Analysis of Ferroptosis in Monocytes from Patients with Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

• Grant number: 25/07294-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: June 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Immunology - Cellular Immunology
• Principal Investigator: Ana Paula Campanelli
• Grantee: Jaqueline Cristina Simões
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Bauru (FOB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Bauru , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/15047-1 - Impact of Obesity on CD8+ T cell effector function during tumor development., AP.R

Abstract

Ferroptosis is a distinct form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, playing a critical role in various diseases, including cancer. Emerging evidence suggests that monocytes may regulate ferroptosis through specific pathways, particularly via lipid uptake receptors such as CD36.This receptor, belonging to the scavenger receptor family, plays a crucial role in the internalization of oxidized fatty acids, promoting lipid peroxidation and, consequently, cell death by ferroptosis. Notably, elevated CD36 expression in monocytes has been linked to chronic inflammation in the tumor microenvironment, a process that may contribute to cancer progression. These findings suggest monocytes may contribute to SCC progression through CD36-mediated ferroptosis. To test this hypothesis, we will compare CD36 expression and oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis susceptibility between monocytes from SCC patients and healthy donors.