Tumor Reversion: Inducing a Phenotypic Reversion of Cancer Cells Through Epigenetic Mechanisms

Project objectives

premise
A growing number of studies shows that it is possible to induce a phenotypic transformation of cancer cells from malignant to benign. This process is currently known as “tumor reversion”. However, the concept of reversibility hardly fits the current cancer models, according to which gene mutations are considered the primary cause of cancer. Indeed, if gene mutations are causative carcinogenic factors, and if gene mutations are irreversible, how long should cancer be considered as an irreversible process? In fact, there is some evidence that intrinsic plasticity of cancerous cells may be therapeutically exploited to promote a phenotypic reprogramming, both in vitro and in vivo. Not only are studies on tumor reversion highlighting a new, exciting research approach, but they are also pushing science to look for new epistemological tools capable of better modeling cancer.
Goals
The aim of the project is to gather all the main international experts in tumor reversion and set up a focus group in order to realize a position paper / white paper that provide an assessment on the state of the art of the research and propose a global research agenda.
The project aim not only to target academics with scientific background but also to present to different stakeholders such as industries, funds, policy makers, etc.. the key point of tumor reversion research and the promise of this new approach.

Start and end date

Project Manager

Coordinating institution of the project

Other Institutions involved

•  SBGLab - Sapienza University
• Saluteuropa Study Center