Blood platelets in renal cell carcinoma: molecular mechanisms and drug targets

• Applicant: Elmina Bach, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Nephrology
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 567428938

Renal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent form of kidney cancer, with an annual global incidence of approximately 400,000 cases. RCC encompasses a heterogeneous group of malignancies characterized by distinct genetic, molecular, and histopathological features. While most RCC cases are diagnosed at the localized solid tumor stage, a significant proportion of patients develop metastases within 5–10 years, markedly reducing survival rates. The lungs are a primary site for RCC metastases, but other vital organs, including the bones, lymph nodes, brain, liver, adrenal glands, and contralateral kidney, are also frequently affected. The tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in RCC progression, as its cellular and molecular components influence tumor invasiveness and metastatic potential. Emerging evidence suggests that inflammation and thrombosis drive RCC progression and metastasis. Increased infiltration of inflammatory cells within the tumor and elevated platelet counts correlate with poor prognosis, enhanced tumor invasiveness, and metastatic dissemination. Furthermore, vascular invasion and tumor-emboli formation within primary and metastatic sites are frequently observed in RCC patients, underscoring the potential role of platelets in disease progression. Although platelets are well-established regulators of hemostasis and key contributors to tumor progression in various cancers, their specific role in RCC remains poorly understood. Thus, the identification of the underlying molecular mechanisms can provide basis to interfere with tumor malignancy, thereby opening new therapeutic anti-cancer avenues.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants