Open Access
REVIEW
Xiangyang Wang1,#, Ying Wu2,3,#, Yutong Fu3,4, Ejakpovi Emmanuel Oghenefejiro2,3, Zakari Shaibu3, Cunxi Li5, Qi Zhou6, Liang Yin2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.087144
Abstract Gastric cancer (GC) remains a leading cause of global cancer mortality, with progression and therapy resistance heavily influenced by the dynamic tumor microenvironment (TME). Despite advances in surgical techniques, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, overall survival for advanced disease remains poor, underscoring the need for a deeper understanding of resistance mechanisms. A hallmark of the TME is metabolic reprogramming, which sustains tumor growth and actively shapes an immunosuppressive landscape. This review aims to detail the coordinated metabolic adaptations of GC cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and immune cells within the TME, focusing on nutrient competition, immunosuppressive… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Shaohua Chen1,#, Xiao Gan1,#, Ping Lv1,#, Qinggui Meng1, Xiaocao Lin1,2,*, Qingyun Zhang1,2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083704
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Immunotherapy and Chemotherapy: Synergies and Challenges in the Evolving Landscape of Cancer Treatment)
Abstract Background: While radical cystectomy is standard for muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), micrometastasis-related recurrence is common. Cisplatin-based neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) confers modest benefits, while immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) provide new efficacy-enhancing strategies. This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of ICIs with chemotherapy (NAC-ICI), neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), and no neoadjuvant therapy (NNAT). It also explores potential biomarkers predictive of NAT response and evaluates the real-world efficacy of NAC-IC. Method: This single-center retrospective analysis included 80 radical cystectomy patients, with 51 NNAT group and 29 in the NAT group. Survival outcomes were evaluated by Kaplan-Meier survival… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Dimitrios Papakonstantinou1, Vasileios Vardas1, Despoina M. Varouhaki2, Aikaterini Kotzamouratoglou1, Karolina Mangani1, Julia A. Ju3, Catherine Alix-Panabières4,5,6, Stuart S. Martin3, Constantinos M. Athanassopoulos2, Galatea Kallergi1,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.085665
Abstract Objectives: Combretastatin A-4 (CA-4) is a microtubule-disrupting agent with established anti-tumor properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of CA-4 on key metastatic traits of cancer cells, including migration, clonogenic potential, cytoskeletal protein expression, and microtentacle (McTN) formation, using multiple cancer cell models, including the colon patient-derived circulating tumor cell line CTC-MCC-41. Methods: H1299 (non-small cell lung cancer), MDA-MB-231 (triple-negative breast cancer), HT-29 (colorectal cancer), and CTC-MCC-41 (derived from the blood of a colon cancer patient) cells were treated with CA-4 (10 μM) for 24 and 48 h. Colony formation was assessed with a clonogenic… More >
Graphic Abstract
Open Access
ARTICLE
Evgeniya S. Grigoryeva1,*, Anna Y. Kalinchuk1, Irina K. Fedorova2, Vladislav O. Tskhai2, Denis E. Kulbakin2, Liubov A. Tashireva1
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.076831
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Discover Biomarkers for Personalized Oncology)
Abstract Objective: Surgery is known to significantly influence both the quantity and functional characteristics of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the bloodstream. Our cohort study aimed to characterize the landscape of CTCs and circulating hybrid cells (CHCs) in patients with head and neck cancer in peri-operative period. Methods: 26 patients were recruited and CTC and CHC counts were evaluated using four epithelial markers (EpCAM with differential localization of expression—membrane and intracellular, cytokeratin 7/8, and pan-cytokeratin) by flow cytometry. Expression of EpCAM and pan-cytokeratin in tumor tissue slides was assessed by multiplex immunofluorescence analysis. Results: The study revealed that… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Fiona Tsui-Fen Cheng1,2,#, Kung-Ju Chen3,#, Jing-Quan Zheng3,4,5, Hui-Wen Chiu3,6,7, Hui-Yu Lin2,3,8,*, Yuan-Feng Lin3,9,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.081093
Abstract Background: Metastatic dissemination of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) to distant organs, such as the lungs and brain, poses a significant threat to patient survival. Nevertheless, the molecular basis driving TNBC metastasis remains largely elusive. In the present study, we elucidated the role and underlying mechanism of OTU deubiquitinase 7B (OTUD7B) in promoting TNBC metastasis. Methods: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)/K-M Plotter databases were used for determining the prognostic significance of OTUD7B in TNBC patients. Cell migration and lung colony-forming assays were performed to evaluate the metastatic potential of TNBC cells. A cycloheximide-chase assay was employed to… More >
Graphic Abstract
Open Access
REVIEW
Lucrezia Paradisi, Lorenza Trabalzini, Federica Finetti*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.082155
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advances in Cancer Therapeutics)
Abstract Cytoskeletal reorganization is fundamental to essential cellular processes, including shape maintenance, migration, adhesion cytokinesis, and phagocytosis, and its dysregulation is a hallmark of tumor progression. In cancer cells, altered cytoskeletal dynamics promote invasion and genomic instability resulting from mitotic defects. The actin and microtubule cytoskeletons are highly dynamic polymer networks that organize intracellular architecture, establish polarity, and generate the mechanical forces required for cell division and motility. Their dysregulation disrupts normal cell behavior and facilitates tumor invasion and metastasis. The cytoskeleton therefore represents a key source of potential therapeutic targets for inhibiting metastatic dissemination. This More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Shih-Wei Chiang1,2, Ming-Cheng Chen2,3, Chang-Lin Lin2, Yi-Lin Huang2, Feng-Fan Chiang2,4,*, Shun-Fa Yang1,5,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.085229
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: RAS Driven Oncogenesis and the Future of Combination Therapy in Solid Tumors)
