Genomics of Cancer and a New Era for Cancer Prevention
Paul Brennan1, Christopher P Wild2
1Section of Genetics, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France.
Abstract:
A primary justification for dedicating substantial amounts of research funding to large-scale cancer genomics projects of both somatic and germline DNA is that the biological insights will lead to new treatment targets and strategies for cancer therapy. While it is too early to judge the success of these projects in terms of clinical breakthroughs, an alternative rationale is that new genomics techniques can be used to reduce the overall burden of cancer by prevention of new cases occurring and also by detecting them earlier. In particular, it is now becoming apparent that studying the genomic profile of tumors can help to identify new carcinogens and may subsequently result in implementing strategies that limit exposure. In parallel, it may be feasible to utilize genomic biomarkers to identify cancers at an earlier and more treatable stage using screening or other early detection approaches based on prediagnostic biospecimens. While the potential for these techniques is large, their successful outcome will depend on international collaboration and planning similar to that of recent sequencing initiatives.
Insights
Large-scale cancer genomics research offers new avenues for cancer prevention and early detection. Studying tumor genomic profiles can identify carcinogens and biomarkers for earlier diagnosis, reducing cancer burden.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Cancer genomics projects are funded for developing novel therapeutic targets.
- An alternative rationale is to leverage genomics for cancer prevention and early detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of cancer genomics in reducing cancer burden through prevention and early detection.
- To highlight the role of genomic profiling in identifying carcinogens and developing screening biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of somatic and germline DNA in large-scale cancer genomics projects.
- Investigation of tumor genomic profiles for carcinogen identification.
- Utilizing genomic biomarkers for early cancer detection from prediagnostic biospecimens.
Main Results:
- Genomic profiling can aid in identifying novel carcinogens, leading to exposure reduction strategies.
- Genomic biomarkers show promise for earlier cancer detection and treatment.
- International collaboration is crucial for the success of these genomics initiatives.
Conclusions:
- Cancer genomics research extends beyond therapeutic targets to encompass prevention and early detection.
- Genomic approaches offer significant potential to reduce the overall burden of cancer.
- Future success hinges on global collaboration and strategic planning in cancer genomics.
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