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Updated: Jun 14, 2025
08:49
A 3D Organotypic Melanoma Spheroid Skin Model
Published on: May 18, 2018
15.7K
The Dynamically Evolving Cell States and Ecosystem from Benign Nevi to Melanoma
Xin Li1,2,3,4,5, Xiyuan Zhang1, Shuang Zhao1
1Hunan Key Laboratory of Skin Cancer and Psoriasis, Department of Dermatology, Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Health and Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
Summary
This study reveals four melanocyte states during nevus to melanoma progression. Key molecular targets like midkine and immune checkpoints were identified, aiding in predicting melanoma malignancy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Melanoma arises from nevi in approximately 30% of cases.
- Mechanisms driving nevus to melanoma transition are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate dynamic changes during nevus to melanoma progression.
- To identify molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.
Main Methods:
- Single-cell transcriptome sequencing of paired nevus and melanoma tissues.
- Analysis of melanocyte subpopulations and their functional states.
- Development of a predictive model using bulk RNA sequencing data.
Main Results:
- Identified four distinct melanocyte states during malignant transformation.
- Upregulation of IFN regulatory factor 1 in nevi, potentially enhancing immune surveillance.
- High expression of HLA-E in malignant melanoma, suggesting immune evasion via NK cell inhibition.
- Increased midkine expression in malignant melanocytes, promoting invasion and angiogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Provides a high-resolution atlas of melanoma malignant transformation from nevi.
- Highlights potential molecular targets for early detection and intervention.
- Developed a model for predicting patient prognosis and malignant progression.
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