AI-generated from publicly available materials.Recent advancements in single-cell multiomics and spatial transcriptomics are shedding light on the phenotypic plasticity of colorectal cancer (CRC), which plays a crucial role in tumor progression and metastasis.
In an upcoming webinar, Dr. Mirjana Efremova from Queen Mary University of London will explore how these innovative technologies can be applied to analyze both primary and metastatic CRC samples. The findings suggest that certain cancer cell states—specifically regenerative and inflammatory types—are pivotal in the metastasis process. These states, which mimic metastasis-initiating cells identified in mouse models, are influenced by transcription factors such as AP-1 and NF-κB, positioning themselves at the invasive edges of tumors within immunosuppressive environments.
The discussion will delve into the transcriptional regulation of these cancer cell states and their interactions with various tumor microenvironment components, including fibroblasts and immune cells. By linking cell state dynamics to their spatial context within the tumor, researchers are gaining insights that could lead to new therapeutic targets aimed at mitigating metastasis and enhancing treatment efficacy.
This evolving understanding of how environmental factors influence cancer cell behavior underscores the potential for targeting phenotypic plasticity in CRC, offering promising avenues for future cancer therapies.