Solid tumors, prevalent across various systems such as the respiratory, digestive, urinary, and gynecologic systems, constitute a significant challenge in adult oncology. These tumors are characterized by complex etiologies and diverse genetic and immunological foundations, necessitating a deeper understanding of their underlying mechanisms for effective treatment development. Recent advancements in genomic and immunological research have shed light on specific genetic factors and immune biomarkers that contribute to tumor susceptibility and progression. Key genetic mutations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, including TP53, KRAS, EGFR, BRAF, and ALK, have been identified as pivotal in the pathogenesis of these malignancies. Additionally, immune biomarkers like PD-L1, CTLA-4, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes are crucial for understanding the tumor microenvironment and predicting immunotherapy responses. Despite these advancements, there remains a need for further exploration into novel targets and biomarkers, such as NTRK fusions and MET exon 14 skipping mutations, to enhance personalized medicine approaches and develop more effective, less invasive treatments.
This research topic aims to compile a comprehensive and contemporary collection of studies focusing on the genetic and immunological aspects of solid tumors across various systems. The primary objective is to deepen the understanding of the genetic and immunological underpinnings of these cancers, thereby facilitating the development of targeted therapies. Specific questions include identifying genes that predispose individuals to solid tumors, exploring potential biomarkers for diagnosis, and assessing the impact of genetic and immunological insights on personalized medicine and therapeutic target discovery. By addressing these questions, the research aims to optimize therapeutic outcomes and improve the quality of life for patients.
To gather further insights into the genetic and immunological landscape of solid tumors, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Gene Identification: Identifying specific genes that predispose individuals to solid tumors across different systems.
- Biomarkers: Exploring current potential invasive and non-invasive biomarkers to diagnose solid tumors, including genetic and immune biomarkers.
- Diagnosis and Prognosis: Assessing the long-term prognosis of patients with these cancers, considering the availability of new treatment options.
- Personalized Medicine: Applying genetic and immunological information to predict disease susceptibility and progression in individual patients.
- Therapeutic Target Discovery: Using genetic and immunological insights to identify new therapeutic targets, leading to the development of novel treatments.
- Immunotherapy: Investigating the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, and adoptive cell therapies in the treatment of solid tumors.
Keywords: Solid Tumors, Tumor Suppressor Genes, Biomarkers, Immunotherapy, Personalized Medicine
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
