Experts explore the underlying biology of cancer and potential therapeutic strategies

Cancer's global impact is severe, affecting millions worldwide and driving cancer research to the forefront of biomedical science.

A recent special issue from Acta Biochimica et Biophysica Sinica, guest-edited by Dr. Daming Gao and Dr. Gaoxiang Ge from the Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, dives deep into the molecular mechanisms behind cancer's malignant phenotype—the key to developing effective cancer therapies.

This issue unites leading experts in basic cancer research, summarizing the latest advances in cancer biology and potential therapeutic strategies. Covered topics range widely, from the role of the Hippo pathway in tumorigenesis by Dr. Zhaocai Zhou (Fudan University) and Dr. Lei Zhang (Shanghai Jiao Tong University) to the impact of aging on breast cancer by Dr. Limin Zhao (Nanchang University).

Metabolic reprogramming in cancer is explored by Dr. Peng Jiang (Tsinghua University) , Dr.Xianjun Yu from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, and Dr. Xin Lu from Fudan University, while tumor heterogeneity is tackled by Dr. Hongbin Ji (Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences).

The tumor microenvironment in prostate cancer is examined by Dr. Yundong He (East China Normal University) and Dr. Shangcheng Ren (Naval Medical University), while leukemia immunotherapy is discussed by Dr. Junke Zheng and Yaping Zhang from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medcine. RNA methylation in esophageal cancer is reviewed by Dr. Hecheng Li from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medcine.

By exploring cancer's underlying biology, this special issue aims to contribute to the development of mechanism-based approaches for cancer treatment, bringing hope to those affected by this devastating disease.