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Published on: June 21, 2018
Molecular pathology in epidemiologic studies: a primer on key considerations
Mark E Sherman1, Will Howatt, Fiona M Blows
1National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, Rockville, MD, 6120 Executive Boulevard, Rockville, MD 20852-7234, USA. shermanm@mail.nih.gov
Summary
Integrating molecular pathology into epidemiology enhances risk prediction and biomarker discovery for diseases like breast cancer. This approach links etiologic factors to tumor types, improving our understanding of disease mechanisms and patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Pathology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Molecular pathology integration in epidemiology offers novel insights into disease etiology and risk.
- Biomarker discovery for prognosis and treatment response prediction is a key benefit.
- Breast cancer research serves as a model for these integrated approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review considerations for incorporating pathology into epidemiologic studies.
- To discuss challenges in tissue representativeness and processing.
- To highlight advancements enabling molecular pathology in large-scale research.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and methodologies.
- Discussion of tissue handling procedures and their impact.
- Examination of new technologies like tissue microarrays and automated analysis.
Main Results:
- Challenges exist in ensuring tissue representativeness and standardizing collection/processing.
- New technologies facilitate high-throughput, standardized assessment of molecular markers.
- Methodological research expands the scope of assays on fixed tissues.
Conclusions:
- Optimized tissue preparation is crucial for advancing molecular pathology in epidemiology.
- Technological advancements enable consistent molecular marker assessment in large cohorts.
- Expanded assay capabilities on fixed tissues broaden research possibilities.
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