Introduction: Gastric cancer (GC) is the fifth leading cause of cancer death worldwide, with around 1 million new cases a year. In the northern region of Brazil, its incidence and mortality exceed the national average. GC is characterized by being highly heterogeneous, and its late detection culminates in metastasis and resistance to conventional treatments. Therefore, the development of targeted therapeutic strategies is necessary. A promising alternative is based on the use of virus-like particles (VLPs) defined as virus-derived structures composed of structural proteins that mimic the structure of the native virus, without possessing the viral genome. VLPs can be modified to carry therapeutic molecules in their internal cavity and target them to the tumor cell by bioconjugating ligands on their surface. Therefore, plant viruses such as cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV) stand out as ideal candidates. These viruses do not have the capacity to infect mammalian cells, guaranteeing safety. RNA-free CPMV is therefore a promising platform for the active transport of therapeutic agents. These particles can be produced in various heterologous systems, in which plant systems stand out due to their cost-effectiveness and lack of risk of contamination by animal pathogens. Among the production platforms, transient expression through infiltration with Agrobacterium tumefaciens in Nicotiana benthamiana plant leaves stands out for its remarkable speed. Objective: This work aimed to express and characterize VLPs derived from the Caupi Mosaic Virus (CPMV) in Nicotiana benthamiana. Methodology: Suspensions of Agrobacterium tumefaciens containing the plasmid pEAQexpress-VP60-24K were infiltrated into Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. The capsid proteins were transiently expressed, extracted, clarified with n-butanol, and precipitated with PEG. The particles were purified by ultracentrifugation. This was followed by quantification by spectrophotometry (Nanodrop) and determined using the Lambert-Beer law (A= ?.c.l). Characterization was carried out by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), dot blot and Western blot using anti-CPSMV antibodies. Results: CPMV VLPs were successfully expressed and obtained 6 days after infiltration. The concentration determined was 2.546 mg/ml in the sample analyzed and used in subsequent experiments. SDS-PAGE analysis in polyacrylamide gel (4-12%) confirmed the presence of the large (L) capsid proteins at 42 and small (S) with expected molecular weights of around 42 kDa and 24 kDa, respectively, for both the CPMV and the Cowpea Severe Mosaic Virus (CPSMV) used as a positive control. Dot blotting analysis revealed qualitative labeling for both CPSMV and VLP-CPMV, which was detected with anti-CPSMV. Western blotting detection confirmed the presence of the band corresponding to the small protein at 24 kDa. Conclusion: Transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana proved to be an efficient platform for the production of recombinant proteins with potential applications against cancer. However, the versatility of these particles, coupled with the possibility of targeting tumor cells, places VLP-CPMV in a promising position for the development of new strategies aimed at gastric cancer.
It is with great enthusiasm that we present the Annals of the Oncology International Symposium 2025, an event that continues to solidify its significance in the oncology landscape of northern Brazil. Held in Belém, Pará, Oncology 2025 centered around the theme "The cancer control challenge: better knowing it to best facing it," dedicating itself to exploring the latest frontiers in cancer treatment and prevention.
This year, the symposium provided a deep dive into the essential role of knowledge in the fight against cancer, presenting new perspectives and scientific advancements across various areas of oncology. Renowned global experts gathered to share their most recent research and innovative approaches, offering participants a comprehensive view of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and patients worldwide.
Presentations and discussions during the event focused on critical topics such as the use of new technologies, advancements in personalized therapies, and more effective prevention strategies. Additionally, particular attention was given to the unique challenges faced by the Amazon region, with efforts aimed at developing region-specific solutions to meet local needs.
Beyond being a high-caliber academic event, Oncology 2025 stood out as a moment for integration and professional networking, with the warm hospitality of the city of Belém offering participants a unique experience. This event became a platform for exchanging ideas, where science, culture, and humanity came together in pursuit of a common goal: to improve cancer control both in Brazil and globally.
This collection of abstracts and articles presented during the event reflects the ongoing dedication to research and the development of innovative solutions, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge in the fight against cancer.
General Submission Guidelines:
The presenting author, who does not have to be the first author, must be registered for Oncology 2025.
Each abstract may have up to 10 authors, including the main author and co-authors.
Only original, unpublished work will be accepted.
Submissions must be related to oncology. However, project descriptions, work proposals, experience reports, and literature reviews will not be considered.
Clinical case reports are allowed, provided the abstract addresses scientific questions, details clinical observations, and includes primary scientific data.
The abstract must be written in English, but presentations may be given in Portuguese.
Abstracts must be between 300 and 500 words.
Comissão Organizadora
Comissão Científica
See Annals of Oncology 2023 at:
https://www.even3.com.br/anais/oncology-2023-international-symposium/