Liver Cancer Research Articles

Effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on liver function in patients with hepatitis B

ObjectiveTo investigate the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on liver function and prognosis in patients with HBV infection.MethodsA total of 154 HBV-positive patients (HBV ( +) group) and 154 HBV-negative patients (HBV (-) group) diagnosed with COVID-19 at Taizhou Hospital between December 10, 2022, and January 31, 2023, were included in this study. Clinical characteristics, treatment, and laboratory findings were collected from patients at three time points: before (T1), during (T2), and at the time of discharge (T3) from SARS-CoV-2 infection.ResultsCompared to the HBV (-) group, the HBV ( +) group had a longer hospital stay (15 (9–22) days vs. 9 (5–16) days). Longitudinal comparisons of laboratory indicators from T1 to T3 showed a continuous decline in TP and ALB levels and a continuous increase in PT and TT levels in the HBV ( +) group. BUN levels increased during T2 and decreased thereafter. These differences were considered statistically significant (P < 0.05). Notably, the HBV ( +) group had a higher proportion of indicators elevated > 3 ULN from T1 to T2, including ALT (1.95%/5.19%), AST (3.25%/12.99%), ALP (1.95%/3.25%), GGT (4.55%/9.09%), TBIL (6.49%/9.09%), and DBIL (18.18%/22.73%). In the HBV (-) group, the elevations were mainly concentrated within 1–2 ULN, including AST (12.99%/22.08%), DBIL (10.39%/21.43%), BUN (12.99%/22.08%), CREA (20.13%/29.22%), and PLT (7.79%/14.94%). Furthermore, the incidence of liver injury from T1 to T3 was higher in the HBV ( +) group compared to the HBV (-) group (15.7% (20/127) vs. 7.2% (11/152), P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that liver cirrhosis (HR = 4.847, 95% CI: 1.224–19.20, P = 0.025) and liver cancer (HR = 8.333, 95% CI: 2.156–32.209, P = 0.002) were independent risk factors for liver injury in the presence of SARS-CoV-2 infection.ConclusionSARS-CoV-2 infection has a higher proportion of liver injury in HBV-infected patients, affecting hepatic protein synthesis function. Those with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma are at higher risk of severe liver injury.

The debate between electricity and heat, efficacy and safety of irreversible electroporation and radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of liver cancer: A meta-analysis

Abstract Both irreversible electroporation (IRE) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are viable ablation methods for localized treatment of liver tumors. We conducted a meta-analysis to access the efficacy and safety of IRE and RFA in liver cancer treatment. Clinical studies on IRE and RFA for the treatment of liver cancer were collected from PubMed and CNKI until June 2023. We screened the literature for ablation success rates at 1 month post-operation, extracting keywords such as “ablation success rate,” “technical success rate,” “recurrence rate,” and “complication” for meta-analysis. A total of 37 articles were included: 24 related to RFA involving 1,685 cases and 13 related to IRE involving 524 cases. The results demonstrate that ablation success rates at post-operative 1 month for IRE and RFA were 86% (95% CI: 82–89%) and 87% (95% CI: 81–92%), respectively. Technical success rates were 96% (95% CI: 88–100%) and 99% (95% CI: 96–100%). In addition, the recurrence rate was 16% (95% CI: 12–22%) in RFA group and 16% (95% CI: 9–23%) in IRE group. In terms of safety, the RFA had a complication rate of 28% (95% CI: 10–50%) and the IRE had a rate of 26% (95% CI: 13–43%). In conclusion, IRE and RFA exhibit similar ablation success rates at 1 month post-operation and comparable complication rates, making them both safe and effective treatment options.

Low Expression of FAM96B is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Recently, studies on FAM96B functions mainly focused on its role in maintaining the normal physiological function of cells. However, the clinical implications of FAM96B in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are still unclear. FAM96B mRNA expression was detected in human HCC tissues and the matched nontumorous tissues by quantitative real-time reverse transcription (qRT-PCR) and then validated in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Immunohistochemistry assay (IHC) was performed on all 137 cases of HCC samples to examine the protein level of FAM96B. Subsequently, the associations between FAM96B expression and clinicopathological parameters and prognosis were further analyzed. The mRNA level of FAM96B was found to be significantly lower in HCC tissues compared to non-tumorous tissues, as observed in both the local hospital and TCGA database.Immunohistochemistry assay analysis revealed a decrease in FAM96B expression in 78 out of 137 cases, which was significantly associated with larger tumor size, higher Barcelona clinic liver cancer or Child stage, and early distant metastasis. Patients with low FAM96B levels tended to have an unfavorable disease-free and overall survival. Moreover, FAM96B was identified as an independent predictor of patient prognosis in both univariate and multivariate survival analyses. Mechanistically, FAM96B was found to inhibit cancer progression by inducing apoptosis in liver cancer cells and inhibiting their growth. Our findings provide the first evidence suggesting the involvement of FAM96B in the progression of HCC. Additionally, FAM96B could potentially serve as a marker for tumor recurrence and prognosis in HCC patients.

A real-world disproportionality analysis of FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) events for ramucirumab

ABSTRACT Background Ramucirumab (IMC-1121B) is a fully human immunoglobulin G1 monoclonal antibody, approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating various cancers, including gastric, colorectal, liver, and non-small cell lung cancer. This study aimed to investigate the adverse events (AEs) associated with ramucirumab by utilizing data mining techniques on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Methods We collected ramucirumab-related data from the FAERS database, spanning from January 2014 to June 2023. Our analysis incorporated both Frequentist and Bayesian methodologies in disproportionality analysis to determine the relationship between the drug and specific AEs. Results Among the 14,605,547 reports in FAERS database, 12,692,407 were identified as primary suspected AEs related to ramucirumab. These AEs involved 26 different organ systems, with 24 significant disproportionality Preferred Terms (PTs) identified across four algorithms. Notably, unexpected significant AEs, such as peripheral neuropathy, hemolytic uremic syndrome, rectal stenosis, anaphylactic shock, bladder tamponade, hydronephrosis, and spontaneous pneumothorax, were also observed. Conclusion This study makes a significant contribution to the field by emphasizing the importance of long-term monitoring of approved agents to further expand on potential adverse events and to distinguish between events that are disease-related versus those more directly related to the particular treatment.

Analysis of Current Status and Influencing Factors of Psychological Distress Tolerance in Liver Cancer Patients after Interventional Therapy

Analysis of Current Status and Influencing Factors of Psychological Distress Tolerance in Liver Cancer Patients after Interventional Therapy

Overexpression of PDSS2-Del2 in HCC promotes tumor metastasis by interacting with macrophages

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent solid tumors worldwide. According to the Global Cancer Statistics 2020, liver cancer remains the third cause of cancer death globally. Despite significant advances in systemic therapy, HCC still has one of the worst prognoses due to its frequent recurrence and metastasis. Previously we found that PDSS2-Del2 (prenyl diphosphate synthase subunit 2 with exon 2 deletion), a novel variant of PDSS2, could promote HCC metastasis and angiogenesis via activating NF-κB. In this study, we elucidate a novel mechanism by which PDSS2-Del2 enhances HCC metastasis. The overexpression of PDSS2-Del2 in HCC cells promotes the ubiquitination and degradation of SKOR1, consequently heightening SMAD3 phosphorylation. Subsequently, the expression and secretion of MST1 (macrophage stimulatory protein 1) are upregulated, resulting in enhanced recruitment of macrophages into tumor tissues where they differentiate into M2-type macrophages. Co-culture with PDSS2-Del2 overexpressed HCC cells activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in macrophages, and more MMP2 and MMP9 were secreted, which facilitated HCC cell dissemination. Our study elucidates a novel molecular mechanism by which PDSS2-Del2 promotes HCC metastasis, which may contribute to the development of effective HCC clinical treatment and prevent tumor metastasis. Furthermore, MST1 could be a potential therapeutic target, and MST1 inhibitors might be integrated into clinical practice for HCC patients with high expression of PDSS2-Del2.

