Biomarkers in molecular medicine: cancer detection and diagnosis

Transforming brain cancer biomarker research with patinformatics and SWOT analysis

Brain cancer heterogeneity imposes significant challenges in diagnosis, causing high mortality. The lack of timely diagnosis intensifies these challenges, underscoring the need for improved diagnostics. Recent advancements in biomarker discovery have led to biomarker detection at ultra-low concentrations via multiplexing with biosensors, offering a promising avenue for the timely detection of brain cancer. Serving as a comprehensive resource, this review highlights the crucial role of primary biomarkers in brain cancer diagnosis via integration of patinformatics and SWOT analysis, thereby facilitating timely diagnosis and informed decision making. Furthermore, we aim to outline recent advances in brain cancer prognostics and management strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Pathways to chronic disease detection and prediction: Mapping the potential of machine learning to the pathophysiological processes while navigating ethical challenges

Chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are leading drivers of mortality worldwide, underscoring the need for improved efforts around early detection and prediction. The pathophysiology and management of chronic diseases have benefitted from emerging fields in molecular biology like genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, glycomics, and lipidomics. The complex biomarker and mechanistic data from these "omics" studies present analytical and interpretive challenges, especially for traditional statistical methods. Machine learning (ML) techniques offer considerable promise in unlocking new pathways for data-driven chronic disease risk assessment and prognosis. This review provides a comprehensive overview of state-of-the-art applications of ML algorithms for chronic disease detection and prediction across datasets, including medical imaging, genomics, wearables, and electronic health records. Specifically, we review and synthesize key studies leveraging major ML approaches ranging from traditional techniques such as logistic regression and random forests to modern deep learning neural network architectures. We consolidate existing literature to date around ML for chronic disease prediction to synthesize major trends and trajectories that may inform both future research and clinical translation efforts in this growing field. While highlighting the critical innovations and successes emerging in this space, we identify the key challenges and limitations that remain to be addressed. Finally, we discuss pathways forward toward scalable, equitable, and clinically implementable ML solutions for transforming chronic disease screening and prevention.

Anaphylaxis with Elevated Procalcitonin Mimicking Sepsis: A Literature Review and Report of Two Cases

Objectives: This review examines the role of serum procalcitonin (PCT) as a diagnostic marker for sepsis and its potential implications in anaphylaxis. Elevated PCT levels, often associated with bacterial infections, can complicate diagnosis when seen in anaphylaxis, especially when clinical features overlap with sepsis. Methods: We conducted a literature review on PCT in anaphylaxis to highlight key patterns and present two cases of anaphylactic shock initially misdiagnosed as sepsis due to elevated PCT levels. Results: The review supports that elevated PCT can occur in anaphylaxis, stressing the need for thorough patient history and symptom evaluation. In both cases, elevated PCT led to initial sepsis diagnoses, but further investigation identified anaphylaxis triggered by sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (SMX/TMP). Conclusions: These findings emphasize the need for considering anaphylaxis in differential diagnoses when elevated PCT levels are observed. Increased awareness of PCT's potential association with allergic drug reactions is essential to ensure timely recognition, avoid diagnostic delays, and improve patient outcomes.

Diagnostics and Therapy for Malignant Tumors

Malignant tumors remain one of the most significant global health challenges and contribute to high mortality rates across various cancer types. The complex nature of these tumors requires multifaceted diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This review explores current advancements in diagnostic methods, including molecular imaging, biomarkers, and liquid biopsies. It also delves into the evolution of therapeutic strategies, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and novel targeted therapies such as immunotherapy and gene therapy. Although significant progress has been made in the understanding of cancer biology, the future of oncology lies in the integration of precision medicine, improved diagnostic tools, and personalized therapeutic approaches that address tumor heterogeneity. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of cancer diagnostics and treatments while highlighting emerging trends and challenges that lie ahead.

Biomarkers in Cancer Screening: Promises and Challenges in Cancer Early Detection

Cancer continues to be one the leading causes of death worldwide, primarily due to the late detection of the disease. Cancers detected at early stages may enable more effective intervention of the disease. However, most cancers lack well-established screening procedures except for cancers with an established early asymptomatic phase and clinically validated screening tests. There is a critical need to identify and develop assays/tools in conjunction with imaging approaches for precise screening and detection of the aggressive disease at an early stage. New developments in molecular cancer screening and early detection include germline testing, synthetic biomarkers, and liquid biopsy approaches.

Novel milestones for early esophageal carcinoma: From bench to bed

Esophageal cancer (EC) is the seventh most common cancer worldwide, and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) accounts for the majority of cases of EC. To effectively diagnose and treat ESCC and improve patient prognosis, timely diagnosis in the initial phase of the illness is necessary. This article offers a detailed summary of the latest advancements and emerging technologies in the timely identification of ECs. Molecular biology and epigenetics approaches involve the use of molecular mechanisms combined with fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), high-throughput sequencing technology (next-generation sequencing), and digital PCR technology to study endogenous or exogenous biomolecular changes in the human body and provide a decision-making basis for the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of diseases. The investigation of the microbiome is a swiftly progressing area in human cancer research, and microorganisms with complex functions are potential components of the tumor microenvironment. The intratumoral microbiota was also found to be connected to tumor progression. The application of endoscopy as a crucial technique for the early identification of ESCC has been essential, and with ongoing advancements in technology, endoscopy has continuously improved. With the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, the utilization of AI in the detection of gastrointestinal tumors has become increasingly prevalent. The implementation of AI can effectively resolve the discrepancies among observers, improve the detection rate, assist in predicting the depth of invasion and differentiation status, guide the pericancerous margins, and aid in a more accurate diagnosis of ESCC.

