Sinapsos Podcast | Oncology

E44 | 18 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Cano-Uceda, A.; Pareja-García, P.; Sánchez-Rodríguez, E.; Fraguas-Ramos, D.; Martín-Álvarez, L.; Asencio-Vicente, R.; Rivero-de la Villa, A.; Pérez-Pérez, M.d.M.; Obispo-Portero, B.M.; Morales-Ruiz, L.; de Dios-Álvarez, R.; Sanchez-Barroso, L.; De Sousa-De Sousa, L.; Maté-Muñoz, J.L.; García-Fernández, P. Effects of a 6-Week Supervised Multimodal Exercise Program on Cancer-Related Fatigue, Quality of Life and Physical Function During Active Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Cancers 2026, 18, 947. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18060947Type: Article | Publication date: 13 March 2026 Summary: Reduced quality of life, cancer-related fatigue, and functional impairment are common problems during and after cancer treatment. To examine this issue, a randomized clinical trial was conducted with 110 patients with stage I–III cancer. Participants were randomly assigned either to an intervention group, which completed a six-week supervised exercise program, or to a control group that received usual care. The exercise program included cardiorespiratory training, strength exercises, and stretching, with intensity monitored through perceived exertion. Quality of life, fatigue, functional capacity, and muscle strength were assessed. The group that completed the exercise program showed significant and clinically meaningful improvements in fatigue, global quality of life, functional capacity, and muscle strength compared with the control group. Furthermore, a higher percentage of participants in the intervention group achieved improvements considered clinically important. Among symptoms, only insomnia showed a significant reduction. Conclusion: A brief, supervised therapeutic exercise program of moderate to vigorous intensity is safe and effective for improving fatigue, quality of life, and physical function in patients with cancer, and may be suitable for integration into routine oncologic care. Keywords: therapeutic exercise; cancer; quality of life; physical function; fatigue; short-duration intervention Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E42 | 20 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Lee, C.; Park, K.; Park, S.; Kim, M.; Hwang, J. Diffuse Leptomeningeal Glioneuronal Tumor: A Systematic Review Highlighting Molecular Heterogeneity and Survival Outcome. Cancers 2026, 18, 912. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18060912Type: Systematic Review | Publication date: 11 March 2026 Summary: Diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumor is a very rare brain tumor that mainly affects children and young adults and often spreads along the brain and spinal cord. Because it is uncommon and difficult to diagnose, treatment strategies vary widely and clinical outcomes remain unpredictable. To address this, we reviewed all published cases reported since this tumor was first defined to summarize clinical features, genetic findings, treatments, and survival outcomes. We found that hydrocephalus and spinal involvement were common, and that surgery was associated with longer survival in selected patients. Genetic alterations affecting tumor growth–related pathways were also frequently observed. This summary of current evidence may help clinicians recognize this tumor earlier and consider appropriate management strategies. Keywords: diffuse leptomeningeal glioneuronal tumor; leptomeningeal dissemination; BRAF fusion; MAPK pathway; pediatric low-grade glioma; molecular heterogeneity; survival analysis Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E40 | 18 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Pearce, J.; Hamzeh, H.; Denholm, M.; Greystoke, A.; Gomes, F.; Clegg, A.; Velikova, G.; Richards, S.H.; Gilbert, A. Clinicians’ Experiences of Implementing Clinical Frailty Scale Assessments in Lung Oncology Clinics: A Qualitative Interview Study. Cancers 2026, 18, 884. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18050884Type: Article | Publication date: 09 March 2026 Summary: Simple frailty assessments, such as the clinical frailty scale (CFS), could support treatment decision-making and care in cancer clinics, but they are not currently used routinely. This qualitative interview study explored clinicians’ experiences of using frailty assessments in lung cancer clinics to understand how they impact care, and the barriers and facilitators to their use. Four main themes were identified. ‘Assessing fitness and frailty’ explores the central role of performance status in assessing fitness and accessing cancer treatments, as well as its limitations and what frailty assessments add. ‘Scoring and interpreting CFS’ describes the ease and relative yield of CFS use, and its ability to differentiate between patients considered ‘borderline’ according to performance status, as well as the need to consider scoring in the wider clinical context. ‘Role of frailty and impacts of assessment’ highlights how frailty assessments can enhance patient-centred care and support, communication with patients, and clinical and shared decision-making, with the potential to streamline care and convey wider system-level benefits. ‘Barriers and facilitators to implementation’ describes factors that help or hinder the delivery of frailty assessments and frailty-informed care, with specific recommendations provided to support use in practice. Keywords: frailty; geriatric oncology; qualitative research; frailty assessment; frailty screening; clinical frailty scale (CFS); frailty-informed care Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E38 | 14 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Hablase, R.; Sisu, C.; Karteris, E.; Chatterjee, J. Integrative In Silico mRNA–miRNA Profiling of mTOR Pathway Dysregulation in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma. Cancers 2026, 18, 866. