Cytogenetics and the biologic basis of sarcomas

In this past year, a large number of reports have described cytogenetic and biologic studies of sarcomas. The cytogenetic studies provide further evidence that a growing number of sarcomas seem to be defined by consistent chromosomal abnormalities that can be detected using a variety of molecular genetic tests. However, in addition to these specific abnormalities, many sarcomas have other extremely complex genetic changes. This complexity has made it quite difficult to understand the importance of any single abnormality. Laboratory studies complementing these genetic studies have provided further understanding of sarcoma cellular and molecular biology. Importantly, both types of studies have had significant impact in the clinic in the form of more objective diagnostic tests, potential novel prognostic markers, and even new therapeutic strategies. Together, these papers highlight how genetic studies may offer tremendous insight into sarcoma biology. However, they also highlight some limitations of these approaches as well. Novel experimental approaches may be required to facilitate the continued progress in this field toward the development of better therapeutic strategies.