Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 18, 2026
Therapy Testing in a Spheroid-based 3D Cell Culture Model for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: April 20, 2018
Personalized and targeted therapy of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: an update
Yongjing Liu1,2,3, Zhaohui Xiong3, Andrea Beasley3
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, 105th Hospital of PLA, Hefei, Anhui Province, China.
Abstract:
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a deadly disease that requires extensive research. In this review, we update recent progress in the research area of targeted therapy for ESCC. SOX2 and its associated proteins (e.g., ΔNP63α), which regulate lineage survival of ESCC cells, are proposed as therapeutic targets. It is believed that targeting the lineage-survival mechanism may be more effective than targeting other mechanisms. With the advent of a new era of personalized targeted therapy, there is a need to move from the tumor-centric model into an organismic model.
Insights
Targeting SOX2 and associated proteins offers a promising new avenue for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) treatment. This approach focuses on the lineage-survival mechanism, potentially improving therapeutic effectiveness in personalized medicine.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Therapeutics
Background:
- Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains a significant global health challenge.
- Current research extensively explores novel therapeutic strategies for ESCC.
- Targeted therapies are increasingly important in personalized cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in targeted therapy for ESCC.
- To highlight SOX2 and its associated proteins as potential therapeutic targets.
- To discuss the shift towards an organismic model in cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent research on ESCC targeted therapy.
- Analysis of the role of SOX2 and its associated proteins in ESCC.
- Discussion of therapeutic strategies targeting lineage-survival mechanisms.
Main Results:
- SOX2 and proteins like ΔNP63α are crucial for ESCC cell lineage survival.
- Targeting these lineage-survival mechanisms shows potential for enhanced efficacy.
- A paradigm shift from tumor-centric to organismic models is proposed for personalized therapy.
Conclusions:
- SOX2 and associated proteins represent viable therapeutic targets for ESCC.
- Targeting lineage-survival pathways may offer superior treatment outcomes.
- The future of ESCC therapy lies in personalized, organismic approaches.
Related Concept Videos
02:50Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
01:21Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure...
01:27Tumor Immunotherapy
02:49Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...