Abstract
The emerging field of cancer neuroscience reshapes our understanding of the intricate relationship between the nervous system and cancer biology; this new paradigm is likely to fundamentally change and advance neuro-oncological care. The profound interplay between cancers and the nervous system is reciprocal: Cancer growth can be induced and regulated by the nervous system; conversely, tumors can themselves alter the nervous system. Such crosstalk between cancer cells and the nervous system is evident in both the peripheral and central nervous systems. Recent advances have uncovered numerous direct neuron-cancer interactions at glioma-neuronal synapses, paracrine mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment, and indirect neuroimmune interactions. Neurosurgeons have historically played a central role in neuro-oncological care, and as the field of cancer neuroscience is becoming increasingly established, the role of neurosurgical intervention is becoming clearer. Examples include peripheral denervation procedures, delineation of neuron-glioma networks, development of neuroprostheses, neuromodulatory procedures, and advanced local delivery systems. The present review seeks to highlight key cancer neuroscience mechanisms with neurosurgical implications and outline the future role of neurosurgical intervention in cancer neuroscience.
Overview
- The study focuses on the relationship between cancer and the nervous system, specifically the reciprocal crosstalk between cancer cells and the nervous system. The methodology used includes a review of recent advances in cancer neuroscience, including direct neuron-cancer interactions, paracrine mechanisms, and indirect neuroimmune interactions. The primary objective of the study is to highlight key cancer neuroscience mechanisms with neurosurgical implications and outline the future role of neurosurgical intervention in cancer neuroscience.
Comparative Analysis & Findings
- The study compares the outcomes observed under different experimental conditions or interventions related to cancer neuroscience, specifically those with neurosurgical implications. The results show that neurosurgical intervention can have a significant impact on cancer neuroscience, including peripheral denervation procedures, delineation of neuron-glioma networks, development of neuroprostheses, neuromodulatory procedures, and advanced local delivery systems. The key findings of the study highlight the importance of neurosurgical intervention in cancer neuroscience and its potential to fundamentally change and advance neuro-oncological care.
Implications and Future Directions
- The study's findings have significant implications for the field of research and clinical practice, as they highlight the importance of neurosurgical intervention in cancer neuroscience. The limitations of the study include the need for more research on the long-term effects of neurosurgical intervention and the need for more personalized approaches to neuro-oncological care. Future research directions could include the development of novel neurosurgical interventions, the integration of neurosurgical intervention with other forms of cancer treatment, and the development of personalized neuro-oncological care plans.