Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Biology

ALDH1A1 as a Stem Cell Marker and its Correlation with the Clinico-pathological Parameters in Invasive Mammary Carcinoma

2025-01-12T05:10:11+00:00

Background: Breast cancer is a major public health concern due to its high incidence worldwide. Globally, it is considered the most common cancer to be diagnosed and one of the main causes for cancer deaths in women. Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) are the leading cause of adverse clinical outcomes and resistance to therapeutic agents because of their great capacity for self-renewal and differentiation. Aldehyde dehydrogenase1A1 (ALDH1A1) belongs to the aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) superfamily of enzymes. It is one of the most important markers for cancer stem cells (CSCs). Its expression level in tumor cells is higher than in normal tissues. Recently, it has been widely investigated as a potential prognostic factor and therapeutic target.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the prognostic value of ALDH1A1 expression in invasive mammary carcinoma by correlating its expression to various clinicopathological characteristics and molecular subtypes and highlight the relationship between ALDH1A1 expression and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs).

Methods: Seventy-two samples of invasive mammary carcinoma were retrieved from the archive of the Pathology Laboratory, Sohag University Hospital; of which 70 were of ductal origin and only 2 were of lobular origin, which were excluded from statistical analysis and discussed separately. Immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of ALDH1A1 was evaluated using an anti-human ALDH1A1 antibody. To elucidate the prognostic value of ALDH1A1 in breast cancer, its expression was statistically correlated with the available clinicopathological data.

Results: This study revealed positive ALDH1A1 expression in 54.3% of mammary invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) specimens. ALDH1A1 up-regulation was significantly positively correlated with poor prognostic indicators, including larger tumor size (p= 0.007), high grade (p= 0.001), advanced stage (p< 0.001), poor Nottingham Prognostic Index (NPI) (p= 0.01), lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (p= 0.03), lymph node metastasis (LNM) (p=0.04), and a triple negative phenotype (p< 0.001). Moreover, we observed that tumors with positive ALDH1A1 expression exhibited higher levels of TILs with a statistically significant correlation (p= 0.001).

Conclusion: The current study revealed that ALDH1A1 up-regulation in invasive breast carcinoma is linked to aggressive behavior and different unfavorable prognostic indicators. It could be useful as a promising potential prognostic biomarker, serving as a prospective target for anti-cancer therapy.

Relationship of Tumor-Associated Neutrophil Expression and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio with Clinical Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Locally Advanced Breast Cancer

2025-01-12T05:28:49+00:00

Introduction: Breast cancer (BC) is a serious health concern. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is a crucial therapy for managing BC, but further research is needed to identify biomarkers that can help to predict the efficacy of this therapy. The presence and functional activity of tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) are capable of serving as predictive biomarkers for therapeutic outcomes. Elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is linked to high tumor stage and low histological grade, indicating a more aggressive disease profile. This study analyzed the relationship between TAN expression and NLR with clinical response to NAC in locally advanced BC (LABC).

Methods: This was a cohort study of 41 patients with BC. TAN expression was examined using immunohistochemistry, NLR was obtained from routine blood tests, and chemotherapy response was assessed using the RECIST method. The relationship between TAN expression and NLR with chemotherapy response in LABC was tested using chi-square tests.

Results: High and low TAN expression was observed in 80.5% and 19.5% of patients, respectively. For NLR before chemotherapy, 48.8% and 51.2% of patients exhibited a high and low NLR, respectively; after chemotherapy, 51.2% and 48.8% of patients exhibited a high and low NLR, respectively. Moreover, 90.2% patients responded to NAC. A significant relationship was observed between TAN expression and chemotherapy response in BC, with a moderately strong negative correlation.

Conclusion: TAN expression is an important potential predictor of chemotherapy response in LABC. By identifying biomarkers like TAN, clinicians may be better able to customize treatment plans and enhance outcomes for patients with LABC.

