Cancer Research and Treatment

Role of HIF-1α in the Responses of Tumors to Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy: Chang W Song, Hyunkyung Kim, Mi-Sook Kim, Heon J Park, Sun-Ha Paek, Stephanie Terezakis, L Chinsoo Cho; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):1-10. Published online June 5, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.255

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Tumor microenvironment is intrinsically hypoxic with abundant hypoxia-inducible factors-1α (HIF-1α), a primary regulator of the cellular response to hypoxia and various stresses imposed on the tumor cells. HIF-1α increases radioresistance and chemoresistance by reducing DNA damage, increasing repair of DNA damage, enhancing glycolysis that increases antioxidant capacity of tumors cells, and promoting angiogenesis. In addition, HIF-1α markedly enhances drug efflux, leading to multidrug resistance. Radiotherapy and certain chemotherapy drugs evoke profound anti-tumor immunity by inducing immunologic cell death that release tumor-associated antigens together with numerous pro-immunological factors, leading to priming of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and enhancing the cytotoxicity of macrophages and natural killer cells. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy of tumors significantly increase HIF-1α activity in tumor cells. Unfortunately, HIF-1α effectively promotes various immune suppressive pathways including secretion of immune suppressive cytokines, activation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells, activation of regulatory T cells, inhibition of T cells priming and activity, and upregulation of immune checkpoints. Consequently, the anti-tumor immunity elevated by radiotherapy and chemotherapy is counterbalanced or masked by the potent immune suppression promoted by HIF-1α. Effective inhibition of HIF-1α may significantly increase the efficacy of radiotherapy and chemotherapy by increasing radiosensitivity and chemosensitivity of tumor cells and also by upregulating anti-tumor immunity.

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Identifying Trends in Oncology Research through a Bibliographic Analysis of Cancer Research and Treatment: Choong-kun Lee, Jeong Min Choo, Yong Chan Ahn, Jin Kim, Sun Young Rha, Chai Hong Rim, On behalf of the 50th Anniversary Committee of the Korean Cancer Association; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):11-18. Published online December 5, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.688

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: During the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Korean Cancer Association, articles published in Cancer Research and Treatment from 2004 to 2023 were assessed based on the subject and design of each study. Based on this analysis, trends in domestic cancer research were inferred and directions were suggested for the future development of Cancer Research and Treatment.

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The Cancer Clinical Library Database (CCLD) from the Korea-Clinical Data Utilization Network for Research Excellence (K-CURE) Project: Sangwon Lee, Yeon Ho Choi, Hak Min Kim, Min Ah Hong, Phillip Park, In Hae Kwak, Ye Ji Kang, Kui Son Choi, Hyun-Joo Kong, Hyosung Cha, Hyun-Jin Kim, Kwang Sun Ryu, Young Sang Jeon, Hwanhee Kim, Jip Min Jung, Jeong-Soo Im, Heejung Chae; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):19-27. Published online July 15, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.218

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub

The common data model (CDM) has found widespread application in healthcare studies, but its utilization in cancer research has been limited. This article describes the development and implementation strategy for Cancer Clinical Library Databases (CCLDs), which are standardized cancer-specific databases established under the Korea-Clinical Data Utilization Network for Research Excellence (K-CURE) project by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare. Fifteen leading hospitals and fourteen academic associations in Korea are engaged in constructing CCLDs for 10 primary cancer types. For each cancer type-specific CCLD, cancer data experts determine key clinical data items essential for cancer research, standardize these items across cancer types, and create a standardized schema. Comprehensive clinical records covering diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes, with annual updates, are collected for each cancer patient in the target population, and quality control is based on six-sigma standards. To protect patient privacy, CCLDs follow stringent data security guidelines by pseudonymizing personal identification information and operating within a closed analysis environment. Researchers can apply for access to CCLD data through the K-CURE portal, which is subject to Institutional Review Board and Data Review Board approval. The CCLD is considered a pioneering standardized cancer-specific database, significantly representing Korea’s cancer data. It is expected to overcome limitations of previous CDMs and provide a valuable resource for multicenter cancer research in Korea.

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Predictive Mortality and Gastric Cancer Risk Using Clinical and Socio-Economic Data: A Nationwide Multicenter Cohort Study
Seong Uk Kang, Seung-Joo Nam, Oh Beom Kwon, Inhyeok Yim, Tae-Hoon Kim, Na Young Yeo, Myoung Nam Lim, Woo Jin Kim, Sang Won Park
Cancers.2024; 17(1): 30. CrossRef

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Trends in Cancer-Screening Rates in Korea: Findings from the National Cancer Screening Survey, 2004-2023: EunKyo Kang, Kui Son Choi, Jae Kwan Jun, Yeol Kim, Hyeon Ji Lee, Chang Kyun Choi, Tae Hee Kim, Sun Hwa Lee, Mina Suh; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):28-38. Published online August 2, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.325

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aimed to report the overall national trends in the rates of cancer screening based on recommendations and provide insights into the changing trends of these rates across different demographics.
Materials and Methods
This study used data from the Korean National Cancer Screening Survey (KNCSS), which surveys nationwide cancer-screening rates and includes 4,500 individuals meeting the Korean National Cancer Screening Program (NCSP) protocol age criteria. Cancer-screening rates were assessed using structured questionnaires; yearly trends were analyzed for both lifetime cancer-screening rates and rates of screening based on recommendations, and subgroup analyses were performed based on age and sex.
Results
The rates of cancer screening based on recommendations showed significant increments: the stomach cancer-screening rate increased from 39.2% in 2004 to 77.5% in 2023 (3.50% per year), the liver cancer-screening rate increased from 20.0% to 48.8% (4.30% per year), and the colorectal cancer, increased from 19.9% to 70.7% (5.15% per year). The breast cancer-screening rate increased from 33.2% to 72.7% (2.88% per year), and the cervical cancer, increased from 58.3% to 70.2% (1.08% per year). Despite some differences, particularly in relation to sociodemographic factors, screening rates increased significantly for all cancer types.
Conclusion
Cancer-screening rates in Korea increased consistently from 2004 to 2023, demonstrating the effectiveness of the national cancer-screening program. However, the increments in breast, cervical and lung cancer-screening rates were relatively lower, indicating the need for additional efforts and strategies.