Abstract Background: Anti-EGFR therapy is widely used as first-line treatment for RAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), particularly in patients with left-sided tumors. In liver-limited disease, maximizing tumor shrinkage may facilitate conversion to resectability; however, comparative real-world evidence among panitumumab, cetuximab, and bevacizumab remains limited. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of these biologic agents in patients with RAS wild-type mCRC. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 241 patients with RAS wild-type mCRC treated with first-line chemotherapy plus panitumumab (n = 76), cetuximab (n = 80), or bevacizumab (n = 85) between 2016 and 2024. Outcomes included depth of response… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Liang Chen1, Yitong Yuchi2, Qian Zhu3,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.084411
Abstract Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm (IPMN) is a major precancerous lesion of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Accurate risk stratification of IPMN is key to preventing and controlling pancreatic cancer. At present, clinicians mainly grade IPMN following the Kyoto consensus guidelines, together with imaging examinations and traditional serum biomarkers like CA19-9 and CEA. This review unveils the latest research progress of non-invasive blood biomarkers for the grading of IPMN, including the diagnostic performance, molecular mechanisms, and current clinical translation of several types of markers. ApoAII has already been applied in clinical practice, and miRNA combinations, circulating cell-free DNA… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Yanhong Wang1,#, Junbo Liu2,#, Qiaoping Xu3,#, Zhao Ma4,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.082432
Abstract In renal cell carcinoma (RCC), alterations in cellular metabolism are a defining feature, among which impaired mitochondrial function stands out as a key factor influencing both tumor aggressiveness and patient responses to therapy. The aim of this review is to systematically synthesize current knowledge on the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in RCC pathogenesis and to explore emerging therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondrial vulnerabilities. This comprehensive analysis examines the integrated dysregulation of core mitochondrial processes—bioenergetic metabolism, organelle dynamics, programmed cell death pathways, redox homeostasis, and selective autophagy—in driving RCC pathogenesis. Our synthesis reveals how genetic drivers, molecular… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Yida Wang1,#, Haiyue You2,#, Jingyi Gao3,#, Feng Zhang1, Xin Ning2, Xinfeng Yang2, Zhiwen Qian1, Ying Jiang2, Lu Liu2, Danping Wu2, Yanfang Gu1,2,*, Daozhen Chen1,2,*, Yan Zhang1,2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.085967
Abstract Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by marked metabolic plasticity, spatial heterogeneity, and therapy-induced adaptive remodeling. However, TNBC metabolism is often discussed as isolated pathways, making it difficult to link metabolic rewiring to immune exclusion, drug-tolerant persister cells, and treatment windows. Here, we propose a functional metabolic operating-state framework to organize recurrent adaptive programs in TNBC. Importantly, the S1–S5 framework is not a clinically validated subtype classification, but a set of coexisting and reversible operating states shaped by microenvironmental and therapeutic pressures. S1 represents a glycolysis–lactate/acidosis barrier; S2 denotes fatty acid oxidation (FAO)/oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS)-supported… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Diana-Maria Pușcașu1,2, Lavinia Caba1,*, Bogdan Gafton2,3, Irina Nucă1,4, Andrei Cristian Grădinaru5, Grigorios Kyriakou6, Laura Ioana Leon6, Eusebiu Vlad Gorduza1
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083818
Abstract Breast cancer remains the most prevalent malignancy worldwide, ranking second in terms of cancer-related mortality. While exposure to modifiable risk factors, variations in screening efficacy, and inaccessibility to early-stage diagnosis contrast, an increased focus has been directed toward the study of its genetic profiles; particularly those attributed to germline pathogenic variants. This narrative review aims to present the major hereditary cancer syndromes associated with an increased breast cancer risk, and to highlight the evidence-based genotype-specific screening and treatment protocols. We examined current published literature and synthesized evidence from randomized controlled trials, observational studies and current… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Kyungeun Kim1,2,#, Eunho Cho3,#, Eun Joo Chung4, Kwon-Ho Song5, Tae Woo Kim3,6, Seoung Wan Chae1,*, Joon-Yong Chung7,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083437
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Novel Biomarkers and Treatment Strategies in Solid Tumor Diagnosis, Progression, and Prognosis (Ⅱ))
Abstract Objectives: Gastric cancer remains a major global health burden, and robust biomarkers are needed to improve risk stratification. Although peptidyl-prolyl isomerase B (PPIB) has been suggested as a potential oncogenic factor, its clinical utility in gastric cancer remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of PPIB mRNA expression and delineate its functional role in driving tumor progression. Methods: PPIB mRNA expression was evaluated in a retrospective cohort of 497 gastric cancer patients using RNAscope in situ hybridization and digital image analysis. Functional roles and underlying mechanism were assessed through siRNA-mediated knockdown, plasmid-driven overexpression,… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Wei Zheng1,#, Qianlong Meng1,2,#, Yunhan Deng1, Ruizhen Liu1, Siyu Bai1, Longyu Jia1, Jing Wang3,4,*, Huimin Bai1,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.081656
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Innovative Diagnostic Strategies in Gynecological Cancer Research)
Abstract Objectives: Given the increasing drug resistance in ovarian cancer (OC), the use of poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) for treating homologous recombination repair defects (HRD) has encountered new challenges. MicroRNA320e (miR-320e) exerts a negative regulatory role in the progression of multiple cancers. This study aimed to investigate the association between miR-320e and drug resistance in ovarian cancer. Methods: The Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, migration and invasion assays, and colony formation assay were employed to evaluate the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of cells. Western blot (WB) analysis was used to verify the expression levels… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Samuel Park1,*, Julia Reitkopp1, Rahul Patel1, Justin Sigmund1, Rishi Kumar Nanda1, Kyaw Zin Thein1,2
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083274
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advances in Cancer Therapeutics)
