DR-084 Defining bacteria-induced mutational signatures in human tumors

Numerous environmental triggers have been found to leave a footprint on the DNA of human cancers. By treating human cells with bacteria which frequently occur in colorectal cancer, we have identified the first mutational signature caused by a bacterium. Now we aim to determine how many mutations of cancer patients can be attributed to this signature. Furthermore, we want to search for bacterial genetic information in patient sequencing data and evaluate if more bacterial DNA correlates with this mutational signature. Our results may help identify subgroups of individuals at risk, paving the way for better screening and prevention measures.

Hans Clevers Hubrecht Institute Utrecht the Netherlands