DR-340 Discovering novel noncoding cancer drivers using genomic conformation and context models

Cancer cells are characterized by the accumulation of genetic mutations, only few of which are needed to trigger the malignancy. Previous research has focused on coding mutations, which directly alter the genetic function, and has been successful in revealing recurring cancer-promoting mechanisms. However, the majority of the mutations are harbored in the noncoding genome, which remains largely uncharted, and would benefit patients lacking known coding mutations. We propose to leverage this unexploited part of the genome to systematically identify cancer promoting mutations. The findings can elucidating novel cancer driving mechanisms and facilitate anticancer drug development and early diagnostics.

Felix Dietlein, Chidren’s Hospital Boston, USA