Small Cell Lung Cancer Neuronal Features and Their Implications for Tumor Progression, Metastasis, and Therapy
Abstract. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an epithelial neuroendocrine form of lung cancer for which survival rates remain dismal and new therapeutic approaches are greatly needed. Key biological features of SCLC tumors include fast growth and widespread metastasis, as well as rapid resistance to treatment. Similar to pulmonary neuroendocrine cells, SCLC cells have traits of both hormone-producing cells and neurons. In this study, we specifically discuss the neuronal features of SCLC. We consider how neuronal G protein–coupled receptors and other neuronal molecules on the surface of SCLC cells can contribute to the growth of SCLC tumors and serve as therapeutic targets in SCLC. We also review recent evidence for the role of neuronal programs expressed by SCLC cells in the fast proliferation, migration, and metastasis of these cells. We further highlight how these neuronal programs may be particularly relevant for the development of brain metastases and how they can assist SCLC cells t
