Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Biology

Carcinogenesis Inhibition of Phenolic Derivatives in Duhat (Syzygium cumini); An in Silico Analysis

2025-10-26T05:29:34+00:00

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent types of cancer that is commonly treated with traditional chemotherapy; this approach, however, can be toxic, nonspecific, and occasionally ineffective thus necessitating alternative therapeutic strategies. Epidemiological studies suggest that phytochemicals, particularly phenolic compounds, possess antioxidant and antitumor properties, potentially reducing cancer risk. Given that Syzygium cumini is abundant in tropical and subtropical regions and is rich in phenolic compounds, this study explores its therapeutic potential against CRC, addressing the limitations in conventional cancer treatment methods.

Materials and Methods: Molecular docking, dynamics simulation techniques, and ADMET analysis were employed to analyze the binding potential between phenolic compounds from Syzygium cumini to key proteins involved in colorectal cancer pathways, and evaluate the potential drug-likeness and systemic bioavailability of the representative phenolic compounds.

Results: The findings revealed that Myricetin-3-Ogalactoside (-10.1), rutin (-8.8), and gallocatechin (-10.0) showed high binding affinities for essential oncogenic and tumor-suppressor proteins, such as MLH1, p53, and BRAF, with rutin showing the highest affinity across proteins targets belonging in different pathways suggesting that this compound could reduce tumor growth, suppress metastasis, and promote apoptosis. These phenolic compounds not only bind effectively to their CRC-related proteins but also have enhanced structural integrity upon ligand binding, increasing its potential as therapeutic agents against colorectal carcinogenesis.

Conclusion: The study suggests that further formulation of S. cumini phenolic compounds may be necessary due to bioavailability challenges identified in their ADMET analysis. Myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside and rutin showed limited intestinal permeability, while ellagic acid and gallocatechin showed higher absorption rates and non-toxic characteristics.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Cancer Screening Among Women in Tamil Nadu, Southern India - A Qualitative Study

2025-10-26T05:49:31+00:00

Background: Breast and cervical cancers represents major public health challenges globally, with considerable impact on women’s health in India. Early detection through screening plays a critical role in improving survival rates and treatment outcomes. Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and practices surrounding cancer screening is essential to develop effective, targeted interventions that can improve uptake and reduce the burden of these diseases. This study aims to explore these factors among women in Chennai, including both those diagnosed with cancer and non-cancer participants.

Methods: This qualitative KAP study, conducted between October 2021 and May 2022, involved 189 purposively sampled women (with and without breast/cervical cancer) across five tertiary care institutions in Chennai. Thirteen Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were conducted to assess participants’ knowledge of cancer and screening, explore their attitudes toward prevention and early detection, and document their screening practices. Audio recordings were transcribed and analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

Results: The findings revealed a generally low level of awareness, widespread misconceptions, and a diminished perception of personal risk, contributing to negative attitudes toward screening. However, screening behaviors were positively influenced by strong social support from peers and family, as well as by trusted media sources indicating these factors may help overcome some attitudinal barriers.

Conclusion: Despite limited awareness and prevailing misconceptions, leveraging social support networks and accessible media presents a key opportunity for improving screening uptake. Public health initiatives should focus on strengthening knowledge, correcting misconceptions, and utilizing existing social and communication networks to enhance women’s participation in cancer screening programs.

Association between LGR5 Expression and Overall Survival in Patients with Colorectal Cancer: A Retrospective Study from Indonesia

2025-10-26T05:54:37+00:00

Background: Leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein-coupled receptor 5 (LGR5), also known as GPR49, is a Wnt signaling target that plays an important role in colorectal carcinogenesis and is often associated with poor prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer. Aim of this study was to assess the influence of LGR5 expression and its relationship with overall survival (OS) in colorectal cancer.

Material and methods: This retrospective study assessed LGR5 expression via immunohistochemistry (IHC) in 30 archival colorectal cancer tissue samples from patients resected between 2019-2020 in Makassar, Indonesia. The association between LGR5 expression levels (high vs. low) and overall survival (OS) was analyzed.

Result: Research results were obtained from 30 samples. Overall, 8 patients with high LGR5 expression and 22 patients with low LGR5 were reported. Among the total number of patients enrolled, 22 patients had an OS of 3 years and 8 patients had an OS of 5 years. Statistical analysis showed that there was no association between LGR5 expression and the clinical profile of colorectal cancer patients (p-value > 0.05). A statistically significant association between OS and both tumor stage and histopathological grading (p-value <0.001 and 0.016, respectively) was found. However, no statistically significant association between OS and LGR5 expression was observed (p-value 0.418).

