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Published on: November 5, 2019
Exploring the Complexity of Pan-Cancer: Gene Convergences and in silico Analyses
Leandro Teodoro1,2, Ana Claudia O Carreira1,3, Mari C Sogayar1,2
1Cell and Molecular Therapy NUCEL Group, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, 01246-903, Brazil.
Abstract:
Cancer is a complex and multifaceted group of diseases characterized by highly intricate mechanisms of tumorigenesis and tumor progression, which complicates diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. In recent years, targeted therapies have gained prominence by focusing on specific mutations and molecular features unique to each tumor type, offering more effective and personalized treatment options. However, it is equally critical to explore the genetic commonalities across different types of cancer, which has led to the rise of pan-cancer studies. These approaches help identify shared therapeutic targets across various tumor types, enabling the development of broader and potentially more widely applicable treatment strategies. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of key concepts related to tumors, including tumorigenesis processes, the tumor microenvironment, and the role of extracellular vesicles in tumor biology. Additionally, we explore the molecular interactions and mechanisms driving tumor progression, with a particular focus on the pan-cancer perspective. To achieve this, we conducted an in silico analysis using publicly available datasets, which facilitated the identification of both common and divergent genetic and molecular patterns across different tumor types. By integrating these diverse areas, this review offers a clearer and deeper understanding of the factors influencing tumorigenesis and highlights potential therapeutic targets.
Insights
Pan-cancer studies reveal shared genetic patterns across tumor types, identifying common therapeutic targets for broader cancer treatment strategies. This research deepens understanding of tumorigenesis and tumor progression.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Cancer is a complex disease with intricate tumorigenesis and progression mechanisms, challenging diagnosis and treatment.
- Targeted therapies offer personalized treatment but exploring genetic commonalities across cancers is crucial for broader strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of tumor biology, including tumorigenesis, the tumor microenvironment, and extracellular vesicles.
- To explore molecular interactions driving tumor progression from a pan-cancer perspective.
- To identify common and divergent genetic patterns across tumor types for potential therapeutic targets.
Main Methods:
- In silico analysis of publicly available datasets.
- Integration of concepts related to tumorigenesis, tumor microenvironment, and extracellular vesicles.
- Comparative analysis of genetic and molecular patterns across diverse cancer types.
Main Results:
- Identification of shared and distinct genetic and molecular patterns across different tumor types.
- Insights into the complex interplay of factors influencing tumorigenesis and tumor progression.
- Highlighting of potential common therapeutic targets applicable across multiple cancer types.
Conclusions:
- Pan-cancer studies are vital for uncovering shared vulnerabilities and developing broadly applicable cancer therapies.
- Understanding common genetic landscapes can lead to more effective and personalized treatment strategies.
- This review consolidates knowledge on tumor biology and pan-cancer genetics, paving the way for future therapeutic development.
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