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18050866Type: Article | Publication date: 07 March 2026 Summary: High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most common and aggressive type of ovarian cancer. It is often diagnosed at a late stage and eventually becomes resistant to standard chemotherapy. The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a key regulator of cellular functions including growth, survival, immune responses, and metabolism. To show how the mTOR pathway becomes dysregulated in HGSOC, we analysed gene expression data and microRNA patterns from both ovarian cancer patients and healthy individuals. We found that many of the genes involved in the mTOR pathway are unusually dysregulated. A group of regulatory molecules, the let-7 miRNAs, may allow this abnormal activity to continue. We also discovered a distinct pattern where one part of the pathway (mTORC1) is switched on while another (mTORC2) is switched off. These findings may help guide more effective, targeted treatments in the future targeting these pathways. Keywords: ovarian cancer; mTOR; TCGA; GTEx; miRNA Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E36 | 20 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Fan, R.; Wei, X.; Lea, J.; Zhu, H.; Zheng, W. ER-Negative Endometrial Cancers: An Evolving Diagnostic Category with Major Clinical Implications. Cancers 2026, 18, 773. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18050773Type: Review | Publication date: 27 February 2026 Summary: Estrogen receptor–negative (ER-negative) endometrial carcinomas represent a biologically aggressive and heterogeneous subset of endometrial cancers. Although ER testing has long been used in endometrial carcinoma, it has historically been applied mainly for therapeutic decision-making rather than as a diagnostic tool. Loss of ER expression is associated with poor prognosis but, by itself, is insufficient for accurate tumor classification. In this commentary, we review the evolving diagnostic significance of ER negativity using an integrated framework that incorporates tumor morphology, immunophenotypic features, and molecular heterogeneity. We highlight several high-grade ER-negative tumor types—including gastrointestinal-type adenocarcinoma, pilomatrix-like carcinoma, mesonephric-like adenocarcinoma, clear cell carcinoma, and other high-grade ER-negative carcinomas—that show distinct clinicopathologic characteristics. We propose that ER negativity should be regarded as a diagnostic signal that prompts careful subclassification, with important implications for accurate diagnosis and clinical management. Keywords: estrogen receptor–negative (ER-negative) endometrial carcinomas; endometrial gastrointestinal-type adenocarcinoma; pilomatrix-like high-grade endometrial carcinoma; PiMHEC; mesonephric-like adenocarcinoma Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E34 | 21 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: El-Haddad, G.; Gardner, L.; Kim, H.; Soares, H.P. Occurrence and Management of Acute, Subacute, and Delayed Toxicities in Patients with GEP-NETs Following Treatment with Radioligand Therapy. Cancers 2026, 18, 742. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18050742Type: Review | Publication date: 25 February 2026 Summary: Radioligand therapy is a type of treatment being developed for many cancer types, including gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs). It uses specially designed drugs to deliver radiation directly to tumor cells within the body. Studies have shown that radioligand therapies can help some patients with GEP-NETs to live longer without disease progression. However, side effects have been reported in patients treated with radioligand therapies. Additionally, there is a risk of radiation exposure among people who come into contact with treated patients. In this article, we provide practical strategies to prevent and manage the side effects of radioligand therapy and to maintain radiation safety. Keywords: radioligand therapy; gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors; adverse event; toxicity; management; radioactive contamination; radiation safety Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E32 | 18 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Katifelis, H.; Zerva, S.; Bamias, A.; Karamouzis, M.V.; Stravodimos, K.; Sechi, L.A.; Lampropoulou, D.; Pliakou, E.; Gazouli, M. Circulating ERVFRD-1 and MFSD2A Are Associated with Immunotherapy Response in Metastatic Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Cancers 2026, 18, 716. