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Induction of Mesenchymal-Epithelial Transitions in Sarcoma Cells
Published on: April 7, 2017
Microenvironmental Targets in Sarcoma
1Department of Oncology-Pathology, Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden.
Abstract:
Sarcomas are rare malignant tumors affecting all age groups. They are typically classified according to their resemblance to corresponding normal tissue. Their heterogeneous features, for example, in terms of disease-driving genetic aberrations and body location, complicate both disease classification and development of novel treatment regimens. Many years of failure of improved patient outcome in clinical trials has led to the conclusion that novel targeted therapies are likely needed in combination with current multimodality regimens. Sarcomas have not, in contrast to the common carcinomas, been the subject of larger systematic studies on how tumor behavior relates to characteristics of the tumor microenvironment. There is consequently an urgent need for identifying suitable molecular targets, not only in tumor cells but also in the tumor microenvironment. This review discusses preclinical and clinical data about potential molecular targets in sarcomas. Studies on targeted therapies involving the tumor microenvironment are prioritized. A greater understanding of the biological context is expected to facilitate more successful design of future clinical trials in sarcoma.
Insights
Novel targeted therapies are crucial for improving outcomes in rare sarcoma cancers. This review prioritizes molecular targets within the tumor microenvironment to enhance future clinical trial success.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Translational Medicine
Background:
- Sarcomas are rare, heterogeneous malignant tumors impacting all age groups.
- Their classification and treatment development are complicated by diverse genetic aberrations and locations.
- Past clinical trials show limited success, indicating a need for novel targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review preclinical and clinical data on potential molecular targets in sarcomas.
- To prioritize targeted therapies focusing on the tumor microenvironment.
- To identify strategies for improving future sarcoma clinical trial design.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies on sarcoma molecular targets.
- Prioritization of research involving the tumor microenvironment.
- Analysis of existing data to inform future therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Identified numerous potential molecular targets in sarcoma cells and their microenvironment.
- Highlighted the critical role of the tumor microenvironment in sarcoma progression.
- Emphasized the need for combination therapies including targeted agents.
Conclusions:
- A deeper understanding of sarcoma biology, particularly the tumor microenvironment, is essential.
- Targeting the tumor microenvironment offers promising avenues for novel sarcoma therapies.
- Future clinical trials require more biologically informed designs for improved patient outcomes.
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