Abstract Recent advancements in oncology have led to the development of histology-agnostic therapies that target genetic alterations regardless of the tumor’s tissue of origin. We focus on key approved therapies, including pembrolizumab, dostarlimab, larotrectinib, entrectinib, dabrafenib plus trametinib, selpercatinib, pralsetinib, and trastuzumab deruxtecan. A detailed analysis of pivotal trial data was conducted to elucidate the specific enrollment, efficacy, and outcomes for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), small cell lung cancer (SCLC), and head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) within these broader basket trials. The review further explores challenges unique to these histologies, such as the… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Xiaoxia Wang1,2,#, Shuo Wang1,2,#, Chendi Liang1,2,#, Huili Wu1,2, Songtao Liu1,2, Jinhuan Wang1,2, Jun Lu1,2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.082815
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advancements in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treatment)
Abstract Background: Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells show promise as immunotherapeutic agents for solid tumors, and our prior study demonstrated that combining iNKT-cell therapy with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) achieved a 58.3% objective response rate (ORR) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study further examines iNKT-mediated immune modulation of post-TACE survival dynamics and associated prognostic biomarkers. Methods: Clinical data and peripheral blood samples were obtained from 77 HCC patients in Beijing you’an Hospital between 2018–2023, including 38 receiving TACE alone and 39 receiving combined iNKT-cell/TACE therapy. Serial measurements included: Hematological parameters; Liver function tests [alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Abtin Tondar1,2,*, David Hervás Marín3, Laura Calvet Liñán4, Asim Kumar Bepari5
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.082424
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Machine Learning for Precision Oncology: From Bench to Bedside)
Abstract Background: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and multiple myeloma (MM) are B-cell malignancies with distinct cellular origins and microenvironmental dependencies. We aimed to identify concordant transcriptomic signatures and candidate transcriptional regulatory features between CLL CD19-positive B cells and MM-associated bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Methods: Public Gene Expression Omnibus bulk RNA sequencing datasets were analyzed separately within each context using DESeq2. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were defined using adjusted p-value < 0.05 and absolute log2 fold change > 1. Cross-disease analyses assessed overlap, directionality, log2 fold-change concordance, expressed-gene background-adjusted enrichment, coexpression structure, and transcription factor annotation. Results: We… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Iseult M. Browne1,2, Susanna Slater1, Myrto Kastrisiou1, Mae Alghawas1, Edward Phillips1, Mark Beresford3, Stephen R. D. Johnston1, Zoe Kemp1, Emma Kipps1, Marina Parton1, Nicholas C. Turner1,2, Alicia F. C. Okines1,2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.085356
Abstract Background: Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the breast is a rare triple-negative malignancy with an indolent clinical course distinct from conventional triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Optimal management remains undefined due to limited prospective data. This study aimed to characterise the clinicopathological features, treatment patterns, and long-term outcomes of breast ACC at a high-volume specialist centre, contributing real-world evidence to inform management in the absence of prospective trial data. Methods: A single-institution retrospective cohort study was conducted of 24 patients with histopathologically confirmed breast ACC treated at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust between 2000 and… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Chenchen Wang1,2, Mingzhu Huang1,2, Wenhua Li1,2, Xuedan Sheng1,2, Xiaoying Zhao1,2, Xiaodong Zhu1,2, Zhiyu Chen1,2, Zhe Zhang1,2, Haiming Li2,3, Weijian Guo1,2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.084378
Abstract Background: Patients with refractory metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) face limited treatment options after failure of standard therapies. This single-arm, phase II study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rechallenge strategies using previously effective regimens in late-line mCRC. Methods: Patients who progressed after ≥2 lines of prior chemotherapy, with a prior progression-free survival (PFS) ≥4 months and a ≥4-month treatment-free interval on that regimen were enrolled. Patients received rechallenge chemotherapy (oxaliplatin-, irinotecan-, or raltitrexed-based) with or without targeted agents (bevacizumab or cetuximab). Primary endpoint was investigator-assessed PFS. Secondary endpoints included objective response rate (ORR), disease… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Aleksandra Litkowska1,*, Anna Grenda2,*, Paweł Krawczyk2
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.082451
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Immunotherapy in Early-Stage and Locally Advanced Resectable Non-small Cell Lung Cancer)
Abstract Objectives: Early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) may represent a period during which interactions between emerging tumor cells and the immune system influence subsequent disease progression. This systematic review aimed to summarize current evidence on immune dynamics, tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling, immune evasion mechanisms, and the potential implications of these processes for early therapeutic intervention. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for studies published between 1998 and 2026. Original articles, reviews, experimental studies, and clinical trials published in English were included if they addressed tumor immunology, the TME,… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Chun-Nun Chao1,2, Chiung-Yao Fang2,3, Chia-Hsin Hou1, Jen-Tsung Yang4,5, Yu-Ping Wu4,6, Jui-Chieh Chen6,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083962
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Molecular Targeting Therapy for Anticancer Treatment)
Abstract Objectives: Temozolomide (TMZ) resistance remains a major challenge in glioblastoma (GBM) treatment. This study investigated the role of miR-152-3p and its downstream target, transforming growth factor-α (TGF-α), in regulating TMZ sensitivity in GBM. Methods: Public GEO and CGGA datasets were analyzed to evaluate the expression and prognostic significance of miR-152-3p. TMZ-resistant GBM cell lines (U87MGR and DBTRG-05MGR) were established by continuous TMZ exposure. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were performed using miR-152-3p mimics and inhibitors. Cell viability, apoptosis, and TGF-α expression were assessed by MTT, qRT-PCR, and Western blot analyses. Results: miR-152-3p expression was significantly decreased in recurrent… More >
