Expression of COL6A1 in Tumor Matrix of Cholangiocarcinoma and Its Mechanism of Tumor Progression.

BACKGROUND

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a malignant tumor originating from the bile duct epithelial cells, is characterized by aggressive invasion and poor prognosis. Abnormal remodeling of the tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in its disease progression. The tumor stroma, which is a core component of the tumor microenvironment, comprises an extracellular matrix and various stromal cells. Changes in its composition are closely associated with tumor proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. Collagen Type VI alpha 1 chain (COL6A1), an important functional protein in the extracellular matrix, plays a carcinogenic role in multiple malignant tumors; it participates in matrix remodeling and cellular signaling and influences the tumor immune microenvironment. This systematic review aims to examine the biological properties of COL6A1 and the structural characteristics of CCA tumor stroma, and summarize the roles of stromal COL6A1 in CCA.

RECENT FINDINGS: We outline the expression patterns of stromal COL6A1 in CCA and its correlation with clinicopathological features. Specifically, we systematically discuss the molecular mechanisms by which COL6A1 facilitates CCA progression, including mediating stromal remodeling, cancer-associated fibroblast activation, oncogenic signaling cascades, the immunosuppressive microenvironment, and therapeutic resistance. COL6A1 shows translational potential as a diagnostic biomarker, staging indicator, and prognostic predictor for CCA.

CONCLUSION

COL6A1 is a critical molecule regulating stromal remodeling and malignant progression of CCA. This review highlights the current research gaps and proposes prospective research directions, providing a theoretical foundation for future investigations and clinical translations using COL6A1 in CCA.