DR-141 Driver mechanisms and regional mutation rates in the non-coding cancer genome

Cancer is caused by mutations that occur over time via genetic and environmental exposures. Some mutations called drivers unlock oncogenic cellular properties, while most mutations are neutral passengers. A complete driver catalogue is important for developing therapies, while passengers reflect tumor evolution and exposures. Most known drivers affect protein-coding genes while the non-coding genome is less characterized. Here we use our machine-learning tools to study the non-coding genomes of metastatic tumors. We will compare drivers and passengers to understand the emergence of metastasis and investigate regional mutation processes to decipher tumor evolution and its exposures at functional genomic elements.

Jüri Reimand Ontario Institute for Cancer Research Canada