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Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular...
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Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition

A special issue of Medicina (ISSN 1648-9144). This special issue belongs to the section "Oncology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2025 | Viewed by 20330

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Călin Căinap

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Medical Oncology, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Interests: cancerogenesis; chemotherapy; miR
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Nicolae Crisan

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Surgical Specialities, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Interests: urology; cancer
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Thank you all for submitting such a large number of original articles to the previous successful Special Issue, “Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer”. The now-former Special Issue is the result of your hard work, and an opportunity for the research community to benefit from your valuable experience.

Due to increased visibility and demand, and with the impressive and essential support of Medicina, we propose a second Special Issue with the same title and objectives: to facilitate original and significant research that ranges from fundamental concepts to clinical experience.

The relevance of the research could be represented by the addressed pathology, methodology, originality, visibility and citations.

The avalanche of new data in cancer therapy makes it hard to determine what is essential. Here, you and your team can present your data, which could be helpful to clear up an intriguing question or explain a real-life clinical experience.

We invite you to participate in this Special Issue of Medicina in order to facilitate the presentation of your research or institutional experience of treating cancer patients.

Prof. Dr. Călin Căinap
Prof. Dr. Nicolae Crisan
Guest Editors

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 short 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. Medicina is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly 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 2200 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
  • systemic therapy
  • surgery
  • molecular
  • research

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (11 papers)