Low PD-1 mRNA Expression in Peripheral Blood of Childhood Leukemia

2025-01-12T05:34:12+00:00

Background: The expression of PD-1 has been linked to prognosis and response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in solid tumors, but less is known about their role in pediatric blood cancers. Therefore, we aimed to study the levels of PD-1 mRNA in children with leukemia and explore how they relate to clinical factors.

Methods: Blood samples were collected from 15 children with leukemia and 11 healthy individuals. PD-1 mRNA expression was analyzed using real time PCR.

Results: PD-1 mRNA expression was significantly lower in childhood leukemia patients (average DCT: 12.3±2.5) compared to healthy individuals (average DCT: 10.3±0.5) (p=0.011). PD-1 mRNA expression did not correlate with gender, age, diagnosis, remission status, down syndrome, hyperleukocytosis, infection, and outcome.

Conclusion: Our findings indicated that mRNA expression of PD-1 was reduced in children with leukemia compared to healthy individuals and was not associated with all analyzed clinical factors. These results provide early insights into PD-1 expression in Indonesian pediatric leukemia patients.

Identification and Functional Characterization of Upregulated Hub Genes in Adenocarcinoma across Multiple Organ Sites

2025-01-12T05:43:20+00:00

Objective: This study aimed to identify and characterize key hub genes involved in adenocarcinoma progression across multiple organ types via integrative bioinformatics analysis.

Methods: Gene expression datasets from GEO and GEPIA2 were analyzed to identify genes whose expression was upregulated across various adenocarcinoma types. Protein‒protein interaction networks were constructed, and hub genes were identified. Transcription factors and microRNA regulatory networks were mapped, and functional enrichment analysis was performed.

Results: Ten hub genes (CHEK1, CDC20, ANLN, RRM2, CCNB1, CCNA2, KIF23, TOP2A, BUB1, and KIF11) were consistently overexpressed in six adenocarcinoma types and linked to cell cycle regulation and mitotic progression. In prostate adenocarcinoma, five of these genes were not significantly overexpressed. Survival analysis revealed that most hub genes were associated with poorer survival. Regulatory network analysis identified key transcription factors (e.g., TP53 and MYC) and miRNAs (e.g., hsa-miR-103a-3p and hsa-let-7e-5p) as modulators of these genes.

Conclusions: This integrative approach identified critical hub genes and regulatory networks involved in adenocarcinoma progression, offering potential avenues for targeted therapies and emphasizing the importance of personalized strategies for different adenocarcinoma subtypes.

Minimizing the Risk of Sample Mix-ups in the Molecular Pathology Section in Oncology Center Using Risk Assessment Matrix (RAM)

2025-01-12T05:57:29+00:00

Background: Sample mix-ups in molecular pathology can result in diagnostic errors, inappropriate treatment, and compromised patient safety. These risks are exacerbated in oncology settings, where accurate diagnoses directly impact patient outcomes.

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Risk Assessment Matrix (RAM) in minimizing the risk of sample mix-ups in the molecular pathology section of an oncology center.

Methods: A prospective quality improvement design was adopted, comparing pre- and post-intervention data to assess the impact of RAM. Risks were identified through quality rounds and categorized using the RAM, where Likelihood (L) and Severity (S) scores were assigned to each risk (L × S = Risk Score). Interventions included automation, barcode labeling, revised workflows, and staff training. The effectiveness of interventions was measured through re-evaluation of risk scores and percentage risk reduction.

Results: The interventions resulted in significant improvements across multiple areas. The risk score for Excel-based registration dropped from 16 to 2, representing an 88% reduction. Handwritten labeling errors decreased by 83%, and inaccurate documentation in LIS/HIS systems was reduced by 83%. Additionally, the risk associated with unattended PTS sample transport was lowered by 63%, and eliminating manual entry processes reduced errors by 67%. Most risks showed reductions above 60%, demonstrating the effectiveness of RAM in improving sample management and patient safety.

