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Page 10 of 12 Pedica et al. Hepatoma Res 2021;7:71 https://dx.doi.org/10.20517/2394-5079.2021.89

Figure 12. Graphic abstract summarizing morphological and molecular advancement in biliary tract cancer.

Another important issue regards the need for a better understanding of the disease progression through the
[49]
study of tumour microenvironment, to find solutions for preventing advanced stage . For example, it has
recently been discovered that α-1,2-mannosylated N-glycans are expressed on the proteins constituting the
[50]
membrane of the cancer cell and may be targeted for preventing metastasis .

Although all these important new topics and the incessant investigation of morpho-molecular
characterisation of biliary tract cancer are quickly changing the landscape of opportunities for the treatment
of our patients, strong support from the scientific community is necessary to bring them to application in
clinical practice in the near future.

DECLARATIONS
Acknowledgments
We are grateful and honoured to work with our large team in the Pathology Unit and in particular we thank
our Head of the Pathology Unit, Professor Claudio Doglioni, our Associate Director of the Molecular
Diagnostic Lab, Dr.ssa Maria Giulia Cangi and our Chief of the Oncological Cytogenetics section, Dr.ssa
Lorenza Pecciarini.

Authors’ contributions
Drafting the manuscript, design of the work, image collection, critical revision of the article, final approval
of the version to be published: Pedica F
Critical revision of the article, in particular the molecular pathology section and final approval of the version
to be published: Grassini G

Availability of data and materials
Not applicable.