Research Articles (Medical Oncology)

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From genes to clinical practice : exploring the genomic underpinnings of endometrial cancer
(MDPI, 2025-01) Molefi, Thulo; Mabonga, Lloyd; Hull, Rodney; Sebitloane, Motshedisi; Dlamini, Zodwa; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
SIMPLE SUMMARY : Endometrial cancer is becoming more common, and current treatments do not work well for everyone. The study aims to understand how genetic changes drive this type of cancer and how these insights can improve treatment. It explores key genetic mutations and how they influence the development of cancer, with the goal of helping to classify the disease more precisely and design targeted therapies that are tailored to individual patients. By connecting genetics to clinical care, this research could lead to earlier diagnoses, better treatment options, and improved survival rates. It also sets the stage for future studies, giving the scientific community a clearer roadmap to enhance cancer care.
Characterization of the genomic landscape in HPV-positive cervical and head and neck squamous cell carcinomas by whole genome next generation sequencing
(International Institute of Anticancer Research, 2025-03) Ren, Jianlan; Ma, Nian; Seckar, Tyler; Bassa, Sheynaz; Zetola, Nicola; Grover, Surbhi; Wei, Zhi; Robertson, Erle
BACKGROUND/AIM : In this study, we provide a comprehensive characterization of HPV-positive primary cervical cancers (CC) and HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) through whole genome next-generation sequencing. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, recognized as a definitive human carcinogen, is increasingly acknowledged for its role in development of human cancers. HPV-driven cervical cancers are among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, while HPV-driven head and neck cancers exhibit distinct biological and clinical characteristics. Recent data has provided convincing evidence that HPV-related cervical cancer, like HPV head and neck cancer also predict better outcomes, with viral integration patterns further predicting disease related outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS : We designed an experimental study that encompasses four pairs of HPV-positive patient samples with controls, utilizing state-of-the-art Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology including whole genome sequencing, transcriptome sequencing and virus integration. RESULTS : Multiple mutated genes, including TTN, COL6A3, and FLNA, were identified shared between CC and HNSCC. Additionally, we observed a notable proportion of pathways affected by oncogenic alterations, particularly in the RTK-RAS and NOTCH pathways, in both CC and HNSCC. Furthermore, we discovered a shared down-regulation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway based on transcriptome expression analysis in KEGG. We also identified RUNX2 and TFPI as sites of virus integration, and upstream as well as downstream pathway modulators, and represent potential targets for therapeutic interventions. CONCLUSION : Overall, this study showed a thorough comparison between CC and HNSCC from multiple aspects, including gene variations, oncogenic pathways, KEGG enrichment and virus integration sites. However, further studies, which involve larger patient cohorts should be undertaken to further support these findings.
Long intergenic non-coding RNAs and BRCA1 in breast cancer pathogenesis : neighboring companions or nemeses?
(MDPI, 2025-02) Fadebi, Olalekan Olatunde; Miya, Thabiso Victor; Khanyile, Richard; Dlamini, Zodwa; Marima, Rahaba; rahaba.marima@up.ac.za
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality among women, primarily due to its complex molecular landscape and heterogeneous nature. The tendency of breast cancer patients to develop metastases poses significant challenges in clinical management. Notably, mutations in the breast cancer gene 1 (BRCA1) significantly elevate breast cancer risk. The current research endeavors employ diverse molecular approaches, including RNA, DNA, and protein studies, to explore avenues for the early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Recent attention has shifted towards long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as promising diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets in the multifaceted progression of breast cancer. Among these, long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs), a specific class of lncRNAs, play critical roles in regulating various aspects of tumorigenesis, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, epigenetic modulation, tumor invasion, and metastasis. Their distinctive expression patterns in cellular and tissue contexts underscore their importance in breast cancer development and progression. Harnessing lincRNAs’ sensitivity and precision as diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic markers holds significant promise for the clinical management of breast cancer. However, the potential of lincRNAs remains relatively underexplored, particularly in the context of BRCA1-mutated breast cancer and other clinicopathological parameters such as receptor status and patient survival. Consequently, there is an urgent need for comprehensive investigations into novel diagnostic and prognostic breast cancer biomarkers. This review examines the roles of lincRNAs associated with BRCA1 in the landscape of breast cancer, highlighting the potential avenues for future research and clinical applications.