Quantum dots in noninvasive imaging of oral squamous cell carcinomas: A scoping literature review

ABSTRACT

The current scoping review's objective was to outline existing applications, recent breakthroughs, and quantum dots' applicability in imaging of oral squamous cell cancer. Quantum dots are nanometric semiconductor crystals with customizable optical characteristics and intense, stable fluorescence suited for bioimaging and labeling. We used the Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) recommendations for conducting our systematic search. An analysis of the properties and applications of quantum dots in noninvasive detection of oral squamous cell cancer is presented in this study, which comprehensively explores the available evidence. Following searches in the databases PubMed, Ovid SP, and Cochrane using the search terms quantum dots AND oral squamous cell cancer, 55 published publications were chosen for this review. The review identified a total of eight papers that met the criteria. In noninvasive detection of oral squamous cell carcinoma, quantum dots have the potential to offer an array of therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Furthermore, quantum dots emit near-infrared and visible light, which is advantageous in biological imaging since it reduces light dispersion and absorption of tissue. The future may see quantum dots become a popular noninvasive imaging technique for oral squamous cell cancer. The number of studies accessible is quite limited, and further research is required.

Wavelet scattering networks in deep learning for discovering protein markers in a cohort of Swedish rectal cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Cancer biomarkers play a pivotal role in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response prediction of the disease. In this study, we analyzed the expression levels of RhoB and DNp73 proteins in rectal cancer, as captured in immunohistochemical images, to predict the 5-year survival time of two patient groups: one with preoperative radiotherapy and one without.

METHODS

The utilization of deep convolutional neural networks in medical research, particularly in clinical cancer studies, has been gaining substantial attention. This success primarily stems from their ability to extract intricate image features that prove invaluable in machine learning. Another innovative method for extracting features at multiple levels is the wavelet-scattering network. Our study combines the strengths of these two convolution-based approaches to robustly extract image features related to protein expression.

RESULTS

The efficacy of our approach was evaluated across various tissue types, including tumor, biopsy, metastasis, and adjacent normal tissue. Statistical assessments demonstrated exceptional performance across a range of metrics, including prediction accuracy, classification accuracy, precision, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

CONCLUSION

These results underscore the potential of dual convolutional learning to assist clinical researchers in the timely validation and discovery of cancer biomarkers.

microRNA-184 in the landscape of human malignancies: a review to roles and clinical significance

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) with a short length of 19-22 nucleotides. miRNAs are posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression involved in various biological processes like cell growth, apoptosis, and angiogenesis. miR-184 is a well-studied miRNA, for which most studies report its downregulation in cancer cells and tissues and experiments support its role as a tumor suppressor inhibiting malignant biological behaviors of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. To exert its functions, miR-184 affects some signaling pathways involved in tumorigenesis like Wnt and β-catenin, and AKT/mTORC1 pathway, oncogenic factors (e.g., c-Myc) or apoptotic proteins, such as Bcl-2. Interestingly, clinical investigations have shown miR-184 with good performance as a prognostic/diagnostic biomarker for various cancers. Additionally, exogenous miR-184 in cell and xenograft animal studies suggest it as a therapeutic anticancer target. In this review, we outline the studies that evaluated the roles of miR-184 in tumorigenesis as well as its clinical significance.

Radiolabeled Human Serum Albumin Nanoparticles Co-Loaded with Methotrexate and Decorated with Trastuzumab for Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide, with millions of new cases diagnosed yearly. Addressing the burden of breast cancer mortality requires a comprehensive approach involving early detection, accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and equitable access to healthcare services. In this direction, nano-radiopharmaceuticals have shown potential for enhancing breast cancer diagnosis by combining the benefits of nanoparticles and radiopharmaceutical agents. These nanoscale formulations can provide improved imaging capabilities, increased targeting specificity, and enhanced sensitivity for detecting breast cancer lesions. In this study, we developed and evaluated a novel nano-radio radiopharmaceutical, technetium-99m ([99mTc]Tc)-labeled trastuzumab (TRZ)-decorated methotrexate (MTX)-loaded human serum albumin (HSA) nanoparticles ([99mTc]-TRZ-MTX-HSA), for the diagnosis of breast cancer. In this context, HSA and MTX-HSA nanoparticles were prepared. Conjugation of MTX-HSA nanoparticles with TRZ was performed using adsorption and covalent bonding methods. The prepared formulations were evaluated for particle size, PDI value, zeta (ζ) potential, scanning electron microscopy analysis, encapsulation efficiency, and loading capacity and cytotoxicity on MCF-7, 4T1, and MCF-10A cells. Finally, the nanoparticles were radiolabeled with [99mTc]Tc using the direct radiolabeling method, and cellular uptake was performed with the nano-radiopharmaceutical. The results showed the formation of spherical nanoparticles, with a particle size of 224.1 ± 2.46 nm, a PDI value of 0.09 ± 0.07, and a ζ potential value of -16.4 ± 0.53 mV. The encapsulation efficiency of MTX was found to be 32.46 ± 1.12%, and the amount of TRZ was 80.26 ± 1.96%. The labeling with [99mTc]Tc showed a high labeling efficiency (>99%). The cytotoxicity studies showed no effect, and the cellular uptake studies showed 97.54 ± 2.16% uptake in MCF-7 cells at the 120th min and were found to have a 3-fold higher uptake in cancer cells than in healthy cells. In conclusion, [99mTc]Tc-TRZ-MTX-HSA nanoparticles are promising for diagnosing breast cancer and evaluating the response to treatment in breast cancer patients.

Tumor-Specific Growth Factor (TSGF): A Futuristic Tumor Biomarker in Early Diagnosis of Cancer

Despite the significant improvement in the treatment modalities, cancer is one of the fastest-growing chronic disease conditions all over the world. Genetic and Epigenetic alterations in the normal physiology of the cell are the key factor for tumor development. These changes can trigger the production of abnormal protein expressions through stimulation of different signaling pathways and can deeply affect normal cell growth and proliferation. Any altered protein expression, genetic variation, micro-RNA or post-translational protein modifications that indicate tumorigenesis can act as an early signal termed as biomarker. Cancer, being a multistep process with accumulating genetic and epigenetic alterations, could be detected early with suitable biomarkers. There are several proteins such as AFP, CA-125, PSA, troponin, CEA, osteopontin, CA 19-9 that act as biomarkers which help in early detection, prognosis, and monitoring of disease progression, a hunt for newer biomarkers with higher specificity and sensitivity is still ongoing. Tumor-specific growth factor (TSGF) is one such budding and prevailing tumor biomarker used for the early-stage detection of several types of carcinomas. TSGF is a gene that helps in tumor angiogenesis and gets released during the preliminary stages from cancer cells that ensure the vascular proliferation of the same. In this review, the clinical investigations of TSGF in different kinds of malignancy is discussed in detail and suggests the possibility of using TSGF as a biomarker in early diagnosis of cancer.

