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Updated: Jul 31, 2026
Micromanipulation of Circulating Tumor Cells for Downstream Molecular Analysis and Metastatic Potential Assessment
Published on: May 14, 2019
Microdissection, microchip arrays, and molecular analysis of tumor cells (primary and metastases)
P A Pappalardo1, R Bonner, D B Krizman
1National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Abstract:
Advances in biotechnology and bioinformatics are offering promise for new breakthroughs in gene discovery and elucidation of gene function. At present, many candidate genes related to cancer pathogenesis have been identified in several types of human cancer, yet frequently their function remains elusive. This is particularly true as it relates to the progression of human cancer. This landscape could change dramatically, however, as technological innovations and improvements continue to revolutionize these fields. High-throughput molecular approaches are emerging, which may become accurate, automated, and cost-effective. For example, DNA arrays on microchips are under development with numerous applications, including the ability to screen genes rapidly for mutations and to study patterns of gene expression on a large scale. Automated systems for microdissection and sequencing are also in their implementation stages. Commensurate with their integration and evolution, these information and technological tools have the potential to offer a more comprehensive understanding of multiple genetic and cellular alterations occurring during cancer initiation, development, and progression. Ultimately, this fundamental knowledge can provide strategies for intervention, prevention, and early diagnosis. This is a US government work. There are no restrictions on its use.
Insights
New biotechnology and bioinformatics tools promise to uncover the function of cancer-related genes. These advancements will improve our understanding of cancer development and progression for better diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Bioinformatics
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Numerous candidate genes linked to cancer pathogenesis have been identified, but their specific functions, especially in cancer progression, remain largely unknown.
- Understanding gene function is crucial for developing effective cancer interventions, prevention strategies, and early diagnostic methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the transformative potential of emerging biotechnological and bioinformatics innovations in gene discovery and functional elucidation.
- To emphasize how these advancements can deepen our comprehension of the genetic and cellular alterations driving cancer initiation, development, and progression.
Main Methods:
- Development of high-throughput molecular approaches, including DNA arrays on microchips for rapid mutation screening and large-scale gene expression analysis.
- Implementation of automated systems for microdissection and sequencing to facilitate comprehensive genetic analysis.
Main Results:
- Technological innovations are making gene discovery and functional analysis more accurate, automated, and cost-effective.
- Emerging high-throughput methods enable large-scale screening of gene mutations and expression patterns.
Conclusions:
- Integrated biotechnological and bioinformatics tools offer a comprehensive understanding of cancer's genetic and cellular underpinnings.
- This fundamental knowledge is essential for advancing cancer intervention, prevention, and early diagnosis strategies.
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