New Insights in the Neurobiology of Cancer Cells

Tumor biology is increasingly recognized as a field shaped by the intricate interplay between malignant cells and their surrounding microenvironment. Recent research has highlighted the importance of non-tumoral cellular components -such as stromal, endothelial, and neural cells- in modulating tumor progression and metastasis. Among these, the nervous system, classically known for regulating vital physiological functions, has emerged as a critical player in cancer development. Evidence now underscores the dynamic communication between peripheral nerves and tumor cells, revealing a complex neuro-tumoral crosstalk that accelerates cancer growth, invasion, and dissemination. Ongoing investigations have revealed new molecular and cellular mechanisms of tumor-nerve communication, but significant gaps in knowledge remain regarding the precise pathways, bidirectional signaling processes, and their impact on cancer phenotypes. Despite advances, much remains to be understood about the broader implications of neuro-tumoral interactions and their translational potential for targeted therapies.This Research Topic aims to deepen the current understanding of the functional interactions between neural elements -including both neurons and glial cells- and cancer cells. The overarching objective is to clarify how peripheral innervation influences tumor biology, to delineate the signaling networks underpinning tumor-nerve communication, and to evaluate the therapeutic value of targeting these pathways. Key questions include how specific nervous system components contribute to tumor microenvironment remodeling, how neurons and glial cells influence tumor aggression and resistance, and what novel approaches might disrupt harmful neuro-cancer communication for clinical benefit.To gather further insights into the multidimensional interface between the nervous system and cancer, we welcome contributions that examine mechanistic pathways, cellular dynamics, and translational advances related to this topic. Submissions are encouraged on, but not limited to, the following themes:- Molecular and cellular mechanisms of neuron-cancer and glia-cancer interactions- Role of peripheral nerve remodeling and plasticity in tumor progression- Impact of neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors on cancer behavior- Influence of the nervous system on the tumor microenvironment- Therapeutic interventions targeting the neuro-tumoral axis- In vivo and in vitro models to study neuro-cancer communication- Integration of neural signaling with immune and stromal modulation in cancerWe invite original research, reviews and mini reviews exploring any aspect of neuro-tumoral interactions. Topic editors: Enrique Estudillo, Juan Carlos González-Orozco, Adolfo Lopez, Adriana Jiménez Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78739/new-insights-in-the-neurobiology-of-cancer-cells