The article by Piffkó A et al. elucidates the double-edged sword role of radiotherapy in cancer treatment. Radiotherapy stimulates tumor cells to secrete amphiregulin (AREG), which in turn activates EGFR$^+$ tumor-associated mononuclear phagocytes (MNPs). This activation feeds back into the EGFR signaling pathway, impairing the anti-tumor functions of MNPs. Moreover, AREG upregulates the expression of the immune checkpoint protein CD47 in tumor cells, thereby enabling them to evade immune-mediated phagocytosis. These insights hold important implications for clinical trial design and for optimizing therapeutic strategies. More >

This editorial mainly states the meaning of creating the Oncology Communications and highlights the importance and outlook of integrative medicine. We stress the importance of multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, encouraging oncologists to work closely with experts from various fields, including basic medicine, mathematics, physics, sociology, artificial intelligence, and materials science. This collaboration aims to clarify the mechanisms of tumor development and progression, identify novel therapeutic targets, promote clinical translation, and ultimately benefit patients. More >