Biomarkers as Biomedical Bioindicators: Approaches and Techniques for the Detection, Analysis, and Validation of Novel Biomarkers of Diseases

A biomarker is any measurable biological moiety that can be assessed and measured as a potential index of either normal or abnormal pathophysiology or pharmacological responses to some treatment regimen. Every tissue in the body has a distinct biomolecular make-up, which is known as its biomarkers, which possess particular features, viz., the levels or activities (the ability of a gene or protein to carry out a particular body function) of a gene, protein, or other biomolecules. A biomarker refers to some feature that can be objectively quantified by various biochemical samples and evaluates the exposure of an organism to normal or pathological procedures or their response to some drug interventions. An in-depth and comprehensive realization of the significance of these biomarkers becomes quite important for the efficient diagnosis of diseases and for providing the appropriate directions in case of multiple drug choices being presently available, which can benefit any patient. Presently, advancements in omics technologies have opened up new possibilities to obtain novel biomarkers of different types, employing genomic strategies, epigenetics, metabolomics, transcriptomics, lipid-based analysis, protein studies, etc. Particular biomarkers for specific diseases, their prognostic capabilities, and responses to therapeutic paradigms have been applied for screening of various normal healthy, as well as diseased, tissue or serum samples, and act as appreciable tools in pharmacology and therapeutics, etc. In this review, we have summarized various biomarker types, their classification, and monitoring and detection methods and strategies. Various analytical techniques and approaches of biomarkers have also been described along with various clinically applicable biomarker sensing techniques which have been developed in the recent past. A section has also been dedicated to the latest trends in the formulation and designing of nanotechnology-based biomarker sensing and detection developments in this field.

[99mTc]Technetium-Labeled Niosomes: Radiolabeling, Quality Control, and In Vitro Evaluation

The aim of this research was to develop technetium-99m ([^99mTc]Tc)-radiolabeled niosomes and evaluate the cancer cell incorporation capacity of radiolabeled niosomes. For this purpose, niosome formulations were developed by film hydration method, and prepared niosomes were characterized to particle size, polydispersity index (PdI), ζ-potential value, and image profile. Then, niosomes were radiolabeled with [^99mTc]Tc using stannous salts (chloride) as a reducing agent. The radiochemical purity (RP) and stability in different mediums of the niosomes were assessed by ascending radioactive thin-layer chromatography (RTLC) and radioactive ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography (R-UPLC) methods. Also, the partition coefficient value of radiolabeled niosomes was determined. The cell incorporation of [^99mTc]Tc-labeled niosome formulations, as well as reduced/hydrolyzed (R/H)-[^99mTc]NaTcO₄ in the HT-29 (human colorectal adenocarcinoma) cells, was then assessed. According to the obtained results, the spherical niosomes had a particle size of 130.5 ± 1.364 nm, a PdI value of 0.250 ± 0.023, and a negative charge of -35.4 ± 1.06 mV. The niosome formulations were effectively radiolabeled with [^99mTc]Tc using 500 μg mL^-1 stannous chloride for 15 min, and RP was found to be over 95%. [^99mTc]Tc-niosomes showed good in vitro stability in every system for up to 6 h. The log P value of radiolabeled niosomes was found as -0.66 ± 0.02. Compared to R/H-[^99mTc]NaTcO₄ (34.18 ± 1.56%), the incorporation percentages of [^99mTc]Tc-niosomes (88.45 ± 2.54%) were shown to be higher in cancer cells. In conclusion, the newly developed [^99mTc]Tc-niosomes showed good prototype for potential use in nuclear medicine imaging in the near future. However, further investigations, such as drug encapsulation and biodistribution studies, should be performed, and our studies are continuing.

Current Update on Biomarkers for Detection of Cancer: Comprehensive Analysis

Early and effective diagnosis of cancer is decisive for its proper management. In this context biomarker-based cancer diagnosis is budding as one of the promising ways for early detection, disease progression monitoring, and effective cancer therapy. Integration of Biosensing devices with different metallic/nonmetallic nanoparticles offers amplification and multiplexing capabilities for simultaneous detection of cancer biomarkers (CB's). This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the most recent designs and fabrication methodologies designed for developing electrochemical biosensors (EB) for early detection of cancers. The role of biomarkers in cancer therapeutics is also discussed.

Target-Modulated Hydrophobic Precipitation in Photocatalytic Nanochannels for Sensitive Detection of Alpha Fetoprotein

It is important to detect cancer biomarkers at an early stage of tumor development for the effective diagnosis and treatment of cancer. As a well-known probe for detecting superoxide (·O₂^-) radicals, nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) can rapidly react with ·O₂^- to form a hydrophobic formazan precipitate. In this study, by deliberately utilizing this reaction, Pt asymmetrically decorated on a TiO₂ nanochannel membrane (Pt/TiNM) is explored to fabricate an electrochemical immunosensing platform with outstanding selectivity and ultrahigh sensitivity. Using NBT as the substrate, hydrophobic formazan precipitation induces a substantial block of ionic diffusion flux in nanochannels. Using alpha fetoprotein (AFP) as the target analyte, the established immunorecognition event was used to induce MoS₂-Ab₂ conjugates. Thanks to the excellent light-shielding ability of MoS₂ nanosheets, the production of ·O₂^- radicals from the photocatalysis of Pt/TiNM is effectively depressed because of the attenuated arrival of light. The reduced formazan precipitation results in ionic transport changes in nanochannels, which in turn enables the selective recognition of AFP down to 2 ng mL^-1. This target-modulated sensing strategy is also capable of sensing other immune targets, thus paving a new way for designing nanochannel-based sensing platforms.

