Cancer Heterogeneity Flashcards
What performs more than 90% of DNA sequencing?
Ilumina instruments
What is an exome?
The coding regions of DNA
How much of the genome is made up of exomes?
1%
What is cheaper than whole genome sequencing?
Exome sequencing - more targeted and manageable amounts of data produced
What is cancer heterogeneity?
Different cancer cells show distinct, individual properties
What different properties can cancer cells show?
Differences in:
- Morphology
- Metabolism
- Motility
- Proliferation
- Metastatic potential
- Gene expression
Between what can heterogeneity occur?
Between tumours (inter-tumour/patient) and within tumours (intra-tumour/patient)
What is generally the most genomically complex cancer?
Melanoma
What are actionable mutations?
A subset of mutations that have specific associated therapeutic implications
Give an example of an actionable mutation and its therapeutic indication
Colorectal cancer and Anti-EGFR
What does CRC rely on for proliferation?
Active EGFR signalling
How is EGR antagonised?
Binding of monoclonal antibodies to EGFR
Name some monoclonal antibodies used to antagonise EGR
- Cetuximab
- Panitumumab
Who is not eligable for anti-EGFR therapy?
Pts with KRAS or BRAF mutated tumours
How many patient of CRC are eligable?
~50%
Why are patient with BRAF or KRAS mutations not eligable?
Mutations in these genes mean they can act independently of EGFR signalling and induce resistance