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Updated: Dec 30, 2025

A Model for Perineural Invasion in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: January 5, 2017
Nerves in cancer
Ali H Zahalka1,2,3, Paul S Frenette4,5,6
1Ruth L. and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
Abstract:
The contribution of nerves to the pathogenesis of malignancies has emerged as an important component of the tumour microenvironment. Recent studies have shown that peripheral nerves (sympathetic, parasympathetic and sensory) interact with tumour and stromal cells to promote the initiation and progression of a variety of solid and haematological malignancies. Furthermore, new evidence suggests that cancers may reactivate nerve-dependent developmental and regenerative processes to promote their growth and survival. Here we review emerging concepts and discuss the therapeutic implications of manipulating nerves and neural signalling for the prevention and treatment of cancer.
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