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18040716Type: Article | Publication date: 23 February 2026 Summary: Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies have improved outcomes for patients with metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (mccRCC). However, many patients do not respond to treatment. Therefore, reliable biomarkers associated with therapeutic response are urgently needed. Blood-based biomarkers offer a non-invasive alternative to tissue analysis. In this study, we investigated the expression of two immunity-related genes, ERVFRD-1 and MFSD2A, in peripheral blood samples from mccRCC patients receiving PD-1-based treatment. Both genes were dysregulated compared with healthy controls and demonstrated differential baseline expression between patients who achieved clinical benefit and those with progressive disease. Patients with progressive disease exhibited decreased expression of ERVFRD-1 and increased expression of MFSD2A. These findings suggest that ERVFRD-1 and MFSD2A may serve as candidate blood-based biomarkers associated with response to ICI, although confirmation in larger prospective studies is required. Keywords: ccRCC; immunotherapy; ICIs; PD-1; TKI; ; Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E30 | 11 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Cascella, M.; Perri, F.; Ottaiano, A.; Santorsola, M.; Marciano, M.L.; Rampetta, F.R.; Pontone, M.; Crispo, A.; Sabbatino, F.; Franci, G.; Esposito, W.; Cisale, G.; Romano, M.; Amato, F.; Scuotto, A.; Santoriello, V.; Ponsiglione, A.M. Linking Cancer Pain Features and Biosignals for Automatic Pain Assessment. Cancers 2026, 18, 646. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18040646Type: Article | Publication date: 16 February 2026 Summary: Although pain is a frequent and burdensome symptom in people with cancer, it is commonly evaluated using self-reported scales that may be unreliable in patients with cognitive, communicative, or clinical limitations. This study explored whether objective physiological signals could enhance cancer pain assessment. We analyzed electrodermal activity and heart rate variability recorded in cancer patients and examined their relationships with pain intensity and pain type. The results indicate that specific electrodermal activity parameters are associated with both pain intensity and distinct pain phenotypes (mainly mixed pain). In contrast, heart rate variability failed to provide meaningful discrimination in this context. Despite limitations, these findings suggest that electrodermal activity may represent a valuable objective marker to complement conventional pain scales and support the development of automated pain assessment approaches in oncology. Keywords: cancer pain; breakthrough cancer pain; biosignals; electrodermal activity; automatic pain assessment; heart rate variability Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E28 | 13 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Karpes, J.B.; Liu, K.; Crawford, M.D.; Pulitano, C.; Sandroussi, C.; Laurence, J.M. Reducing Complications in Pancreaticoduodenectomy. Cancers 2026, 18, 630. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18040630Type: Review | Publication date: 14 February 2026 Summary: Pancreatic surgery is one of the most complex areas of abdominal surgery, with morbidity and mortality remaining a major challenge. Despite progress in surgical techniques and perioperative care, outcomes still vary widely, and there is no consensus on how to reliably prevent major complications. This study evaluates contemporary evidence on how complications develop, how they can be detected early, and the strategies that may reduce their frequency and impact. The evaluation includes technical factors during surgery, as well as non-technical factors outside of the operating theatre that may improve safety and outcomes. The goal of this review is to guide practice and future research to improve the safety of pancreatic resection in any environment. Keywords: pancreaticoduodenectomy; postoperative pancreatic fistula; centralisation; failure to rescue Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E26 | 13 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Morishita, A.; Oura, K.; Tai, H.; Yano, R.; Nakahara, M.; Tadokoro, T.; Fujita, K.; Mimura, S.; Tani, J.; Tatsuta, M.; Himoto, T.; Kobara, H. Advances in the Therapeutic Landscape of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Strategies and Future Perspectives. Cancers 2026, 18, 609. