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The role of molecular profiling in adrenocortical carcinoma
Juliane Lippert1, Martin Fassnacht1, Cristina L Ronchi1,2,3
1Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
Abstract:
Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare, aggressive cancer with still partially unknown pathogenesis, heterogenous clinical behaviour and no effective treatment for advanced stages. Therefore, there is an urgent clinical unmet need for better prognostication strategies, innovative therapies and significant improvement of the management of the individual patients. In this review, we summarize available studies on molecular prognostic markers and markers predictive of response to standard therapies as well as newly proposed drug targets in sporadic ACC. We include in vitro studies and available clinical trials, focusing on alterations at the DNA, RNA and epigenetic levels. We also discuss the potential of biomarkers to be implemented in a clinical routine workflow for improved ACC patient care.
Insights
Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) research highlights molecular markers for prognosis and treatment response. This review explores DNA, RNA, and epigenetic alterations for improved patient care in advanced stages.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare, aggressive endocrine tumor.
- Current treatments are ineffective for advanced stages, indicating an unmet clinical need.
- Understanding ACC pathogenesis and identifying prognostic markers are critical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review molecular prognostic markers in sporadic ACC.
- To identify markers predicting response to standard therapies.
- To explore novel drug targets and biomarkers for clinical application.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of in vitro studies and clinical trials.
- Focus on DNA, RNA, and epigenetic alterations.
- Analysis of molecular markers for prognostication and therapeutic response.
Main Results:
- Identified various molecular alterations (DNA, RNA, epigenetic) associated with ACC.
- Summarized potential prognostic and predictive markers.
- Highlighted emerging drug targets for sporadic ACC.
Conclusions:
- Molecular markers show promise for improving ACC prognostication and patient management.
- Biomarker implementation in clinical workflows is crucial for personalized ACC care.
- Further research into novel therapies and targeted agents is warranted.