Conclusion: The application of RAM in the molecular pathology section of an oncology center significantly reduced the likelihood of sample handling errors, enhancing both diagnostic accuracy and patient safety. The study highlights the importance of automation, real-time monitoring, and multidisciplinary collaboration in sustaining these improvements. RAM provides a structured framework for prioritizing and mitigating risks in complex healthcare workflows.

Potential Effect of Spirulina Extracts on Serum Iron Reduction: Possible Application in Cancer Treatment

2025-01-12T06:06:12+00:00

Background: Iron overload is a significant health concern that has been linked to various pathological conditions, including cancer and thalassemia. The relationship between iron overload and cancer has been extensively studied, particularly in the context of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and other malignancies. Spirulina platensis is a blue-green algae that contains bioactive compounds such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, vitamins, omega-3, and omega-6. These compounds make spirulina a source of antioxidants. The compound, which acts as an antioxidant, is said to decrease or stop oxidative stress resulting from free radicals, which can lead to cancer and thalassemia. Spirulina has properties as an antioxidant, anticancer, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antiviral agent. In the present study, an attempt is made to evaluate the effect of spirulina extract as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent on iron status in thalassemia patients and its possible application in cancer treatment.

Materials and Methods: Fifty male patients with thalassemia, aged 5–16 years, were enrolled in this research study. The serum of these patients was treated with spirulina. Afterward, the serum levels of iron, ferritin, transferrin, TIBC, and UIBC before and after treatment were evaluated.

Results: The results indicated a decrease in iron, ferritin, and transferrin saturation levels, while total iron binding capacity, unsaturated iron binding capacity, and transferrin levels were increased.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the correlation between iron overload, cancer, and thalassemia presents a complex interplay of genetic, biochemical, and environmental factors. Reducing the total body iron stored is a crucial treatment goal for thalassemia and cancer.

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Immunoreactivity Pattern in Different Cervical Cancer Types in a Tertiary Healthcare Facility in South Eastern Nigeria

2025-02-05T05:01:12+00:00

Background: Cervical cancer remains a major public health issue in Nigeria. With advancements in treatment, there is a growing focus on targeted therapies. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), a critical mediator of tumour angiogenesis, has emerged as a potential biomarker in cervical cancer for early detection and targeted therapies.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Histopathology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. A total of 117 diagnosed cervical carcinoma cases were evaluated. VEGF expression was assessed through immunohistochemistry using a Bio-SB monoclonal antibody, with VEGF positivity indicated by brown membrane staining in tumour cells. VEGF expression was quantitatively measured by calculating the percentage of positively stained cells per high-power field, and results were categorized as positive or negative based on predetermined cut-off points. Patients’ clinicopathological data, including tumour type, grade, and cell differentiation, were also analyzed.

Results: The mean ages of patients with adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma-in-situ, and invasive squamous cell carcinoma were 44.9, 54.3, and 55.9 years, respectively. VEGF positivity was observed in 65 (55.56%) of cases, with a statistically significant difference between positive and negative cases (P < 0.05). VEGF was expressed in 8 (53.33%) of adenocarcinoma cases, 17 (65.39%) of squamous cell carcinoma-in-situ cases, and 40 (52.63%) of invasive squamous cell carcinoma cases. The highest expression was observed in squamous cell carcinoma-in-situ, suggesting an early role in tumour angiogenesis. VEGF expression was more frequent in well- and moderately differentiated tumours compared to poorly differentiated ones. Among squamous cell carcinomas, VEGF positivity was higher in non-keratinizing tumours 36 (57.14%) than in keratinizing tumours 20 (51.28%).

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that VEGF is significantly expressed in different histological subtypes of cervical cancer, particularly in early-stage tumours, highlighting its potential as a biomarker for early detection and targeted therapy. However, limitations include the retrospective nature of the study and potential variability in VEGF quantification. Future studies should focus on larger sample sizes and explore the role of VEGF in treatment outcomes to refine its utility as a therapeutic target.

