Subscribe to Newsletter
Subspecialties Oncology, Technology and innovation

Exposing Aggressive Cancer Traits

Credit: Adobe Stock

A study published in Cell introduces a multiparameter imaging method that maps how cancer cells interact with surrounding tissue in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Researchers studied tissue samples from 212 HNSCC patients. Using advanced single-cell imaging, they found that a specific type of cancer cell, known as the partial epithelial-mesenchymal transition (pEMT) cell, was tied to aggressive cancer growth. When these pEMT cells were combined with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the cancer cells became more invasive. This interaction was driven by specific signaling pathways, including the amphiregulin and epidermal growth factor (AREG/EGF) pathway.

The study also categorized the surrounding tissue (stroma) into three types: immune-enriched, CAF-enriched, and myeloid-rich. Findings showed that patients with CAF-enriched tissue had lower survival rates than those with immune-enriched tissue. Indeed, the combination of pEMT cancer cells and CAF-rich stroma was identified as a strong predictor of poor outcomes.

“Our research utilizes the latest analysis methods in machine learning and spatial biology. We analyze hundreds of patient samples and millions of cells, which is only possible with the help of high-performance computers and artificial intelligence,” research director Sara Wickström explained in a press release. “This study is part of a new revolution in cancer diagnostics. We believe that the technology will significantly improve cancer diagnostics and the accuracy of treatment strategies.”

This research offers a new prognostic tool for identifying HNSCC patients with higher risks of aggressive disease. By examining the stromal composition alongside cancer cell phenotypes, clinicians could better predict patient outcomes and tailor treatments. Moreover, further studies could confirm whether targeting CAF and pEMT interactions can improve therapeutic outcomes for patients with these aggressive tumor profiles​.

Receive content, products, events as well as relevant industry updates from The Pathologist and its sponsors.
Stay up to date with our other newsletters and sponsors information, tailored specifically to the fields you are interested in

When you click “Subscribe” we will email you a link, which you must click to verify the email address above and activate your subscription. If you do not receive this email, please contact us at [email protected].
If you wish to unsubscribe, you can update your preferences at any point.

About the Author
Jessica Allerton

Deputy Editor, The Pathologist

Related Application Notes
Tumor Genomic Profiling with SureSelect Cancer Tumor-Specific Assays

| Contributed by Agilent

Comprehensive Genomic Profiling with SureSelect Cancer CGP Assay

| Contributed by Agilent

Preventing Bias in scRNAseq Performed on Solid Tumors

| Contributed by Revvity

Related Product Profile
Diagnostics Genetics and epigenetics
QIAseq® Pan Cancer Multimodal cuts user interventions by 50%

| Contributed by QIAGEN

Most Popular
Register to The Pathologist

Register to access our FREE online portfolio, request the magazine in print and manage your preferences.

You will benefit from:
  • Unlimited access to ALL articles
  • News, interviews & opinions from leading industry experts
  • Receive print (and PDF) copies of The Pathologist magazine

Register