José Casanova

Targeting the B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) family proteins has been the backbone for hematological malignancies with overall survival improvements. The Bcl-2 family is a major player in apoptosis regulation and, has captured the researcher’s interest in the treatment of solid tumors. Sarcomas are a heterogeneous group of diseases, comprising several entities, with high morbidity and mortality and with few specific therapies available. The treatment for sarcomas is based on platinum regimens, with variable results and poor outcomes, especially in advanced lesions. The high number of different sarcoma entities makes treatment standardization as well as the performance of clinical trials difficult. The use of Bcl-2 family members modifiers has revealed promising results in in vitro and in vivo models and may be a valid option, especially when used in combination with chemotherapy. In this article, a revision of these results and possibilities for the use of Bcl-2 family members inhibitors in sarcomas was performed.

Objective Present the preliminary results of a case series using the surgical ankle arthrodesis technique with an intramedullary retrograde nail for bone tumors. Methods We present the preliminary data of 4 patients, 3 males and 1 female, with a mean age of 46,2 (range 32 to 58) years, with histology proven Giant Cell Tumour of bone in 3 and osteosarcoma in 1. The mean resection length of distal tibia was 11,75 (range 9 to 16) cm, and all the patients underwent reconstruction with a tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with an intercalary allograft fixed by a retrograde intramedullary nail. Results Oncological follow-up evolved without evidence of local recurrence or disease progression in all patients. After a mean time of 69.5 (range 32 to 98 months), patients had a mean MSTS12 functional score of 82.5% (range 75 to 90). All tibial arthrodesis and diaphyseal osteotomy sites were fused within 6 months with a return to activities without complications related to coverage skin or infection. Conclusion No complications were recorded; all arthrodesis and diaphysial tibial osteotomy sites fused by 6 months, and the mean follow-up of those patients was 69,5 (range 32 to 988) months, with a mean functional MSTS score of 82,5% (range 75-90). Level of Evidence: IV; Retrospective Case Series.

CD56+ T cells are generally recognized as a distinct population of T cells and are categorized as NKT-like cells. Although our understanding of NKT-like cells is far from satisfactory, it has been shown that aging and a number of disease situations have impacted these cells. To construct an overview of what is currently known, we reviewed the literature on human NKT-like cells. NKT-like cells are highly differentiated T cells with “CD1d-independent” antigen recognition and MHC-unrestricted cell killing. The genesis of NKT-like cells is unclear; however, it is proposed that the acquisition of innate characteristics by T cells could represent a remodeling process leading to successful aging. Additionally, it has been shown that NKT-like cells may play a significant role in several pathological conditions, making it necessary to comprehend whether these cells might function as prognostic markers. The quantification and characterization of these cells might serve as a cutting-edge indicator of individual immune health. Additionally, exploring the mechanisms that can control their killing activity in different contexts may therefore result in innovative therapeutic alternatives in a wide range of disease settings.