Digoxigenin activates autophagy in hepatocellular carcinoma cells by regulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is recognized as a highly malignant tumor. Targeted combination immunotherapy, the initially approved regimen, is compromised by adverse side effects and low response rates during clinical treatment. Traditional Chinese medicine and its derived natural compounds, known for their anticancer effects, offer advantages of low toxicity and cost. In this study, we performed high-throughput phenotypic screening in vitro to identify promising anti-HCC drugs. Among 1,444 bioactive compounds, digoxigenin (DIG) was found to significantly impede HCC cell progression. We validated DIG’s therapeutic effects through assays such as cell counting by CCK8, lactate dehydrogenase, and colony formation. Analyses including transmission electron microscopy, western blotting, and immunofluorescence demonstrated that DIG inhibits HCC cell proliferation via autophagy. Network pharmacology and molecular docking studies suggest that DIG targets the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Comparative treatments of Hep3B and Huh7 cells with DIG or mTOR inhibitors revealed similar inhibitory impacts, indicating that DIG induces autophagy by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. In vivo studies confirmed that DIG halts the growth of subcutaneous xenograft tumors. In conclusion, DIG represents a potential HCC treatment by modulating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway to induce autophagy. This research, via phenotypic screening, accelerates drug discovery and the development of novel therapies targeting the underlying mechanisms of liver cancer.

Health risk assessment of aflatoxin M1 exposure through traditional dairy products in Fasa, Iran.

Milk and dairy products are an important source of essential nutrients for human health. However, contamination of these foods poses a significant public health concern. In this study, risk assessment of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) exposure associated with the consumption of traditional milk and dairy products in Fasa, Fars Province, Iran, was carried out. A total of 180 samples, comprising raw milk, boiled milk, cheese, yoghurt, as well as Doogh and Kashk, two traditional fermented milk-based products, were collected during two seasons of summer and winter and then analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The findings indicated that 85.55% of all samples were contaminated with AFM1 with the mean concentration of positive samples as 251.15 ± 71.97ng/kg (1.10-453.50ng/kg). The results also showed that in 68.88% of tested samples, the toxin concentration exceeded the limit set by the national standard of Iran and the European Union standard. Dietary exposure value calculated for the study population was 0.13ng/kg BW/day. Based on calculations resulting from risk characterization, hazard index (HI), liver cancer risk (LCR), and margin of exposure (MOE) for AFM1 were 0.67, 7.6 × 10-4, and 15,291, respectively. For yoghurt consumers, results showed a significant risk for the study population regarding non-carcinogenic and carcinogenicity hazard (HI > 1, LCR > 10-4, MOE < 10,000). Yoghurt showed the highest contribution rate for AFM1 exposure in various dairy products due to its higher consumption rates, followed by milk. Based on these results, there are needs for rigorous monitoring and control of cattle feeds to decrease the risk of contamination with aflatoxins.

Eco-friendly green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from guajava leaves extract for controlling organophosphorus pesticides hazards, characterization, and in-vivo toxicity assessment

This study explores an eco-friendly approach to mitigate risks associated with organophosphorus insecticides, particularly Chlorpyrifos, by synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Psidium guajava leaf extract and preparing a nanocomposite (AgNPs/S18) with Chlorpyrifos pesticide. The green-synthesized AgNPs and AgNPs/S18 nanocomposite were characterized using various analytical techniques, confirming the successful synthesis of AgNPs with an average size of 37 nm and forming a stable nanocomposite. Antibacterial assays demonstrated significant activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with AgNPs showing an 87.8% reduction and the nanocomposite achieving a 72% reduction in bacterial population. Cytotoxicity evaluations on normal liver and liver cancer cell lines revealed enhanced cytotoxicity of the nanocomposite compared to AgNPs alone, suggesting potential applications in targeted therapies. In vivo studies on rats revealed the protective effects of AgNPs and the nanocomposite against Chlorpyrifos-induced toxicity in liver and kidney tissues. Histopathological and ultrastructural analyses showed both treatments, particularly the nanocomposite, significantly mitigated cellular damage caused by Chlorpyrifos exposure. These findings suggest that green-synthesized AgNPs and their nanocomposite with Chlorpyrifos offer a promising approach to reducing pesticide hazards while maintaining efficacy. This research contributes to developing safer alternatives in pest management, addressing the need for more environmentally friendly agricultural practices while protecting human health and ecosystems.