Exosomal long non-coding RNAs in cancer : interplay, modulation, and therapeutic avenues
(KeAi Communications Co., 2024-09) Marima, Rahaba; Basera, Afra; Miya, Thabiso Victor; Damane, Botle Precious; Kandhavelu, Jeyalakshmi; Mirza, Sheefa; Penny, Clement; Dlamini, Zodwa; rahaba.marima@up.ac.za
In the intricate field of cancer biology, researchers are increasingly intrigued by the emerging role of exosomal long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) due to their multifaceted interactions, complex modulation mechanisms, and potential therapeutic applications. These exosomal lncRNAs, carried within extracellular vesicles, play a vital partin tumorigenesis and disease progression by facilitating communication networks between tumor cells and their local microenvironment, making them an ideal candidates for use in a liquid biopsy approach. However, exosomal lncRNAs remain an understudied area, especially in cancer biology. Therefore this review aims to comprehensively explore the dynamic interplay between exosomal lncRNAs and various cellular components, including interactions with tumor-stroma, immune modulation, and drug resistance mechanisms. Understanding the regulatory functions of exosomal lncRNAs in these processes can potentially unveil novel diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for cancer. Additionally, the emergence of RNA-based therapeutics presents exciting opportunities for targeting exosomal lncRNAs, offering innovative strategies to combat cancer progression and improve treatment outcomes. Thus, this review provides insights into the current understanding of exosomal lncRNAs in cancer biology, highlighting their crucial roles, regulatory mechanisms, and the evolving landscape of therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, we have also discussed the advantage of exosomes as therapeutic carriers of lncRNAs for the development of personalized targeted therapy for cancer patients.
From incidence to intervention : a comprehensive look at breast cancer in South Africa
(Springer, 2024-03) Dlamini, Zodwa; Molefi, Thulo; Khanyile, Richard; Mkhabele, Mahlori; Damane, Botle Precious; Kokoua, Alexandre; Bida, Meshack; Saini, Kamal S.; Chauke-Malinga, Nkhensani; Luvhengo, Thifhelimbilu Emmanuel; Hull, Rodney; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
The formidable impact of breast cancer extends globally, with South Africa facing pronounced challenges, including significant disparities in breast cancer screening, treatment and survival along ethnic and socioeconomic lines. Over the last two decades, breast cancer incidence has increased and now accounts for a substantial portion of cancers in women. Ethnic disparities in terms of screening, incidence and survival exacerbate the issue, leading to delayed diagnosis among Black patients and highlighting healthcare inequities. These concerning trends underscore the urgency of enhancing breast cancer screening while mitigating treatment delays, although obstacles within the healthcare system impede progress. The intersection of breast cancer and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) further complicates matters and particularly affects the Black population. Tackling the aforementioned disparities in breast cancer in South Africa mandates a multifaceted strategy. Robust screening efforts, particularly those targeting marginalised communities, are crucial for early detection. Concurrently, expedited treatment initiation is imperative. Addressing HIV-related complexities requires tailored interventions to ensure effective care. These multifaceted disparities require pan African research and cooperation as well as tailored interventions to enhance breast cancer care within the African region.
Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in melanoma : from prognostic assessment to therapeutic applications
(Frontiers Media, 2024-12) Bida, Nndweleni Meshack; Miya, Thabiso Victor; Hull, Rodney; Dlamini, Zodwa; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
Malignant melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, is characterized by unpredictable growth patterns, and its mortality rate has remained alarmingly high over recent decades, despite various treatment approaches. One promising strategy for improving outcomes in melanoma patients lies in the early use of biomarkers to predict prognosis. Biomarkers offer a way to gauge patient outlook early in the disease course, facilitating timely, targeted intervention. In recent years, considerable attention has been given to the immune response’s role in melanoma, given the tumor’s high immunogenicity and potential responsiveness to immunologic treatments. Researchers are focusing on identifying predictive biomarkers by examining both cancer cell biology and immune interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). This approach has shed light on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), a type of immune cell found within the tumor. TILs have emerged as a promising area of study for their potential to serve as both a prognostic indicator and therapeutic target in melanoma. The presence of TILs in melanoma tissue can often signal a positive immune response to the cancer, with numerous studies suggesting that TILs may improve patient prognosis. This review delves into the prognostic value of TILs in melanoma, assessing how these immune cells influence patient outcomes. It explores the mechanisms through which TILs interact with melanoma cells and the potential clinical applications of leveraging TILs in treatment strategies. While TILs present a hopeful avenue for prognostication and treatment, there are still challenges. These include understanding the full extent of TIL dynamics within the TME and overcoming limitations in TIL-based therapies. Advancements in TIL characterization methods are also critical to refining TIL-based approaches. By addressing these hurdles, TIL-focused research may pave the way for improved diagnostic and therapeutic options, ultimately offering better outcomes for melanoma patients.