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General

The Survival and Financial Benefit of Investigator-Initiated Trials Conducted by Korean Cancer Study Group: Bum Jun Kim, Chi Hoon Maeng, Bhumsuk Keam, Young-Hyuck Im, Jungsil Ro, Kyung Hae Jung, Seock-Ah Im, Tae Won Kim, Jae Lyun Lee, Dae Seog Heo, Sang-We Kim, Keunchil Park, Myung-Ju Ahn, Byoung Chul Cho, Hoon-Kyo Kim, Yoon-Koo Kang, Jae Yong Cho, Hwan Jung Yun, Byung-Ho Nam, Dae Young Zang; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):39-46. Published online July 10, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.421

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
The Korean Cancer Study Group (KCSG) is a nationwide cancer clinical trial group dedicated to advancing investigator-initiated trials (IITs) by conducting and supporting clinical trials. This study aims to review IITs conducted by KCSG and quantitatively evaluate the survival and financial benefits of IITs for patients.
Materials and Methods
We reviewed IITs conducted by KCSG from 1998 to 2023, analyzing progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) gains for participants. PFS and OS benefits were calculated as the difference in median survival times between the intervention and control groups, multiplied by the number of patients in the intervention group. Financial benefits were assessed based on the cost of investigational products provided.
Results
From 1998 to 2023, KCSG conducted 310 IITs, with 133 completed and published. Of these, 21 were included in the survival analysis. The analysis revealed that 1,951 patients in the intervention groups gained a total of 2,558.4 months (213.2 years) of PFS and 2,501.6 months (208.5 years) of OS, with median gains of 1.31 months in PFS and 1.58 months in OS per patient. When analyzing only statistically significant results, PFS and OS gain per patients was 1.69 months and 3.02 months, respectively. Investigational drug cost analysis from six available IITs indicated that investigational products provided to 252 patients were valued at 10,400,077,294 won (approximately 8,046,481 US dollars), averaging about 41,270,148 won (approximately 31,930 US dollars) per patient.
Conclusion
Our findings, based on analysis of published research, suggest that IITs conducted by KCSG led to survival benefits for participants and, in some studies, may have provided financial benefits by providing investment drugs.

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Lung and Thoracic cancer

Upfront Stereotactic Radiosurgery or Fractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy in Elderly Patients with Brain Metastases from Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis of a 10-Year Bi-institutional Experience: Myungsoo Kim, Jihye Cha, Hun Jung Kim, Woo Chul Kim, Jeongshim Lee; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):47-56. Published online July 3, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.223

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) or fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (FSRT) are increasingly used as initial therapies for brain metastases (BM). We aimed to assess the outcomes of SRS/FSRT in patients aged ≥ 65 years who had 1-10 BM from non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Materials and Methods
We retrospectively reviewed 91 elderly NSCLC patients with 222 BM who were treated with SRS/FSRT at two institutions between 2010 and 2020. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS) after SRS/FSRT. In addition, in-field local control (IFLC) within the treated field was evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed to identify the prognostic factors affecting OS and IFLC.
Results
During a median follow-up of 18 months, the median OS was 32 months. The 1- and 2-year survival rates were 69.8% and 56.1%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, the NSCLC-specific graded prognostic assessment (GPA) score (p=0.007) and administration of systemic therapy (p=0.039) were defined as prognosticators affecting OS. The median IFLC period was 31 months, and the 1- and 2-year IFLC rates were 75.9% and 57.6%, respectively. The total BM volume (p=0.042) significantly affected IFLC. No severe adverse events were reported after SRS/FSRT.
Conclusion
SRS/FSRT is an effective upfront treatment option for BM arising from NSCLC in elderly patients, with a good OS without severe side effects. Higher GPA score and active systemic treatment were associated with improved OS, indicating that elderly patients are significant candidates for SRS/FSRT.

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Enhancing Identification of High-Risk cN0 Lung Adenocarcinoma Patients Using MRI-Based Radiomic Features: Harim Kim, Jonghoon Kim, Soohyun Hwang, You Jin Oh, Joong Hyun Ahn, Min-Ji Kim, Tae Hee Hong, Sung Goo Park, Joon Young Choi, Hong Kwan Kim, Jhingook Kim, Sumin Shin, Ho Yun Lee; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):57-69. Published online June 26, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.251

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aimed to develop a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–based radiomics model to predict high-risk pathologic features for lung adenocarcinoma: micropapillary and solid pattern (MPsol), spread through air space, and poorly differentiated patterns.
Materials and Methods
As a prospective study, we screened clinical N0 lung cancer patients who were surgical candidates and had undergone both ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET/CT) and chest CT from August 2018 to January 2020. We recruited patients meeting our proposed imaging criteria indicating high-risk, that is, poorer prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma, using CT and FDG PET/CT. If possible, these patients underwent an MRI examination from which we extracted 77 radiomics features from T1-contrast-enhanced and T2-weighted images. Additionally, patient demographics, maximum standardized uptake value on FDG PET/CT, and the mean apparent diffusion coefficient value on diffusion-weighted image, were considered together to build prediction models for high-risk pathologic features.
Results
Among 616 patients, 72 patients met the imaging criteria for high-risk lung cancer and underwent lung MRI. The magnetic resonance (MR)–eligible group showed a higher prevalence of nodal upstaging (29.2% vs. 4.2%, p < 0.001), vascular invasion (6.5% vs. 2.1%, p=0.011), high-grade pathologic features (p < 0.001), worse 4-year disease-free survival (p < 0.001) compared with non-MR-eligible group. The prediction power for MR-based radiomics model predicting high-risk pathologic features was good, with mean area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) value measuring 0.751-0.886 in test sets. Adding clinical variables increased the predictive performance for MPsol and the poorly differentiated pattern using the 2021 grading system (AUC, 0.860 and 0.907, respectively).
Conclusion
Our imaging criteria can effectively screen high-risk lung cancer patients and predict high-risk pathologic features by our MR-based prediction model using radiomics.