Conclusion: LGR5 expression was not associate with either OS and or clinical characteristics of CRC patients in Makassar, Indonesia. However, there was a tendency for low LGR5 expression to be associated with improved OS, although this finding was not statistically significant. Both tumor stage and histopathological grading were associated with OS.

First Line Platinum Based Chemotherapy in Malignant Testicular Germ Cell Tumours – A Single Institutional Observational Study

2025-10-26T06:03:24+00:00

Background: Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) are the most common solid malignancy in young men, with excellent prognosis due to the efficacy of platinum-based chemotherapy. However, prospective data from low- and middle-income countries like India are limited.

Materials and methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over two years at a tertiary care hospital in western India. Eligible patients with newly diagnosed malignant testicular GCTs received platinum-based chemotherapy per NCCN 2024 guidelines. Baseline and treatment-related parameters were documented. Treatment response was assessed via RECIST 1.1, and toxicities were graded using CTCAE v5.0. Progression-free survival (PFS) was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results: Among 51 registered patients, 34 were eligible. Median age was 34.5 years. Seminoma and non-seminomatous GCT (NSGCT) were equally represented. Most patients (59%) presented with Stage III disease. All patients underwent radical orchiectomy followed by chemotherapy. BEP was the most common regimen. Grade 3 toxicity was rare; pulmonary toxicity occurred in three patients. Overall radiological response rate was 94% (CR 53%, PR 41%), with higher CR in seminoma (76%) than NSGCT (35%). Median follow-up was 11.25 months, with a PFS rate of 91.2%. PFS was 100%, 85%, and 85% in good, intermediate, and poor risk groups, respectively.

Conclusions: Platinum-based chemotherapy remains highly effective and well tolerated in TGCTs, even in resource-constrained settings. Despite delays in diagnosis and treatment, outcomes in this Indian cohort were comparable to global standards, supporting continued adherence to established treatment protocols.

Dual Drug Repurposing in Cervical Cancer: The Synergistic Cytotoxic Effect of Dapagliflozin-Etoricoxib and Its Predicted Modulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling via Molecular Docking

2025-10-26T06:10:24+00:00

Objective: This study assesses the effectiveness of combining Dapagliflozin and etoricoxib in inhibiting cancer cell growth and investigates its effects on the mutant PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway to understand the underlying mechanisms.

Methods: After incubation periods of 24 and 72 hours, HeLa cells and normal human fibroblasts (NHF) were utilized to assess the anticancer efficacy and safety profile of Dapagliflozin, Etoricoxib, their combination, and 5-fluorouracil (5FU). The tested concentrations ranged from 0.1 to 1000 µg/ml. To determine potential synergy and selectivity, the combination index (CI) and the selective toxicity index (SI) were estimated. Additionally, molecular docking simulations were performed to evaluate the binding affinities of Dapagliflozin and Etoricoxib to mutant proteins within the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

Results: The MTT assays showed that a combination of Dapagliflozin and etoricoxib has significant anticancer activity. The mixture effectively inhibits the growth of cervical cancer cells, achieving results similar to 5-fluorouracil (5FU) and outperforming Dapagliflozin or etoricoxib alone. Additionally, the cytotoxic effects of the mixture on normal human fibroblast (NHF) cells were much lower than those seen with 5FU, indicating decreased toxicity. The combined use of Dapagliflozin and etoricoxib exhibited synergistic cytotoxic effects, as indicated by the combination index (CI) score. This drug pair also showed selectivity in targeting cancer cells, as reflected by the selectivity index (SI). The molecular docking results showed that Dapagliflozin and Etoricoxib have affinities for interacting with the mutant PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling protein. Docking scores for Dapagliflozin binding to these proteins were -8, -6.7, and -7.3 kcal/mol, while those for Etoricoxib were -8, -6.6, and -6.8 kcal/mol, respectively.

Conclusion: The findings, supported by established pharmacokinetic and safety data, suggest that combining Dapagliflozin and Etoricoxib may provide a safer and more effective treatment option for cervical conditions, with a possible mechanism involving the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, as predicted by molecular docking.

The Impact of Chemotherapy on the Chronic Inflammation Caused by Escherichia coli Infection and Insulin Resistance in Type 2 Diabetes-Associated Prostate Cancer Patients

2025-10-26T06:21:30+00:00

Background: The most common malignancy in men is prostate cancer. Chronic inflammation and bacterial infections exacerbate insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients, potentially worsened by chemotherapy in those with prostate cancer. This study investigates the effects of Docetaxel chemotherapy on systemic inflammation, Insulin Resistance, and bacterial resistance in T2D patients with prostate cancer.