Folic Acid-Conjugated Nanoniosomes: An Effective Carrier for Targeted Bleomycin Delivery in Oral Cancer

2025-02-05T05:08:37+00:00

Overview: Oral cancer poses significant health challenges with high mortality and systemic side effects from conventional chemotherapy. This study developed folic acid-conjugated nanoniosomes for targeted delivery of bleomycin, leveraging folate receptor overexpression on oral cancer cells to enhance drug delivery and reduce off-target effects.

Methods: Nanoniosomes were synthesized via the thin-film hydration method using cholesterol, nonionic surfactants, and folic acid. Bleomycin was loaded into the hydrated lipid film, and the suspension was sonicated to achieve uniformity. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) characterized particle size, PDI, and zeta potential, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) assessed morphology. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay on folate receptor-positive oral cancer cells treated with varying bleomycin concentrations over 24, 48, and 72 hours.

Results: The nanoniosomes averaged 230 ± 15 nm in size with a PDI of 0.21 ± 0.03 and a zeta potential of -28 ± 2 mV, indicating stability. SEM revealed spherical, smooth particles. Cytotoxicity tests showed a time- and dose-dependent reduction in cell viability, with IC₅₀ values decreasing from 20 µM at 24 hours to 10 µM at 72 hours.

Conclusion: Folic acid-conjugated nanoniosomes demonstrated effective targeted delivery of bleomycin, enhancing cytotoxicity and minimizing systemic toxicity. These findings support further investigation for clinical applications in oral cancer therapy.

Enhanced Therapeutic Potential of Paclitaxel-Loaded Niosomes on Ovarian Cancer Cell Line

2025-03-08T06:36:18+00:00

Background: Paclitaxel is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent for ovarian cancer treatment; however, its clinical application is limited by poor solubility and severe side effects. Niosomes, non-ionic surfactant vesicles, have emerged as a promising nanocarrier for targeted drug delivery. This study investigates the enhanced therapeutic potential of paclitaxel-loaded niosomes in ovarian cancer cell line.

Methods: Paclitaxel-loaded niosomes were prepared using the thin-film hydration method and characterized for size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index (PDI). The morphology of the niosomes was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Cytotoxicity of paclitaxel-loaded niosomes was assessed using the MTT assay on ovarian cancer cell line (A2780S) after 24 and 48 hours of incubation. The results were compared with free paclitaxel to evaluate the effect of the niosomal formulation on drug efficacy.

Results: The paclitaxel-loaded niosomes exhibited a mean size of approximately 285 nm, a PDI of 0.44, and a negative zeta potential of -21 mV. SEM images confirmed the spherical morphology of the niosomes. The MTT assay results showed a significant increase in cytotoxicity in the niosomal formulation compared to free paclitaxel at both 24 and 48 hours (p < 0.05, p < 0.01), indicating enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

Conclusion: Paclitaxel-loaded niosomes demonstrate improved drug delivery and enhanced cytotoxicity in ovarian cancer cell lines. The results suggest that niosomal paclitaxel could be a promising strategy for improving the therapeutic potential of paclitaxel in ovarian cancer treatment. Further in vivo studies are warranted to confirm these findings and explore the clinical applicability of niosomal formulations.

Plant Secondary Metabolites Inhibit Cancer by Targeting Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR): An Updated Review on their Regulation and Mechanisms of Action

2025-01-12T06:18:29+00:00

Cancer is an exceedingly pervasive disease currently, with approximately 14 million individuals diagnosed every year. The lifestyle and environmental changes are the most widespread causes of cancer. There are numerous cancer treatments available, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormone therapies. However, these procedures have adverse effects. In such circumstances, plant-based therapies have shown increased efficacy. Plant secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, polyphenols, cannabinoids, and flavonoids have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-proliferative properties, making them ideal candidates for cancer treatment. They inhibit major signaling pathways like MAPK, EGFR, VEGF, Ras/Raf, NF-kβ, induce necrosis, apoptosis, ferroptosis, and cause cell cycle arrest. Phytochemicals together with nanomedicines have a better possibility of eliminating malignant cells. They impede mitophagy while regulating Caspase-dependent cascades. Molecular investigation has revealed that they influence DNA repair, liposomal activities, and the phagocytosis process. The highlights of this review encompass how chemotherapeutic agents induce multidrug resistance, and phytochemical-based cancer treatments and their mechanisms of action, including how they rejuvenate cell damage and eliminate tumor cells from the body.

