DR-343 Chromosomal instability signatures and metastasis

Different factors can alter the DNA in a tumour cell such as chemical agents or the inability of the cells to repair its own DNA. Large gains or losses of DNA in a cell, known as copy-number alterations, are common in extremely aggressive cancers. We recently developed a method for identifying the processes causing copy-number change in a tumour using DNA sequencing data. Here, we want to see if specific causes of copy-number alteration drive metastasis or are able to predict response to treatment. This research has the potential to improve prognostication and treatment selection for metastatic patients.

Geoff Macintyre, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Spain