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Published on: September 30, 2021
Molecular profiling of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: the search for new therapeutic targets
Douglas V N P Oliveira1, Shanshan Zhang2, Xin Chen2
1a Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), Department of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen N , Denmark.
Introduction:
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is the second most frequent primary tumor of the liver and a highly lethal disease. Therapeutic options for advanced iCCA are limited and ineffective due to the largely incomplete understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of this deadly tumor. Areas covered: The present review article outlines the main studies and resulting discoveries on the molecular profiling of iCCA, with a special emphasis on the different techniques used for this purpose, the diagnostic and prognostic markers identified, as well as the genes and pathways that could be potentially targeted with innovative therapies. Expert commentary: Molecular profiling has led to the identification of distinct iCCA subtypes, characterized by peculiar genetic alterations and transcriptomic features. Targeted therapies against some of the identified genes are ongoing and hold great promise to improve the prognosis of iCCA patients.
Insights
Molecular profiling reveals distinct subtypes of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), a lethal liver cancer. Identifying genetic alterations and pathways offers new targets for innovative therapies to improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a prevalent and highly lethal primary liver tumor.
- Limited therapeutic options for advanced iCCA stem from an incomplete understanding of its molecular pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review molecular profiling studies of iCCA.
- To highlight techniques, diagnostic/prognostic markers, and potential therapeutic targets.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of molecular profiling studies in iCCA.
- Analysis of genetic alterations, transcriptomic features, and identified biomarkers.
Main Results:
- Molecular profiling has identified distinct iCCA subtypes with unique genetic and transcriptomic profiles.
- Several diagnostic and prognostic markers have been discovered.
- Specific genes and pathways amenable to targeted therapy have been elucidated.
Conclusions:
- Molecular profiling is crucial for understanding iCCA heterogeneity.
- Targeted therapies based on identified molecular alterations show promise for improving iCCA patient prognosis.
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