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Updated: May 8, 2026

Next Generation Sequencing for the Detection of Actionable Mutations in Solid and Liquid Tumors
Published on: September 20, 2016
Mutational analysis of Polycomb genes in solid tumours identifies PHC3 amplification as a possible cancer-driving
1Experimental Therapeutics, BC Cancer Research Centre, 675 W 10th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 1L3.
Background:
Polycomb group genes (PcGs) are epigenetic effectors implicated in most cancer hallmarks. The mutational status of all PcGs has never been systematically assessed in solid tumours.
Methods:
We conducted a multi-step analysis on publically available databases and patient samples to identify somatic aberrations of PcGs.
Results:
Data from more than 1000 cancer patients show for the first time that the PcG member PHC3 is amplified in three epithelial neoplasms (rate: 8-35%). This aberration predicts poorer prognosis in lung and uterine carcinomas (P<0.01). Gene amplification correlates with mRNA overexpression (P<0.01), suggesting a functional role of this aberration.
Conclusion:
PHC3 amplification may emerge as a biomarker and potential therapeutic target in a relevant fraction of epithelial tumours.
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