Quantifying protrusions as tumor-specific biophysical predictors of cancer invasion in in vitro tumor micro-spheroid models

An important hallmark in cancer research is the discovery of suitable features capable to reliably predict tumor invasiveness, and consequently, their metastatic potential at an early stage. Current methods are based on molecular biomarker screening and imaging that may not reveal the altered properties of tumor cells, being also labor-intensive and costly. Biophysical-based methodologies provide a new framework assessing-and even predicting-the invasion potential of tumors with improved accuracy. In particular, the stochastic fluctuations of cancer invasive protrusions can be used as a tumor-specific biophysical indicator of its aggressiveness. In this methodology, tumor micro-spheroids with different metastatic capabilities were employed as in vitro models to analyze protrusion activity. It is described the procedure for extracting the descriptive biophysical parameters characteristic of protrusion activity, which magnitude depends on the invasion capability of tumors. Next, a simple mathematical approach is employed to define a predictive index that correlates with tumor invasiveness. Overall, this innovative approach may provide a simple method for unveiling cancer invasiveness and complement existing diagnosis methodologies.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s44164-022-00020-1.

Biosensors to Monitor Cell Activity in 3D Hydrogel-Based Tissue Models

Three-dimensional (3D) culture models have gained relevant interest in tissue engineering and drug discovery owing to their suitability to reproduce in vitro some key aspects of human tissues and to provide predictive information for in vivo tests. In this context, the use of hydrogels as artificial extracellular matrices is of paramount relevance, since they allow closer recapitulation of (patho)physiological features of human tissues. However, most of the analyses aimed at characterizing these models are based on time-consuming and endpoint assays, which can provide only static and limited data on cellular behavior. On the other hand, biosensing systems could be adopted to measure on-line cellular activity, as currently performed in bi-dimensional, i.e., monolayer, cell culture systems; however, their translation and integration within 3D hydrogel-based systems is not straight forward, due to the geometry and materials properties of these advanced cell culturing approaches. Therefore, researchers have adopted different strategies, through the development of biochemical, electrochemical and optical sensors, but challenges still remain in employing these devices. In this review, after examining recent advances in adapting existing biosensors from traditional cell monolayers to polymeric 3D cells cultures, we will focus on novel designs and outcomes of a range of biosensors specifically developed to provide real-time analysis of hydrogel-based cultures.

LncRNA LINC00460: Function and mechanism in human cancer

Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs), which are more than 200 nucleotides in length and with limited protein-coding potential, play vital roles in the pathogenesis, tumorigenesis, and angiogenesis of cancers. Aberrant expression of lncRNAs has been detected in various carcinomas and may be correlated with oncogenesis by affecting related genes expression. Recently, an increasing number of studies have reported on long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 460 (LINC00460) in human tumor fields. LINC00460 is upregulated in diverse cancer tissues and cells. The upregulated expression level of LINC00460 is correlated with larger tumor size, tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage, lymph node metastasis, and shorter overall survival. The regulatory mechanism of LINC00460 was complex and diverse. LINC00460 could act as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA), directly bind with proteins or regulate multiple pathways, which affected tumor progression. Moreover, LINC00460 was also identified to increase drug resistance, and therefore, weaken the effectiveness of tumor treatment. It has become increasingly important to investigate the roles of LINC00460 in various cancers by different mechanisms. Therefore, a more comprehensive understanding of LINC00460 is crucial to expound on the cellular function and molecular mechanism of human cancers. In this review, we refer to studies concerning LINC00460 and provide the basis for the evaluation of LINC00460 as a predicted biomarker or potential therapeutic target in malignancies, and also provide ideas for the future research of lncRNAs similar to LINC00460.

Methylation of FBN1, SPG20, ITF2, RUNX3, SNCA, MLH1, and SEPT9 genes in circulating cell-free DNA as biomarkers of colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Investigating aberrant tumor-specific methylation in plasma cell-free DNA provides a promising and noninvasive biomarker for cancer detection.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate methylation status of some promoter regions in the plasma and tumor tissues to find biomarkers for early detection of colorectal cancer.

METHODS

This case-control study on seventy colorectal cancer patients and fifty matched healthy controls used Methylation-Specific High-Resolution Melting Curve analysis to evaluate the methylation of the selected promoter regions in converted genomic tissue DNA and plasma cfDNA.

RESULTS

The methylation levels in selected regions of SPG20 (+24375 to +24680, +24209 to +24399, and +23625 to +23883), SNCA (+807 to +1013, +7 to +162, and -180 to +7), FBN1 (+223 to +429, +1 to +245, and -18 to -175), ITF2 (+296 to +436 and -180 to +55), SEPT9 (-914412 to -91590 and -99083 to -92264), and MLH1 (-13 to +22) were significantly higher in tumor tissues compared with normal adjacent tissues. The methylation levels of FBN1, ITF2, SNCA, and SPG20 promoters were significantly higher in the patient's plasma compared to patient's normal tissue and plasma of healthy control subjects. FBN1, SPG20, and SEPT9 promoter methylation had a good diagnostic performance for discriminating CRC tissues from normal adjacent tissues (AUC > 0.8). A panel of SPG20, FBN1, and SEPT9 methylation had a higher diagnostic value than that of any single biomarker and other panels in tissue-based assay (AUC > 0.9). The methylation of FBN1(a) and SPG20(a) regions, as the closest region to the first coding sequence (CDS), had a good diagnostic performance in plasma cfDNA (AUC > 0.8) while a panel consisted of FBN1(a) and SPG20(a) regions showed excellent diagnostic performance for CRC detection in plasma cfDNA (AUC > 0.9).

