PreCancer Atlas: Present and Future.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genomics
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Precancer atlases offer novel insights into the topographic and morphologic structures of precancerous lesions.
• Understanding the relationship between precancerous states and cellular, molecular, genetic, and pathophysiologic factors is crucial for early cancer detection and intervention.

Approach:

• This review highlights the Human Tumor Atlas Network (HTAN) as a model for constructing 3D cellular and molecular atlases of human cancers.
• It details the collaborative efforts within HTAN to study the progression of premalignant lesions to invasive cancer, or their regression and equilibrium.
• The approach focuses on illustrating the construction process and the research methodologies employed by HTAN.

Key Points:

• HTAN is constructing comprehensive 3D atlases of human cancers, from precancerous lesions to advanced disease.
• Research within HTAN investigates the dynamic behavior of premalignant lesions: progression, regression, or stable equilibrium.
• The network emphasizes a collaborative approach to integrate diverse data types for a holistic understanding of cancer evolution.

Conclusions:

• The development of precancer atlases, exemplified by HTAN, has the potential to transform the understanding of cancer development.
• Lessons learned from HTAN's experience can guide future efforts in building precancer atlases, focusing on logistics, rationale, and implementation.
• Continued research and collaboration are essential for advancing the field of precancer atlases and their clinical applications.