Equitable inclusion of diverse populations in oncology clinical trials : deterrents and drivers
(Elsevier, 2024-05) Vidal, L.; Dlamini, Zodwa; Qian, S.; Rishi, P.; Karmo, M.; Joglekar, N.; Abedin, S.; Previs, R.A.; Orbegoso, C.; Joshi, C.; Azim, H.A.; Karkaria, H.; Harris, M.; Mehrotra, R.; Berraondo, M.; Werutsky, G.; Gupta, S.; Niikura, N.; Chico, I.; Saini, Kamalveer S.
The burden of cancer exerts a disproportionate impact across different regions and population subsets. Disease-specific attributes, coupled with genetic and socioeconomic factors, significantly influence cancer treatment outcomes. Precision oncology promises the development of safe and effective options for specific ethnic phenotypes and clinicodemographic profiles. Currently, clinical trials are concentrated in resource-rich geographies with younger, healthier, white, educated, and empowered populations. Vulnerable and marginalized people are often deprived of opportunities to participate in clinical trials. Despite consistent endeavors by regulators, industry, and other stakeholders, factors including diversity in trial regulations and patient and provider-related cultural, logistic, and operational barriers limit the inclusiveness of clinical trials. Understanding and addressing these constraints by collaborative actions involving regulatory initiatives, industry, patient advocacy groups, community engagement in a culturally sensitive manner, and designing and promoting decentralized clinical trials are vital to establishing a clinical research ecosystem that promotes equity in the representation of population subgroups.
Directions to overcome therapy resistance in cancer
(Elsevier, 2024-06) Nussinov, Ruth; Weichhart, Thomas; Dlamini, Zodwa; Gibbons, Don L.; Van Seuningen, Isabelle; Konen, Jessica; Ju, Huai-Qiang; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
Novel modalities for treatment of cancer have emerged because of advances in technology that have enabled expansion of our understanding of how cells transform to become cancerous and the role of the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, resistance to therapy poses a major problem for the successful treatment of cancer. Ongoing collaborative efforts of clinicians and researchers from different parts of the world have also led to an emerging understanding of how cancer cells evolve to resist treatment. Jerry Madukwe, the Editor-in-Chief of Trends in Pharmacological Sciences asked experts in the field to reflect on the global challenges in the cancer field and provide their views on what they see as the most pressing questions and research directions to overcome therapy resistance in cancer.
Editorial : Molecular targets for anticancer drug discovery and development
(Frontiers Media, 2024-04) Ntwasa, Monde; Dlamini, Zodwa; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
No abstract available.
Editorial : The RNA revolution and cancer
(Frontiers Media, 2024-05) Dlamini, Zodwa; Ladomery, Michael R.; Kahraman, Abdullah; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
RNA biology has revolutionized cancer understanding and treatment, especially in endocrine-related malignancies. This editorial highlights RNA's crucial role in cancer progression, emphasizing its influence on tumor heterogeneity and behavior. Processes like alternative splicing and noncoding RNA regulation shape cancer biology, with microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs orchestrating gene expression dynamics. Aberrant RNA signatures hold promise as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in endocrine-related cancers. Recent findings, such as aberrant PI3Kd splice isoforms and epithelialmesenchymal transition-related lncRNA signatures, unveil potential therapeutic targets for personalized treatments. Insights into m6A-associated lncRNA prognostic models and the function of lncRNA LINC00659 in gastric cancer represents ongoing research in this field. As understanding of RNA's role in cancer expands, personalized therapies offer transformative potential in managing endocrine-related malignancies. This signifies a significant stride towards precision oncology, fostering innovation for more effective cancer care.