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Research

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15 pages, 2551 KiB  
Article
Colorectal Cancer in Elderly Patients: Insights into Presentations, Prognosis, and Patient Outcomes
by Walid Shalata, Alexander Gluzman, Sofia Man, Ahron Yehonatan Cohen, Ashraf Abu Jama, Itamar Gothelf, Lena Tourkey, Ala Eddin Neime, Ali Abu Juma’a, Keren Peri-Hanania, Oshri Machluf, Gal Shoham Levin, Sondos Shalata, Ahab Hayadri, Ez El Din Abu Zeid, Nashat Abu Yasin, Amichay Meirovitz and Alexander Yakobson
Medicina 2024, 60(12), 1951; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60121951 (registering DOI) - 26 Nov 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most prevalent cancer globally and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. In 2020 alone, there were over 1.9 million new cases of CRC and nearly 0.9 million deaths worldwide. The [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most prevalent cancer globally and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. In 2020 alone, there were over 1.9 million new cases of CRC and nearly 0.9 million deaths worldwide. The incidence and outcomes of CRC exhibit significant geographical and temporal variations, largely influenced by diverse risk factors among populations. Recognizing the prognostic factors and the presenting symptoms of CRC, a leading global cancer with high mortality, can enhance early detection and thereby improve clinical outcomes. Materials and Methods: This retrospective, observational study analyzed 724 CRC elderly patients aged 70 and over (median age 80, 53.17% male), treated at a single center. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes were collected. Overall survival was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier curves, with stratification based on tumor location, disease staging, lymph node involvement, and family history. Results: Our study encompassed all CRC cases treated with surgery and systemic therapies (chemotherapy or biological agents) from July 2002 to September 2020. We focused on comparing prognosis between left-sided and right-sided CRC, as well as rectal cancer. We found that left-sided CRC demonstrated a superior prognosis compared to rectal cancer (p = 0.0022). Furthermore, among patients with CRC, tumors originating in the rectum were associated with worse outcomes compared to those arising in both the right and left colon, regardless of disease stage (p = 0.0049). Additionally, a family history of CRC was associated with poorer prognosis, impacting both metastatic (p = 0.0022) and localized disease (p = 0.035). The main symptoms prompting patients to start an investigation of CRC were abdominal pain (31.49%), anemia (18.08%), rectal bleeding (hematochezia) (17.82%), change in bowel habits (9.94%), and weight loss (7.60%). Conclusions: This study provides valuable insights into the symptoms prompting initial investigation and the prognostic factors associated with CRC in an elderly population with varied characteristics. It underscores the need for increased vigilance in recognizing key symptoms and the importance of personalized treatment strategies tailored to these prognostic factors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
9 pages, 1007 KiB  
Article
The Value of Preoperative C-Reactive Protein to Albumin Ratio as a Prognostic Biomarker in Colon Cancer Patients
by Giorgiana Fagarasan, Radu Seicean, Vasile Bintintan, Vlad Fagarasan, Alexandra Caziuc, David Andras, Lucian Chira and George Dindelegan
Medicina 2024, 60(7), 1054; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60071054 - 27 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1132
Abstract
Inflammatory acute phase proteins have been reported to play a crucial role in cancer progression. Various hematologic and inflammatory markers and scores, such as the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, systemic inflammation score (SIS), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), Glasgow prognostic score, and, [...] Read more.
Inflammatory acute phase proteins have been reported to play a crucial role in cancer progression. Various hematologic and inflammatory markers and scores, such as the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, systemic inflammation score (SIS), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), Glasgow prognostic score, and, more recently, the Naples prognostic score, have been reported as significant prognostic markers. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the prognostic significance of the C reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR) in patients with colon cancer. Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study on a series of patients who underwent curative surgery for colon cancer. The C reactive protein-to-albumin ratio was determined preoperatively, and we evaluated the correlations between the CAR and various clinical and pathological parameters, as well as the correlation with Overall and Relapse-free survival. Furthermore, we compared the accuracy of the CAR with that of the Naples score. Results: One hundred and ten patients were included in the study. We set 0.4927 as the cut-off value for the CAR according to a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Based on the cut-off value, patients were divided into a low CAR group and a high CAR group. The preoperative CAR exhibited statistically significant correlation with tumor volume, T and N stage, number of positive lymph nodes, and grade of tumor differentiation. We also demonstrated a positive correlation between high CAR values and a higher Naples score (p = 0.0005), even when a subgroup analysis was performed for each group individually. Conclusions: The preoperative CAR is a useful prognostic marker in patients with colon cancer. These results may help to design strategies to personalize targeted management approaches among colon cancer patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
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9 pages, 539 KiB  
Article
Clinical Evaluation of Response to Octreotide and Chemotherapy in High-Grade Malignant Neuroendocrine Tumors and Promising In Vitro Preclinical Results with Pasireotide
by Kevin Doello, Maria Angeles Chico, Francisco Quiñonero, Raúl Ortiz, Jose Prados, Cristina Mesas and Consolación Melguizo
Medicina 2024, 60(7), 1039; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60071039 - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1475
Abstract
