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"The molecular determinants that distinguish normal, benign polyps from those at risk for becoming cancer are unclear," says
To answer this question, Boardman and her colleagues used next-generation sequencing techniques to molecularly characterize and compare colorectal polyps from
Next-generation sequencing is sophisticated DNA and RNA sequencing technology which allows researchers to study biological systems at a level never before possible.
Boardman and her colleagues found that polyps adjacent to cancerous tissue exhibited distinct genetic alterations from polyps that remained cancer free. "By integrating multiple sequencing platforms, we identified a panel of 124 genes that were differentially altered between polyps that were associated with cancer and polyps that did not progress to colorectal cancer," she says. "These results serve as a foundational study showing that polyps with and without cancer exhibit distinct molecular signatures."
Boardman says the ability to identify molecular features that predict whether a polyp will transform to cancer would be a major clinical step in individualizing the care of patients with polyps. She says current national guidelines for polyp surveillance are still based only upon polyp size, number, histology and degree of dysplasia. She adds that there are currently no blood or tissue-based molecular tests used to tailor surveillance intervals for patients with polyps.
Boardman says the ability to determine a polyp's risk for progression to cancer could have significant benefits for patients and the health care system including reducing costs, reducing risks and improving the use of colonoscopy. "This study is also the first step in our efforts to establish a pre-cancer biobank at
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(Mayo Clinic News Network is your source for health news, advances in research and wellness tips.)
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(c)2018 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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