Exploring water-soluble South African Tulbaghia violacea Harv extract as a therapeutic approach for triple-negative breast cancer metastasis
(MDPI, 2024-10) Alaouna, Mohammed; Hull, Rodney; Molefi, Thulo; Khanyile, Richard; Mbodi, Langanani; Luvhengo, Thifhelimbilu Emmanuel; Chauke-Malinga, Nkhensani; Phakathi, Boitumelo P.; Penny, Clement; Dlamini, Zodwa; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for approximately 20% of all breast cancer cases and is characterized by a lack of estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor 2 receptors. Current targeted medicines have been unsuccessful due to this absence of hormone receptors. This study explored the efficacy of Tulbaghia violacea, a South African medicinal plant, for the treatment of TNBC metastasis. Extracts from T. violacea leaves were prepared using water and methanol. However, only the water-soluble extract showed anti-cancer activity and the effects of this water-soluble extract on cell adhesion, invasion, and migration, and its antioxidant activity were assessed using MCF-10A and MDA-MB-231 cells. The T. violacea extract that was soluble in water effectively decreased the movement and penetration of MDA-MB-231 cells through the basement membrane in scratch and invasion tests, while enhancing their attachment to a substance resembling an extracellular matrix. The sample showed mild-to-low antioxidant activity in the antioxidant assy. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy revealed 61 chemical components in the water-soluble extract, including DDMP, 1,2,4-triazine-3,5(2H,4H)-dione, vanillin, schisandrin, taurolidine, and α-pinene, which are known to have anti-cancer properties. An in-depth examination of the transcriptome showed alterations in genes linked to angiogenesis, metastasis, and proliferation post-treatment, with reduced activity in growth receptor signaling, angiogenesis, and cancer-related pathways, such as the Wnt, Notch, and PI3K pathways. These results indicate that T. violacea may be a beneficial source of lead chemicals for the development of potential therapeutic medicines that target TNBC metastasis. Additional studies are required to identify the precise bioactive chemical components responsible for the observed anti-cancer effects.
The convergence of radiology and genomics : advancing breast cancer diagnosis with radiogenomics
(MDPI, 2024-03) Demetriou, Demetra Danielle; Lockhat, Zarina I.; Brzozowski, Luke; Saini, Kamal S.; Dlamini, Zodwa; Hull, Rodney
Despite significant progress in the prevention, screening, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy of breast cancer (BC), it remains a highly prevalent and life-threatening disease affecting millions worldwide. Molecular subtyping of BC is crucial for predictive and prognostic purposes due to the diverse clinical behaviors observed across various types. The molecular heterogeneity of BC poses uncertainties in its impact on diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Numerous studies have highlighted genetic and environmental differences between patients from different geographic regions, emphasizing the need for localized research. International studies have revealed that patients with African heritage are often diagnosed at a more advanced stage and exhibit poorer responses to treatment and lower survival rates. Despite these global findings, there is a dearth of in-depth studies focusing on communities in the African region. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are paramount to improving survival rates. In this context, radiogenomics emerges as a promising field within precision medicine. By associating genetic patterns with image attributes or features, radiogenomics has the potential to significantly improve early detection, prognosis, and diagnosis. It can provide valuable insights into potential treatment options and predict the likelihood of survival, progression, and relapse. Radiogenomics allows for visual features and genetic marker linkage that promises to eliminate the need for biopsy and sequencing. The application of radiogenomics not only contributes to advancing precision oncology and individualized patient treatment but also streamlines clinical workflows. This review aims to delve into the theoretical underpinnings of radiogenomics and explore its practical applications in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of BC and to put radiogenomics on a path towards fully integrated diagnostics.