Methods: Eighty participants (aged 50–75 years) were enrolled in a cross-sectional study and divided into four groups: Group 1 (T2D without cancer, n=40), Group 2 (T2D with prostate cancer, pre-chemotherapy, n=40), Group 3 (Group 2 subset post-two Docetaxel cycles), and Group 4 (Group 2 subset post-five Docetaxel cycles). Serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), procalcitonin (PCT), fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were measured via immunoassays. Insulin resistance was assessed using the Homeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA-IR). Urine samples were analyzed for Escherichia coli isolation and antibiotic resistance via the Kirby-Bauer method. Statistical significance was determined using t-tests (P≤0.05).

Results: Group 4 exhibited notably elevated inflammatory markers (PCT, IL-6, TNF-α), fasting glucose, fasting insulin, PSA, and the value of HOMA-IR compared to Groups 1–3 (P≤0.01). E. coli isolation rates increased from 67.5% (Group 2) to 80% (Group 4, P=0.20), with antibiotic resistance rising, notably for Amikacin (17.5% to 35%, P=0.08) and Nitrofurantoin (25% to 30%, P=0.61), though these differences were not statistically significant. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) isolates also increased slightly post-chemotherapy.

Conclusion: Docetaxel chemotherapy in T2D prostate cancer patients is associated with heightened systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and bacterial resistance, underscoring the need for integrated therapeutic strategies to mitigate these effects.

Development of a Calophyllum inophyllum-Loaded Biodegradable Chitosan-PVA Hydrogel: A Multifunctional Platform for HT-29 Colon Cancer Cell, and Antidiabetic Applications

2025-10-26T06:37:26+00:00

Objective: Multifunctional hydrogels represent a promising strategy for localized and sustained drug delivery in cancer and chronic disease management. C. inophyllum, a medicinal plant with known bioactive properties, was explored in this study for its potential integration into a chitosan-polyvinyl alcohol (Cs-PVA) hydrogel system to enhance therapeutic efficacy.

Methods: The Cs-PVA hydrogel was synthesized using a freeze-thaw technique and loaded with C. inophyllum extract. Structural and chemical characterizations were performed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confirming the incorporation and uniform dispersion of phytochemicals. In vitro cytotoxicity was assessed against HT-29 colon cells using the MTT assay. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH assay, while anti-inflammatory potential was determined through protein denaturation inhibition. Drug release kinetics were analyzed over a 24-hour period, and α-amylase inhibition assays were performed to determine antidiabetic potential.

Results: FTIR and SEM analyses confirmed successful integration of the extract within the hydrogel matrix. The hydrogel exhibited concentration-dependent cytotoxicity, with an IC₅₀ of 17 µg/mL, alongside visible apoptotic morphology in HT-29 cells. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities showed 72.4% and 67.8% inhibition at 75 µg/mL, comparable to ascorbic acid and diclofenac, respectively. The hydrogel achieved nearly 100% drug release within 24 hours. Antidiabetic activity was demonstrated by 67.1% α-amylase inhibition at 50 µg/mL, close to metformin’s 79.3%.

Conclusion: The C. inophyllum-loaded Cs-PVA hydrogel shows strong potential as a biodegradable, multifunctional therapeutic platform, offering cytotoxic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effects for future cancer and chronic disease treatments.

Platelets at the Crossroads of Cancer: Activating Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition in Colorectal Carcinogenesis via Snail1

2025-11-26T04:11:39+00:00

Introduction: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was an important process in colorectal cancer progression. Activated platelets and thrombocytosis had been associated with cancer progression, but the specific mechanism in triggering EMT through the transcription factor Snail1 was not fully understood.

Methods: This study used an observational analytical design with a cross-sectional approach. The subjects were colorectal cancer patients who underwent blood tests to determine platelet and activated platelet levels (P-selectin) and tissue to determine Snail1 and EMT transcription factors (E-cadherin and vimentin). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, Python, and Google Colab.

Results: This study showed a significant role of activated platelets in triggering EMT (p = 0.005), activated platelets in triggering Snail1 (p = 0.042), and Snail1 in triggering EMT (p = 0.002). Causality assessment by artificial intelligence analysis of direct acyclic graphs and Granger causality tests showed that changes in platelet activation levels significantly preceded increased Snail1 expression, which in turn was followed by increased EMT markers. In addition, a decision tree was built to predict EMT from P-selectin and Snail1 levels with an accuracy of 62%.

Conclusion: There was no significant relationship between thrombocytosis and activated platelets, and no significant role of thrombocytosis in EMT was found. Thus, the results of this study indicated a significant role of activated platelets in triggering EMT through the transcription factor Snail1 in colorectal cancer.

