Racial Variations in Tumor Collagen Structure May Influence Cancer Outcomes

Recent research highlights that differences in collagen organization within tumors could play a significant role in cancer prognosis among different racial groups. Conducted by scientists at the University of Rochester and published in Biophotonics Discovery, the study examined over 300 tumor samples from patients with invasive ductal carcinoma (a common breast cancer form) and early-stage colon adenocarcinoma. Using a sophisticated imaging technique called second-harmonic generation (SHG), researchers measured collagen fiber arrangements, focusing on the forward-to-backward scattering ratio (F/B) and fiber angle variability (FAV). These features are known to correlate with the likelihood of tumor metastasis.

Findings revealed notable racial differences in these collagen characteristics. Specifically, Black patients with breast cancer showed a lower F/B ratio at the tumor-stroma interface—a region critical for cancer cell interaction—suggesting a higher risk of metastasis. Conversely, Black colon cancer patients demonstrated higher F/B ratios, indicating more aggressive tumor behavior. Interestingly, the variability in fiber angles did not differ by race, implying certain collagen features are more influenced by racial factors.

These disparities could stem from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and biological influences, impacting cancer progression and detection efficacy across different populations. The study emphasizes the importance of inclusive clinical trials to develop accurate prognostic tools that serve diverse groups effectively. Moving forward, integrating such molecular insights could lead to more personalized and equitable cancer care, ultimately improving outcomes for all patients.

For more details, see the full study by Elias et al., published in Biophotonics Discovery (2025). Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-racial-differences-tumor-collagen-impact.html