Open Access
CASE REPORT
Waseem Abdelrahim1, Ebtesam Al-Najjar2, Seif El Beheary3, Abdullah Esmail2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083193
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advances in Cancer Immunotherapy)
Abstract Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide due to frequent recurrence and early metastasis. While immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICPI)-based regimens have revolutionized the treatment landscape for advanced HCC, clinical evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of ICPI rechallenge following disease progression or severe immune-related adverse events (irAEs) remains sparse. This report describes a case of prolonged disease stability achieved through sequential immunotherapy using durvalumab and tremelimumab (Durva/Treme) after prior ICPI failure and high-grade toxicity. Case Description: A 65-year-old male with recurrent stage IV… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Wen Gao1,2, Xingyu Zheng1,2, Yanan Hu1,2, Rui Zou3, Yongan Zhou4, Xiang Song2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.082652
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Identification of potential targets and biomarkers for cancers and the exploration of novel molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis and metastasis)
Abstract Background: As a core component of the immunoproteasome, the β1i subunit (proteasome 20S subunit beta 9, PSMB9) is involved in antigen processing and presentation and regulates anti-tumor immune responses. PSMB9 is aberrantly overexpressed in colorectal cancer. However, the precise mechanisms through which PSMB9 contributes to the initiation, progression, and immune regulation of colorectal cancer remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the expression characteristics and biological functions of PSMB9 in colorectal cancer, and to further elucidate the molecular pathways underlying its role in colorectal cancer initiation and progression. The findings are expected to provide a theoretical… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Emmanuel Naveen Raj1,#, Chia-Jung Li1,2,3,4,5,#, Shih-Hsuan Cheng1, Su-Boon Yong6,7, Zhi-Hong Wen3,8, An-Jen Chiang1,9,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.079551
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Precision Oncology: Targeted Therapies and Tumor Microenvironment)
Abstract Objectives: Cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (CESC) necessitate the discovery of novel biomarkers for prognostic and therapeutic advancement. This study aims to evaluate the clinical significance of ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2C (UBE2C) and its association with the tumor microenvironment (TME) in CESC. Methods: We meticulously sourced CESC data from renowned repositories such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx), and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), leveraging cutting-edge techniques including single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), spatial transcriptomics, and pharmacogenomics. Through multifaceted data analysis, we endeavored to unravel the intricate role and potential value of UBE2C in… More >
Graphic Abstract
Open Access
REVIEW
Bharath Kumar Velmurugan1, Shu Hui Lin2,3,4, Chih-Yang Huang5,6,7,8,9,10, Ming-Ju Hsieh9,11,12,*, Rathinasamy Baskaran10,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083159
Abstract Mitochondria are central regulators of cellular metabolism and survival and play a pivotal role in cancer development and progression through the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), control of calcium homeostasis, regulation of autophagy, and modulation of cell death pathways. Mitochondria-derived ROS (mtROS) act as signaling mediators that influence tumor initiation, proliferation, metabolic reprogramming, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance by altering redox homeostasis, damaging mitochondrial DNA, and reshaping the tumor microenvironment. In addition to meeting the bioenergetic and biosynthetic requirements of rapidly proliferating cancer cells, mitochondrial metabolism modulates immune responses and supports cancer cell adaptation to More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Attilio Della Torre1,#,*, Andrea Filardo1,#, Isabella Coscarella1, Jessica Bria1, Anna Di Vito2, Emanuela Chiarella1, Adele Giovinazzo1, Emanuela Procopio1, Mariateresa Egiziano1, Riccardo Cassano1, Domenico La Torre3, Angelo Lavano1
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.084511
Abstract Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most frequent and aggressive primary brain tumor, characterized by a highly dismal prognosis and significant clinical challenges. Currently, assessing treatment success and monitoring tumor response relies heavily on neuroimaging. However, treatment modalities can temporarily alter imaging properties, leading to phenomena such as pseudoprogression, which confounds accurate disease evaluation. Furthermore, traditional tissue biopsies carry non-negligible neurological risks and are highly impractical for the longitudinal monitoring required to appreciate clonal evolution, identify acquired therapeutic resistance, or distinguish true recurrence. Consequently, there is an urgent clinical need for reliable, non-invasive diagnostic strategies. microRNAs (miRNAs),… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Xueping Zhu1,2,3,#, Misi He1,2,3,#, Ling Wang1,2,3,#, Rui Su4, Lin Zhong1,2,3, Ting Guo1,2,3,4, Haixia Wang1,2,3,*, Dongling Zou1,2,3,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083902
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Molecular Targeting Therapy for Anticancer Treatment)
Abstract Nucleocytoplasmic transport (NCT) regulates the spatial distribution of proteins and RNA between the nucleus and cytoplasm. NCT dysregulation can mislocalize tumor suppressors, DNA-repair factors, transcription factors, and drug targets in cancer. In this review, we conceptualize NCT-dependent protein mislocalization as a spatial regulatory framework for anticancer drug resistance, rather than as a catalogue of transport components. We systematically discuss how nuclear pore complex (NPC) remodeling, transport-receptor imbalance, post-translational modification (PTM)-regulated cargo routing, signaling-NCT crosstalk, nuclear localization signal/nuclear export signal (NLS/NES) alterations, and tumor microenvironmental pressures jointly drive aberrant nucleocytoplasmic distribution. These processes can further regulate… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Mateusz Kciuk1,2,*, Julia Gałęziewska2,3, Weronika Kruczkowska2,3, Katarzyna Wanke1,4, Damian Kołat1,2, Beata Marciniak1, Renata Kontek1