Holomics and artificial intelligence-driven precision oncology for medullary thyroid carcinoma : addressing challenges of a rare and aggressive disease
(MDPI, 2024-10) Luvhengo, Thifhelimbilu Emmanuel; Moeng, Maeyane Stephens; Sishuba, Nosisa T.; Makgoka, Malose; Jonas, Lusanda; Mamathuntsha, Tshilidzi G.; Mbambo, Thandanani; Kagodora, Shingirai B.; Dlamini, Zodwa; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare yet aggressive form of thyroid cancer comprising a disproportionate share of thyroid cancer-related mortalities, despite its low prevalence. MTC differs from other differentiated thyroid malignancies due to its heterogeneous nature, presenting complexities in both hereditary and sporadic cases. Traditional management guidelines, which are designed primarily for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), fall short in providing the individualized care required for patients with MTC. In recent years, the sheer volume of data generated from clinical evaluations, radiological imaging, pathological assessments, genetic mutations, and immunological profiles has made it humanly impossible for clinicians to simultaneously analyze and integrate these diverse data streams effectively. This data deluge necessitates the adoption of advanced technologies to assist in decision-making processes. Holomics, which is an integrated approach that combines various omics technologies, along with artificial intelligence (AI), emerges as a powerful solution to address these challenges. METHODS: This article reviews how AI-driven precision oncology can enhance the diagnostic workup, staging, risk stratification, management, and follow-up care of patients with MTC by processing vast amounts of complex data quickly and accurately. Articles published in English language and indexed in Pubmed were searched. RESULTS: AI algorithms can identify patterns and correlations that may not be apparent to human clinicians, thereby improving the precision of personalized treatment plans. Moreover, the implementation of AI in the management of MTC enables the collation and synthesis of clinical experiences from across the globe, facilitating a more comprehensive understanding of the disease and its treatment outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The integration of holomics and AI in the management of patients with MTC represents a significant advancement in precision oncology. This innovative approach not only addresses the complexities of a rare and aggressive disease but also paves the way for global collaboration and equitable healthcare solutions, ultimately transforming the landscape of treatment and care of patients with MTC. By leveraging AI and holomics, we can strive toward making personalized healthcare accessible to every individual, regardless of their economic status, thereby improving overall survival rates and quality of life for MTC patients worldwide. This global approach aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being at all ages.
Breast cancer : do the current policies mean anything?
(Health Systems Trust, 2024-10) Botha, Susan; Ledibane, Neo R.T.; Dreosti, Lydia M.
AIM : Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies globally with a high mortality rate. South Africa has a number of policies in place designed to ensure that minimum delays are experienced by patients from first symptom to initial treatment. This study was initiated to determine where the longest delays occurred during the patient's journey, from the first symptom to the first treatment. This information, combined with the existing policy, identifies shortfalls in the breast cancer diagnostic and treatment pathways that must be addressed. METHODS : A cross-sectional study was undertaken in the Department of Medical Oncology, University of Pretoria/Steve Biko Academic Hospital between April 2020 and August 2021, analysing six timelines from first symptom to first treatment in patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer. Data was obtained by the researchers from the patients on their first visit relating to the delays experienced from first symptom to final biopsy. Clinical information was obtained from the patients' source records once a treatment decision had been reached and treatment started where applicable. RESULTS : The longest delays experienced were between the patients' first visit to any medical facility to date of diagnostic biopsy. Delays due to COVID-19 were in the minority with 13/79 (16.4%) patients reporting having experienced COVID-19 related delays. Key Area 2 of the Breast Cancer Prevention and Control Policy makes provision for patients to be referred directly to a regional/tertiary/quaternary medical facility for further screening, diagnosis and treatment within 21-60 days from the first visit. In the study's cohort, a mean of four months from first visit to diagnostic biopsy was recorded. Overall delays of longer than 12 months due to non-representative biopsies (range 1-3) were recorded in three patients. Twenty-nine patients (36.7%) presented to three medical facilities prior to diagnostic biopsy with 10/79 (12.6%) and 1/79 (1.2%) presenting to four and five institutions, respectively, before the diagnostic biopsy. CONCLUSIONS : The delays patients experienced highlights the lack of knowledge about the urgency and correct referral of suspected malignancy cases. Despite the number of promulgated policies relating to fast track systems via specialist breast units, fiscal and human capital deficiencies negatively impact the attempts to diagnose and treat patients timeously and increase survival.
Single-cell transcriptomics identifies aberrant glomerular angiogenic signalling in the early stages of WT1 kidney disease
(Wiley, 2024-10) Chandler, Jennifer C.; Jafree, Daniyal J.; Malik, Saif; Pomeranz, Gideon; Ball, Mary; Kolatsi-Joannou, Maria; Piapi, Alice; Mason, William J.; Benest, Andrew V.; Bates, David O.; Letunovska, Aleksandra; Al-Saadi, Reem; Rabant, Marion; Boyer, Olivia; Pritchard-Jones, Kathy; Winyard, Paul J.; Mason, Andrew S.; Woolf, Adrian S.; Waters, Aoife M.; Long, David A.