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18040609Type: Review | Publication date: 12 February 2026 Summary: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arises mostly in chronically diseased livers, so clinicians must manage both an aggressive cancer and a fragile organ simultaneously. This review explains how modern HCC care has evolved into an integrated continuum: from prevention and surveillance to curative options such as resection, ablation, and transplantation, to refined locoregional therapy and immunotherapy-based systemic regimens. We highlight how treatment decisions are tailored according to tumor stage, liver function, portal hypertension, and frailty, and why preserving hepatic reserve is crucial to allow multiple lines of therapy. We also summarize emerging tools such as biomarkers, liquid biopsy, radiomics, and microbiome research that may support more precise treatment selection. Finally, we discuss special populations, safety considerations, and future strategies that combine innovative and traditional approaches to improve survival and quality of life for patients with HCC worldwide. This review aims to guide practical clinical decision-making. Keywords: hepatocellular carcinoma; cirrhosis; surveillance; Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer; transarterial chemoembolization; radioembolization; stereotactic body radiotherapy; immune checkpoint inhibitor; tyrosine kinase inhibitor; biomarkers Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E24 | 13 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Cai, H.; Chen, H.; Ye, J.; Jin, Z.; Huang, P. Current Research Progress on ABHD5 in Cancers. Cancers 2026, 18, 585. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18040585Type: Review | Publication date: 10 February 2026 Summary: ABHD5 is a key regulator of lipid metabolism, with context-dependent roles in cancer. It interacts with signaling pathways like AMPK/mTOR, AKT, and NF-κB, exerting either tumor-suppressive or oncogenic effects based on the tumor’s ecological and molecular context. This review synthesizes experimental and clinical evidence to clarify its multifaceted functions and explores its potential as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target, emphasizing the need for precision strategies rather than blunt intervention. Keywords: ABHD5; lipid metabolism; cancer; pathway Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E22 | 11 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Rosini, D.; Cosi, I.; De Iaco, P.; Sebastianelli, A.; Di Stefano, G.; Serni, S.; Nesi, G.; Notaro, R.; De Angioletti, M. SLPI in Prostate Cancer. Cancers 2026, 18, 487. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18030487Type: Review | Publication date: 01 February 2026 Summary: SLPI is a protein that usually acts as a protective shield for our body’s internal surfaces. Its main jobs are to prevent tissue damage, fight germs, and control inflammation. However, in the context of cancer, SLPI acts like a double-edged sword. While it normally keeps us healthy, many cancers—including lung and breast cancer—hijack this protein to grow and spread more easily. In these cases, high levels of SLPI often signal a more aggressive disease. Interestingly, the opposite happens in some cases, like liver cancer, where more SLPI can be a positive sign. Prostate cancer shows a unique pattern: SLPI protein levels are low in the early stages but rise sharply as the cancer becomes advanced and resistant to treatments. By studying these shifts, scientists can better understand how a tumor behaves, helping doctors predict the disease’s path and develop more effective, personalized treatments for patients. Keywords: androgen; androgen receptor; biomarker; ETS transcription factors; ETV1; ETV4; transgenic mouse model; prostate cancer; secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor; SLPI Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.

E20 | 11 min | Latest | Publication Link Podcast based on: Michelon, I.; do Rêgo Castro, C.E.; Querino Belluco, A.P.; Dacoregio, M.I.; Priantti, J.; Witt, R.G.; Attia, S.; Vilbert, M.; Cavalcante, L. Multi-Targeted TKIs in Patients with Advanced Ewing Sarcoma: A Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis. Cancers 2026, 18, 465. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18030465Type: Systematic Review | Publication date: 30 January 2026 Summary: Ewing sarcoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that often relapses after treatment. There is no clear standard therapy for patients whose disease progresses. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors have recently shown promising results. We reviewed and pooled data from published clinical trials and real-world studies to better evaluate the efficacy and safety of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in relapsed Ewing sarcoma patients. In our pooled analyses of 14 studies, we found an objective response rate of 23% and a disease control rate of 61.1%. Cabozantinib and regorafenib showed the most consistent benefits among drugs available in Western countries. These findings suggest the potential of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the treatment of such a challenging population. Keywords: tyrosine kinase inhibitor; Ewing sarcoma; multiply refractory disease; TKI Disclaimer:This podcast provides a synthetically generated voice summary and discussion of scientific publications. The views expressed do not represent the views of the original authors, journals, or publishers. This podcast uses AI-assisted summaries, so it may or may not introduce inaccuracies or omit important details. Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult the original publications or sources for full context and accuracy. This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute clinical advice, medical guidance, or recommendations. The creators of this podcast are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.