The newly discovered cell type shown clustering around a prostate cancer nerve bundle. (IMAGE)
Caption
The newly discovered cell type shown clustering around a prostate cancer nerve bundle.
This high-resolution microscopy image highlights one of the study’s surprising discoveries: a previously unknown cell type called perineural cancer-associated fibroblasts (pnCAFs).
The image zeroes in on a nerve bundle within a prostate adenocarcinoma (tumour) sample. Using distinct colours to map unique genetic signatures, the image visually demonstrates how these newly identified connective tissue cells cluster around and interact with the nervous system – a critical finding, as tumours growing near nerves are historically linked to worse patient outcomes.
Colour key (genetic signatures):
- Yellow: pnCAF (The newly discovered cell type, perineural cancer-associated fibroblasts)
- Orange: PNS_glial (Glial cells of the peripheral nervous system)
- Blue: General CAFs (Standard cancer-associated fibroblasts)
Cell identification:
- Lilac: Represents an individual cell boundary
- Black arrow: Points to a pnCAF (the newly discovered cell type, perineural cancer-associated fibroblasts)
- Blue arrow: Points to a peripheral nerve glial cell
Credit
Garvan Institute
Usage Restrictions
Credit must be given to the creator. Only noncommercial uses of the work are permitted. Adaptations must be shared under the same terms.
License
CC BY-NC-SA