Please read abstract in the article.
Overcoming the challenges of phytochemicals in triple negative breast cancer therapy : the path forward
(MDPI, 2023-06-16) Alaouna, Mohammed; Penny, Clement; Hull, Rodney; Molefi, Thulo; Chauke-Malinga, Nkhensani; Khanyile, Richard; Makgoka, Malose; Bida, Meshack; Dlamini, Zodwa; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a very aggressive subtype of breast cancer that lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptor expression. TNBC is thought to be produced by Wnt, Notch, TGF-beta, and VEGF pathway activation, which leads to cell invasion and metastasis. To address this, the use of phytochemicals as a therapeutic option for TNBC has been researched. Plants contain natural compounds known as phytochemicals. Curcumin, resveratrol, and EGCG are phytochemicals that have been found to inhibit the pathways that cause TNBC, but their limited bioavailability and lack of clinical evidence for their use as single therapies pose challenges to the use of these phytochemical therapies. More research is required to better understand the role of phytochemicals in TNBC therapy, or to advance the development of more effective delivery mechanisms for these phytochemicals to the site where they are required. This review will discuss the promise shown by phytochemicals as a treatment option for TNBC.
Reports of plant-derived nanoparticles for prostate cancer therapy
(MDPI, 2023-05-03) Elbagory, Abdulrahman M.; Hull, Rodney; Meyer, Mervin; Dlamini, Zodwa; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
Plants have demonstrated potential in providing various types of phytomedicines with chemopreventive properties that can combat prostate cancer. However, despite their promising in vitro activity, the incorporation of these phytochemicals into the market as anticancer agents has been hindered by their poor bioavailability, mainly due to their inadequate aqueous solubility, chemical instability, and unsatisfactory circulation time. To overcome these drawbacks, it has been suggested that the incorporation of phytochemicals as nanoparticles can offer a solution. The use of plant-based chemicals can also improve the biocompatibility of the formulated nanoparticles by avoiding the use of certain hazardous chemicals in the synthesis, leading to decreased toxicity in vivo. Moreover, in some cases, phytochemicals can act as targeting agents to tumour sites. This review will focus on and summarize the following points: the different types of nanoparticles that contain individual phytochemicals or plant extracts in their design with the aim of improving the bioavailability of the phytochemicals; the therapeutic evaluation of these nanoparticles against prostate cancer both in vitro and in vivo and the reported mode of action and the different types of anticancer experiments used; how the phytochemicals can also improve the targeting effects of these nanoparticles in some instances; and the potential toxicity of these nanoparticles.
Immunomodulatory gene-splicing dysregulation in tumorigenesis : unmasking the complexity
(MDPI, 2023-08-10) Maebele, Lorraine Tshegofatso; Mulaudzi, Thanyani Victor; Yasasve, Madhavan; Dlamini, Zodwa; Damane, Botle Precious; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
Cancer is a global health concern with rising incidence, morbidity, and mortality. The interaction between the tumor and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment is facilitated by signaling pathways driven by immunomodulatory proteins. Alternative splicing regulates the production of multiple immunomodulatory proteins with diverse functionality from a single mRNA transcript. Splicing factors are pivotal in modulating alternative splicing processes but are also subject to regulation. The dysregulation of alternative splicing may result from splicing factor (SF) abnormal expression levels and mutations in the cis and trans-acting elements and small nuclear RNA (snRNA) molecules. Aberrant splicing may generate abnormal mRNA transcripts encoding isoforms with altered functions that contribute to tumorigenesis or cancer progression. This review uncovers the complexity of immunomodulatory genes splicing dysregulation in oncogenesis. Identifying specific immunomodulatory splicing isoforms that contribute to cancer could be utilized to improve current immunotherapeutic drugs or develop novel therapeutic interventions for cancer.
