fibrosis of mesenteric fat. The picture was classified as sarcoidosis-like reaction and mesenteric panniculitis secondary to pembrolizumab. Anti-PD1 agents cause hyperactivation of the immune system through T-cell proliferation. Sarcoid-like reaction is a very rare complication that can mask progressive tumor disease. Awareness of immunorelated complications by oncologists, internists, and radiologists is important for an appropriate diagnostic approach and targeted test ordering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Thoracic Oncology)
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Case Report
An Atypical Case of Pancreatic Cancer with Mesenchymal Differentiation in a Patient with Primary Lung Adenocarcinoma: Insights into Tumor Biology and Novel Therapeutic Pathways
by Noura Abbas, Lama Zahreddine, Ayman Tawil, Mustafa Natout and Ali Shamseddine
Diagnostics 2024, 14(22), 2512; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14222512 - 9 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2036
Abstract
Background: Pancreatic cancer is among the malignancies with the poorest prognosis, largely due to its aggressive nature and resistance to conventional therapies. Case Summary: This report describes the case of a 69-year-old male patient with stage IV primary lung adenocarcinoma presenting [...] Read more.
Background: Pancreatic cancer is among the malignancies with the poorest prognosis, largely due to its aggressive nature and resistance to conventional therapies. Case Summary: This report describes the case of a 69-year-old male patient with stage IV primary lung adenocarcinoma presenting with high levels of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). Simultaneously, abdominal computed tomography (CT) showed a dilated pancreatic duct at the level of the pancreatic head and a hypodense lesion in the uncinate process involving the superior mesenteric artery. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of the pancreatic lesions was negative. After three cycles of chemoimmunotherapy, positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET-CT) showed complete remission of the lung nodules, lymphadenopathy, and pleural thickening, as well as a decrease in the size of the pancreatic lesion. After another six months, a PET-CT scan showed a focal increased uptake in the pancreatic mass in the same location, indicating disease progression. A core biopsy of the pancreatic tumor showed atypical spindle cell morphology with positive staining for vimentin, characteristic of mesenchymal differentiation with no apparent epithelial features. Comprehensive molecular profiling through Caris Molecular Intelligence® revealed four genes with actionable mutations in the pancreatic tissue, including KRAS (p.G12D) and TP53 (p.R175H). These molecular findings suggested the diagnoses of sarcomatoid carcinoma and conventional pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Primary mesenchymal tumors and neuroendocrine neoplasms were excluded because immunohistochemistry was negative for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), smooth muscle actin (SMA), desmin, CD34, signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6), S100, HMB45, CD117, discovered on GIST-1 (DOG1), CD56, progesterone, and synaptophysin. However, despite multiple rounds of systemic chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation, his pancreatic disease rapidly deteriorated and metastasized to the liver and bone. Conclusions: Despite multiple lines of treatment, the patient’s condition worsened and he succumbed to his pancreatic malignancy. This study highlights the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of rare pancreatic cancer, emphasizing the importance of molecular testing and histopathological biomarkers in personalizing treatment. It also provides insights into promising therapeutic approaches for similar cases with an unusual presentation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Management of Pancreatic Cancer)
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