Role of Glycolipids in Cancer

A majority of studies on the underlying mechanisms of carcinogenesis focus on the role of the protein factors or the genes that control their synthesis. However, non-protein factors play critical roles in various aspects of tumorigenesis, among them Glycolipids are probably the most diverse, both structurally as well as functionally. Owing to this complexity, much is unknown on either their roles in cancer generation or progression, or the mechanisms underlying their dysregulation in several cancers. This prompts for extensive research on these molecules, understanding which will be critical in getting a clearer picture in the process of carcinogenesis. This in turn might open novel avenues for better strategies towards effective anti-cancer therapies in combination with existing therapies. This Topical Collection will accept original research articles that explore the role of tumor-derived glycolipids including but not limited to glycosphingolipids, cerebrosides, sulpholipids etc. in the development, growth, progression and metastasis of cancers. Particular emphasis will be given on how glycolipid dysregulation might result in a pro-tumorigenic outcome through modulation of either the tumor cell itself, surrounding tumor microenvironment as well as the tumor-stroma interactions. This topical issue will also accept experimental research work or reviews related to how select glycolipids might be identified as bio-markers (Prognostic or Therapeutic) towards a specific cancer sub-type. Additionally, this issue will also welcome articles on how antibodies against select glycolipids might be used as a potential therapeutic approach against certain cancers.

Keywords: Gangliosides, Tumor microenvironment, Glycolipids, Tumor-Stroma interactions, Ganglioside Synthase, Tumor Immunology