Objective:

To investigate neurofilament light chain (NfL) and galectin-3 as candidate biomarkers for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and to identify novel molecular contributors through proteomic analysis.

Approach:

Key Findings:

• NfL levels significantly increased in patients with CIPN as early as 3 weeks after treatment initiation.
• NfL levels were markedly higher in patients with CIPN compared to those without.
• No changes or differences in galectin-3 levels were observed.
• Proteomic analysis revealed upregulation of alcohol dehydrogenase 4 (ADH4) and downregulation of vesicular overexpressed in cancer prosurvival protein 1 (VOPP1) in CIPN, suggesting their involvement in oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Interpretation:

NfL is a potential biomarker for early detection of CIPN, and identified proteins may be involved in the pathogenesis of CIPN.

Limitations:

• The study's findings are based on a specific patient population and may not be generalizable; further validation of NfL and identified proteins as biomarkers in diverse populations is needed.

Conclusion:

NfL represents a candidate biomarker for early detection of CIPN, and the study provides insights into the molecular factors associated with CIPN development, emphasizing the integration of biomarkers and proteomics for precision medicine.

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