Role of Peritoneal Mesothelial Cells in the Progression of Peritoneal Metastases

Abstract

Peritoneal metastatic cancer comprises a heterogeneous group of primary tumors that originate in the peritoneal cavity or metastasize into the peritoneal cavity from a different origin. Metastasis is a characteristic of end-stage disease, often indicative of a poor prognosis with limited treatment options. Peritoneal mesothelial cells (PMCs) are a thin layer of cells present on the surface of the peritoneum. They display differentiated characteristics in embryonic development and adults, representing the first cell layer encountering peritoneal tumors to affect their progression. PMCs have been traditionally considered a barrier to the intraperitoneal implantation and metastasis of tumors; however, recent studies indicate that PMCs can either inhibit or actively promote tumor progression through distinct mechanisms. This article presents a review of the role of PMCs in the progression of peritoneum implanted tumors, offering new ideas for therapeutic targets and related research.

Imaging Evaluation of Peritoneal Metastasis: Current and Promising Techniques

“…The complex peritoneal structure and excessive overlap of radiological signs between normal tissues, benign diseases, and PM limits the ability of traditional imaging methods to diagnose and evaluate PM [ 22 ]. Nevertheless, CT remains the imaging technique of choice in current practice for PM diagnosis because of its speed of acquisition and wide availability [ 23 ]; although the limited contrast resolution makes it difficult for computed tomography (CT) to identify equidensity lesions with adjacent invaded tissue density, resulting in a sensitivity ranging from 9.1% to 50% for lesions below 1 cm, and only 11% for those below 0.5 cm [ 24 25 ].…”

Mechanisms of Peritoneal Mesothelial Cells in Peritoneal Adhesion

“…Among the three serous cavities in the human body, the peritoneal cavity is the largest and most complex [ 7 , 18 , 19 ]. Usually, the visceral peritoneum covers the visceral and mesenteric surfaces of the abdomen, and the parietal peritoneum covers the abdominal wall and the inner surface of the pelvis.…”

“…Usually, the visceral peritoneum covers the visceral and mesenteric surfaces of the abdomen, and the parietal peritoneum covers the abdominal wall and the inner surface of the pelvis. The visceral and parietal peritoneum surround the peritoneal cavity [ 19 ]. The peritoneum is covered by a thin layer of mesothelial cells [ 7 , 20 ].…”

Emerging therapeutic approaches for peritoneal metastases from gastrointestinal cancers

“…However, Li and Guo have noted that the role of peritoneal cells on tumor dissemination to peritoneum remains controversial, with evidence suggesting inhibiting or promoting effects. 12 PM diagnosis and quantification is commonly assessed by cross-sectional imaging and laparoscopy to determine the extent of peritoneal involvement. This staging examination also allows for the selection of some patients for cytoreductive surgery (CRS), with or without the addition of intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy.…”