Spotlight on Research

Genes and Proteins: Profiles of Hope

Researchers used gene expression array to generate this tumor profile that discriminates between three subtypes of diffuse large-B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Each row represents a single gene. Each column shows the DLBCL expression profile from a single patient. If a gene is over active, its square shows up red. Less active genes show up green. It is the overall pattern of expression for each patient that can identify the disease sub-type and provide valuable prognostic information.

With advances in artificial intelligence and laboratory technology, cancer researchers are moving from studying a limited number of genes and proteins at a time to studying complex patterns of these molecules, using gene expression array (GEA) and proteomic technology. These patterns of genes and proteins can be displayed as easy-to-read, computer-generated tumor profiles that clinicians may one day use to:

• Diagnose cancer earlier than is now possible, perhaps with a simple blood test.
• Identify molecular targets for cancer prevention and treatment.
• Develop individualized therapies using targeted treatments.
• Monitor and predict response to therapy.

Recent advances in tumor profiling are pivotal and include the following:

• The Lymphoma/Leukemia Molecular Profiling Project (LLMPP), a consortium of researchers associated with the NCI Director's Challenge research initiative, are using GEA to predict clinical outcome of diffuse large-B cell lymphoma patients. These scientitsts are also researching tumor profiles of other lymphomas with the goal of classifying human lymphomas according to differing molecular features that can be used to select the best possible therapy for each sub-type of this disease.
• NCI-funded researchers are using GEA to discriminate between subtypes of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). One rapid test yields diagnostic information that ordinarily takes weeks to gather. ALL tumor profiling also appears to be more accurate and information rich than traditional diagnostic methods, even identifying patients at greatest risk for relapse or secondary cancers. Similar tumor profiles are being developed for subtypes of lung cancers.
• Researchers in the Clinical Proteomics Program, recently launched jointly by NCI and the Food and Drug Administration, have developed a prototype blood test for the early detection of ovarian cancer. In preliminary clinical trials, the investigators correctly classified 100 percent of women known to have this cancer, and 97 percent of those known to be cancer-free. If successfully refined, this blood test will be invaluable for detecting this highly invasive disease in its earliest stages, when it can be successfully treated. Similar blood tests are being developed for prostate, breast, and lung cancers.

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