Background and Objectives: High-grade malignant neuroendocrine tumors (G3 NETs) and neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are characterized by rapid proliferation, high metastatic capacity, and strong expression of somatostatin receptors (SSTRs). We aimed to analyze the presence of SSTRs in NET G3 and NEC, and [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: High-grade malignant neuroendocrine tumors (G3 NETs) and neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are characterized by rapid proliferation, high metastatic capacity, and strong expression of somatostatin receptors (SSTRs). We aimed to analyze the presence of SSTRs in NET G3 and NEC, and to correlate their expression with the use of octreotide and pasireotide. Materials and Methods: For this purpose, we first performed a retrospective study of G3 NET and NEC patients, which included the determination of SSTR expression and response to octreotide treatment. Second, we selected the H69 small cell lung cancer cell line to determine the effect of octreotide and pasireotide. Results: Our results showed the traditional somatostatin analog (SSA) octreotide was ineffective in patients with NET G3 and NEC. On the other hand, RT-qPCR showed a high expression of SSTR2 and SSTR5 in H69 cells. Interestingly, while octreotide did not modify H69 cell proliferation, a strong inhibition of proliferation was detected with the use of pasireotide. Conclusions: In view of these results, a clinical trial in NET G3 and NEC patients using pasireotide is necessary to determine the usefulness of this drug in improving patient treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 1460 KiB  
Article
Influence of Biomarkers on Mortality among Patients with Hepatic Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer Treated with FOLFOX/CAPOX and FOLFIRI/CAPIRI, Including Anti-EGFR and Anti-VEGF Therapies
by Dorel Popovici, Cristian Stanisav, Laurentiu V. Sima, Alina Negru, Sergiu Ioan Murg and Adrian Carabineanu
Medicina 2024, 60(6), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60061003 - 19 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1241
Abstract
Background and objectives: Colorectal cancer is a major global health concern, with a significant increase in morbidity and mortality rates associated with metastatic stages. This study investigates the prognostic significance of various clinical and laboratory parameters in patients with metastatic CRC. Materials and [...] Read more.
Background and objectives: Colorectal cancer is a major global health concern, with a significant increase in morbidity and mortality rates associated with metastatic stages. This study investigates the prognostic significance of various clinical and laboratory parameters in patients with metastatic CRC. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort of 188 CRC patients with hepatic metastasis from the OncoHelp Association in Timisoara was analyzed from January 2016 to March 2023. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, and biomarkers, such as lymphocyte counts, as well as various inflammation indices, were examined. Statistical analyses included univariate and multivariate logistic regression, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and ROC curve assessments. Results: Our findings indicate significant associations between survival outcomes and several biomarkers. Higher BMI and lymphocyte counts were linked with better survival rates, while higher values of Neutrophil-Hemoglobin-Lymphocyte (NHL) score, Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), Platelet-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR), and Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII) were predictors of poorer outcomes. Notably, the presence of hepatic metastasis at diagnosis was a critical factor, significantly reducing overall survival. Conclusions: The study has expanded the current understanding of prognostic factors in CRC, advocating for a multi-dimensional approach to prognostic evaluations. This approach should consider not only the traditional metrics such as tumor stage and histological grading but also incorporate a broader spectrum of biomarkers. Future studies should aim to validate these findings and explore the integration of these biomarkers into routine clinical practice, enhancing the precision of prognostic assessments and ultimately guiding more personalized treatment strategies for CRC patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
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19 pages, 717 KiB  
Article
The Role of DNA Repair (XPC, XPD, XPF, and XPG) Gene Polymorphisms in the Development of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
by Adriana-Stela Crișan, Florin Tripon, Alina Bogliș, George-Andrei Crauciuc, Adrian P. Trifa, Erzsébet Lázár, Ioan Macarie, Manuela Rozalia Gabor and Claudia Bănescu
Medicina 2024, 60(3), 506; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60030506 - 19 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1519
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Several polymorphisms have been described in various DNA repair genes. Nucleotide excision DNA repair (NER) detects defects of DNA molecules and corrects them to restore genome integrity. We hypothesized that the XPC, XPD, XPF, and XPG [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Several polymorphisms have been described in various DNA repair genes. Nucleotide excision DNA repair (NER) detects defects of DNA molecules and corrects them to restore genome integrity. We hypothesized that the XPC, XPD, XPF, and XPG gene polymorphisms influence the appearance of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Materials and Methods: We investigated the XPC 1496C>T (rs2228000, XPC Ala499Val), XPC 2920A>C (rs228001, XPC Lys939Gln), XPD 2251A>C (rs13181, XPD Lys751Gln), XPF-673C>T (rs3136038), XPF 11985A>G (rs254942), and XPG 3507G>C (rs17655, XPG Asp1104His) polymorphisms by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis in 393 MPN patients [153 with polycythemia vera (PV), 201 with essential thrombocythemia (ET), and 39 with primary myelofibrosis (PMF)] and 323 healthy controls. Results: Overall, we found that variant genotypes of XPD 2251A>C were associated with an increased risk of MPN (OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.15–2.08, p = 0.004), while XPF-673C>T and XPF 11985A>G were associated with a decreased risk of developing MPN (OR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.42–0.76, p < 0.001; and OR = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.19–0.37, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: In light of our findings, XPD 2251A>C polymorphism was associated with the risk of developing MPN and XPF-673C>T and XPF 11985A>G single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may have a protective role for MPN, while XPC 1496C>T, XPC 2920A>C, and XPG 3507G>C polymorphisms do not represent risk factors in MPN development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
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Review

