Pathogenesis of osteosarcoma and intervention with traditional chinese medicine

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a malignant bone tumor characterized by rapid progression and a high propensity to metastasis. Elucidating the mechanisms underlying cell proliferation and metastasis is crucial to improving prognosis. Recent advances in OS research span multiple dimensions, such as genetic mutations, epigenetic alterations, and aberrant signaling pathways. Additionally, the roles of the tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cells are increasingly recognized. Furthermore, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has gained significant attention due to its ability to regulate OS through multiple targets and pathways. Specifically, TCM formulations combat tumor progression via holistic mechanisms. These include reinforcing healthy Qi, eliminating pathogenic factors, promoting blood circulation, resolving stasis, and clearing heat toxicity. The monomeric components of TCM exert antitumor effects by suppressing tumor growth, inducing apoptosis, modulating the immune microenvironment, and reversing drug resistance. Acupuncture has shown efficacy in alleviating chemotherapy-induced side effects and improving drug sensitivity in tumor cells. This review summarizes the mechanisms of OS development and the progress in TCM-based interventions, emphasizing the need for further integration of modern scientific technologies to elucidate the specific mechanisms of TCM in targeting OS and advance its clinical application in OS therapy.