Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) is a more aggressive variant of bladder cancer characterized by infiltration into the muscular layer of the bladder wall. This subtype constitutes approximately 25% of all bladder cancer cases and is associated with an elevated risk of metastasis and a poorer prognosis compared to non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). As a specialized preclinical contract research organization (CRO) focused on bladder cancer, Alfa Cytology is committed to providing high-quality research services that contribute to the understanding and treatment of MIBC.
Overview of Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
MIBC is characterized by the infiltration of cancer cells into the detrusor muscle of the bladder, significantly augmenting its propensity to metastasize to lymph nodes and other organs. Symptoms commonly encompass hematuria (presence of blood in urine), pelvic pain, and increased frequency of urination. The extent of tumor invasion into the bladder determines its T stage (T representing tumor). There exist three T stages for muscle-invasive bladder cancer.
T2 means cancer has grown into the muscle layer of the bladder.
T3 means cancer has grown through the muscle layer into the fatty tissue layer.
T4 means cancer has grown outside the bladder OR into the prostate, womb or vagina, OR into the wall of the pelvis (the area between the hip bones) or tummy (abdomen).
The pathogenic mechanism of MIBC can be described as follows.
Genetic Mutations: MIBC is associated with mutations in TP53, RB1, and PTEN, resulting in loss of cell cycle control and increased cell survival.
Chromosomal Instability: High levels of chromosomal instability lead to aneuploidy and structural abnormalities.
Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT): EMT contributes to increased invasion and metastasis by allowing epithelial cells to acquire mesenchymal properties.
Angiogenesis: Enhanced angiogenesis, driven by factors like VEGF, supports tumor growth and spread.
Therapy Development for MIBC
Recent advancements in MIBC research have led to the development of several innovative therapies.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy checkpoint inhibitors like atezolizumab and pembrolizumab have shown efficacy in treating MIBC by enhancing the immune system's ability to target cancer cells.
Gene Therapy
FGFR inhibitors like erdafitinib target specific genetic alterations in MIBC, while CRISPR/Cas9 technology is being explored to correct these mutations, offering potential curative treatments.
Neoadjuvant Therapy
Combining chemotherapy or immunotherapy with surgery to shrink tumors before cystectomy is being studied to improve surgical outcomes and reduce recurrence rates.
Our Services
At Alfa Cytology, we are committed to advancing the understanding and treatment of MIBC through our comprehensive range of preclinical research services. Our specialized services aim to facilitate the development of innovative diagnostics and therapeutics tailored specifically to address the unique challenges posed by MIBC.
Contact Us
Alfa Cytology's expertise in preclinical research, combined with cutting-edge technologies, positions us at the forefront of MIBC research. Collaborate with us to expedite your therapeutic development and make significant advancements in the battle against muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Contact us today for further information.
For research use only. Not intended for any clinical use.
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