Evaluation of Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase as a Diagnostic Biomarker for Prostate Cancer in Iraqi Patients

2025-11-26T04:15:45+00:00

Background: Prostate cancer remains the most prevalent malignancy and leading cause of cancer-related mortality among men worldwide. This study investigated the diagnostic potential of serum gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) as a novel biomarker for Prostate cancer detection compared to established markers.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 80 histologically confirmed Prostate cancer patients and 80 age-matched healthy controls. Serum levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), malondialdehyde (MDA), paraoxonase 1 (PON1), arylesterase (ARE), and GGT were quantified using ELISA.

Results: Significantly elevated levels of PSA, MDA, and PON1 were observed in prostate cancer patients compared to controls (p ≤ 0.001 for all). In contrast, ARE activity was significantly reduced in patients (p ≤ 0.001). Serum GGT levels were significantly higher in prostate cancer patients than in healthy controls, though this difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.104). The mean difference in GGT levels between prostate cancer patients and controls was 16.17 U/L (95% CI: −2.65 to 34.99), which was not statistically significant (p = 0.104). In contrast, PSA levels exhibited a significant mean difference of 79.67 ng/mL (95% CI: 27.87 to 131.47; p ≤ 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed a non-significant inverse correlation between MDA and GGT in the prostate cancer group (r = −0.18, p = 0.12).

Conclusions: The use of serum GGT as an independent prognostic biomarker for prostate cancer has limited clinical utility due to its poor specificity and sensitivity, despite its significantly elevated levels in patients. In contrast, oxidative stress markers (MDA, PON1, ARE) and PSA have shown stronger prognostic potential, with PSA remaining the most effective single marker. The observed trends highlight the potential of oxidative stress biomarkers as complementary tools.

Prognostic and Predictive Role of Inflammatory Blood Markers in Early and Locally Advanced Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: An Egyptian Single-Center Experience

2025-11-26T04:20:53+00:00

Background: Inflammatory blood biomarkers (IBMs), including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV), and systemic inflammation index (SII), have been proposed as prognostic and predictive markers in cancer. This study evaluated their predictive value for pathological complete response (pCR), disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT)-related toxicities in early and locally advanced breast cancer (BC).

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 284 BC patients receiving NACT. Associations between IBMs, treatment response, survival outcomes, and chemotherapy-related toxicities were analyzed.

Results: -IBMs were significantly associated with chemotherapy-related toxicities. Neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, NLR, SII, SIRI, and PIV (all p < 0.001) strongly predicted febrile neutropenia, along with doublet anti-HER2 therapy (p = 0.032). Predictors of neutropenia included neutrophil, monocyte, NLR, MLR, LMR, SII, SIRI, PIV (p < 0.05), HER2-positive status, and doublet anti-HER2 therapy. -Subgroup analyses showed IBM predictive performance varied by subtype. NLR predicted DFS in HER2+ patients (AUC = 0.839, p = 0.010); neutrophil count was linked to peripheral neuropathy in HR+/HER2− patients (p = 0.042). PLR and LMR showed excellent discrimination for febrile neutropenia in TNBC (AUCs > 0.92). In TNBC, MLR, SIRI, and PIV showed moderate-to-high discrimination for OS (AUCs 0.71–0.74). Neutrophil (p = 0.0058) and lymphocyte (p = 0.0248) levels were associated with pCR in HER2+ patients. HR+ subtypes showed limited IBM predictive value.

Conclusion: IBMs demonstrated strong predictive value for chemotherapy-related toxicities and showed subtype-specific relevance for survival and treatment response. These findings support the integration of molecular stratification to enhance the predictive utility of IBMs in breast cancer, highlighting their clinical potential in anticipating and managing treatment-related adverse events and guiding personalized supportive care strategies.

Outcome of T- Large Granular Lymphocyte Leukemia from a Tertiary Care Centre in North India

2025-11-26T04:33:24+00:00

Introduction: T-cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia (T-LGL) is a rare disorder with a frequency of less than 5% of the lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) . T-LGL is characterized by persistent increase in LGLs (2 to 20×109 /L) on peripheral blood in absence of a reactive cause.

Material and methods: In this retrospective study for a period of 66 months (January 2019 to June 2024), all the samples received in the flow cytometry lab with a suspicion of LPD were screened. A stain-lyse-wash protocol was used and samples were stained with Two to three tubes of 8-10 color combinations. The clinical and laboratory features of the patients diagnosed as T-LGL were retrieved from computerized Hospital Information System and were further analyzed.

Results: A total of 341 samples were analysed during this period which were diagnosed as B cell neoplasm 87%, T cell neoplasm 8%, NK-cell neoplasm 1% and reactive lymphoid proliferation 4%. The T LGL comprised of 10 (2.9%) cases. Mean age of presentation was 57.3 years, with a male:female ratio of 1.25:1. Approximately 60% patients had BM involvement, 50% had autoimmune disorder and 40% had splenomegaly. Patients were treated with corticosteroids, weekly methotrexate and cyclosporine, if required. 7/10(70%) patients are on follow up, are stable and in remission. Two patients died while one was lost to follow up.

