New Insights in Molecular Pathology of Cancers: From Biomarkers to Therapeutic Targets

A special issue of Cancers (ISSN 2072-6694). This special issue belongs to the section "Cancer Pathophysiology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2024) | Viewed by 16076

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Rapid advancements in bioinformatics and RNA sequencing are driving the identification of novel germline and somatic mutations that are present in different cancers. The main role of molecular pathology in cancer is to detect potential biomarkers that aid in the diagnosis, may predict risk, and ultimately improve prognostication based on comprehending the biological influence of specific genetic aberrations and molecular signatures, mutations, and dysregulations.It is thus crucial to decipher the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the initiation and progression of intractable cancers and accordingly identify unique biomarkers associated with them to aid in diagnosis and improve prognosis. This approach in the management of cancers is the hub for “personalized medicine” in the 21st century. It is an area of great interest to physicians and researchers working in the scientific field, in particular molecular pathologists, and hematologist-oncologists.This Special Issue focuses on research and experiences related to the molecular pathology of cancers. It will include research papers, reviews, and case reports that cover the identification of novel cancer biomarkers and therapeutic targets, with a focus on the prospects for improving personalized cancer care using new technologies to enhance cancer patient diagnoses, management, and outcomes.In this Special Issue, we invite researchers in molecular pathology, hematology-oncology, and other fields of cancer research to submit high-quality empirical papers or reviews related to the issues in this research area. 

Dr. Hisham Bahmad
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • genomics
  • biomarkers
  • therapeutic target
  • personalized medicine
  • targeted therapy
  • genetic aberrations
  • molecular signatures
  • next-generation sequencing
  • diagnosis
  • prognosis

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 1863 KiB  
Article
Prognostic Significance of Cyclin D1 Expression in Small Intestinal Adenocarcinoma
by Sun-Young Jun, Seung-Mo Hong and Kee-Taek Jang
Cancers 2023, 15(20), 5032; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15205032 - 18 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1474
Abstract
Cyclin D1, a critical cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6-dependent regulator of G1/S transition, has attracted much interest as a therapeutic target. The cyclin D1 expression in small intestinal adenocarcinomas (SIACs) has not yet been comprehensively studied, owing to the rarity of this tumor. We [...] Read more.
Cyclin D1, a critical cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6-dependent regulator of G1/S transition, has attracted much interest as a therapeutic target. The cyclin D1 expression in small intestinal adenocarcinomas (SIACs) has not yet been comprehensively studied, owing to the rarity of this tumor. We investigated the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of the cyclin D1 expression in 232 surgically resected primary SIACs through a multi-institutional study. A high expression of cyclin D1 (cyclin D1High) was detected in 145 SIAC cases (63%), which was significantly higher than that in normal small intestinal mucosa (11%). Cyclin D1High was more commonly found in SIACs with a lower T-category and disease stage and KRAS mutation and predicted better patient survival. Multivariate analysis revealed that cyclin D1High, the absence of retroperitoneal seeding and lymphovascular invasion, and the lower N-category were identified as independent prognostic indicators for patients with SIACs. Specifically, cyclin D1High affected patient survival in the lower stage group (stages I and II). In conclusion, cyclin D1 was commonly overexpressed in SIACs, and cyclin D1High acted as a favorable prognostic indicator in patients with SIACs. These findings in SIACs may, thus, be important to further comprehend the mechanism of cyclin D1 in carcinogenesis and to strategize appropriate patient therapies. Full article
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Review