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083197
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Targeting DNA Repair in Cancer)
Abstract DNA is continuously challenged by endogenous and exogenous insults, generating lesions that threaten genomic stability. Normal stem cells preserve genome integrity through highly coordinated DNA damage response (DDR) networks involving efficient base excision repair (BER), homologous recombination (HR), cell-cycle checkpoints, and TP53-mediated quality control. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a rare tumor subpopulation responsible for tumor initiation, metastasis, relapse, and therapeutic resistance, exploit these protective mechanisms while acquiring distinct DNA repair adaptations. This review examines how stemness-associated signaling pathways, including Hedgehog, Notch, and Wnt/β-catenin, interact with DDR programs to promote CSC survival under genotoxic stress. CSCs… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Hsueh-Ju Lu1,2,*, Chiao-Wen Lin3,4, Chun-Yi Chuang2,5, Chun-Wen Su6,7, Shun-Fa Yang6,7,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.080527
Abstract Background: Interleukin-31 receptor alpha (IL31RA) has been implicated in cancer progression and tumor cell migration, but its genetic associations across cancers remain unclear. This study aimed to examine IL31RA polymorphisms in relation to lymph node involvement in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC). Methods: In this case-control study, 2845 participants were enrolled, including 1352 patients with OCSCC and 1493 cancer-free controls. Associations between IL31RA SNPs and OCSCC susceptibility and clinicopathological characteristics were evaluated. Functional analyses, including cell migration assays, together with bioinformatic database analyses, were performed to investigate the biological significance of IL31RA and genotype–expression correlations. Logistic… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Yuta Yamamoto1,2, Hiroshi Ureshino1,2,*, Shinya Kimura1,2
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.084740
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Molecular Targeting Therapy for Anticancer Treatment)
Abstract DNA methylation plays a critical role in gene regulation and is frequently dysregulated in hematological malignancies such as myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia. DNA demethylating agents have therefore emerged as important therapeutic options. However, conventional DNA demethylating agents require parenteral administration, which limits their long-term use and patient convenience. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of recent advances in the development of orally available DNA demethylating agents and discuss their therapeutic applications in hematological malignancies. Orally available DNA demethylating agents, such as CC-486 (oral azacitidine) and ASTX727 (a fixed-dose combination of More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Krittiya Korphaisarn1,#,*, Kosin Wirasorn2,#, Suebpong Tanasanvimon3, Kijjakom Thanasombunsukh4, Kunlatida Maneenil5, Jirawat Thanestada6, Nattaya Teeyapun3, Jarin Chindaprasirt2, Chirawadee Sathitruangsak7, Teerada Siripoon8, Phannin Tiraswasdichai9, Chanchai Charonpongsuntorn10, Passakorn Wanchaijiraboon11, Wannisa Laosuangkoon12, Patrapim Sunpaweravong7, Ekapop Sirachainan8, Charuwan Akewanlop1
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083206
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advances in Liver Cancer: Novel Therapeutics and Biomarkers for HCC and CCA)
Abstract Introduction: Durvalumab plus tremelimumab (Durva/Treme) improved survival in the HIMALAYA trial for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but real-world evidence remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate clinical outcomes of Durva/Treme in routine practice. Methods: This retrospective multicenter study included patients with unresectable or advanced HCC who received Durva/Treme through the Expanded Access Program in Thailand between August 2023 and November 2025. Treatment outcomes and adverse events (AEs) were analyzed and descriptively compared with the HIMALAYA trial. Results: Fifty patients were included; median age was 62 years and 80% were male. Etiologies included hepatitis B (44%), hepatitis C… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Iseult M. Browne1,2, Monica Esteban Garcia1,2, Alicia F. C. Okines1,2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.082829
Abstract Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is defined by the absence of oestrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and HER2 expression, and carries a disproportionate burden of breast cancer-related mortality due to its aggressive biology and historically limited therapeutic options. The treatment landscape of metastatic TNBC has undergone a fundamental transformation over the past decade, driven by immune checkpoint inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and the identification of actionable genomic alterations. This review provides a comprehensive, clinically oriented appraisal of the current and emerging therapeutic landscape of metastatic TNBC, encompassing its molecular underpinnings and tumour microenvironment biology. We critically More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Danning Zhao, Qin Liu*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.084736
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advancing Cellular Therapeutics in Oncology: Innovations, Challenges, and Clinical Translation)
Abstract Cervical cancer, particularly its advanced stages, requires novel therapeutic paradigms. Cellular immunotherapy exploits the constitutive expression of HPV E6/E7 oncoproteins as near-ideal tumor-specific antigens. This review systematically evaluates four principal platforms under investigation: tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), TCR-engineered T cells, CAR-T cells, and CAR-NK cells. We critically analyze the preclinical rationale, clinical trial landscape, safety considerations, and manufacturing challenges for each modality. TIL therapy has achieved durable complete responses and an FDA Breakthrough Therapy designation. TCR-T cells enable precise targeting of intracellular viral epitopes but are HLA-restricted. CAR-T cells offer potent, MHC-independent recognition, yet face on-target/off-tumor More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Kannan Sridharan1, Ondrej Fiala2,3,4, Gowri Sivaramakrishnan5, Mimma Rizzo6, Matteo Santoni4,7,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.081879
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Targeting DNA Repair in Cancer)
