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A Three-Dimensional Spheroid Model to Investigate the Tumor-Stromal Interaction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Published on: September 30, 2021
Perspectives of Molecular Therapy-Targeted Mitochondrial Fission in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Hanwen Zhang1, Yanshuo Ye1, Wei Li1
1Department of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130033, China.
Abstract:
Current advances of molecular-targeting therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have improved the overall survival significantly, whereas the results still remain unsatisfied. Recently, much attention has been focused on organelles, such as the mitochondria, to reveal novel strategies to control the cancers. The mitochondria are vital organelles which supply energy and maintain metabolism in most of the eukaryotic cells. They not only execute critical bioenergetic and biosynthetic functions but also regulate ROS homeostasis and apoptosis. Existing in a dynamic equilibrium state, mitochondria constantly undergo the fission and fusion processes in normal situation. Increasing evidences have showed that mitochondrial fission is highly related to the diseases and cancers. Distinctive works have proved the significant effects of mitochondrial fission on HCC behaviors and the crosstalks with other molecular pathways. Here, we provide an overview of the mitochondrial fission and the link with HCC, emphasizing on the underlying molecular pathways and several novel materials that modulate HCC behaviors.
Insights
Mitochondrial fission, a process where mitochondria divide, is increasingly linked to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. Understanding this link offers new strategies for controlling HCC by targeting novel materials and molecular pathways.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatments show limited success.
- Mitochondria play crucial roles in cellular energy, metabolism, and apoptosis.
- Mitochondrial dynamics, including fission and fusion, are vital for cell function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of mitochondrial fission in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
- To highlight the molecular pathways involved in mitochondrial fission and HCC.
- To discuss novel materials targeting mitochondrial fission for HCC treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on mitochondrial fission and HCC.
- Analysis of molecular pathways connecting mitochondrial dynamics to cancer behavior.
- Identification of emerging therapeutic materials modulating mitochondrial fission.
Main Results:
- Mitochondrial fission is significantly associated with HCC progression and behavior.
- Specific molecular pathways demonstrate crosstalk between mitochondrial fission and HCC.
- Novel materials show potential in modulating HCC through mitochondrial targeting.
Conclusions:
- Mitochondrial fission is a critical factor in hepatocellular carcinoma.
- Targeting mitochondrial fission pathways presents a promising therapeutic strategy for HCC.
- Further research into novel materials could lead to improved HCC treatments.
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