Extracellular Vesicle Mediated Tumor-Stromal Crosstalk Within an Engineered Lung Cancer Model

Tumor-stromal interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME) influence lung cancer progression and response to therapeutic interventions, yet traditional in vitro studies fail to replicate the complexity of these interactions. Herein, we developed three-dimensional (3D) lung tumor models that mimic the human TME and demonstrate tumor-stromal crosstalk mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs released by tumor cells, independent of p53 status, and fibroblasts within the TME mediate immunomodulatory effects; specifically, monocyte/macrophage polarization to a tumor-promoting M2 phenotype within this 3D-TME. Additionally, immune checkpoint inhibition in a 3D model that included T cells showed an inhibition of tumor growth and reduced hypoxia within the TME. Thus, perfused 3D tumor models incorporating diverse cell types provide novel insights into EV-mediated tumor-immune interactions and immune-modulation for existing and emerging cancer therapies.

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma of the liver

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is an intermediate grade malignant neoplasm of vascular origin. The tumor involves the liver and lungs, but other organs are affected too. The key to the diagnosis is identification of cells of endothelial origin containing Factor VIII R antigen. Surgical resection of isolated lesions is the treatment of choice; with unpredictable results reported for chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and resection of multiple lesions. The prognosis is very variable, and ranges from few months to more than 25 years.

Pulmonary embolism at high altitude and hyperhomocysteinemia

This case report describes pulmonary embolism in a patient as a complication of extended stay at high altitude. He also had increased plasma homocysteine levels. Hypercoagulability at high altitude along with hyperhomocysteinemia is a risk factor for arterial and venous thrombosis.