Application of Mendelian randomized research method in oncology research: bibliometric analysis

BackgroundCancer has always been a difficult problem in the medical field, and with the gradual deepening of Genome-wide association studies (GWAS), Mendelian randomization methods have been increasingly used to study cancer pathogenesis. In this study, we examine the literature on Mendelian cancer, summarize the status of the research, and analyze the development trends in the field.MethodsPublications on “Mendelian Randomization - Cancer” were retrieved and downloaded from the Web of Science Core Collection database. CiteSpace 6.2.R4, VOSviewer 1.6.19, Scimago Graphica 1.0.38, Bibliometrix R-package, and a bibliometric online analysis platform were used for data analysis and visualization. An in-depth analysis of country or region, authors, journals, keywords, and references was performed to provide insights into the content related to the field.ResultsA total of 836 articles were included in the analysis; 643 authors from 72 countries had published articles related to the field. China and Harvard University (among countries and institutions, respectively) had the highest number of articles. Martin, Richard M and Smith, George Davey were the largest contributors. A total of 27 cancers have been studied, with breast, colorectal, and liver cancers being the most studied.ConclusionThis study is the first to use bibliometric methods to visualize the application of Mendelian randomization analysis in the field of cancer, revealing research trends and research frontiers in the field. This information will provide a strong reference for cancer researchers and epidemiologic researchers.

Health risk assessment of dietary aflatoxin B1 exposure in common food matrices in Vietnam

AbstractAflatoxins, potent carcinogenic mycotoxins produced by Aspergillus species, persist in various foods, posing significant health risks upon consumption. This study assesses dietary aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) exposure in Vietnam using Margin of Exposure (MOE) and Hazard Index (HI) to evaluate risk levels in peanuts, chili powder, corn, and raisins. AFB1 levels were quantified by UPLC-FLD. AFB1 was detected in 71.5% of chili powder, 29.3% of peanuts, and 26.0% of corn samples, with no detectable levels in raisins. Peanuts and corn kernels were classified as high-risk, with MOE values below 10,000 (peanuts: 25.8–56.6; corn: 42.3–92.6) and HI values exceeding 1, potentially contributing to 20.4–44.7 and 12.5–27.3 liver cancer cases per 100,000 adults, respectively. In contrast, chili powder had MOE values between 3,208 and 7,021 and HI below 1, indicating a low public health risk. Raisins were deemed safe with MOE over 200,000 and HI at 0.01. Results also indicated higher cancer risk for women and lean individuals consuming the same AFB1 levels. These findings underscore the need for focused risk management strategies to mitigate AFB1 exposure and protect public health in Vietnam.

Targeting liver cancer stem cells: the prognostic significance of MRPL17 in immunotherapy response

BackgroundLiver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) ranks as the foremost cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and its early detection poses considerable challenges. Current prognostic indicators, including alpha-fetoprotein, have notable limitations in their clinical utility, thereby underscoring the necessity for discovering new biomarkers to improve early diagnosis and enable personalized treatment options.MethodThis investigation employed single-cell analysis techniques to identify stem cell-associated genes and assess their prognostic significance for LIHC patients, as well as the efficacy of immunotherapy, utilizing nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF) cluster analysis. A diagnostic model for LIHC was developed and validated through multiple datasets and various machine learning clustering methods. The XGBOOST algorithm identified MRPL17 as the most significant prognostic gene among those associated with stem cells. Additionally, the research explores the relationship between MRPL17 expression and immune cell infiltration. Immunofluorescence staining of LIHC tissue samples was conducted to evaluate the expression and prognostic value of MRPL17, as well as its correlation with KI67.ResultsThrough single-cell analysis, this study identified 14 essential stem cell-related genes, highlighting their significance in the diagnosis, prognostication, and potential treatment strategies for LIHC patients. Various machine learning algorithms indicated that MRPL17 is particularly associated with patient prognosis and responses to immunotherapy. Furthermore, experimental results demonstrate that MRPL17 is upregulated in LIHC and correlates with poor prognosis, as well as positively correlating with KI67.ConclusionCancer stem cells are pivotal in the mechanisms of immune evasion within the tumor microenvironment and have a substantial impact on treatment results. This study experimentally validated MRPL17 as a promising prognostic biomarker, emphasizing the need to target liver cancer stem cells to improve patient prognosis and enhance treatment effectiveness.