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Association of TP53 Mutation Status and Sex with Clinical Outcome in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Retrospective Cohort Study: Songji Choi, Se Hyun Kim, Sejoon Lee, Jeongmin Seo, Minsu Kang, Eun Hee Jung, Sang-A Kim, Koung Jin Suh, Ji Yun Lee, Ji-Won Kim, Jin Won Kim, Jeong-Ok Lee, Yu Jung Kim, Keun-Wook Lee, Jee Hyun Kim, Soo-Mee Bang, Jong Seok Lee; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):70-82. Published online August 7, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.046

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Some studies suggest that TP53 mutations are associated with the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and also contribute to sex disparities in several cancers. Thus, we hypothesized that TP53 mutations might serve as sex-dependent genomic biomarkers of ICI treatment response in patients with NSCLC.
Materials and Methods
Clinical data of 100 patients with metastatic NSCLC treated with ICI monotherapy at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital (SNUBH) were retrospectively reviewed. Genomic and clinical datasets of The Cancer Genome Atlas and an ICI-treated lung cancer cohort (cBioPortal) were also analyzed.
Results
In SNUBH cohort, no statistically significant difference was observed in the median progression-free survival (PFS) according to TP53 mutation status (p=0.930); however, female patients with TP53 mutations (MT) had a significantly prolonged median PFS compared to wild-type (WT) (6.1 months in TP53 MT vs. 2.6 months in TP53 WT; p=0.021). Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) high (≥ 50%) expression was significantly enriched in female patients with TP53 MT (p=0.005). The analysis from publicly available dataset also revealed that females with NSCLC with TP53 MT showed significantly longer PFS than those with TP53 WT (p < 0.001). In The Cancer Genome Atlas analysis, expression of immune-related genes, and tumor mutation burden score in TP53 MT females were higher than in males without TP53 MT.
Conclusion
Female patients with NSCLC with TP53 mutations had high PD-L1 expression and showed favorable clinical outcomes following ICI therapy, suggesting a need for further research to explore the role of TP53 mutations for sex disparities in response to ICI therapy.

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Factors Associated with Postoperative Recurrence in Stage I to IIIA Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer with Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Mutation: Analysis of Korean National Population Data: Kyu Yean Kim, Ho Cheol Kim, Tae Jung Kim, Hong Kwan Kim, Mi Hyung Moon, Kyongmin Sarah Beck, Yang Gun Suh, Chang Hoon Song, Jin Seok Ahn, Jeong Eun Lee, Jae Hyun Jeon, Chi Young Jung, Jeong Su Cho, Yoo Duk Choi, Seung Sik Hwang, Chang Min Choi, Seung Hun Jang, Jeong Uk Lim, Korean Association for Lung Cancer, Korea Central Cancer Registry; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):83-94. Published online July 10, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.073

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Recent development in perioperative treatment of resectable non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have changed the landscape of early lung cancer management. The ADAURA trial has demonstrated the efficacy of adjuvant osimertinib treatment in resectable NSCLC patients; however, studies are required to show which subgroup of patients are at a high risk of relapse and require adjuvant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment. This study evaluated risk factors for postoperative relapse among patients who underwent complete resection.
Materials and Methods
Data were obtained from the Korean Association for Lung Cancer Registry (KALC-R), a database created using a retrospective sampling survey by the Korean Central Cancer Registry (KCCR) and the Lung Cancer Registration Committee.
Results
A total of 3,176 patients who underwent curative resection was evaluated. The mean observation time was approximately 35.4 months. Among stage I to IIIA NSCLC patients, the EGFR-mutant subgroup included 867 patients, and 75.2%, 11.2%, and 11.8% were classified as stage I, stage II, and stage III, respectively. Within the EGFR-mutant subgroup, 44 (5.1%) and 121 (14.0%) patients showed early and late recurrence, respectively. Multivariate analysis on association with postoperative relapse among the EGFR-mutant subgroup showed that age, pathologic N and TNM stages, pleural invasion status, and surgery type were independent significant factors.
Conclusion
Among the population that underwent complete resection for early NSCLC with EGFR mutation, patients with advanced stage, pleural invasion, or limited resection are more likely to show postoperative relapse.

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Differences in the Prognostic Impact between Single-Zone and Multi-Zone N2 Node Metastasis in Patients with Station-Based Multiple N2 Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: Shia Kim, Geun Dong Lee, SeHoon Choi, Hyeong Ryul Kim, Yong-Hee Kim, Dong Kwan Kim, Seung-Il Park, Jae Kwang Yun; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):95-104. Published online July 22, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.120

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer suggests further subdivision of pathologic N (pN) category in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by incorporating the location and number of involved lymph node (LN) stations. We reclassified patients with the station-based N2b disease into single-zone and multi-zone N2b groups and compared survival outcomes between the groups.
Materials and Methods
This retrospective study included patients with pN2 NSCLC who underwent lobectomy from 2006 to 2019. The N2 disease was subdivided into four categories: single-station N2 without N1 (N2a1), single-station N2 with N1 (N2a2), multiple-station N2 with single zone involvement (single-zone N2b), and multiple-station N2 with multiple zone involvement (multi-zone N2b). LN zones included in the subdivision of N2 disease were upper mediastinal, lower mediastinal, aortopulmonary, and subcarinal.
Results
Among 996 eligible patients, 211 (21.2%), 394 (39.6%), and 391 (39.3%) were confirmed to have pN2a1, pN2a2, and pN2b disease, respectively. In multivariable analysis after adjustment for sex, age, pT category, and adjuvant chemotherapy, overall survival was significantly better with single-zone N2b disease (n=125, 12.6%) than with multi-zone N2b disease (n=266, 26.7%) (hazard ratio [HR], 0.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.49 to 0.90; p=0.009) and was comparable to that of N2a2 disease (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.83 to 1.49; p=0.46).
Conclusion
Prognosis of single-zone LN metastasis was better than that of multiple-zone LN metastasis in patients with N2b NSCLC. Along with the station-based N descriptors, zone-based descriptors might ensure optimal staging, enabling the most appropriate decision-making on adjuvant therapy for patients with pN2 NSCLC.