CONCLUSION

Methylation of FBN1(a) and SPG20(a) promoter regions in the plasma cfDNA can be an excellent simple, non-invasive blood-based test for early detection of CRC.

Immune checkpoint CD155 promoter methylation profiling reveals cancer-associated behaviors within breast neoplasia

BACKGROUND

CD155 immune checkpoint has recently emerged as a compelling immunotherapeutic target. Epigenetic DNA methylation changes are recognized as key molecular mechanisms in cancer development. Hence, the identification of methylation markers that are sensitive and specific for breast cancer may improve early detection and predict prognosis. We speculate that CD155 promoter methylation can be a valuable epigenetic biomarker, based upon strong indications for its immunoregulatory functions.

METHODS

Methylation analyses were conducted on 14 CpGs sites in the CD155 promoter region by bisulfite pyrosequencing. To elucidate the related gene expression changes, a transcriptional study using RT-qPCR was performed. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate correlations of CD155 methylation profiles with mRNA expression together with clinical-pathological features, prognosis and immune infiltrate.

RESULTS

CD155 promoter methylation profile was significantly associated with SBR grade, tumor size, molecular subgroups, HER2 and hormonal receptors expression status. Low CD155 methylation rates correlated with better prognosis in univariate cox proportional hazard analysis and appeared as an independent survival predictor in cox-regression multivariate analysis. Further, methylation changes at CD155 specific CpG sites were consistent with CD155 membranous mRNA isoform expression status. Statistical analyses also showed a significant association with immune Natural Killer cell infiltrate when looking at the CpG7, CpG8, CpG9 and CpG11 sites.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, our results contribute to a better understanding of the impact of CD155 immune checkpoint modality expression in breast tumors, revealing for the first time that specific CpG sites from CD155 promoter may be a potential biomarker in breast cancer monitoring.

Cytochrome 4Z1 Expression Is Correlated with Poor Prognosis in Patients with Cervical Cancer

Background: cervical cancer is one of the most common malignancies in women worldwide and its management remains challenging and complex. As Cytochrome4Z1 (CYP4Z1) is overexpressed in many tumours, its expression in cervical cancer is unknown. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate CYP4Z1 expression in cervical cancers. Methods: CYP4Z1 expression was immunohistochemically assessed in 100 cases of cervical cancers along with ten normal cervix tissues, and the enzyme’s relationship to several clinicopathological features and survival was explored. Results: CYP4Z1 was strongly expressed in 55% of cervical cancer patients. Normal cervix samples were negative for CYP4Z1 expression. Importantly, this expression was significantly found in patients with the late stage of the disease, lymph node metastasis, and high tumour invasion (p < 0.05). Interestingly, CYP4Z1 expression was significantly correlated with shorter survival times of cervical cancer patients. Univariate analysis showed that CYP4Z1 expression, tumour stage, lymph node metastasis, and tumour invasion were significantly correlated with patient survival (p < 0.05). The multivariate analysis revealed that only CYP4Z1 expression and tumour stage were significantly correlated with patient survival (p < 0.05). Conclusions: CYP4Z1 expression is associated with cervical cancer patients’ survival and may serve as an independent predictor of poor prognosis in cervical cancer patients.

The effect of radiolabeled nanostructured lipid carrier systems containing imatinib mesylate on NIH-3T3 and CRL-1739 cells

The aim of current study is to develop new nanostructured lipid carrier systems (NLCSs) containing imatinib mesylate (IMT) and evaluate their targeting efficiency on NIH-3T3 as fibroblast cells and CRL-1739 as gastric adenocarcinoma cells with radiolabeled formulations. Three formulations (F1-IMT, F2-IMT and F3-IMT) were prepared and radiolabeled with 1 mCi/0.1 mL of [^99mTc]Tc. The effect of reducing and antioxidant agents on radiolabeling process was evaluated and radiochemical purity of formulations was performed by radio thin-layer radiochromatography (RTLC). The results demonstrated that the radiochemical purity was found to be above 90% for [^99mTc]Tc-F1-IMT and [^99mTc]Tc-F2-IMT, while radiochemical purity of [^99mTc]Tc-F3-IMT was found to be 85.61 ± 2.24%. Also, [^99mTc]Tc-F1-IMT and [^99mTc]Tc-F2-IMT have better stability in cell medium and saline than [^99mTc]Tc-F3-IMT. Targeting efficiency of [^99mTc]Tc-F1-IMT and [^99mTc]Tc-F2-IMT comparatively evaluated by cell binding studies with [^99mTc]NaTcO4 on NIH-3T3 and CRL-1739 cells. The cell binding capacity and targeting/non-targeting cell uptake ratio of these two formulations was found to be higher than [^99mTc]NaTcO4 in CRL-1739. It is thought that the knowledge achieved in this study would contribute to using [^99mTc]Tc-F1-IMT and [^99mTc]Tc F2-IMT as an diagnosis and treatment agents.

Serum matrix metalloproteinase-13 as a diagnostic biomarker for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma

Background

A significant proportion of newly diagnosed patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) have metastasis and eventually die of the disease, necessitating the exploration of novel biomarkers for early detection of cSCC aggressiveness, risk assessment and monitoring. Matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) has been implicated in cSCC pathogenesis. Serum MMP-13 levels have been shown to predict survival in patients with esophageal SCC, but their diagnostic value for cSCC has not been explored.

Methods

We conducted a case-control study to examine serum MMP-13 as a biomarker for cSCC. Patients with cSCC undergoing surgical resection and health controls undergoing plastic surgery were recruited. ELISA for measurement of serum MMP-13 and immunohistochemistry for detection of tissue MMP-13 were performed, and the results were compared between the case and the control group, and among different patient groups. ROC curve analysis was performed to determine the diagnostic value of serum MMP-13 levels.

