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Updated: Sep 20, 2025
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In Vivo Inhibition of MicroRNA to Decrease Tumor Growth in Mice
Published on: August 23, 2019
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PROS1-MERTK Axis Drives Tumor Microenvironment Crosstalk and Progression in Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma
Wenqian Zhang1, Ye Zhang2, Zhu Liu1
1Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital, Shenyang, 110042, China.
Summary
Researchers identified the PROS1-MERTK signaling pathway as a key driver of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) progression. This discovery offers potential new targets for treating aggressive forms of thyroid cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) incidence is rising, with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) comprising over half of cases.
- While many PTMCs are indolent, some progress, necessitating biomarkers for risk stratification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify biomarkers and understand mechanisms driving PTMC progression.
- To characterize the cellular ecosystem and intercellular communication in PTC progression.
Main Methods:
- Single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics on surgical tissue specimens.
- In vivo and in vitro experimental validation.
Main Results:
- PTMC progression involves multi-directional evolutionary patterns and altered intercellular communication.
- The PROS1-MERTK signaling axis was identified as pivotal in PTMC progression.
- NFYB and FOXP2 activate PROS1 transcription in fibroblasts, promoting progression via MERTK/WNT/TGF-β signaling.
Conclusions:
- The PROS1/MERTK axis is a critical regulator of PTMC progression within the tumor microenvironment.
- Targeting the PROS1/MERTK axis may offer therapeutic strategies for aggressive PTMC.
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