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Recurrence Dynamics of Pathological N2 Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Based on IASLC Residual Tumor Descriptor: In Ha Kim, Geun Dong Lee, Sehoon Choi, Hyeong Ryul Kim, Yong-Hee Kim, Dong Kwan Kim, Seung-Il Park, Jae Kwang Yun; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):105-115. Published online July 23, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.150

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study investigated the recurrence patterns and timing in patients with pathologic N2 (pN2) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) according to the residual tumor (R) descriptor proposed by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC).
Materials and Methods
From 2004 to 2021, patients with pN2 NSCLC who underwent anatomical resection were analyzed according to the IASLC R criteria using medical records from a single center. Survival analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards models. Recurrence patterns between complete (R0) and uncertain resections (R[un]) were compared.
Results
In total, 1,373 patients were enrolled in this study: 576 (42.0%) in R0, 286 (20.8%) in R(un), and 511 (37.2%) in R1/R2 according to the IASLC R criteria. The most common reason for R(un) classification was positivity for the highest lymph node (88.8%). In multivariable analysis, the hazard ratios for recurrence in R(un) and R1/R2 compared to R0 were 1.18 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.96–1.46) and 1.58 (1.31–1.90), respectively. The hazard rate curves displayed similar patterns among groups, peaking at approximately 12 months after surgery. There was a significant difference in distant recurrence patterns between R0 and R(un). Further analysis after stratification with the IASLC N2 descriptor showed significant differences in distant recurrence patterns between R0 and R(un) in patients pN2a1 and pN2a2 disease, but not in those with pN2b disease.
Conclusion
The IASLC R criteria has prognostic relevance in patients with pN2 NSCLC. R(un) is a highly heterogeneous group, and the involvement of the highest mediastinal lymph node can affect distant recurrence patterns.

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Breast cancer

Molecular Classification of Breast Cancer Using Weakly Supervised Learning: Wooyoung Jang, Jonghyun Lee, Kyong Hwa Park, Aeree Kim, Sung Hak Lee, Sangjeong Ahn; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):116-125. Published online June 25, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.113

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
The molecular classification of breast cancer is crucial for effective treatment. The emergence of digital pathology has ushered in a new era in which weakly supervised learning leveraging whole-slide images has gained prominence in developing deep learning models because this approach alleviates the need for extensive manual annotation. Weakly supervised learning was employed to classify the molecular subtypes of breast cancer.
Materials and Methods
Our approach capitalizes on two whole-slide image datasets: one consisting of breast cancer cases from the Korea University Guro Hospital (KG) and the other originating from The Cancer Genomic Atlas dataset (TCGA). Furthermore, we visualized the inferred results using an attention-based heat map and reviewed the histomorphological features of the most attentive patches.
Results
The KG+TCGA-trained model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristics value of 0.749. An inherent challenge lies in the imbalance among subtypes. Additionally, discrepancies between the two datasets resulted in different molecular subtype proportions. To mitigate this imbalance, we merged the two datasets, and the resulting model exhibited improved performance. The attentive patches correlated well with widely recognized histomorphologic features. The triple-negative subtype has a high incidence of high-grade nuclei, tumor necrosis, and intratumoral tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. The luminal A subtype showed a high incidence of collagen fibers.
Conclusion
The artificial intelligence (AI) model based on weakly supervised learning showed promising performance. A review of the most attentive patches provided insights into the predictions of the AI model. AI models can become invaluable screening tools that reduce costs and workloads in practice.

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A Single-Arm Phase II Clinical Trial of Fulvestrant Combined with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy of ER+/HER2– Locally Advanced Breast Cancer: Integrated Analysis of ¹⁸F-FES PET-CT and Metabolites with Treatment Response: Qing Shao, Ningning Zhang, Xianjun Pan, Wenqi Zhou, Yali Wang, Xiaoliang Chen, Jing Wu, Xiaohua Zeng; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):126-139. Published online July 9, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2023.1251

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This Phase II trial was objected to evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding fulvestrant to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with estrogen receptor (ER)+/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)– locally advanced breast cancer (LABC). Additionally, the study aimed to investigate the association of 16α-18F-fluoro-17β-fluoroestradiol (¹⁸F-FES) positron emission tomography (PET)–computed tomography (CT) and metabolites with efficacy.
Materials and Methods
Fulvestrant and EC-T regimen were given to ER+/HER2– LABC patients before surgery. At baseline, patients received ¹⁸F-FES PET-CT scan, and plasma samples were taken for liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints included total pathologic complete response (tpCR) and safety.
Results
Among the 36 patients enrolled, the ORR was 86.1%, the tpCR rate was 8.3%. The incidence of grade ≥ 3 treatment-emergent adverse events was 22%. The decrease in ER value in sensitive patients was larger than that in non-sensitive patients, as was Ki-67 (p < 0.05). The maximum standardized uptake value, mean standardized uptake values, total lesion ER expression of ¹⁸F-FES PET-CT in sensitive patients were significantly higher than those in non-sensitive patients (p < 0.05). Moreover, these parameters were significantly correlated with Miller and Payne grade and the change in ER expression before and after treatment (p < 0.05). Thirteen differential expressed metabolites were identified, which were markedly enriched in 19 metabolic pathways.
Conclusion
This regimen demonstrated acceptable toxicity and encouraging antitumor efficacy. ¹⁸F-FES PET-CT might serve as a tool to predict the effectiveness of this therapy. Altered metabolites or metabolic pathways might be associated with treatment response.