Drug standardization through pharmacognostic approaches and estimation of anticancer potential of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) using prostate-cancer cell lines : an in-vitro study
(Ivyspring International Publisher, 2023-02-05) Khan, Nida; Kalam, Mohd Afsahul; Alam, Mohd Tauseef; Ul Haq, Syed Anam; Showket, Wasia; Dar, Zahoor A.; Rafiq, Nida; Mushtaq, Waseem; Rafeeqi, Towseef Amin; Dar, Mohammad Yunis; Akbar, Seema; Butt, Tariq Ahmad; Gani, Riehana; Majeed, Uzma; Chaudhary, Anis Ahmad; Rudayni, Hassan Ahmed; Al-Zharani, Mohammed; Shilbayeh, Sireen Abdul Rahim; Binsaleh, Ammena Yahia; El-Sheikh, Azza A.K.; Dlamini, Zodwa; Wani, Shabir Hussain; Khan, Shahanavaj; Masoodi, Khalid Z.; zodwa.dlamini@up.ac.za
Cancer is the major challenge across world and the adenocarcinoma of prostate malignancy is the second most prevalent male cancer. Various medicinal plants are used for the treatment and management of various cancers. Matricaria chamomilla L., is one of the extensively used Unani medicament for the treatment of various type of diseases. In the current study we evaluated most of the parameters prescribed for drug standardization using pharmacognostic approaches. The 2,2 Diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) method was utilized for the analysis of antioxidant activity in the flower extracts of M. chamomilla. Moreover, we analyzed the antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of M. chamomilla (Gul-e Babuna) through in-vitro method. DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazl-hydrate) method was utilized for the analysis of antioxidant activity in the flower extracts of M. chamomilla. CFU and wound healing assay were performed to determine the anti-cancer activity. The results demonstrated that various extracts of M. chamomilla fulfilled most of the parameters of drug standardization and contained good antioxidant and anticancer activities. The ethyl acetate showed higher anticancer activity followed by aqueous, hydroalcoholic, petroleum benzene and methanol by CFU method. Also, the wound healing assay demonstrated that ethyl acetate extract has more significant effect followed by methanol and petroleum benzene extract on prostate cancer cell line (C4-2). The current study concluded that the extract of M. chamomilla flowers could act as good source of natural anti-cancer compounds.
The SARS-COV-2 seroprevalence among oncology patients
(MDPI, 2023-01-09) Kgatle, Mankgopo; Das, Rajesh; Lawal, Ismaheel Opeyemi; Boshomane, Tebatso M.G.; Mokoala, Kgomotso M.G.; Gaspar, Cattleya; Mbokazi, Lydia; Nkambule, Nonhlanhla; Gow, Veronique; Ndlovu, Honest; Mzizi, Yonwaba; Chalwe, Joseph; Diphofa, Jeaneth; Mokobodi, Dinah; Gxekwa, Nobuhle; Zongo, Lusanda; Maphosa, Tinashe; Vorster, Mariza; Bassa, Sheynaz; Venkatesan, Amouda; Khanyile, Richard; Munga, Yunus; Ebenhan, Thomas; Zeevaart, Jan Rijn; Sathekge, Mike Machaba; mike.sathekge@up.ac.za
Patients with cancer are presumed to be vulnerable to an increased risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and severe clinical outcomes due to the immunocompromised state mediated by their underlying malignancies and therapy. The aim of this study was to estimate the SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence, following second to fourth waves in solid tumour patients attending the Steve Biko Academic Hospital (SBAH) for diagnosis and treatment of cancer. We used the single-prick COVID-19 IgG/IgM Rapid Test Cassettes to detect SARS-CoV-2 IgG/IgM antibodies in 760 patients with solid tumours who were asymptomatic and who had never tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Out of the 760 patients, 277 were male (36.4%), 483 were female (63.6%), and the mean age was 55 years (range 18–92). The estimated total seroprevalence was 33.2%. The seroprevalence status of the COVID-19 IgG/IgM antibodies rose significantly from the second wave (11.3%) to the third (67.38%) and then the fourth (69.81%) waves with roughly similar counts. A significant number of the seropositive patients were asymptomatic to COVID-19 (96%). There was a higher rate of seropositivity in cancer patients with hypertension (p < 0.05). Patients with breast, gynaecologic, and prostate cancers exhibited increased SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity. Although oncology patients may be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection, our data indicate that these patients remained asymptomatic throughout various waves with an overall COVID-19 IgG/IgM antibody seropositivity of 33.16%, suggesting no risk of severe or fatal cases of COVID-19.

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