DR-486 Integrated Analysis of Mitochondrial Somatic Variants, Chromosomal Instability, and Extrachromosomal DNA in Human Metastatic Cancer: A Multi-Omics Approach Using Hartwig Whole Genome Data

Cancer cells accumulate multiple types of genetic damage that work together to make tumors more aggressive and harder to treat. This project analyzes whole genome DNA data from human cancer patients to understand how three key types of genetic alterations—mitochondrial mutations (affecting cellular energy production), chromosomal instability (scrambled chromosomes), and extrachromosomal DNA (free-floating genetic material)—interact to drive cancer progression and metastasis. By mapping these relationships in patient samples, we aim to identify new therapeutic targets and better predict which patients might benefit from specific treatments, ultimately improving personalized cancer care.

Christopher Hovens, The University of Melbourne, Australia