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Endoxifen Concentration Is Associated with Recurrence-Free Survival in Hormone-Sensitive Breast Cancer Patients: Beomki Lee, Seok Jin Nam, Seok Won Kim, Jonghan Yu, Byung-Joo Chae, Se Kyung Lee, Jai Min Ryu, Jeong Eon Lee, Soo-Youn Lee; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):140-149. Published online June 18, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2023.1285

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
The metabolism of tamoxifen is influenced by various cytochrome p450 enzymes, including CYP2D6 and CYP2C19, leading to variations in the levels of endoxifen, even with the same tamoxifen dose. However, the clinical significance of endoxifen for the prognosis of breast cancer patients remains controversial. This study aimed to elucidate the relevance of endoxifen level to recurrence-free survival censored with tamoxifen discontinuation (RFSt), representing the RFS for tamoxifen itself, of breast cancer patients and determine a suitable cutoff for prognostication.
Materials and Methods
The study included 478 breast cancer patients. Tamoxifen and its metabolites, including endoxifen, were measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. An optimal cutoff was determined with maximally selected rank statistics. Survival analysis and Cox regression were conducted based on this cutoff.
Results
An endoxifen level of 21.00 ng/mL was the optimal cutoff for prognostication. Survival analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in RFSt between the low endoxifen group (≤ 21.00 ng/mL) and the high endoxifen group (> 21.00 ng/mL) (log-rank test, p=0.032). The 10-year probability of RFSt was 83.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 77.0 to 89.9) and 88.3% (95% CI, 83.3 to 93.5) in the low and high endoxifen groups, respectively. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression indicated endoxifen concentration as a significant factor associated with prognosis.
Conclusion
Endoxifen could serve as a marker for appropriate tamoxifen treatment with a cutoff of 21.00 ng/mL. Based on this cutoff, therapeutic drug monitoring would benefit patients displaying suboptimal endoxifen concentrations.

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Locoregional Recurrence in Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Breast: A Retrospective, Multicenter Study (KROG 22-14): Sang Min Lee, Bum-Sup Jang, Won Park, Yong Bae Kim, Jin Ho Song, Jin Hee Kim, Tae Hyun Kim, In Ah Kim, Jong Hoon Lee, Sung-Ja Ahn, Kyubo Kim, Ah Ram Chang, Jeanny Kwon, Hae Jin Park, Kyung Hwan Shin; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):150-158. Published online July 12, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.201

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aims to evaluate the treatment approaches and locoregional patterns for adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) in the breast, which is an uncommon malignant tumor with limited clinical data.
Materials and Methods
A total of 93 patients diagnosed with primary ACC in the breast between 1992 and 2022 were collected from multi-institutions. All patients underwent surgical resection, including breast-conserving surgery (BCS) or total mastectomy (TM). Recurrence patterns and locoregional recurrence-free survival (LRFS) were assessed.
Results
Seventy-five patients (80.7%) underwent BCS, and 71 of them (94.7%) received post-operative radiation therapy (PORT). Eighteen patients (19.3%) underwent TM, with five of them (27.8%) also receiving PORT. With a median follow-up of 50 months, the LRFS rate was 84.2% at 5 years. Local recurrence (LR) was observed in five patients (5.4%) and four cases (80%) of the LR occurred in the tumor bed. Three of LR (3/75, 4.0%) had a history of BCS and PORT, meanwhile, two of LR (2/18, 11.1%) had a history of mastectomy. Regional recurrence occurred in two patients (2.2%), and both cases had a history of PORT with (n=1) and without (n=1) irradiation of the regional lymph nodes. Partial breast irradiation (p=0.35), BCS (p=0.96) and PORT in BCS group (p=0.33) had no significant association with LRFS.
Conclusion
BCS followed by PORT was the predominant treatment approach for ACC of the breast and LR mostly occurred in the tumor bed. The findings of this study suggest that partial breast irradiation might be considered for PORT in primary breast ACC.

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Grit and the Relationships among Psychological Distress and Suicidality in Female Patients with Breast Cancer: Ji Seon You, C. Hyung Keun Park; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):159-164. Published online July 16, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.188

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
The risk of suicide is approximately two times higher in patients with breast cancer compared to the general population. Suicide risk factors are widely investigated but research on the protective factors is lacking. We investigated whether each subscale of grit, consistency of interest, and perseverance of effort, could serve as a protective factor against suicidality.
Materials and Methods
Participants were recruited at the Stress Clinic for Cancer Patients, a psycho-oncology clinic at Asan Medical Center from May 2019 to March 2021. A total of 140 female patients with breast cancer completed self-administered questionnaires including Grit scale, Distress thermometer, and Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) suicidality module. We used PROCESS macro for analyzing the mediation model to identify the protective factors for suicidality.
Results
Our findings showed that perseverance of effort showed statistically non-significant associations with psychological distress (p=0.403) and suicidality (p=0.945), however, consistency of interest decreased suicidality through psychological distress (β=–0.015; 95% confidence interval, –0.035 to –0.002).
Conclusion
The result shows that consistency of interest can be a protective factor against suicidality by reducing psychological distress.

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Gastrointestinal cancer

Salvage Radiotherapy for Loco-regional Recurrence of Esophageal Cancer Following Surgery: Won Kyung Cho, Jae Myoung Noh, Dongryul Oh, Yong Chan Ahn, Jong-Mu Sun, Hong Kwan Kim, Young Mog Shim; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):165-173. Published online July 26, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.191

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
There is few evidence regarding the optimal salvage treatment options for loco-reginal recurrence of esophageal cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of salvage radiotherapy (RT) in patients with loco-regional recurrence (LRR) after surgery for esophageal cancer.
Materials and Methods
We retrospectively reviewed 147 esophageal cancer patients who received salvage RT for loco-regional recurrence between 1996 and December 2019. A total dose of 60 Gy in 20 fractions was used for RT alone and 60-70 Gy in 30-35 fractions for concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT).
Results
The patients’ median age was 65 years (range, 41 to 86 years). The median disease-free interval was 13.5 months (1.0 to 97.4 months). After a median 18.8 months follow-up, the 2-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 38.1% and 25.9%, respectively. The median OS and PFS were 18.8 and 8.4 months, respectively. The CCRT could not improve OS compared to RT (p=0.336), but there was a trend of better PFS in the CCRT group. Regarding toxicities, the rate of grade 3 or higher toxicity was 10.9% occurring in 16 patients, and it was higher in patients who received CCRT than in the RT alone group (19.6% vs. 6.3%, p=0.023).
Conclusion
Salvage RT alone as well as CCRT could be effective in patients with locoregionally recurrent esophageal cancer.