Conclusion: The frequency of T LGL noted in our study was 2.9% of the lymphoproliferative disorders. T LGLs had an indolent course and responds well to treatment.

The Role of the Cadherin (CDH) Gene Family in the Carcinogenic Processes of Ovarian Cancer: A Comprehensive Bioinformatics Analysis

2025-11-26T04:38:37+00:00

Background: The persistent challenge of ovarian cancer as a major driver of cancer mortality in the female population stems largely from its tendency toward late-stage identification and frequent disease relapse. The cadherin (CDH) gene family, crucial for cell-cell adhesion, plays complex roles in cancer progression.

Objective: Bioinformatics analysis of the CDH gene family in ovarian cancer. Using multiple public databases.

Methodology: Transcriptome analysis of cadherin (CDH) gene family in ovarian cancer was performed using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2 (GEPIA2). Prognostic value of differentially expressed CDH genes was assessed using Kaplan-Meier plotter Overall Survival (OS) . Protein-level validation was performed using Human Protein Atlas (HPA) portal which provides immunohistochemistry (IHC). By using GSCALite web server, the assessment of immune cell infiltration was conducted to explore correlations between cadherin expression and tumor immune microenvironment and drug sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate candidate CDH genes as therapeutic response predictors.

Results: Our findings revealed significant differential expression of several CDH genes: CDH1 and CDH4 were downregulated while CDH2, CDH6, CDH11, and CDH23 were upregulated in ovarian cancer tissues. Survival analysis identified CDH6, CDH11, and CDH23 as adverse prognostic markers correlating with poorer overall and progression-free survival, while high CDH2 and CDH4 expression associated with improved survival. Genetic alteration analysis revealed diverse genomic changes across the CDH family, with protein expression data largely corroborating transcriptomic findings. Novel associations between CDH expression and drug sensitivity emerged as potential predictive biomarkers. CDH1 and CDH11 expression correlated with Paclitaxel and Dasatinib resistance, respectively, while CDH2 and CDH6 expression indicated sensitivity to PI3K and Src kinase inhibitors.

Conclusion: This study provides comprehensive molecular characterization of CDH family roles in ovarian cancer progression, prognosis, drug response, and immune regulation, establishing specific CDH members as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for ovarian cancer.

Comparative Evaluation of Modified Giemsa and Warthin-Starry Stains for Helicobacter pylori Detection and Density Grading Using the Updated Sydney System

2025-11-26T04:44:22+00:00

Objective: Helicobacter pylori is one of the main causes of chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, and stomach cancer. Accurate diagnosis of H. pylori infection is essential for effective treatment and prevention.

Methods: This research is an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional retrospective design that aims to compare histochemical special stains, Modified Giemsa, and Warthin-Starry for H. pylori Detection and Density Grading using the Updated Sydney System in 150 gastric biopsies of Chronic Gastritis at the Department of Anatomical Pathology, Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo General Hospital, Makassar, Indonesia.

Result: There was a significant difference in detection of H. pylori (p=0.001), Warthin-Starry detected more H. pylori positive 111 samples (74.00%) than Modified Giemsa positive 95 samples (63.30%) and there was a significant difference in Density Grading using the Updated Sydney System (p=0.001), Warthin-Starry staining showed a higher density score of Grade 2 (moderate) with 63 samples (42.00%), compared to Modified Giemsa, the most dominant density score of Grade 1 (mild) with 61 samples (40.70%).

Conclusion: Warthin-Starry detects more H. pylori compared to Modified Giemsa. Additionally, the Warthin-Starry yields higher Density Grading using the Updated Sydney System for Grade 2 (Moderate) compared to the Modified Giemsa, with a dominant grade at Grade 1 (Mild) in chronic gastritis. This highlights the importance of selecting the most appropriate histochemical staining method for accurate early diagnosis, where resource limitations restrict the use of advanced diagnostic modalities that may not be routinely available.

Novelty in Colorectal Cancer Biomarkers: The Predictive Value and Clinical Utility of the Carcinoembryonic Antigen and Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 1B1 Autoantibodies for Assessing Tumour Biology and the Cancer Stem Cell Burden

2025-11-26T05:09:57+00:00

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is responsible for nearly 10% of cancer cases and deaths and is emerging as one of the most prominent malignant diseases worldwide. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is the most widely used serum biomarker for CRC, but its limited sensitivity and specificity highlight the need for additional diagnostic and prognostic markers. The mitochondrial enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase 1B1 (ALDH1B1) is highly expressed in CRC and cancer stem cells (CSCs), representing a novel biomarker, especially as its overexpression triggers an autoantibody response detectable in a patient’s serum. This study aims to quantify serum concentration of CEA and ALDH1B1 autoantibodies in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and to investigate the relationship between them. It further seeks to evaluate their prognostic potential as circulating biomarkers for CRC. The underlying hypothesis proposes that elevated CEA and ALDH1B1 autoantibody levels are positively correlated and collectively reflect the underlying cancer stem cell (CSC) burden. This correlation is assessed through a predictive equation developed in the study, providing a novel, noninvasive indicator of tumor progression and aggressiveness.

