Cutting-edge cancer research highlights include the use of single-atom engineering to create radiotherapy-activated immune prodrugs that boost targeted immune responses. Studies revealed tumor-associated macrophages as drivers of prostate cancer resistance and metastasis, offering new immunotherapeutic targets. Innovative approaches such as combining TACE with targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors enhance survival in recurrent liver cancer post-transplantation. These advances reflect the growing integration of molecular precision and immune modulation in oncology.