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12 pages, 1140 KiB  
Review
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 - 18 Apr 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2768
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), an incretin hormone renowned for its role in post-meal blood sugar regulation and glucose-dependent insulin secretion, has gained attention as a novel treatment for diabetes through GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1-RA). Despite their efficacy, concerns have been raised regarding the potential [...] Read more.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), an incretin hormone renowned for its role in post-meal blood sugar regulation and glucose-dependent insulin secretion, has gained attention as a novel treatment for diabetes through GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1-RA). Despite their efficacy, concerns have been raised regarding the potential associations between GLP-1-RA and certain malignancies, including medullary thyroid cancer. However, evidence of its association with prostate cancer (PCa) remains inconclusive. This review delves into the intricate relationship between GLP-1-RA and PCa, exploring the mechanisms through which GLP-1-Rs may impact PCa cells. We discuss the potential pathways involving cAMP, ERK, AMPK, mTOR, and P27. Furthermore, we underscore the imperative for additional research to elucidate the impact of GLP-1-RA treatment on PCa progression, patient outcomes, and potential interactions with existing therapies. Translational studies and clinical trials are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the role of GLP-1-RA in PCa management. Full article
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16 pages, 1047 KiB  
Review
The Nervous System Development Regulator Neuropilin-1 as a Potential Prognostic Marker and Therapeutic Target in Brain Cancer
by Eduardo Mello Rodrigues, Allan Fernando Giovanini, Carmen Australia Paredes Marcondes Ribas, Osvaldo Malafaia, Rafael Roesler and Gustavo R. Isolan
Cancers 2023, 15(20), 4922; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15204922 - 10 Oct 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1654
Abstract
Neuropilins are transmembrane glycoproteins that regulate developmental processes in the nervous system and other tissues. Overexpression of neuropilin-1 (NRP1) occurs in many solid tumor types and, in several instances, may predict patient outcome in terms of overall survival. Experimental inhibition of NRP1 activity [...] Read more.
Neuropilins are transmembrane glycoproteins that regulate developmental processes in the nervous system and other tissues. Overexpression of neuropilin-1 (NRP1) occurs in many solid tumor types and, in several instances, may predict patient outcome in terms of overall survival. Experimental inhibition of NRP1 activity can display antitumor effects in different cancer models. Here, we review NRP1 expression and function in adult and pediatric brain cancers, particularly glioblastomas (GBMs) and medulloblastomas, and present analyses of NRP1 transcript levels and their association with patient survival in GBMs. The case of NRP1 highlights the potential of regulators of neurodevelopment as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in brain cancer. Full article
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24 pages, 2186 KiB  
Review
The Role of CREBBP/EP300 and Its Therapeutic Implications in Hematological Malignancies
by Yu Zhu, Zi Wang, Yanan Li, Hongling Peng, Jing Liu, Ji Zhang and Xiaojuan Xiao
Cancers 2023, 15(4), 1219; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15041219 - 14 Feb 2023
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7557
Abstract
Disordered histone acetylation has emerged as a key mechanism in promoting hematological malignancies. CREB-binding protein (CREBBP) and E1A-binding protein P300 (EP300) are two key acetyltransferases and transcriptional cofactors that regulate gene expression by regulating the acetylation levels of histone proteins and non-histone proteins. [...] Read more.
Disordered histone acetylation has emerged as a key mechanism in promoting hematological malignancies. CREB-binding protein (CREBBP) and E1A-binding protein P300 (EP300) are two key acetyltransferases and transcriptional cofactors that regulate gene expression by regulating the acetylation levels of histone proteins and non-histone proteins. CREBBP/EP300 dysregulation and CREBBP/EP300-containing complexes are critical for the initiation, progression, and chemoresistance of hematological malignancies. CREBBP/EP300 also participate in tumor immune responses by regulating the differentiation and function of multiple immune cells. Currently, CREBBP/EP300 are attractive targets for drug development and are increasingly used as favorable tools in preclinical studies of hematological malignancies. In this review, we summarize the role of CREBBP/EP300 in normal hematopoiesis and highlight the pathogenic mechanisms of CREBBP/EP300 in hematological malignancies. Moreover, the research basis and potential future therapeutic implications of related inhibitors were also discussed from several aspects. This review represents an in-depth insight into the physiological and pathological significance of CREBBP/EP300 in hematology. Full article
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Other

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14 pages, 440 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Influence of the Microbiome on Urological Malignancies: A Systematic Review
by Joao G. Porto, Maria Camila Suarez Arbelaez, Brandon Pena, Archan Khandekar, Ankur Malpani, Bruno Nahar, Sanoj Punnen, Chad R. Ritch, Mark L. Gonzalgo, Dipen J. Parekh, Robert Marcovich and Hemendra N. Shah
Cancers 2023, 15(20), 4984; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers15204984 - 14 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1826
Abstract
The microbiome, once considered peripheral, is emerging as a relevant player in the intricate web of factors contributing to cancer development and progression. These often overlooked microorganisms, in the context of urological malignancies, have been investigated primarily focusing on the gut microbiome, while [...] Read more.
The microbiome, once considered peripheral, is emerging as a relevant player in the intricate web of factors contributing to cancer development and progression. These often overlooked microorganisms, in the context of urological malignancies, have been investigated primarily focusing on the gut microbiome, while exploration of urogenital microorganisms remains limited. Considering this, our systematic review delves into the complex role of these understudied actors in various neoplastic conditions, including prostate, bladder, kidney, penile, and testicular cancers. Our analysis found a total of 37 studies (prostate cancer 12, bladder cancer 20, kidney cancer 4, penile/testicular cancer 1), revealing distinct associations specific to each condition and hinting at potential therapeutic avenues and future biomarker discoveries. It becomes evident that further research is imperative to unravel the complexities of this domain and provide a more comprehensive understanding. Full article
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