Introduction: Gastric cancer (GC) is a global public health challenge, ranking as the fifth most common cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Its high lethality is mainly attributed to late diagnosis and tumor heterogeneity, which limit therapeutic options and reduce patient survival. In this context, the identification of diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarkers for GC becomes essential. CTCFL (also known as BORIS) belongs to the cancer-testis antigen (CTA) family, typically restricted to testicular tissue, but frequently overexpressed in various malignant tumors. Its high immunogenic potential makes it a promising candidate for immunotherapy. Therefore, investigating the tissue expression pattern of the CTCFL gene in GC patients is crucial to assess its clinical relevance in this malignancy. Objective: To analyze CTCFL gene expression in gastric adenocarcinoma (GA) samples from the state of Pará, Brazil. Methods: A total of 124 tumor tissue samples and 62 adjacent non-tumoral tissue (ADJ) samples from GA patients (CAAE: 47580121.9.0000.5634) were collected and subjected to total RNA sequencing. Based on the obtained reads, a comparative analysis of CTCFL expression levels between tumor and ADJ tissues was performed. Additionally, the association of CTCFL expression with: i) pathological variables: EBV and H. pylori status, histological subtypes, and overall survival (OS); and ii) clinical and epidemiological characteristics: gender and use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, were evaluated. Group comparisons were performed using the Wilcoxon test with normalized expression data. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Data visualization was conducted through graphical analyses using R software. Results: The CTCFL gene showed significantly higher expression in tumor tissues compared to ADJ tissues (p= 0.00782). Gene expression analysis based on pathological features revealed a slight increase in CTCFL expression in EBV positive patients, although not statistically significant (p= 0.33561). Conversely, a significantly higher expression of CTCFL was observed in H. pylori-positive patients (p = 0.0004). Regarding histological subtypes (diffuse, intestinal, and mixed), expression levels were similar, with no statistically significant differences (p= 0.16665). Notably, elevated CTCFL expression was associated with increased overall survival (OS), reaching statistical significance (p= 0.0039), suggesting a better prognosis. No significant differences in gene expression were found between patients who underwent neoadjuvant therapy and those who did not (p= 0.97131), nor between sexes (p= 0.48847). Conclusion: The results indicate that CTCFL is differentially expressed in gastric adenocarcinoma, with a significant association with H. pylori infection and impact on overall patient survival. These findings highlight the potential of CTCFL as a prognostic biomarker and a therapeutic target in gastric cancer. Further studies are needed to validate its immunogenicity and support the development of effective immunotherapeutic strategies.
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/
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