The nerve cells in gastrointestinal cancers: from molecular mechanisms to clinical intervention.

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is a formidable malignancy with significant morbidity and mortality rates. Recent studies have shed light on the complex interplay between the nervous system and the GI system, influencing various aspects of GI tumorigenesis, such as the malignance of cancer cells, the conformation of tumor microenvironment (TME), and the resistance to chemotherapies. The discussion in this review first focused on exploring the intricate details of the biological function of the nervous system in the development of the GI tract and the progression of tumors within it. Meanwhile, the cancer cell-originated feedback regulation on the nervous system is revealed to play a crucial role in the growth and development of nerve cells within tumor tissues. This interaction is vital for understanding the complex relationship between the nervous system and GI oncogenesis. Additionally, the study identified various components within the TME that possess a significant influence on the occurrence and progression of GI cancer, including microbiota, immune cells, and fibroblasts. Moreover, we highlighted the transformation relationship between non-neuronal cells and neuronal cells during GI cancer progression, inspiring the development of strategies for nervous system-guided anti-tumor drugs. By further elucidating the deep mechanism of various neuroregulatory signals and neuronal intervention, we underlined the potential of these targeted drugs translating into effective therapies for GI cancer treatment. In summary, this review provides an overview of the mechanisms of neuromodulation and explores potential therapeutic opportunities, providing insights into the understanding and management of GI cancers.

Updated Epidemiology of Gastric Cancer in Asia: Decreased Incidence but Still a Big Challenge.

Despite the decline in incidence and mortality rates, gastric cancer (GC) is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The incidence and mortality of GC are exceptionally high in Asia due to high H. pylori infection, dietary habits, smoking behaviors, and heavy alcohol consumption. In Asia, males are more susceptible to developing GC than females. Variations in H. pylori strains and prevalence rates may contribute to the differences in incidence and mortality rates across Asian countries. Large-scale H. pylori eradication was one of the effective ways to reduce GC incidences. Treatment methods and clinical trials have evolved, but the 5-year survival rate of advanced GC is still low. Efforts should be put towards large-scale screening and early diagnosis, precision medicine, and deep mechanism studies on the interplay of GC cells and microenvironments for dealing with peritoneal metastasis and prolonging patients' survival.

Exploring the Microbiome in Gastric Cancer: Assessing Potential Implications and Contextualizing Microorganisms beyond H. pylori and Epstein-Barr Virus.

While previous research has primarily focused on the impact of H. pylori and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), emerging evidence suggests that other microbial influences, including viral and fungal infections, may also contribute to gastric cancer (GC) development. The intricate interactions between these microbes and the host's immune response provide a more comprehensive understanding of gastric cancer pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. The review highlights the roles of established players such as H. pylori and EBV and the potential impacts of gut bacteria, mainly Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and fungi such as Candida albicans. Advanced sequencing technologies offer unprecedented insights into the complexities of the gastric microbiome, from microbial diversity to potential diagnostic applications. Furthermore, the review highlights the potential for advanced GC diagnosis and therapies through a better understanding of the gut microbiome.