Results

The ratio of male to female, and the age between the case (n = 77) and the control group (n = 50) were not significantly different. Patients had significantly higher serum MMP-13 levels than healthy controls. Subjects with stage 3 cSCC had markedly higher serum MMP-13 levels than those with stage 1 and stage 2 cSCC. Patients with invasive cSCC had remarkably higher serum MMP-13 than those with cSCC in situ. Post-surgery serum MMP-13 measurement was done in 12 patients, and a significant MMP-13 decrease was observed after removal of cSCC. Tumor tissues had a remarkably higher level of MMP-13 than control tissues. Serum MMP-13 predicted the presence of invasive cSCC with an AUC of 0.87 (95% CI [0.78 to 0.95]) for sensitivity and specificity of 81.7 and 82.4%, respectively for a cut-off value of 290 pg/mL. Serum MMP-13 predicted lymph node involvement with an AUC of 0.94 (95% CI [0.88 to 0.99]) for sensitivity and specificity of 93.8 and 88.5%, respectively for a cut-off value of 430 pg/mL.

Conclusion

Serum MMP-13 might serve as a valuable biomarker for early detection of cSCC invasiveness and monitoring of cSCC progression.

An integrated microfluidic platform for detection of ovarian clear cell carcinoma mRNA biomarker FXYD2

In this work we developed an integrated microfluidic system for automatically detecting the ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) biomarker FXYD2. Dealing with ascites from ovarian cancer patients, capture of cancer cells, isolation of messenger RNA, and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction were integrated into a single microfluidic chip and carried out on-chip automatically. OCCC is a subtype of ovarian cancer with a high mortality risk, and a high FXYD2 gene expression level was shown to be closely associated with OCCC. The lowest limit of quantification using a benchtop protocol of this system could be as low as 100 copies per sample. By normalizing the expression to a housekeeping gene, GAPDH, a simple cycle threshold ratio index could distinguish high FXYD2 expression cells from the low-expression ones. This developed platform may therefore facilitate future OCCC diagnosis and/or prognosis.

Highly sensitive and multiplexed one-step RT-qPCR for profiling genes involved in the circadian rhythm using microparticles

Given the growing interest in molecular diagnosis, highly extensive and selective detection of genetic targets from a very limited amount of samples is in high demand. We demonstrated the highly sensitive and multiplexed one-step RT-qPCR platform for RNA analysis using microparticles as individual reactors. Those particles are equipped with a controlled release system of thermo-responsive materials, and are able to capture RNA targets inside. The particle-based assay can successfully quantify multiple target RNAs from only 200 pg of total RNA. The assay can also quantify target RNAs from a single cell with the aid of a pre-concentration process. We carried out 8-plex one-step RT-qPCR using tens of microparticles, which allowed extensive mRNA profiling. The circadian cycles were shown by the multiplex one-step RT-qPCR in human cell and human hair follicles. Reliable 24-plex one-step RT-qPCR was developed using a single operation in a PCR chip without any loss of performance (i.e., selectivity and sensitivity), even from a single hair. Many other disease-related transcripts can be monitored using this versatile platform. It can also be used non–invasively for samples obtained in clinics.

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Comparison With Canine Mammary Tumors From Light Microscopy to Molecular Pathology

Many similar characteristics in human and dog cancers including, spontaneous development, clinical presentation, tumor heterogeneity, disease progression, and response to standard therapies have promoted the approval of this comparative model as an alternative to mice. Breast cancer represents the second most frequent neoplasm in humans after lung cancer. Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC) constitute around 15% of all cases of breast cancer and do not express estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and do not overexpress human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). As a result, they do not benefit from hormonal or trastuzumab-based therapy. Patients with TNBC have worse overall survival than patients with non-TNBC. Lehmann and collaborators described six different molecular subtypes of TNBC which further demonstrated its transcriptional heterogeneity. This six TNBC subtype classification has therapeutic implications. Breast cancer is the second most frequent neoplasm in sexually intact female dogs after skin cancer. Canine mammary tumors are a naturally occurring heterogeneous group of cancers that have several features in common with human breast cancer (HBC). These similarities include etiology, signaling pathway activation, and histological classification. Molecularly CMTs are more like TNBCs, and therefore dogs are powerful spontaneous models of cancer to test new therapeutic approaches, particularly for human TNBCs. More malignant tumors of the breast are more often ER and PR negative in both humans and dogs. Promising breast cancer biomarkers in both humans and canines are cancer-associated stroma (CAS), circulating tumor cells and tumor DNA (ctDNA), exosomes and miRNAs, and metabolites.

Recent progress on developing of plasmon biosensing of tumor biomarkers: Efficient method towards early stage recognition of cancer

Cancer is the second most extended disease with an improved death rate over the past several time. Due to the restrictions of cancer analysis methods, the patient's real survival rate is unknown. Therefore, early stage diagnosis of cancer is crucial for its strong detection. Bio-analysis based on biomarkers may help to overcome the problem Biosensors with high sensitivity and specificity, low-cost, high analysis speed and minimum limit of detection are practical alternatives for laboratory tests. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is reaching a maturity level sufficient for their application in detection and determination cancer biomarkers in clinical samples. This review discusses main concepts and performance characteristics of SPR biosensor. Mainly, it focuses on newly emerged enhanced SPR biosensors towards high-throughput and ultrasensitive screening of cancer biomarkers such as PSA, α-fetoprotein, CEA, CA125, CA 15-3, HER2, ctDNA, ALCAM, hCG, VEGF, TNF, Interleukin, IFN-γ, CD24, CD44, Ferritin, COLIV using labeling processes with focusing on the future application in biomedical research and clinical diagnosis. This article reviews current status of the field, showcasing a series of early successes in the application of SPR for clinical bioanalysis of cancer related biomolecules and detailing a series of considerations regarding sensing schemes, exposing issues with analysis in biofluids, while providing an outlook of the challenges currently associated with plasmonic materials, bioreceptor selection, microfluidics, and validation of a clinical bioassay for applying SPR biosensors to clinical samples. Research opportunities are proposed to further advance the field and transition SPR biosensors from research proof-of-concept stage to actual clinical usage.