Abstract The emergence of resistance to poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors poses a significant obstacle in treating cancers characterized by BReast CAncer gene (BRCA) mutations or homologous recombination deficiency. Despite the substantial clinical benefits brought by drugs such as olaparib, niraparib, and talazoparib, a substantial proportion of tumors ultimately develop resistance. The underlying mechanisms are diverse and include the reconstitution of homologous recombination via secondary BRCA reversion mutations, stabilization of replication forks, enhanced drug efflux mediated by p-glycoproteins, and structural or functional alterations in PARP1 itself. A thorough grasp of these resistance pathways is critical for the… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Lila A. Marshall*, Natalie L. Ayoub, Jill Tseng, Alex A. Francoeur
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.080161
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Recent Advances in Ovarian and Endometrial Cancers: Molecular Mechanisms and Targeted Therapies)
Abstract Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is most commonly diagnosed at an advanced stage and is known to recur frequently. Recurrent EOC can be difficult to treat, with limited effective options for systemic therapy. Platinum-resistant and -refractory recurrences are particularly difficult to treat, with even fewer therapeutic options than for platinum-sensitive recurrences. Less common histologic subtypes are also challenging, often with poor responses to typical systemic therapies and limited clinical trial data. With successes in the use of immunotherapy (IO) in other types of solid tumors, IO has been investigated extensively in EOC. However, the incorporation of… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Chao Han, Ming Hou, Ruifeng Yang, Xiaoping Wei, Cheng Wang*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.081222
Abstract Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (ESCC) is a highly aggressive malignancy characterized by a poor long-term prognosis. Aberrant activation of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway serves as a central oncogenic driver in ESCC, with large-scale genomic analyses revealing that most patients harbor alterations in pathway-associated genes. This signaling axis orchestrates a wide array of malignant phenotypes, including tumor proliferation, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cancer stemness, and therapeutic resistance. Therefore, this review aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the multifaceted crosstalk between various ncRNA classes and the Wnt/β-catenin axis, highlighting their roles in ESCC progression and their… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Yongpan Wang1,#, Weiqiang Huang1,#, Qizhuan Lin2, Helei Cai2, Fengjin Dai3, Haiqing Gu1, Shunyan Yu1, Libo Jin2,*, Renyi Peng2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.080113
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advances in Pathology, Early Diagnosis and Therapeutic Strategies for Breast Cancer)
Abstract Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer characterized by poor clinical outcomes. Owing to the absence of estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2) expression, TNBC shows limited responsiveness to conventional endocrine and targeted therapies. This subtype exhibits strong heterogeneity, a high propensity for metastasis, and a tendency to develop acquired drug resistance. Its survival and progression largely rely on non-classical signaling pathways, including Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), Phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Protein Kinase B (PI3K/AKT), and Notch, which collectively impose substantial challenges to clinical management. In recent… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Heng Xu1,#, Jiaan Lu1,#, Zizhang Wang1,#, Jiayu Xu2, Shihui Peng3, Haiqing Chen4, Qiang Cao5,*, Qing Sun6,*, Shangke Huang7,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083919
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Next-Generation Oncology: Unearthing and Validating Novel Therapeutic Targets)
Abstract Despite the potential of current cancer immunotherapies, tumor cells frequently evade immune surveillance by forming an immunosuppressive microenvironment, leading to treatment resistance. Current inquiry positions the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) at the forefront of tumor immunology as a critical driver of this immune evasion. This review delineates the cellular pharmacology of SNS-mediated immune regulation across the tumor ecosystem. Operating predominantly through the cyclic adenosine monophosphate-protein kinase A (cAMP-PKA) signaling axis, the SNS engages in bidirectional regulation with immune cells of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Norepinephrine and epinephrine interact with β2-adrenergic receptors (β2-ARs), triggering G-protein dissociation, adenylyl… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Ling Li1,2,#, Shuai Zhao3,#, Xiaoxiao Wang2, Jiahui Du2, Zhen Jin1, Song-Bai Liu1,2,*, Xiaohua Li2,3,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083636
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Breaking the Bottleneck of Therapeutic Resistance in Solid Tumors: Emerging Technologies, Novel Targets, and Innovative Strategies)
Abstract Breast cancer ranks first in global cancer incidence. Due to its high heterogeneity, cancer cells often develop drug resistance during metastasis, leading to therapeutic challenges and poor prognosis. Consequently, breast cancer organoid models have emerged, which can effectively recapitulate the tumor microenvironment and serve as important tools for investigating the mechanisms underlying breast cancer initiation and progression. Breast cancer organoids exhibit interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) while retaining the heterogeneity of the original tumor cells. Owing to these advantages, such models have been widely applied in studies of tumor pathogenesis, disease modeling,… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Jie Wu1,2, Zhewei Zhang1,2, Kit Ying Chan1,2, Tat San Lau1,2,*, Chi Chiu Wang1,2,3,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.083359
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment: Emerging Insights into Cancer Progression and Therapeutics)
Abstract Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy, with most patients diagnosed at an advanced stage and eventually relapsed after post-platinum-taxane chemotherapy. High intratumoral heterogeneity, extensive peritoneal dissemination, and acquired chemoresistance continue to restrict the clinical benefits of current therapeutic strategies. Increasing evidence indicates that ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSCs), a rare but highly plastic subpopulation characterized by self-renewal, multilineage differentiation, quiescence, tumor-initiating capacity, and intrinsic stress tolerance, play pivotal roles in tumor initiation, metastasis, recurrence, and therapeutic resistance. In this review, we systematically summarize current knowledge regarding the identification and functional characterization of OCSCs More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Mateusz Kciuk1,2,*, Gabriela Machura3,4, Katarzyna Wanke1,5, Piotr Gromek2,6, Beata Marciniak1, Renata Kontek1
