Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC)
The nasopharynx is a complex anatomical site, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) presents several challenges in terms of diagnosis and therapeutics. At our company, we specialize in providing comprehensive drug and therapy development services for NPC, aiming to address these challenges.
Introduction to Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC)
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), also known as nasopharynx cancer, is an uncommon malignancy originating in the nasopharynx, which is the upper part of the throat situated behind the nose. The annual incidence of NPC is less than one per 100,000 individuals. This particular type of cancer is predominantly observed in populations from Southeast Asia, North Africa, and the Arctic region. Notably, the association of NPC with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and its distinct clinical and pathological characteristics set it apart from other forms of cancer.
Pathogenesis of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC)
The development of NPC is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and viral factors. Among these factors, infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) stands as a primary contributor to the onset of NPC. EBV is a widespread virus that infects a substantial portion of the global population. However, it is important to note that only a small percentage of individuals infected with EBV go on to develop NPC.
Certain environmental factors have been linked to an elevated risk of NPC, including exposure to specific chemicals like formaldehyde and wood dust, as well as the consumption of preserved foods containing nitrosamines. Moreover, genetic factors also contribute to the development of NPC, as certain genetic variations are more prevalent among individuals affected by the disease.
Fig. 1 Tumor microenvironment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. (Su Z. Y., et al., 2022)Biomarkers of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC)
Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs)
CTCs are tumor cells that have detached from the primary tumor and entered the bloodstream. The enumeration and characterization of CTCs can provide valuable information about disease progression and response to therapy.
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) DNA
The detection of EBV DNA in blood or plasma can serve as a diagnostic and prognostic marker for NPC. It can also be used to monitor therapeutic response and detect disease recurrence.
MicroRNAs
MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression. Certain microRNAs have been identified as potential biomarkers for NPC, with diagnostic and prognostic significance.
Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)
The expression of specific HLA molecules on NPC cells can influence the response to immunotherapy. HLA typing can help identify cases who are likely to benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Targeted Therapies for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC)
- Immunotherapy
Immunotherapeutic strategies, such as cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells, chimeric antigen receptor T-cell immunotherapy (CAR-T), and dendritic cell (DC) vaccines, aim to activate the immune system against NPC cells. These therapies show promise in enhancing T-cell responses and improving outcomes. - Molecular Targeted Therapies
Targeting specific molecular pathways involved in NPC, such as EGFR and VEGF pathways, has shown potential in clinical trials. EGFR inhibitors like cetuximab and nimotuzumab have been explored in combination with radiation or chemoradiotherapy, while VEGF inhibitors aim to disrupt tumor angiogenesis.
Our Services
Our company is at the forefront of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) diagnostics and therapy development services. We offer a comprehensive range of diagnostics, therapy development, animal model development, and preclinical research services to accelerate research into nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).
Therapy Development Platforms
Animal Models of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (NPC)
At our company, we specialize in the development and utilization of robust animal models that closely resemble NPC in humans. These models aid in understanding disease mechanisms, evaluating efficacy, and identifying potential adverse effects.
| Humanized Animal Model Development | ||
| Our company can engraft NPC biopsies into non-obese diabetic-severe combined immunodeficiency interleukin-2 receptor gamma chain-null (NSG) mice, which lack a functional immune system. These mice were further transplanted with human immune cells to create humanized mouse models. | ||
| Xenograft Model Development | ||
| Our company offers comprehensive PDX model development services for NPC, allowing researchers to study the disease's heterogeneity and response to different therapeutic regimens. | ||
| Optional Models |
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| Optional Species | Mouse, Rat, Non-human primates, Others | |
Furthermore, we offer a wide range of personalized animal models tailored to meet various requirements. If you are interested in our services, please do not hesitate to contact us for further information and details regarding pricing and related services.
References
- Su Z. Y., et al. "Nasopharyngeal carcinoma and its microenvironment: past, current, and future perspectives." Frontiers in oncology 12 (2022): 840467.
- Jiromaru R., et al. "Advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Current and emerging treatment options." Cancer Management and Research (2022): 2681-2689.
- Siak P. Y., et al. "Current status and future perspectives about molecular biomarkers of nasopharyngeal carcinoma." Cancers 13.14 (2021): 3490.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.