Significance and mechanisms of perineural invasion in malignant tumors.

Journal: Frontiers in oncology
Published Date: Jan 1, 2025

Abstract

Cancer remains the second leading cause of death worldwide. Tumor invasion and metastasis pose significant challenges for clinical management. In addition to the traditional pathways of metastasis such as hematologic or lymphatic transmission, perineural invasion (PNI) has become a unique mechanism of metastasis, which is closely associated with neuropathic pain, motor deficits, and poor prognosis. PNI is often observed in malignant tumors of the pancreas, head and neck, gastrointestinal tract, and lungs, and it reflects a unique neurotropic transfer behavior utilizing neural networks. Despite its clinical significance, targeted therapies for PNI are still lacking. This review synthesizes current evidences regarding PNI, elucidates the clinical significance of PNI in tumor metastasis, prognosis, and neurological dysfunction. By integrating the latest advances in multi-omics, we analyzed the potential key molecular pathways and tumor microenvironment drivers of PNI, and proposed future research directions for developing PNI-specific therapies to improve patient outcomes.

Authors

  • Mengyao Wang
    Key Laboratory of Luminescence and Real-Time Analytical Chemistry (Ministry of Education), College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China.
  • Niu Pu
    Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China.
  • Xitong Bo
    Department of Surgery, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
  • Fuxiang Chen
    Department of Surgery, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
  • Yilong Zhou
    Department of Surgery, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China.
  • Qiong Cheng
    Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China.

Keywords

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