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.082180
Abstract Ataxia–telangiectasia mutated (ATM) is a central regulator of the DNA damage response (DDR), coordinating DNA double-strand break signaling, checkpoint activation, and maintenance of genome stability. Although traditionally regarded as a tumor suppressor, accumulating evidence indicates that many established cancers become functionally dependent on residual ATM signaling to tolerate oncogene-driven replication stress, genomic instability, oxidative stress, and defective checkpoint control. This context-dependent reliance reflects a form of non-oncogene addiction in which ATM signaling is selectively retained to sustain tumor cell survival, particularly in TP53-deficient and highly replication-stressed malignancies. Beyond canonical DDR functions, ATM also contributes to tumor… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Estelle C. I. D. Schad1,#, Janet P. Raja Xavier1,#, Hortense Decool1, Marcel Arnholdt1, Franziska Keßler1, Jan Schöttke1, Sara Y. Brucker1, Ernst Oberlechner1, Johanna Laupp1, Martin Weiss1,2,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.081755
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advances in Cancer Therapeutics)
Abstract Background: Vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) is a rare, but increasingly prevalent malignancy with limited therapeutic options in the advanced disease state. Cisplatin-based chemoradiation remains the standard of care but is constrained by cumulative toxicity. Precancerous lesions, including high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) and differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN), similarly require effective yet tolerable treatments. Low-thermal Argon plasma devitalization (ltAPD), a source of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), has emerged as a promising approach for redox-based tumor modulation. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-tumor efficacy of two plasma modalities, plasma-treated solution (PTS) and plasma-treated… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Xuan Chen, Chao Luo, Wei Wen*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.079753
Abstract This article systematically elaborates on the dual role of DNA methylation in the initiation and progression of gastric cancer and its potential clinical applications in precision oncology. As a core epigenetic mechanism, DNA methylation drives the multistage development of gastric cancer through the coordinated dysregulation of genome-wide hypomethylation and promoter-specific hypermethylation, playing a key role in chronic inflammation and epigenetic reprogramming, particularly in the context of Helicobacter pylori infection. The article focuses on analyzing the central pathogenic mechanisms of DNA methylation, including the silencing of tumor suppressor genes, induction of genomic instability, promotion of the CpG More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Corina Ionela Tamas1,2, Flaviu Tamas1,2,*, Alina Roxana Cehan3, Adrian Balasa1,2
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.079467
Abstract Hexokinases, particularly hexokinase 2, play a central role in the metabolic reprogramming of glioblastoma and other malignant glial tumors by promoting aerobic glycolysis and sustaining the Warburg phenotype. This review aims to summarize the current evidence regarding the molecular regulation, biological significance, and therapeutic implications of hexokinase isoenzymes in glial tumor metabolism. Recent studies consistently demonstrate that hexokinase 2 overexpression is associated with enhanced tumor proliferation, invasiveness, angiogenesis, resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and poor prognosis, especially in glioblastoma and high-grade gliomas. Multiple regulatory mechanisms, including microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Daniel Thomas Jones1,*, Tajveer Sangha1, Arman Manjikian1, Micheal Ghobrial1, Qasim Shawesh1, Emaan Tiwana1, Emi Hearn1, Arash Latif1, Elaine Tupas1, Aishwarya Hanspal1, Rishi Kumar Nanda2, Ramaditya Srinivasmurthy3, Jason Ta4, Meghana Pandit3, Charles Abraham Joseph Larson5, Kyaw Zin Thein6
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.078524
Abstract Backgrounds: Fruquintinib is a selective vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-1/2/3 inhibitor approved for previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer. As its use expands across gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies and combination regimens, randomized evidence is needed to define the toxicity profile most relevant to clinical monitoring, particularly hypertension, dermatologic toxicity, renal toxicity, bleeding, and thrombotic events. The objective of this study was to synthesize randomized controlled trial evidence to quantify the incidence and relative risk of key toxicities associated with fruquintinib in gastrointestinal malignancies. Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from inception through 1 January 2026… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Antonio David Lázaro-Sánchez1,2,*, Javier David Benítez-Fuentes3, Sofía Wikström-Fernández4, María Nevado-Rodríguez5, Pablo Conesa-Zamora2,6, Ginés Luengo-Gil2,6, Alejandra Ivars-Rubio5, Marta Zafra-Poves5, Edgardo D. Carosella7, Belén Fernández-Molina8, Andrés Nieto-Olivares9, María José Sánchez de las Matas Garre10, Ana Belén Arroyo2,6
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.081674
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advances in Cancer Immunotherapy)
Abstract Background: Collecting duct carcinoma (CDC; Bellini duct carcinoma) is a rare, aggressive renal cancer with no established standard of care, and evidence for immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based therapy in CDC remains emerging and fragmented. We aimed to systematically synthesise efficacy and safety data on immunotherapy in adult patients with CDC. Methods: PubMed and Web of Science were searched from inception to 29 March 2025, with targeted post-search monitoring of key journals and ClinicalTrials.gov updated on 11 April 2026. Prospective interventional studies, observational cohorts/registries, and case series/reports were eligible. Screening, extraction and risk-of-bias appraisal (Joanna Briggs Institute… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Lorenzo Spirito1, Cristina Quintavalle2, Paola Coppola1, Matteo Esposito3, Francesco Esposito2,3, Gabriella De Vita3, Pierlorenzo Pallante2,3,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.078045
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Innovations in Genitourinary Oncology: Integrating Tumor Immunology and Precision Medicine)
