Unexpected tumor reduction in metastatic colorectal cancer patients during SARS-Cov-2 infection
Alessandro Ottaiano1, Stefania Scala2, Crescenzo D'Alterio2
1SSD-Innovative Therapies for Abdominal Metastases, Department of Abdominal Oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, IRCCS 'G. Pascale,' via M. Semmola, Naples 80131, Italy.
Abstract:
Herein, we describe three patients affected by metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) experiencing infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) and reduction of disease burden during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) course. Insights into tumor-associated angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-2 expression and lymphocyte function suggest a correlation between host/SARS-Cov-2 infection and tumor burden reduction. This may shed new light into (a) the infection mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 virus and (b) the multiple aspects of a composite antiviral immune response with potential paradoxical and unexpected applications.
Insights
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection correlated with reduced metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) burden in three patients. This suggests a potential link between the host immune response to SARS-CoV-2 and cancer progression.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) presents significant treatment challenges.
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
- The interaction between viral infections and cancer progression is complex.
Observation:
- Three patients with mCRC were infected with SARS-CoV-2.
- These patients experienced a reduction in their mCRC disease burden during their COVID-19 illness.
- Tumor-associated angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-2 expression and lymphocyte function were analyzed.
Findings:
- A correlation was observed between SARS-CoV-2 infection and a reduced tumor burden in mCRC patients.
- Host immune response to SARS-CoV-2 may influence cancer progression.
- Insights suggest a potential link between ACE-2 expression, lymphocyte activity, and tumor reduction.
Implications:
- This finding may offer new perspectives on SARS-CoV-2 infection mechanisms.
- It highlights the multifaceted nature of antiviral immune responses.
- Potential paradoxical applications in cancer treatment warrant further investigation.