Use of traditional Chinese medicine bezoars and bezoar-containing preparations in hepatocarcinoma

This manuscript used network pharmacology and experimental verification to analyze the anti-hepatocarcinoma mechanism of action of bezoars in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), discovering that it can affect the immune cells within the tumor microenvironment and related pathways to produce inhibitory effects in liver cancer. In TCM, bezoars have a unique therapeutic advantage in the prevention and treatment of tumors. They play an anti-tumorigenic role by regulating the immune microenvironment through multi-component, multi-target and multi-pathway mechanisms. With the application of nanotechnology, bezoars and their compound preparations have been developed into anti-cancer drugs with unique therapeutic advantages, providing novel treatment options for tumor patients.

Efficacy and safety of transhepatic arterial chemoembolization with drug-loaded microspheres in unresectable primary liver cancer

BACKGROUND Transhepatic arterial chemoembolization (TACE), as a local treatment, has been widely used in the treatment of unresectable liver cancer. The introduction of drug carrier microspheres has brought new hope for the therapeutic effect of TACE. Microspheres can realize the slow release and directional delivery of drugs, reduce systemic toxicity and improve local curative effect. AIM To compare the effectiveness of traditional transcatheter arterial chemoembolization against microsphere-assisted transcatheter arterial chemoembolization in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma that is incurable. METHODS We searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CNKI databases for clinical trials of drug-luting beads TACE (DEB-TACE) vs conventional TACE (cTACE) for the treatment of unresectable liver cancer. We screened references based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and then selected valid data for meta-analysis using RevMan 53 software. The complete response (CR) rate, partial response (PR) rate, postoperative stable disease (SD) rate, and 6-month and 12-month survival rates were compared. RESULTS A total of 12 articles were included, including 1177 patients, 519 of whom received DEB-TACE and 658 of whom received cTACE. The CR rate in the DEB-TACE group was much greater than that in the cTACE group [relative risk (RR) = 1.42, 95%CI: 1.18–1.72, P = 0.0002]. The 12-month survival rate significantly increased (RR = 1.09; 95%CI: 1.01- 1.17, P = 0.03); the PR rate (RR = 1.13; 95%CI: 0.97-1.30, P = 0.12); the SD rate (RR = 0.82; 95%CI: 0.64-1.05, P = 0.12); and the 6-month survival rate (RR = 1.05; 95%CI: 1.00-1.10, P = 0.07). There was no significant difference (P &lt; 0.05). CONCLUSION Compared with those of iodized oil TACE, the drug-loaded microspheres tended to have therapeutic advantages.

Multi-clustering study on the association between human leukocyte antigen-DP-DQ and hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis in Viet Nam

