Similar protein signatures were noted between sarcomatoid elements and their carcinomatous background in several studies delving into the genetic and molecular basis of sarcomatoid transformation in RCC. This supports the theory of a common cell of origin for these tumors. However, more mutations in cancer driver genes were noted in the sarcomatoid components, remarkably in tumor protein 53 (TP53)3,4 suggesting a possible culprit gene in the dedifferentiation process. sRCCs over-express both hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway proteins. Joseph et al. found significantly higher expression patterns of PD-1 and PD-L1 in sRCC when compared to ccRCC5.
Nephrectomy is the mainstay of treatment for localized sRCC though with high recurrence rates noted thereafter. Although cytoreductive nephrectomy is becoming standard of care in metastatic RCC, its role in metastatic sRCC has not been adequately investigated. Systemic therapies in sRCC have largely been ineffective. Sarcoma-like cytotoxic chemotherapy regimens have yielded disappointing outcomes. Antiangiogenic therapies have shown modest benefits, with the combination of cytotoxic and targeted therapies producing better outcomes, as noted in two phase II trials assessing the response to gemcitabine and sunitinib combination therapy6,7. Higher expression of PD-1/PD-L1 in sRCC portends itself to potential therapeutic blockade with PD-1/PD-L1 targeted immunotherapy8. sRCC patients are being included in several clinical trials assessing targeted therapies and immunotherapies in RCC, which will provide valuable knowledge going forward.
Written By:
Nemer El Mouallem, MD and Asit Paul MD, PhD, Massey Cancer Center, VCU Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia
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References:
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