Bone Tumors: Mechanisms, Detection, and Treatment Approaches

Bone tumors represent a diverse group of rare but clinically significant diseases that affect both pediatric and adult populations. Although they share certain histological features, pediatric and adult bone tumors differ substantially in their biological mechanisms, clinical behavior, and response to therapy. This Research Collection aims to provide an integrated overview of current advances in understanding the molecular drivers, diagnostic strategies, and therapeutic approaches for bone tumors across age groups which focus on improving patient outcomes.In pediatric patients, primary bone tumors such as osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and chondrosarcoma arise during periods of active skeletal growth. These tumors are often driven by developmental signaling pathways, genetic predisposition, and chromosomal rearrangements that disrupt normal bone formation. In contrast, adult bone tumors frequently reflect cumulative genetic alterations, age related changes in the bone microenvironment, and interactions with systemic factors such as inflammation and metabolic regulation. Understanding mechanistic drivers of adult bone cancers is essential for identifying biomarkers that can guide risk stratification and treatment selection.Treatment strategies for bone tumors have evolved over the past decade. Multimodal approaches combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy remain the standard of care for many high-grade tumors. However, therapeutic intensity and toxicity profiles differ between children and adults due to variations in tumor biology and treatment tolerance. Targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and novel drug delivery systems are emerging as promising options, particularly for relapsed or refractory disease. Personalized treatment approaches that account for age related biological differences are increasingly recognized as a key priority.This Research Collection brings together original research, reviews, and perspectives that address fundamental mechanisms, innovative diagnostic tools, and emerging therapeutic strategies for pediatric and adult bone tumors. Key research topics included in this collection are but not limited to:• Molecular and genetic mechanisms driving pediatric and adult bone tumor initiation and progression• Developmental signaling pathways and age-related differences in tumor biology• Advances in imaging techniques for early detection, staging, and treatment monitoring• Biomarker discovery and integration of molecular diagnostics into clinical practice• Novel therapeutic strategies including targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and personalized approaches• Challenges in surgical and systemic treatment of relapsed or refractory bone tumors• Translational research bridging laboratory findings to clinical applications for improved patient outcomes. Topic editors: Alanna Green, Hannah L Smith, Mizuki Azuma Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78415/bone-tumors-mechanisms-detection-and-treatment-approaches