Method: Blood samples were collected from 75 newly diagnosed CRC patients (stages II–IV) and 25 healthy controls. CEA and ALDH1B1 autoantibodies were measured using ELISA techniques. Statistical analyses include analysis of variance (ANOVA), paired t-tests, Duncan’s test, regression analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve assessments using SPSS software.

Results: The findings show significantly higher CEA and ALDH1B1 autoantibody levels in CRC patients compared to the controls, though neither marker varied significantly across tumour stages, emphasising their role as indicators of tumour biology rather than tumour burden. The regression analysis revealed a significant direct relationship between CEA and ALDH1B1 autoantibody levels (β = 0.026, p < 0.001), as CEA explains 87% of the variability in ALDH1B1 autoantibody levels. The ROC analysis indicated a good diagnostic performance for CEA (AUC = 0.88) and a fair performance for ALDH1B1 autoantibodies (AUC = 0.67).

Conclusion: The strong predictive relationship between CEA and ALDH1B1 autoantibodies suggests that CEA levels may indirectly reflect CSC activity, potentially guiding personalised treatment strategies targeting both bulk tumours and CSCs.

Investigation of the Relationship between the AKT1 rs1130233 (G>A) Polymorphism and the Risk of Breast Cancer in Iraqi Women

2025-11-26T05:18:06+00:00

Background: Genetic changes like as single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the AKT1 gene have been linked to carcinogenesis. The AKT kinases are important regulators of cell survival, proliferation, and apoptosis, and evidence suggests that the rs1130233 (G>A) SNP affects AKT1 expression and leads to breast cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the AKT1 rs1130233 (G>A) single-nucleotide polymorphism and the susceptibility to breast cancer in Iraqi women, and to evaluate its potential role as a diagnostic biomarker.

Methods: A case-control study was carried out on 200 people, comprising 100 breast cancer patients and 100 healthy controls. Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood samples and genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique.

Results: The wild-type homozygous GG genotype was much more common in healthy women (79%) than in patients (30%), indicating a preventive function against breast cancer. In contrast, the heterozygous GA (30%) and mutant homozygous AA (40%) genotypes were more common among patients, indicating a higher risk of developing breast cancer. Allele frequency analysis revealed that the A allele was linked to a greater incidence of breast cancer (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: The AKT1 rs1130233 (G>A) polymorphism is strongly linked to breast cancer risk in Iraqi women. The G/G genotype may provide protection, while the A allele increases susceptibility. These findings emphasize the potential use of the AKT1 polymorphism as a diagnostic biomarker, while further validation in larger and more diverse populations is suggested.

YAP1 Immunoexpression as a Biomarker of Histological Grade, Lymph Node Metastasis, and Lymphovascular Invasion in Invasive Breast Carcinoma

2025-11-26T05:22:33+00:00

Objective: This research seeks to assess the relationship between YAP1 expression and histological grading, lymphovascular invasion, and lymph node metastasis in patients with invasive breast cancer in Makassar, a study that has not been previously performed.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 100 mastectomy samples identified as invasive breast carcinoma at Dr. Wahidin Sudirohosodo Hospital, Makassar, Indonesia. YAP1 expression was assessed through immunohistochemistry and scored according to the immunoreactive score (IRS) method. A statistical evaluation was conducted using Fisher’s exact test.

Result: The average age of patients was 50.22 ± 10.20 years. YAP1 expression was positive in every instance, with 72% showing strong expression (+3), 25% exhibiting moderate expression (+2), and 3% demonstrating weak expression (+1). A significant correlation existed between YAP1 expression and histological grade (p=0.001), showing increased expression in grade 3 tumors. Nonetheless, no significant correlation was discovered between YAP1 expression and lymph node metastasis (p=0.912) or lymphovascular invasion (p=0.276).

Conclusion: YAP1 expression shows a strong correlation with histological grade in invasive breast cancer, indicating its potential as a biomarker for tumor aggressiveness. Nonetheless, YAP1 expression is not directly linked to lymph node metastasis or lymphovascular invasion.