BACKGROUND Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II molecules are cell surface receptor proteins found on antigen-presenting cells. Polymorphisms and mutations in the HLA gene can affect the immune system and the progression of hepatitis B. AIM To study the relation between rs2856718 of HLA-DQ , rs3077, and rs9277535 of HLA-DP , hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS In this case-control study, the genotypes of these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were screened in 315 healthy controls, 471 chronic hepatitis B patients, 250 patients with HBV-related liver cirrhosis, and 251 patients with HCC using TaqMan real-time PCR. We conducted Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and linkage disequilibrium tests on the genotype distributions of rs2856718, rs3077, and rs9277535 before hierarchical clustering analysis to build the complex interaction between the markers in each patient group. RESULTS The physical distance separating these SNPs was 29816 kB with the disequilibrium (D’) values ranging from 0.07 to 0.34. The close linkage between rs3077 and rs9277535 was attributed to a distance of 21 kB. The D’ value decreased from moderate in the healthy control group (D’ = 0.50, P &lt; 0.05) to weak in the hepatic disease group (D’ &lt; 0.3, P &lt; 0.05). In a combination of the three variants rs2856718, rs3077, and rs9277535, the A allele decreased hepatic disease risk [A-A-A haplotype, risk ratio (RR) = 0.44 (0.14; 1.37), P &lt; 0.05]. The G allele had the opposite effect [G-A/G-G haplotype, RR = 1.12 (1.02; 1.23), P &lt; 0.05]. In liver cancer cases, the A-A-A/G haplotype increased the risk of HCC by 1.58 (P &lt; 0.05). CONCLUSION Rs9277535 affects liver fibrosis progression due to HBV infection, while rs3077 is associated with a risk of HBV-related HCC. The link between rs2856718, rs3077, and rs9277535 and disease risk was determined using a multi-clustering analysis.

Folic Acid-Targeted Mixed Pluronic Micelles for Delivery of Triptolide

The present study aimed to explore an ideal delivery system for triptolide (TPL) by utilizing the thin-film hydration method to prepare drug-loaded, folate-modified mixed pluronic micelles (FA–F-127/F-68–TPL). Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy showed that the drug-loaded micelles had a spherical shape with a small particle size, with an average of 30.7 nm. Cell viability experiments showed that FA–F-127/F-68–TPL significantly reduced HepG2 cell viability, exhibiting strong cytotoxicity. Its cytotoxicity was markedly enhanced compared with bare TPL. Nile red (Nr) was used as a model drug to prepare FA–F-127/F-68–Nr to further validate its tumor-targeting and cellular uptake capability. After coincubation with HepG2 cells, a multifunctional microplate reader showed that intracellular fluorescence intensity significantly increased, indicating that FA–F-127/F-68–Nr could more effectively enter the cells. A nude mouse model of subcutaneous hepatocellular carcinoma was constructed. Following tail vein injection of FA–F-127/F-68–Nr, the fluorescence imaging system showed that FA–F127/F-68–Nr could significantly target tumor tissue, and even if entering the small-sized tumor was challenging, it could be excreted through urine. Nude mice with subcutaneous hepatocellular carcinoma were treated with tail vein injections of FA–F-127/F-68–TPL (45 µg/kg) every other day for 21 days. The results showed that the growth of the transplanted tumors was significantly slowed, with no significant difference compared with bare TPL. In summary, the FA–F-127/F-68–TPL exhibits the advantages of low cost, excellent biological properties, active/passive targeting capabilities, notable cytotoxicity against liver cancer cells, and significant inhibition of transplanted hepatocellular carcinoma growth. Significantly, the FA–F-127/F-68–TPL, despite challenges in targeting tumors with an insignificant EPR effect, can be efficiently excreted via the kidneys, thereby preventing the release of the drug during prolonged circulation and potential damage to normal tissues. Therefore, FA–F-127/F-68–TPL represents a promising antitumor drug delivery system.

Comparative analysis of cancer statistics in China and the United States in 2024.