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Proximal Gastrectomy Is Associated with Lower Incidence of Anemia and Vitamin B12 Deficiency Compared to Total Gastrectomy in Patients with Upper Gastric Cancer: Jeong Ho Song, Sung Hyun Park, Minah Cho, Yoo Min Kim, Woo Jin Hyung, Hyoung-Il Kim; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):174-185. Published online July 3, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.319

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Purpose
Proximal gastrectomy is an alternative to total gastrectomy (TG) for early gastric cancer (EGC) treatment in the upper stomach. However, its benefits in terms of perioperative and long-term outcomes remain controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the perioperative, body compositional, nutritional, and survival outcomes of patients undergoing proximal gastrectomy with double-tract reconstruction (PG-DTR) and TG for pathological stage I gastric cancer in upper stomach.
Materials and Methods
The study included 506 patients who underwent gastrectomy for pathological stage I gastric cancer in the upper stomach between 2015 and 2019. Clinicopathological, perioperative, body compositional, nutritional, and survival outcomes were compared between the PG-DTR and TG groups.
Results
The PG-DTR and TG groups included 197 (38.9%) and 309 (61.1%) patients, respectively. The PG-DTR group had a lower rate of early complications (p=0.041), lower diagnosis rate of anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency (all p < 0.001), and lower replacement rate of iron and vitamin B12 compared to TG group (all p < 0.001). The PG-DTR group showed reduced incidence of sarcopenia at 6-months postoperatively, preserved higher amount of visceral fat after surgery (p=0.032 and p=0.040, respectively), and showed a higher hemoglobin level (p=0.007). Oncologic outcomes were comparable between the groups.
Conclusion
The PG-DTR for EGC located in the upper stomach offered advantages of fewer complications, lower incidence of anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency, less decrease in visceral fat volume, and similar survival compared to TG. Consequently, PG-DTR may be considered a superior alternative treatment option to TG.

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Proximal Gastrectomy for Upper-third Early Gastric Cancer
Guanhong Min, Kwangyong Kim, Seonghoon Cho, Jaewoo Shim
Journal of Digestive Cancer Research.2024; 12(2): 68. CrossRef

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Integrating Deep Learning–Based Dose Distribution Prediction with Bayesian Networks for Decision Support in Radiotherapy for Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer: Dong-Yun Kim, Bum-Sup Jang, Eunji Kim, Eui Kyu Chie; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):186-197. Published online August 2, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.333

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Selecting the better techniques to harbor optimal motion management, either a stereotactic linear accelerator delivery using TrueBeam (TBX) or magnetic resonance–guided gated delivery using MRIdian (MRG), is time-consuming and costly. To address this challenge, we aimed to develop a decision-supporting algorithm based on a combination of deep learning-generated dose distributions and clinical data.
Materials and Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 65 patients with liver or pancreatic cancer who underwent both TBX and MRG simulations and planning process. We trained three-dimensional U-Net deep learning models to predict dose distributions and generated dose volume histograms (DVHs) for each system. We integrated predicted DVH metrics into a Bayesian network (BN) model incorporating clinical data.
Results
The MRG prediction model outperformed the TBX model, demonstrating statistically significant superiorities in predicting normalized dose to the planning target volume (PTV) and liver. We developed a final BN prediction model integrating the predictive DVH metrics with patient factors like age, PTV size, and tumor location. This BN model an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve index of 83.56%. The decision tree derived from the BN model showed that the tumor location (abutting vs. apart of PTV to hollow viscus organs) was the most important factor to determine TBX or MRG. It provided a potential framework for selecting the optimal radiation therapy (RT) system based on individual patient characteristics.
Conclusion
We demonstrated a decision-supporting algorithm for selecting optimal RT plans in upper gastrointestinal cancers, incorporating both deep learning-based dose prediction and BN-based treatment selection. This approach might streamline the decision-making process, saving resources and improving treatment outcomes for patients undergoing RT.

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Fecal Microbial Dysbiosis Is Associated with Colorectal Cancer Risk in a Korean Population: Jeongseon Kim, Madhawa Gunathilake, Hyun Yang Yeo, Jae Hwan Oh, Byung Chang Kim, Nayoung Han, Bun Kim, Hyojin Pyun, Mi Young Lim, Young-Do Nam, Hee Jin Chang; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):198-211. Published online July 26, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.382

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
The association between the fecal microbiota and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk has been suggested in epidemiologic studies. However, data from large-scale population-based studies are lacking.
Materials and Methods
In this case-control study, we recruited 283 CRC patients from the Center for Colorectal Cancer, National Cancer Center Hospital, Korea to perform 16S rRNA gene sequencing of fecal samples. A total of 283 age- and sex-matched healthy participants were selected from 890 cohort of healthy Koreans that are publicly available (PRJEB33905). The microbial dysbiosis index (MDI) was calculated based on the differentially abundant species. The association between MDI and CRC risk was observed using conditional logistic regression. Sparse Canonical Correlation Analysis was performed to integrate species data with microbial pathways obtained by PICRUSt2.
Results
There is a significant divergence of the microbial composition between CRC patients and controls (permutational multivariate analysis of variance p=0.001). Those who were in third tertile of the MDI showed a significantly increased risk of CRC in the total population (odds ratio [OR], 6.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.98 to 12.06; p-trend < 0.001) compared to those in the lowest tertile. Similar results were found for men (OR, 6.28; 95% CI, 3.04 to 12.98; p-trend < 0.001) and women (OR, 7.39; 95% CI, 3.10 to 17.63; p-trend < 0.001). Bacteroides coprocola and Bacteroides plebeius species and 12 metabolic pathways were interrelated in healthy controls that explain 91% covariation across samples.
Conclusion
Dysbiosis in the fecal microbiota may be associated with an increased risk of CRC. Due to the potentially modifiable nature of the gut microbiota, our findings may have implications for CRC prevention among Koreans.