Integrated Bioinformatics Reveals PLK1 as a Driver and Rapamycin as a Drug Candidate in Stage III–IV Prostate Cancer

2025-11-26T05:27:18+00:00

Background: Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies in men worldwide. This study aimed to identify differentially expressed genes associated with prostate cancer progression by integrating tumor stage and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels.

Methods: Microarray data from the GEO dataset (GSE116918) were analyzed using GEO2R based on gene expression levels, tumor stage, and PSA categories. The dataset comprised 51 stage I, 76 stage II, 92 stage III, and 4 stage IV tumors. Survival-associated genes were identified using GEPIA2. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed using OriginPro software. Copy number variation analysis and immune infiltration profiling were performed using GISTIC and TIMER tools. Molecular docking and dynamic simulations were performed using PyRx and NAMD, respectively.

Results: PLK1 expression was significantly higher in stage IV than in stage II prostate cancer, indicating its potential role in tumor progression. Survival and ROC analyses further supported the prognostic significance of PLK1 in this context, demonstrating its strong predictive accuracy in advanced-stage disease. In addition to its association with disease stage and PSA levels, PLK1 expression was linked to molecular characteristics, including CpG methylation and copy number alterations, as well as immune cell infiltration involving CD8⁺ and CD4⁺ T-cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and monocytes. Drug screening highlighted rapamycin as a potent PLK1 inhibitor, with strong binding affinity and structural stability, as confirmed by docking and molecular dynamics simulations.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that PLK1 may serve as a stage-specific biomarker and therapeutic target, particularly in advanced-stage prostate cancer.

Emerging Roles of lncRNA MSC-AS1 in Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms, Clinical Implications, and Therapeutic Potential

2025-10-26T06:42:05+00:00

Overview: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key regulators of tumor biology, affecting proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and treatment resistance. Among them, Musculin Antisense RNA 1 (MSC-AS1) has attracted increasing attention for its oncogenic roles across multiple cancers. This review summarizes current knowledge on MSC-AS1, emphasizing molecular mechanisms, clinical relevance, and therapeutic potential.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified studies published 2015–2024 that investigated MSC-AS1 in cancer. Eligible articles examined its functional roles, implicated signaling pathways, regulatory interactions (e.g., lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA axes), and diagnostic, prognostic, or therapeutic implications.

Results: Evidence consistently shows that MSC-AS1 is frequently upregulated in gastric, hepatic, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. Mechanistically, MSC-AS1 contributes to tumor progression mainly through lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA regulatory networks, promoting malignant phenotypes and therapeutic resistance. Clinically, elevated MSC-AS1 expression correlates with poor prognosis, supporting its utility as a biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis and as a candidate target for precision oncology.

Conclusion: MSC-AS1 functions as an oncogenic lncRNA across multiple gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary malignancies, driving disease through competitive regulatory networks and associating with adverse outcomes and resistance. Current evidence positions MSC-AS1 as a promising biomarker and a potential therapeutic target; future work should validate its clinical performance and evaluate targeted interventions against MSC-AS1-mediated pathways.

Pioneering AI Solutions for Cancer Subtype Classification through Gene Expression

2025-11-26T05:35:50+00:00

Improved diagnostic models for personalized Cancer profiling are required significantly, utilizing AI methods to enhance accuracy, support early detection, and inform targeted treatment strategies. Despite significant progress in cancer prediction, current approaches often struggle with issues of generalizability across diverse patient cohorts, computational inefficiencies, and managing heterogeneous data sources. This paper delves into the fast developing topic of AI-driven tumor class categorization utilizing expression of genes data. Focusing on machine learning (ML), explainable artificial intelligence (XAI), neural network, and transfer learning techniques. The integration of innovative AI methodologies is crucial for understanding complex genetic interactions, improving model interpretability through XAI, and enabling adaptive learning through transfer learning. This will allow medical practitioners to rely on AI-driven insights and provide strong, scalable solutions for everyday life applications in medicine. The analysis recognizes existing limitations, including the absence of established methods on cross-institutional sharing of information and the difficulties in maintaining model adaptation to different tumor subtypes. This work underscores the potential of AI to revolutionize cancer subtype classification, fostering advancements that could reshape personalized oncology, improve patient outcomes, and establish a new standard for precision medicine. Unlike prior reviews, this study goes beyond summarizing methods by synthesizing cross-cutting gaps across ML, neural network (NN), XAI, and transfer learning (TL) approaches. It further proposes a conceptual framework that integrates these methodologies to guide future research in developing clinically deployable and patient-centered cancer diagnostic systems.

