UC Davis

Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of tumor initiation and progression for each cancer type is central to making improvements in both prevention and therapy. Identifying the cancer cells of origin and the necessary and sufficient mechanisms of transformation and progression provide opportunities for improved specific clinical interventions. In the last few decades, advanced genetic manipulation techniques have facilitated rapid progress in defining the etiologies of cancers and their cells of origin. Recent studies driven by various groups have provided experimental evidence indicating the cellular origins for each type of skin and esophageal cancer and have identified underlying mechanisms that stem/progenitor cells use to initiate tumor development. Specifically, cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) is associated with tumor initiation and progression in many cancer types. Recent studies provide data demonstrating the roles of Cox-2 in skin and esophageal malignancies, especially in squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) occurring in both sites. Here, we review experimental evidence aiming to define the origins of skin and esophageal cancers and discuss how Cox-2 contributes to tumorigenesis and differentiation.