Work

Parathyroid Carcinoma: From Molecular Pathogenesis and Diagnostic Biomarkers to Targeted Therapeutics

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) is a rare endocrine malignancy characterized by aggressive clinical behavior driven primarily by parathyroid hormone (PTH) overproduction. Standard morphological assessments frequently struggle to definitively distinguish true carcinomas from atypical benign lesions, presenting significant diagnostic challenges and a risk of overdiagnosis. Recent advances emphasize the genetic and epigenetic foundations of PC tumor biology. A central oncogenic mechanism involves the CDC73 gene, where the biallelic inactivation of CDC73 and the gain of function of mutant parafibromin-which destabilizes p53 mRNA-facilitate apoptosis evasion. Additionally, alterations in parallel pathways, such as the PI3K/AKT/mTOR cascade, and epigenetic dysregulation further contribute to disease progression. To address morphological limitations, contemporary diagnostic approaches increasingly utilize adjunctive multimarker immunohistochemical panels (including parafibromin, Ki-67, and Galectin-3) and explore emerging non-coding RNA liquid biopsy signatures. Finally, this review discusses the development of preclinical models and the application of genotype-guided targeted therapies, aiming to improve the clinical management and precision medicine strategies for PC.

Source: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/ijms27104549

Authors: Chunlong Wang, Xiaoqing Wu, Yuqin Liu

Institutions: Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking University People's Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Parathyroid Disorders and Treatments

Subfield: Nephrology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,499