Cancer patterns in China are becoming similar to those in the United States (US). Comparing the recent cancer profiles, trends, and determinants in China and the US can provide useful reference data. This study used open-source data. We used GLOBOCAN 2022 cancer estimates and United Nations population estimates to calculate cancer cases and deaths in both countries during 2024. Data on cancer incidence and mortality trends were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program and National Centre for Health Statistics in the US and cancer registry reports of the National Cancer Center (NCC) of China. Data from the Global Burden of Disease study (GBD) and a decomposition approach were used to estimate the contributions of four determinants to the change in cancer deaths. In 2024, there are an estimated 3,246,625 and 2,510,597 new cancer cases and 1,699,066 and 640,038 cancer deaths in China and the US, respectively. The highest estimated cancer cases are lung cancer in China and breast cancer in the US. The age-standardized incidence rates of lung and colorectal cancer in the US, and stomach, liver, and esophageal cancer in China have decreased, but the incidence rates of liver cancer in the US and colorectal cancer, prostate cancer in men, and cervical cancer in women in China have increased. Increases in the adult population size and population aging are main reasons for the increase in cancer deaths; case fatality rates are a main reason for the decrease in cancer deaths in both countries. China has made progress in cancer control but lags the US. Considering the transformation in China's pattern of cancers epidemiology, it is imperative to develop stronger policies by adopting the cancer prevention and control strategies used in the US to address population aging and curb growing cancer trends.

Intraductal ablation therapy for malignant biliary obstruction.

Malignant biliary obstruction is usually attributed to the enlargement of tumors within or adjacent to the biliary tract, leading to blockage or compression of the bile ducts. Common causes include pancreatic head cancer, bile duct cancer, gallbladder cancer, liver cancer, and metastatic diseases. Most cases have an insidious onset, lack effective early screening methods, and 70% of patients cannot undergo surgical resection, with a 5-year survival rate of about 30%. Therefore, relieving biliary tree obstruction is crucial. Biliary stents often mitigate the obstruction but can be hindered by tumor progression, endothelial hyperplasia, and bile sludge. As a result, new treatment approaches are constantly being explored to improve outcomes for patients with malignant biliary obstruction. One promising technique that has emerged in recent years is radiofrequency ablation (RFA). This innovative method utilizes high-frequency radio waves to generate heat and selectively target tumor cells through localized heating while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. RFA aims to slow tumor growth and enhance biliary stent durability. Studies on endoscopic RFA for malignant biliary obstruction are encouraging. Integrating it with palliative care may better manage symptoms and extend patient quality of life. In conclusion, while malignant biliary obstruction remains a complex medical challenge with limited treatment options available for some patients, ongoing research into innovative techniques like radiofrequency ablation offers hope for better outcomes in the future. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to stay informed about these advancements and continue exploring new ways to enhance patient care in this difficult clinical scenario.

Advances in antitumor effects of pterostilbene and its derivatives.

Pterostilbene (PT) is a naturally occurring small molecule stilbenoid that has garnered significant attention due to its potential therapeutic effects in tumor diseases. In this review, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the antitumor effects of PT and its derivatives on various cancer types, including colon, breast, liver, lung, and pancreatic cancers in recent 20 years. We have succinctly summarized the PT derivatives that exhibit superior anti-tumor efficacy compared to PT. Additionally, we reviewed the potential structure-activity relationship (SAR) rules and clinical application methods to establish a foundation for chemical modification and clinical utilization of stilbene compounds.

A Signal-On Microelectrode Electrochemical Aptamer Sensor Based on AuNPs–MXene for Alpha-Fetoprotein Determination

As a crucial biomarker for the early warning and prognosis of liver cancer diseases, elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) are associated with hepatocellular carcinoma and germ cell tumors. Herein, we present a novel signal-on electrochemical aptamer sensor, utilizing AuNPs–MXene composite materials, for sensitive AFP quantitation. The AuNPs–MXene composite was synthesized through a simple one-step method and modified on portable microelectrodes. As signal molecules, AFP aptamers were conjugated with methylene blue (MB) and immobilized on the electrode surface. When interacting with AFP, conformational changes in the aptamer–target complex caused MB to approach the electrode, and the electrochemical signal was enhanced through signal-on mechanisms. The developed sensor demonstrated high sensitivity and selectivity for AFP, with a log-linear relationship defined as 1–300 ng/mL, and the LOD was 0.05 ng/mL (S/N = 3). The method was applied to laboratorial and real clinical samples and presented satisfactory selectivity, reproducibility, and long-term stability. The proposed high-performance sensor highlights the potential of electrochemical aptamer sensors in improving the warning capabilities in disease management.