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11 pages, 565 KiB  
Review
Early-Stage and Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer during Pregnancy: Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis and Treatment
by Hanna Mruzek, Joanna Kacperczyk-Bartnik, Anna Dańska-Bidzińska, Michał Ciebiera, Laretta Grabowska-Derlatka and Paweł Derlatka
Medicina 2024, 60(10), 1700; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60101700 - 16 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1171
Abstract
In this comprehensive review supported by clinical examples, the authors explore the topic of cervical cancer in pregnancy, with emphasis on potential pre-cancer progression, the possibility of coexisting preinvasive and invasive disease, and neoadjuvant chemotherapy. This manuscript addresses the challenges of managing cervical [...] Read more.
In this comprehensive review supported by clinical examples, the authors explore the topic of cervical cancer in pregnancy, with emphasis on potential pre-cancer progression, the possibility of coexisting preinvasive and invasive disease, and neoadjuvant chemotherapy. This manuscript addresses the challenges of managing cervical cancer in pregnant women with a pregnancy-preserving approach, including the importance of screening, the timing of surgery, and the impact of pregnancy on the course of the disease. The first case study illustrates the potential for a benign cervical lesion to transform into a malignant one during pregnancy and the possible coexistence of preinvasive lesions together with early-stage cervical cancer. It also questions the rationale behind the non-treatment of pregnant patients initially diagnosed with CIN 2/3 during pregnancy. The second presented clinical example shows the histologically confirmed response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, resulting in a radiologically diagnosed FIGO stage IIA1 being downgraded to adenocarcinoma in situ in the histology report after surgery performed six weeks postpartum. The treatment of cervical cancer, which is becoming increasingly prevalent among pregnant women, and the necessity for an individualized diagnostic and therapeutic approach represent significant challenges for contemporary medicine. Discrepancies in therapeutic options proposed among centers within the same region lead to the conclusion that there is a need for centralization and unification of evidence-based management in referral centers with both high-level oncological and perinatal care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
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10 pages, 3182 KiB  
Review
Simultaneous Prostate and Bladder Cancer with Collision Lymph Node Metastasis: A Case Report and Literature Review
by Maximilian Buzoianu, Iulia Andras, Lorin Giurgiu, Claudia Florentina Militaru, Andrei Popa, Emanuel Darius Căta, Paul Alexandru Medan, Marius Cosmin Apetrei, Catalina Bungărdean, Maria Bungărdean and Nicolae Crișan
Medicina 2024, 60(9), 1482; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60091482 - 11 Sep 2024
Viewed by 779
Abstract
Synchronous prostatic adenocarcinoma found in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) that undergo radical cistoprostatectomy is not uncommon. Nonetheless, the occurrence of collision metastasis, where both prostate cancer and bladder cancer involve the same lymph node, is exceptionally uncommon, with few cases being [...] Read more.
Synchronous prostatic adenocarcinoma found in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) that undergo radical cistoprostatectomy is not uncommon. Nonetheless, the occurrence of collision metastasis, where both prostate cancer and bladder cancer involve the same lymph node, is exceptionally uncommon, with few cases being reported in the literature. We present a case of a 65-year-old patient diagnosed with MIBC who underwent laparoscopic radical cistoprostatectomy with extended lymph node dissection and intracorporeal ileal conduit. The final pathology revealed urothelial carcinoma pT3bN1 as well as prostatic adenocarcinoma pT3bN1. One lymph node presented metastasis from both bladder cancer and prostate cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
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20 pages, 1295 KiB  
Review
New Frontiers in Pancreatic Cancer Management: Current Treatment Options and the Emerging Role of Neoadjuvant Therapy
by Sofia Dallavalle, Gabriele Campagnoli, Paola Pastena, Alessandro Martinino, Davide Schiliró and Francesco Giovinazzo
Medicina 2024, 60(7), 1070; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60071070 - 28 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1931
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) ranks among the 15 most prevalent cancers globally, characterized by aggressive growth and late-stage diagnosis. Advances in imaging and surgical techniques have redefined the classification of pancreatic PDAC into resectable, borderline resectable, and locally advanced pancreatic cancer. While surgery [...] Read more.
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) ranks among the 15 most prevalent cancers globally, characterized by aggressive growth and late-stage diagnosis. Advances in imaging and surgical techniques have redefined the classification of pancreatic PDAC into resectable, borderline resectable, and locally advanced pancreatic cancer. While surgery remains the most effective treatment, only 20% of patients are eligible at diagnosis, necessitating innovative strategies to improve outcomes. Therefore, traditional treatment paradigms, primarily surgical resection for eligible patients, are increasingly supplemented by neoadjuvant therapies (NAT), which include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination of both. By administering systemic therapy prior to surgery, NAT aims to reduce tumor size and increase the feasibility of complete surgical resection, thus enhancing overall survival rates and potentially allowing more patients to undergo curative surgeries. Recent advances in treatment protocols, such as FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine-nab-paclitaxel, now integral to NAT strategies, have shown promising results in increasing the proportion of patients eligible for surgery by effectively reducing tumor size and addressing micrometastatic disease. Additionally, they offer improved response rates and survival benefits compared to traditional regimes. Despite these advancements, the role of NAT continues to evolve, necessitating ongoing research to optimize treatment regimens, minimize adverse effects, and identify patient populations that would benefit most from these approaches. Through a detailed analysis of current literature and recent clinical trials, this review highlights the transformative potential of NAT in managing PDAC, especially in patients with borderline resectable or locally advanced stages, promising a shift towards more personalized and effective management strategies for PDAC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 1903 KiB  