Abstract Because of its limited treatment choices and high recurrence rates, bladder cancer (BCa) presents a significant clinical issue. As a result, current research is concentrated on creating novel approaches for early diagnosis and more specialized treatments. Nanorobots hold significant potential as precise medicine-delivery systems and as in situ diagnostic vectors within this dynamic environment. Personalized treatments are becoming increasingly feasible thanks to new insights into the molecular pathways driving tumor growth, revealed through studies on exosomes and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), however, their true potential lies in integrating these findings. This review analyzes the role of nanorobots,… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Agata Kosmaczewska*, Lidia Ciszak
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.081365
Abstract Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a biologically heterogeneous B cell malignancy in which non-malignant T lymphocytes constitute a critical component of the tumor microenvironment and significantly influence disease evolution and the therapeutic response. Growing evidence suggests that CLL-associated T cells not only participate in the antitumor response but also activate signals that promote the development of CLL subclones. Although novel targeted therapies, such as Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors, BTK degraders, B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) inhibitors, T cell engagers, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and adoptive T cell therapy have different mechanisms of action, they affect the More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Allinson Olaechea1,2, Cristina Camacho Rubio2, Sara Gómez-Melero3,4,*
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.079865
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Deciphering Mechanisms of Cancer Therapy Resistance: In Vitro Models to Study Drug Resistance and Radiation-Drug Responses in Cancer and Normal Cells)
Abstract Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) immunophenotyping has emerged as a promising non-invasive approach to characterize systemic immune alterations in cancer and to identify biomarkers associated with treatment response and resistance. However, current evidence remains fragmented and predominantly descriptive, with substantial heterogeneity in study design, immunophenotyping methodologies, and patient populations, limiting the identification of robust and clinically translatable immune signatures. In this review, we aim to comprehensively analyze PBMC immune phenotypes across multiple cancer types, with particular emphasis on their association with disease progression, therapeutic outcomes, and the key methodological and translational challenges that currently limit… More >
Open Access
ARTICLE
Carlo Signorelli1,*, Michele Basso2, Annunziato Anghelone2, Maria Alessandra Calegari2, Alessandro Passardi3, Chiara Gallio3, Alessandro Bittoni3, Jessica Lucchetti4, Lorenzo Angotti4, Emanuela Di Giacomo4, Ina Valeria Zurlo5, Cristina Morelli6, Emanuela Dell’Aquila7, Adele Artemi7, Donatello Gemma8, Domenico Cristiano Corsi9, Alessandra Emiliani9, Marta Ribelli9, Federica Mazzuca10, Giulia Arrivi10, Federica Zoratto11, Maria Grazia Morandi12, Fiorenza Santamaria13,14, Manuela Dettori15, Antonella Cosimati16, Rosa Saltarelli17, Alessandro Minelli18, Emanuela Lucci-Cordisco19, Mario Giovanni Chilelli1
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.080964
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Precision Beyond Progression: Real-World Evidence and Dynamic Prognostic Markers in Refractory Metastatic Colorectal Cancer)
Abstract Background: Trifluridine/tipiracil (T) is a standard treatment for refractory metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). In randomized trials, treatment-emergent neutropenia has been associated with improved outcomes, suggesting a potential link with drug activity. However, evidence from routine clinical practice remains limited. This sub-analysis of the multicenter ReTrITA study evaluated the association between severe neutropenia and clinical outcomes in a real-world setting. Methods: Patients with refractory mCRC treated with T within the ReTrITA cohort were included. Patients were stratified according to the occurrence of grade 3–4 neutropenia. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier… More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Abbas Hussain1,*, Daniel Thomas Jones2, Rishi Kumar Nanda3, Ramaditya Srinivasmurthy4, Jason Ta5, Yin Mon Myat6, Riccesha Hattin1, Jo-Lawrence Bigcas7, Sisi Tian7, Suparna Shah7, Robert Wang7, Kyaw Zin Thein8
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.077918
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: New Insights in Drug Resistance of Cancer Therapy: A New Wine in an Old Bottle)
Abstract Locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC) remains difficult to treat despite multimodal therapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have expanded treatment options, but phase III trials combining ICIs with chemoradiotherapy have demonstrated limited survival benefit due to complex resistance mechanisms. These include immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments, impaired DNA damage responses, hypoxia-driven adaptations, metabolic reprogramming, and oncogenic signaling via the HER receptor family. This review outlines key resistance pathways and emerging strategies to overcome them. Nanotechnology-based approaches may enhance drug delivery and modulate the tumor microenvironment, while dual inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), More >
Open Access
REVIEW
Mariagrazia Piscione1,*, Barbara Pala2,3,*, Francesco Cribari3, Paola Gualtieri4, Dario Gaudio5, Marco Alfonso Perrone6, Laura Di Renzo4
Oncology Research, DOI:10.32604/or.2026.079215
(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Metabolic and Inflammatory Dysregulation as Therapeutic Targets in Cancer)
Abstract Cholesterol metabolism is central to cancer biology, influencing tumour initiation, progression, and therapeutic response, while contributing to the increased cardiovascular risk observed in cancer patients. Epidemiological studies investigating the relationship between circulating cholesterol levels and cancer risk have yielded conflicting results, reflecting substantial biological heterogeneity, tumour-specific metabolic demands, and methodological biases such as reverse causality. At the cellular level, malignant cells exhibit elevated cholesterol uptake and synthesis to sustain membrane biogenesis, lipid raft-dependent oncogenic signalling, and rapid proliferation. Cholesterol and its oxidized derivatives further modulate inflammation, angiogenesis, immune evasion, and key signalling pathways. Anticancer therapies… More >