Association Between Autoimmune Thyroiditis and Thyroid Cancer: A Systematic Review of Studies in the Indian Population

2025-01-12T06:25:29+00:00

Background and Purpose: Thyroid cancer is a significant global health concern, and autoimmune thyroiditis, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis and chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, has been suggested as a potential risk factor. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the association between autoimmune thyroiditis and thyroid carcinoma in the Indian population.

Methods: A systematic search yielded 53 studies, of which six were included. Statistical analysis assessed the correlation between autoimmune thyroiditis and thyroid carcinoma.

Results: The analysis reveals a significant association between autoimmune thyroiditis and thyroid carcinoma in the Indian population, primarily driven by Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Conclusion: This study underscores the relevance of autoimmune thyroiditis as a potential risk factor for thyroid carcinoma in India. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Unleashing Translational Opportunities of Loco-Regional Drug Delivery to Treat Malignancy

2025-01-12T06:37:45+00:00

Background: Loco-regional drug delivery for cancer treatment has emerged as a promising approach to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity. Various strategies have been developed, including localized drug delivery systems and targeted delivery methods, to improve drug distribution and retention at tumor sites. Despite significant progress, several challenges persist, necessitating further exploration and innovation.

Objective: This review aims to provide insights into the recent advances and challenges in loco-regional drug delivery for cancer therapy and identify future translational opportunities in this field.

Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted on loco-regional drug delivery systems for cancer treatment, identifying advancements in nanoparticle-based formulations, hydrogels, implants, and image-guided delivery techniques. Challenges include drug resistance, limited tumor tissue penetration, and tumor microenvironment complexity.

Conclusion: Loco-regional drug delivery has the potential to transform cancer therapy by allowing for precision targeting, combining therapeutic modalities, using nanotechnology, and utilising modern imaging tools.

Discussion: Collaboration among academics, physicians, and industry stakeholders is critical for expediting the clinical translation of innovative drug delivery platforms, which have the potential to drastically improve malignancy patient outcomes as well as enable personalised treatment methods.

Systematic Review: Comprehensive Methods for Detecting BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutations in Breast and Ovarian Cancer

2025-02-05T05:17:52+00:00

This review explores various methods for detecting BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, including Array Comparative Genomic Hybridization (aCGH), Denaturing High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (DHPLC), Digital PCR, High-Resolution Melting Analysis (HRMA), Multiple Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA), Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) & NGS-panels, RNA methods, and Sanger Sequencing. The search used articles published between 2018 and 2023, focusing on genetic testing for BRCA mutations and techniques for identifying these mutations. The review identifies the advantages and limitations of each method, such as Sanger sequencing is more advantageous for large-scale genotyping than targeted deep sequencing. NGS is a high-throughput platform that requires bioinformatics support and is more useful than Sanger sequencing. Both MLPA and aCGH are useful in detecting LGRs and cannot be substituted by DNA sequencing. PCR-based methods like HRMA are fast and relatively cheap, while DHPLC is cheap and efficient due to its mutation sensitivity and specificity. Digital PCR and RNA-based methods have higher accuracy and precision, with increased detection sensitivity. New technologies such as CRISPR- based diagnostics and third-generation sequencing (ONT) shows a lot of potential. The decision on which detection method to use, depends on the type, variety, scale, and costs of mutation typing necessary in clinical or research scenarios. One example is using one network with multiple algorithms, which offers full results in the shortest time possible. The main focus of this review is to identify the strengths, limitations and cost of each method in detecting BRCA1/2 mutations.