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The Oncogenic Role of TNFRSF12A in Colorectal Cancer and Pan-Cancer Bioinformatics Analysis: Chuyue Wang, Yingying Zhao, You Chen, Ying Shi, Zhiying Yang, Weili Wu, Rui Ma, Bo Wang, Yifeng Sun, Ping Yuan; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):212-228. Published online August 9, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.408

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
Cancer has become a significant major public health concern, making the discovery of new cancer markers or therapeutic targets exceptionally important. Elevated expression of tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 12A (TNFRSF12A) expression has been observed in certain types of cancer. This project aims to investigate the function of TNFRSF12A in tumors and the underlying mechanisms.
Materials and Methods
Various websites were utilized for conducting the bioinformatics analysis. Tumor cell lines with stable knockdown or overexpression of TNFRSF12A were established for cell phenotyping experiments and subcutaneous tumorigenesis in BALB/c mice. RNA-seq was employed to investigate the mechanism of TNFRSF12A.
Results
TNFRSF12A was upregulated in the majority of cancers and associated with a poor prognosis. Knockdown TNFRSF12A hindered the colorectal cancer progression, while overexpression facilitated malignancy both in vitro and in vivo. TNFRSF12A overexpression led to increased nuclear factor кB (NF-κB) signaling and significant upregulation of baculoviral IAP repeat containing 3 (BIRC3), a transcription target of the NF-κB member RELA, and it was experimentally confirmed to be a critical downstream factor of TNFRSF12A. Therefore, we speculated the existence of a TNFRSF12A/RELA/BIRC3 regulatory axis in colorectal cancer.
Conclusion
TNFRSF12A is upregulated in various cancer types and associated with a poor prognosis. In colorectal cancer, elevated TNFRSF12A expression promotes tumor growth, potentially through the TNFRSF12A/RELA/BIRC3 regulatory axis.

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Prognostic Evaluation and Survival Prediction for Combined Hepatocellular-Cholangiocarcinoma Following Hepatectomy: Seok-Joo Chun, Yu Jung Jung, YoungRok Choi, Nam-Joon Yi, Kwang-Woong Lee, Kyung-Suk Suh, Kyoung Bun Lee, Hyun-Cheol Kang, Eui Kyu Chie, Kyung Su Kim; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):229-239. Published online July 3, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.176

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This study aimed to assess prognostic factors associated with combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CCA) and to predict 5-year survival based on these factors.
Materials and Methods
Patients who underwent definitive hepatectomy from 2006 to 2022 at a single institution was retrospectively analyzed. Inclusion criteria involved a pathologically confirmed diagnosis of cHCC-CCA.
Results
A total of 80 patients with diagnosed cHCC-CCA were included in the analysis. The median progression-free survival was 15.6 months, while distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), hepatic progression-free survival, and overall survival (OS) were 50.8, 21.5, and 85.1 months, respectively. In 52 cases of recurrence, intrahepatic recurrence was the most common initial recurrence (34/52), with distant metastasis in 17 cases. Factors associated with poor DMFS included tumor necrosis, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), perineural invasion, and histologic compact type. Postoperative carbohydrate antigen 19-9, tumor necrosis, LVI, and close/positive margin were associated with poor OS. LVI emerged as a key factor affecting both DMFS and OS, with a 5-year OS of 93.3% for patients without LVI compared to 35.8% with LVI. Based on these factors, a nomogram predicting 3-year and 5-year DMFS and OS was developed, demonstrating high concordance with actual survival in the cohort (Harrell C-index 0.809 for OS, 0.801 for DMFS, respectively).
Conclusion
The prognosis of cHCC-CCA is notably poor when combined with LVI. Given the significant impact of adverse features, accurate outcome prediction is crucial. Moreover, consideration of adjuvant therapy may be warranted for patients exhibiting poor survival and increased risk of local recurrence or distant metastasis.

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Pediatric cancer

The Effect of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation on Treatment Outcome in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Hee Young Ju, Na Hee Lee, Eun Sang Yi, Young Bae Choi, So Jin Kim, Ju Kyung Hyun, Hee Won Cho, Jae Kyung Lee, Ji Won Lee, Ki Woong Sung, Hong Hoe Koo, Keon Hee Yoo; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):240-249. Published online July 5, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.155

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Purpose
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been an important method of treatment in the advance of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The indications for HSCT are evolving and require updated establishment. In this study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of HSCT on the treatment outcome of pediatric ALL, considering the indications for HSCT and subgroups.
Materials and Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on ALL patients diagnosed and treated at a single center. Risk groups were categorized based on age at diagnosis, initial white blood cell count, disease lineage (B/T), and cytogenetic study results. Data on the patients’ disease status at HSCT and indications of HSCT were collected. Indications for HSCT were categorized as upfront HSCT at 1st complete remission, relapse, and refractory disease.
Results
Among the 549 screened patients, a total of 418 patients were included in the study; B-cell ALL (n=379) and T-cell ALL (T-ALL) (n=39). HSCT was conducted on a total of 106 patients (25.4%), with a higher frequency as upfront HSCT in higher-risk groups and specific cytogenetics. The overall survival (OS) was significantly better when done upfront than in relapsed or refractory state in T-ALL patients (p=0.002). The KMT2A-rearranged ALL patients showed superior event-free survival (p=0.002) and OS (p=0.022) when HSCT was done as upfront treatment.
Conclusion
HSCT had a substantial positive effect in a specific subset of pediatric ALL. In particular, frontline HSCT for T-ALL and KMT2A-rearranged ALL offered a better prognosis than when HSCT was conducted in a relapsed or refractory setting.

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Sarcoma

Integrated Transcriptomic Landscape and Deep Learning Based Survival Prediction in Uterine Sarcomas: Yaolin Song, Guangqi Li, Zhenqi Zhang, Yinbo Liu, Huiqing Jia, Chao Zhang, Jigang Wang, Yanjiao Hu, Fengyun Hao, Xianglan Liu, Yunxia Xie, Ding Ma, Ganghua Li, Zaixian Tai, Xiaoming Xing; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):250-266. Published online July 10, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.343

