DR-072 Chromosomal breakpoints in colorectal cancer

“Purpose: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of cancer death worldwide. Cancer is caused by DNA alterations. Little is known about the prevalence and biological and clinical relevance of genomic regions that are affected by chromosomal breakpoints. The aim of this project is to learn more about the prevalence of chromosomal breakpoints in colorectal cancer, and their biological and clinical consequences.

Data: DNA whole genome sequencing data from CRC samples, to determine the landscape of genomic regions affected by chromosomal breakpoints. RNA sequencing data, to determine biological consequences of DNA breakpoints; and clinical data to relate DNA mutations to clinical characteristics. We will use lung cancer and breast cancer data in addition to CRC data, to determine organ-specificity of the chromosomal breakpoints.

Relevance for patient: Better knowledge about DNA mutations will lead to biomarkers for better diagnosis, prognosis, prediction of therapy response, and treatment monitoring of CRC patients.”

Remond Fijneman NKI-AvL the Netherlands