Genetic predisposition and prediction protocol for epithelial neoplasms in disease-free individuals: A systematic review

Background

Epithelial neoplasm is an important global health-care problem, with high morbidity and mortality rates. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for increased life survival. Prediction of occurrence of malignancy in a disease-free individual by any means will be a great breakthrough for healthy living.

Aims and Objectives

The aims and objectives were to predict the genetic predisposition and propose a prediction protocol for epithelial malignancy of various systems in our body, in a disease-free individual.

Methods

We have searched databases both manually and electronically, published in English language in Cochrane group, Google search, MEDLINE and PubMed from 2000 to 2019. We have included all the published, peer-reviewed, narrative reviews; randomized controlled trials; case-control studies; and cohort studies and excluded the abstract-only articles and duplicates. Specific words such as "etiological factors," "pathology and mutations," "signs and symptoms," "genetics and IHC marker," and "treatment outcome" were used for the search. A total of 1032 citations were taken, and only 141 citations met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed.

Results

After analyzing various articles, the etiological factors, clinical signs and symptoms, genes and the pathology involved and the commonly used blood and tissue markers were analyzed. A basic investigation strategy using immunohistochemistry markers was established.

Conclusion

The set of proposed biomarkers should be studied in future to predict genetic predisposition in disease-free individuals.

Applying Quality by Design Principles in the Development and Preparation of a New Radiopharmaceutical: Technetium-99m-Imatinib Mesylate

The clinical impact and accessibility of ^99mTc tracers for cancer diagnosis would be greatly enhanced by the availability of a new, simple, and easy labeling process and radiopharmaceuticals. In this study, Technetium-99m-imatinib mesylate ([^99mTc]TcIMT) was developed and prepared as a new radiopharmaceutical for breast cancer diagnosis. The effect of critical process parameters on the product quality and stability of [^99mTc]TcIMT was investigated using the quality by design concept of the ICH Q8 (Pharmaceutical Development) guideline. [^99mTc]TcIMT was subjected to in vitro cell binding studies to determine healthy and cancer cell affinity using HaCaT and MCF-7 cells, respectively. The optimal radiolabeling procedure with 1 mg of IMT, 500 μg of stannous chloride, 0.1 mg of ascorbic acid, and ^1mCi ^99mTc radioactivity was obtained for [^99mTc]TcIMT. The pH of the reaction mixture was adjusted to 10 and allowed to react for 15 min at room temperature. The radiochemical purity of [^99mTc]TcIMT was found to be higher than 90% at room temperature up to 6 h. Chromatography analysis revealed >85% [^99mTc]TcIMT complex formation with promising stability in saline, cell medium, and serum up to 6 h. The radiolabeled complex showed a higher cell-binding ratio to MCF-7 cells (88.90% ± 3.12) than HaCaT cells (45.64 ± 4.72) when compared to ^99mTc. Our findings show that the developed preparation method for [^99mTc]TcIMT falls well within the proven acceptable ranges. Applying quality by design (QbD) principles is feasible and worthwhile for the preparation of [^99mTc]TcIMT. In conclusion, radiochemical purity, stability, and in vitro cell binding evaluation of the [^99mTc]TcIMT complex indicate that the agent can be utilized for imaging of breast cancer cells.

Hadrontherapy Interactions in Molecular and Cellular Biology

The resistance of cancer cells to radiotherapy is a major issue in the curative treatment of cancer patients. This resistance can be intrinsic or acquired after irradiation and has various definitions, depending on the endpoint that is chosen in assessing the response to radiation. This phenomenon might be strengthened by the radiosensitivity of surrounding healthy tissues. Sensitive organs near the tumor that is to be treated can be affected by direct irradiation or experience nontargeted reactions, leading to early or late effects that disrupt the quality of life of patients. For several decades, new modalities of irradiation that involve accelerated particles have been available, such as proton therapy and carbon therapy, raising the possibility of specifically targeting the tumor volume. The goal of this review is to examine the up-to-date radiobiological and clinical aspects of hadrontherapy, a discipline that is maturing, with promising applications. We first describe the physical and biological advantages of particles and their application in cancer treatment. The contribution of the microenvironment and surrounding healthy tissues to tumor radioresistance is then discussed, in relation to imaging and accurate visualization of potentially resistant hypoxic areas using dedicated markers, to identify patients and tumors that could benefit from hadrontherapy over conventional irradiation. Finally, we consider combined treatment strategies to improve the particle therapy of radioresistant cancers.

Radiolabeling and in vitro evaluation of a new 5-fluorouracil derivative with cell culture studies

The clinical impact and accessibility of ^99m Tc tracers for cancer diagnosis would be greatly enhanced by the availability of a new, simple, and easy labeling process and radiopharmaceuticals. 5-Fluorouracil is an antitumor drug, which has played an important role for the treatment of breast carcinoma. In the present study, a new derivative of 5-Fluorouracil was synthesized as (1-[{1'-(1''-deoxy-2'',3'':4'',5''-di-O-isopropylidene-β-D-fructopyranose-1''-yl)-1'H-1',2', 3'-triazol-4'-yl}methyl]-5-fluorouracil) (E) and radiolabeled with ^99m Tc. It was analyzed by radio thin layer chromatography for quality control and stability. The radiolabeled complex was subjected to in vitro cell-binding studies to determine healthy and cancer cell affinity using HaCaT and MCF-7 cells, respectively. In addition, in vitro cytotoxicity studies of compound E were performed with HaCaT and MCF-5 cells. The radiochemical purity of the [^99m Tc]TcE was found to be higher than 90% at room temperature up to 6 hours. The radiolabeled complex showed higher specific binding to MCF-7 cells than HaCaT cells. IC₅₀ values of E were found 31.5 ± 3.4 μM and 20.7 ± 2.77 μM for MCF-7 and HaCaT cells, respectively. The results demonstrated the potential of a new radiolabeled E with ^99m Tc has selective for breast cancer cells.