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Purpose
The genomic characteristics of uterine sarcomas have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore the genomic landscape of the uterine sarcomas (USs).
Materials and Methods
Comprehensive genomic analysis through RNA-sequencing was conducted. Gene fusion, differentially expressed genes (DEGs), signaling pathway enrichment, immune cell infiltration, and prognosis were analyzed. A deep learning model was constructed to predict the survival of US patients.
Results
A total of 71 US samples were examined, including 47 endometrial stromal sarcomas (ESS), 18 uterine leiomyosarcomas (uLMS), three adenosarcomas, two carcinosarcomas, and one uterine tumor resembling an ovarian sex-cord tumor. ESS (including high-grade ESS [HGESS] and low-grade ESS [LGESS]) and uLMS showed distinct gene fusion signatures; a novel gene fusion site, MRPS18A–PDC-AS1 could be a potential diagnostic marker for the pathology differential diagnosis of uLMS and ESS; 797 and 477 uterine sarcoma DEGs (uDEGs) were identified in the ESS vs. uLMS and HGESS vs. LGESS groups, respectively. The uDEGs were enriched in multiple pathways. Fifteen genes including LAMB4 were confirmed with prognostic value in USs; immune infiltration analysis revealed the prognositic value of myeloid dendritic cells, plasmacytoid dendritic cells, natural killer cells, macrophage M1, monocytes and hematopoietic stem cells in USs; the deep learning model named Max-Mean Non-Local multi-instance learning (MMN-MIL) showed satisfactory performance in predicting the survival of US patients, with the area under the receiver operating curve curve reached 0.909 and accuracy achieved 0.804.
Conclusion
USs harbored distinct gene fusion characteristics and gene expression features between HGESS, LGESS, and uLMS. The MMN-MIL model could effectively predict the survival of US patients.

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Mitochondrial Ribosomal Proteins and Cancer
Huiyi Wu, Xiaowei Zhu, Huilin Zhou, Min Sha, Jun Ye, Hong Yu
Medicina.2025; 61(1): 96. CrossRef

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Hematologic malignancy

Assessing the Efficacy of Bortezomib and Dexamethasone for Induction and Maintenance Therapy in Relapsed/Refractory Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: A Phase II CISL1701/BIC Study: Yoon Seok Choi, Joonho Shim, Ka-Won Kang, Sang Eun Yoon, Jun Sik Hong, Sung Nam Lim, Ho-Young Yhim, Jung Hye Kwon, Gyeong-Won Lee, Deok-Hwan Yang, Sung Yong Oh, Ho-Jin Shin, Hyeon-Seok Eom, Dok Hyun Yoon, Hong Ghi Lee, Seong Hyun Jeong, Won Seog Kim, Seok Jin Kim; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):267-279. Published online July 16, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.479

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
This multicenter, open-label, phase II trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of bortezomib combined with dexamethasone for the treatment of relapsed/refractory cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) in previously treated patients across 14 institutions in South Korea.
Materials and Methods
Between September 2017 and July 2020, 29 patients with histologically confirmed CTCL received treatment, consisting of eight 4-week cycles of induction therapy followed by maintenance therapy, contingent upon response, for up to one year. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving an objective global response.
Results
Thirteen of the 29 patients (44.8%) achieved an objective global response, including two complete responses. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5.8 months, with responders showing a median PFS of 14.0 months. Treatment-emergent adverse events were generally mild, with a low incidence of peripheral neuropathy and hematologic toxicities. Despite the trend toward shorter PFS in patients with higher mutation burdens, genomic profiling before and after treatment showed no significant emergence of new mutations indicative of disease progression.
Conclusion
This study supports the use of bortezomib and dexamethasone as a viable and safe treatment option for previously treated CTCL, demonstrating substantial efficacy and manageability in adverse effects. Further research with a larger cohort is suggested to validate these findings and explore the prognostic value of mutation profiles.

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Palliative medicine

Factors Affecting Life-Sustaining Treatment Decisions and Changes in Clinical Practice after Enforcement of the Life-Sustaining Treatment (LST) Decision Act: A Tertiary Hospital Experience in Korea: Yoon Jung Jang, Yun Jung Yang, Hoi Jung Koo, Hye Won Yoon, Seongbeom Uhm, Sun Young Kim, Jeong Eun Kim, Jin Won Huh, Tae Won Kim, Seyoung Seo; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):280-288. Published online July 1, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.360

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Purpose
In Korea, the Act on Hospice and Palliative Care and Decisions on Life-Sustaining Treatment (LST) was implemented on February 4, 2018. We aimed to investigate relevant factors and clinical changes associated with LST decisions after law enforcement.
Materials and Methods
This single-center retrospective study included patients who completed LST documents using legal forms at Asan Medical Center from February 5, 2018, to June 30, 2020.
Results
5,896 patients completed LST documents, of which 2,704 (45.8%) signed the documents in person, while family members of 3,192 (54%) wrote the documents on behalf of the patients. Comparing first year and following year of implementation of the act, the self-documentation rate increased (43.9% to 47.2%, p=0.014). Moreover, the number of LST decisions made during or after intensive care unit admission decreased (37.8% vs. 35.2%, p=0.045), and the completion rate of LST documents during chemotherapy increased (6.6% vs. 8.9%, p=0.001). In multivariate analysis, age < 65 (odds ratio [OR], 1.724; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.538 to 1.933; p < 0.001), unmarried status (OR, 1.309; 95% CI, 1.097 to 1.561; p=0.003), palliative care consultation (OR, 1.538; 95% CI, 1.340 to 1.765; p < 0.001), malignancy (OR, 1.864; 95% CI, 1.628 to 2.133; p < 0.001), and changes in timing on the first year versus following year (OR, 1.124; 95% CI, 1.003 to 1.260; p=0.045) were related to a higher self-documentation rate.
Conclusion
Age < 65 years, unmarried status, malignancy, and referral to a palliative care team were associated with patients making LST decisions themselves. Furthermore, the subject and timing of LST decisions have changed with the LST act.

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Commentary on “Metronomic S-1 Adjuvant Chemotherapy Improves Survival in Patients with Locoregionally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma”: Erkan Topkan, Efsun Somay, Nilufer Kılıc Durankus, Ugur Selek; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):289-290. Published online November 4, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.779

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Reply to Commentary on “Metronomic S-1 Adjuvant Chemotherapy Improves Survival in Patients with Locoregionally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma”
San-Gang Wu
Cancer Research and Treatment.2025; 57(1): 291. CrossRef

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Reply to Commentary on “Metronomic S-1 Adjuvant Chemotherapy Improves Survival in Patients with Locoregionally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma”: San-Gang Wu; Cancer Res Treat. 2025;57(1):291-292. Published online November 4, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.4143/crt.2024.1048

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