Chemoprotective Horizons: Bioactive Molecules as Therapeutic Shields Against Cytotoxicity

2025-11-26T05:51:57+00:00

Chemotherapy remains a cornerstone in cancer management, but its lack of selectively between malignant and normal proliferating cells leads to widespread toxicities that significantly reduce patient quality of life and treatment adherence. Recent research has highlighted the promising role of naturally derived bioactive compounds in mitigating chemotherapy induced damage. These compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids, exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and organoprotective properties through diverse molecular pathways. Agents such as curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, betanin, theaflavin and thymoquinone have demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing oxidative stress, modulating inflammatory cytokines, stabilizing mitochondrial function, and preserving normal tissue architecture in preclinical and early clinical studies. Importantly, many of these compounds selectively protect normal cells without reducing the cytotoxic effect of chemotherapeutic agents on tumor cells. Advances in formulation technologies, such as nanoencapsulation and combination strategies, further enhance their bioavailability and clinical applicability. This review discusses the mechanistic basis, experimental evidence, and translational potential of bioactive compounds as cytoprotective agents in chemotherapy, underscoring their future role in integrative cancer care.

How to Design Genetic Biosensors for Medical Purposes?

2025-11-26T05:59:43+00:00

Genetic biosensors lead to a revolutionary integration of genetic engineering and biosensing techniques, suggesting high precision in molecular diagnostics and personalized medicine. These tools use nucleic acids and proteins to enabling early disease diagnosis, and real-time scanning of biological procedures like cancer. Their high sensitivity, specificity, and adaptability make them promising for clinical applications in spite of challenges in optimization and scalability. This review explores the design principles, technological advancements, and biomedical applications of genetic biosensors, focusing on their potential to improve healthcare through personalized medicine and more progress therapeutic interventions.

Survival Rate of Colorectal Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy based on Tumor Location and K-Ras Gene Mutation Status: A Systematic Review

2025-11-26T06:03:14+00:00

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a remarkable global health burden, considering its high morbidity and mortality. For both resectable and unresectable colorectal cancer (CRC), chemotherapy is the first-line option. The survival rate was significantly affected by the location of the tumor and the mutation status of the KRAS gene. This study aimed to systematically synthesize current evidence on how primary tumor location and KRAS mutations influence the survival of colorectal cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.

Methods: We performed a systematic search of the electronic databases with defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Independent reviews were performed by two reviewers of the literature that was included. Methodological quality of the studies included was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal methods. Information was obtained and qualitatively analyzed. The analysis was performed through a qualitative measure. P-value < 0.05 is considered statistically significant.

Results: A total of 11 studies were reviewed. All the studies reviewed reported improved quality of methodology. The qualitative synthesis suggested a trend toward worse survival for patients with right-sided tumors, although some studies reported no statistically significant difference between tumor locations. In contrast, the association between KRAS gene mutations and poorer survival outcomes appeared more consistent across studies. Overall, these findings indicate that KRAS mutations and, to a lesser extent, right-sided tumor location may predict unfavorable outcomes in chemotherapy-treated colorectal cancer patients.

Conclusion: KRAS mutations were linked to poorer survival, while right-sided tumor location showed a less consistent but generally unfavorable trend among chemotherapy-treated colorectal cancer patients.

Cancer Biology: Foundations for Gastrointestinal Oncology Nursing Practice

2025-11-26T06:55:37+00:00

Background: Gastrointestinal cancers including malignancies of the colon, rectum, stomach, pancreas, liver, and esophagus represent a significant global health burden with high morbidity and mortality. Advances in molecular oncology reveal that these cancers arise through complex genetic, epigenetic, microenvironmental, and metastatic processes. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for oncology nurses to support precision medicine and deliver effective, patient-centered care.

Methods: This literature review employed a structured thematic analysis to synthesize knowledge on cancer biology concepts relevant to gastrointestinal oncology nursing. Comprehensive database searches (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Google Scholar) targeted publications from 2000 to 2024 addressing genetic mutations, epigenetics, tumor microenvironment, metastasis, and nursing education. Eligible articles were critically reviewed and thematically coded to identify major themes and subthemes with clinical and nursing practice relevance.

Results: Three primary themes emerged: (1) Genetic and Epigenetic Alterations, including oncogene activation, tumor suppressor inactivation, microsatellite instability, and DNA methylation; (2) Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Evasion, encompassing stromal barriers, angiogenesis, immune suppression, and intercellular signaling; and (3) Mechanisms of Metastasis, detailing local invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, circulation, colonization, dormancy, and reactivation. Each theme includes nursing roles in patient education, decision-making support, therapy monitoring, and psychosocial care.

Conclusion: Integrating cancer biology knowledge into nursing practice is essential for anticipating patient needs, supporting shared decision-making, and managing advanced therapies in gastrointestinal oncology. Nurses must engage in ongoing education and interdisciplinary collaboration to navigate the evolving landscape of precision oncology and improve outcomes and quality of life for patients facing these complex cancers.