Review
Multimodal Treatment of Metastatic Rectal Cancer in a Young Patient: Case Report and Literature Review
by Ionuț Popescu, Ana-Maria Dudău, Simona Dima, Vlad Herlea, Vlad M. Croitoru, Ioana Mihaela Dinu, Monica Miron, Ioana Lupescu, Irina M. Croitoru-Cazacu, Radu Dumitru and Adina Emilia Croitoru
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050696 - 24 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2017
Abstract
Metastatic colorectal cancer requires a multidisciplinary and individualized approach. Herein, we reported the case of a young woman diagnosed with metastatic rectal cancer who received an individualized multimodal treatment strategy that resulted in a remarkable survival. There were several particular aspects of this [...] Read more.
Metastatic colorectal cancer requires a multidisciplinary and individualized approach. Herein, we reported the case of a young woman diagnosed with metastatic rectal cancer who received an individualized multimodal treatment strategy that resulted in a remarkable survival. There were several particular aspects of this case, such as the early onset of the disease, the successful use of conversion therapy, the application of liquid biopsy to guide treatment, and the specific nature of the bone metastasis. To offer more insights for navigating such challenges in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, we have conducted a literature review to find more data related to the particularities of this case. The incidence of early onset colorectal cancer is on the rise. Data suggests that it differs from older-onset colorectal cancer in terms of its pathological, epidemiological, anatomical, metabolic, and biological characteristics. Conversion therapy and surgical intervention provide an opportunity for cure and improve outcomes in metastatic colorectal cancer. It is important to approach each case individually, as every patient with limited liver disease should be considered as a candidate for secondary resection. Moreover, liquid biopsy has an important role in the individualized management of metastatic colorectal cancer patients, as it offers additional information for treatment decisions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
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27 pages, 1512 KiB  
Review
Molecular Subtypes, microRNAs and Immunotherapy Response in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
by Alexandra Gherman, Dinu Bolundut, Radu Ecea, Loredana Balacescu, Sebastian Curcean, Constantin Dina, Ovidiu Balacescu and Calin Cainap
Medicina 2024, 60(3), 397; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60030397 - 26 Feb 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2250
Abstract
Currently, only a limited set of molecular traits are utilized to direct treatment for metastatic CRC (mCRC). The molecular classification of CRC depicts tumor heterogeneity based on gene expression patterns and aids in comprehending the biological characteristics of tumor formation, growth and prognosis. [...] Read more.
Currently, only a limited set of molecular traits are utilized to direct treatment for metastatic CRC (mCRC). The molecular classification of CRC depicts tumor heterogeneity based on gene expression patterns and aids in comprehending the biological characteristics of tumor formation, growth and prognosis. Additionally, it assists physicians in tailoring the therapeutic approach. Microsatellite instability (MSI-H)/deficient mismatch repair proteins (MMRd) status has become a ubiquitous biomarker in solid tumors, caused by mutations or methylation of genes and, in turn, the accumulation of mutations and antigens that subsequently induce an immune response. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have recently received approval for the treatment of mCRC with MSI-H/MMRd status. However, certain individuals experience either initial or acquired resistance. The tumor-programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) has been linked to the ability of CRC to evade the immune system and promote its growth. Through comprehensive research conducted via the PUBMED database, the objectives of this paper were to review the molecular characteristics linked to tumor response in metastatic CRC in light of improved patients’ outcomes following ICI therapies as seen in clinical trials and to identify particular microRNAs that can modulate the expression of specific oncoproteins, such as PD-L1, and disrupt the mechanisms that allow the immune system to be evaded. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
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15 pages, 1285 KiB  
Review
The RANK–RANKL–OPG System: A Multifaceted Regulator of Homeostasis, Immunity, and Cancer
by Diego De Leon-Oliva, Silvestra Barrena-Blázquez, Laura Jiménez-Álvarez, Oscar Fraile-Martinez, Cielo García-Montero, Laura López-González, Diego Torres-Carranza, Luis M. García-Puente, Sara T. Carranza, Miguel Ángel Álvarez-Mon, Melchor Álvarez-Mon, Raul Diaz and Miguel A. Ortega
Medicina 2023, 59(10), 1752; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59101752 - 30 Sep 2023
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5695
Abstract
The RANK–RANKL–OPG system is a complex signaling pathway that plays a critical role in bone metabolism, mammary epithelial cell development, immune function, and cancer. RANKL is a ligand that binds to RANK, a receptor expressed on osteoclasts, dendritic cells, T cells, and other [...] Read more.
The RANK–RANKL–OPG system is a complex signaling pathway that plays a critical role in bone metabolism, mammary epithelial cell development, immune function, and cancer. RANKL is a ligand that binds to RANK, a receptor expressed on osteoclasts, dendritic cells, T cells, and other cells. RANKL signaling promotes osteoclast differentiation and activation, which leads to bone resorption. OPG is a decoy receptor that binds to RANKL and inhibits its signaling. In cancer cells, RANKL expression is often increased, which can lead to increased bone resorption and the development of bone metastases. RANKL-neutralizing antibodies, such as denosumab, have been shown to be effective in the treatment of skeletal-related events, including osteoporosis or bone metastases, and cancer. This review will provide a comprehensive overview of the functions of the RANK–RANKL–OPG system in bone metabolism, mammary epithelial cells, immune function, and cancer, together with the potential therapeutic implications of the RANK–RANKL pathway for cancer management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cancer Therapy from Research to Clinical Practice—Surgical, Molecular or Systemic Management of Cancer: 2nd Edition)
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