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Modeling Brain Metastasis by Internal Carotid Artery Injection of Cancer Cells
Published on: August 2, 2022
Targeting metastatic cancer
Karuna Ganesh1,2, Joan Massagué3
1Molecular Pharmacology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY, USA. ganeshk@mskcc.org.
Abstract:
Despite recent therapeutic advances in cancer treatment, metastasis remains the principal cause of cancer death. Recent work has uncovered the unique biology of metastasis-initiating cells that results in tumor growth in distant organs, evasion of immune surveillance and co-option of metastatic microenvironments. Here we review recent progress that is enabling therapeutic advances in treating both micro- and macrometastases. Such insights were gained from cancer sequencing, mechanistic studies and clinical trials, including of immunotherapy. These studies reveal both the origins and nature of metastases and identify new opportunities for developing more effective strategies to target metastatic relapse and improve patient outcomes.
Insights
Metastasis, the spread of cancer, causes most cancer deaths. New research reveals the unique biology of metastasis-initiating cells, offering hope for better treatments targeting cancer spread and improving patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Immunotherapy
Background:
- Metastasis is the primary driver of cancer mortality despite therapeutic advancements.
- Metastasis-initiating cells possess unique biological characteristics enabling distant tumor growth and immune evasion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent progress in understanding and treating both micro- and macrometastases.
- To highlight therapeutic opportunities for targeting metastatic relapse.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cancer sequencing data.
- Mechanistic studies of metastasis.
- Review of clinical trials, including immunotherapy.
Main Results:
- Uncovered unique biology of metastasis-initiating cells.
- Identified mechanisms of immune evasion and microenvironment co-option.
- Gained insights into the origins and nature of metastases.
Conclusions:
- Recent progress provides new therapeutic avenues for treating metastases.
- Targeting metastasis-initiating cells and metastatic relapse can improve patient outcomes.
- Further research and clinical trials are crucial for developing effective anti-metastasis strategies.
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