An In-Vitro Study for Early Detection and to Distinguish Breast and Lung Malignancies Using the Pcb Technology Based Nanodosimeter

Since the early detection of cancer increases the chance of successful treatment, the present study focused to confirm the suitability of an indigenously fabricated multilayer PCB technology based 3D positive ion detector to detect breast and lung malignancy at an early stage. The 3D positive ion detector is a type of gas filled radiation detector works under the principle of ion induced ionization using an exempted micro curie activity source. Earlier studies report that malignant cells can be detected by analyzing the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) exhaled by those cells that serve as eminent biomarkers for malignant detection. Based on this, the present study analyzed the signals produced in the detector by VOCs exhaled from 140 biopsy tissue samples that include tissue of normal and all stages of breast and lung malignancy. To strengthen the present data, the normal and advanced breast and lung malignant tissues were also analyzed using the Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). From this study, it is confirmed that the present 3D positive ion detector can be used to detect both breast and lung malignancy and also to distinguish them based on the variation in four basic physical parameters of the output pulse such as frequency, amplitude, rise time and fall time and four derived parameters of the pulse such as FWHM, area of the pulse, ionization cluster size, and ion drift time.

Simply and sensitively simultaneous detection hepatocellular carcinoma markers AFP and miRNA-122 by a label-free resonance light scattering sensor

In this study, an intelligent and label-free sensor is utilized for the first time to one-spot simultaneous detection hepatocellular carcinoma markers AFP and miRNA-122 by a resonance light scattering (RLS) sensor. cDNA1 hybridizes with cDNA2 to form double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). The construction of dsDNA and methyl violet is used to form the RLS sensor via the electronic interaction. When AFP or miRNA-122 is present, the cDNA (cDNA1 or cDNA2) can bindings of target, thereby RLS intensity changed proportionally with the concentration of AFP or that of miRNA-122. The detection limits of AFP and miRNA-122 are 0.94 μg/L and 98 pM respectively, and their good linear which ranges from 5 to 100 μg/L and 200 pM to 10 nM are achieved using the assay. In the presence of miRNA-122 and AFP mixtures, AFP bound to the AFP aptamer to increase the RLS signal, and miRNA-122 bound to the miRNA-122 complementary strand to decrease the RLS signal. The RLS signal changed in response to changing AFP and miRNA-122 concentrations, so that one-spot simultaneous detection of alpha fetal protein and miRNA-122 is achieved. This method has potential practical applications in the research of hepatocellular carcinoma.

DFNA5 promoter methylation a marker for breast tumorigenesis

Background

Identification of methylation markers that are sensitive and specific for breast cancer may improve early detection. We hypothesize that DFNA5 promoter methylation can be a valuable epigenetic biomarker, based upon strong indications for its role as tumor suppressor gene and its function in regulated cell death.

Results

Statistically different levels of methylation were seen, with always very low levels in healthy breast reduction samples, very high levels in part of the adenocarcinoma samples and slightly increased levels in part of the normal tissue samples adjacent the tumor. One of the CpGs (CpG4) showed the best differentiation. A ROC curve for DFNA5 CpG4 methylation showed a sensitivity of 61.8% for the detection of breast cancer with a specificity of 100%.

Materials and Methods

We performed methylation analysis on four CpGs in the DFNA5 promoter region by bisulfite pyrosequencing on 123 primary breast adenocarcinomas and 24 healthy breast reductions. For 16 primary tumors, corresponding histological normal tissue adjacent to the tumor was available.

Conclusions

We conclude that DFNA5 methylation shows strong potential as a biomarker for detection of breast cancer. Slightly increased methylation in histologically normal breast tissue surrounding the tumor suggests that it may be a good early detection marker.

Multiplexing determination of cancer-associated biomarkers by surface-enhanced Raman scattering using ordered gold nanohoneycomb arrays

AIM

Here, a multiplex surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) based assay for simultaneous quantitation of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and α-fetoprotein (AFP) was developed.

METHODS

SERS tags of nanostars and SERS substrates of nanobowl arrays were functionalized with labeling and capturing antibodies, respectively. In presence of antigens, SERS tags, antigens and SERS substrates formed sandwich structure.

RESULTS

The SERS-based technique showed a wide linear range from 0.5 to 100 ng/ml and detection limits were 0.41 and 0.35 ng/ml for CEA and AFP in phosphate-buffered saline buffer, respectively. Analysis results of clinical serum samples using this technique were similar to that shown in phosphate-buffered saline buffer. The LODs were 0.44 and 0.40 ng/ml for CEA and AFP, respectively. Conclusion: The precision and stability of this analysis technique were satisfactory, meanwhile, no obvious cross-reactivity could be found. What's more, it also suggested that this novel multiplex SERS-based technique could be a simple, specific, reliable, sensitive and multiplexed tool for important diagnostic and prognostic applications.

Quantum dot-based lab-on-a-bead system for multiplexed detection of free and total prostate-specific antigens in clinical human serum samples

An immunodiagnostic lab-on-a-bead suspension microarray based on microbeads encoded with quantum dots (QDs) has been developed and preclinically validated for multiplexed quantitative detection of prostate cancer markers in human serum samples. The sensitivity and specificity of the microarray are similar to those of "gold-standard" single-analyte ELISA. Moreover, the array has an improved immunoassay capacity, ensures quantitative detection of multiple cancer biomarkers and may be operational in a considerably wider dynamic range of concentrations. The array is characterized by reduced time and cost of analysis and is compatible with classical flow cytometers. Proof-of-concept preclinical tests ensured simultaneous quantitative determination of free and total prostate-specific antigens in human serum, with clear discrimination between the control and clinical samples. The proposed approach is flexible and paves the way to development of a wide variety of immunodiagnostic assays for multiplexed early diagnosis of various diseases.

FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR

Early diagnosis of cancer can result in better prognosis for patients. Thus, the use of specific tumor markers is widely employed in clinical practice. Traditional screening methods only employ single markers. The authors here developed a microarray system based on microbeads encoded with quantum dots (QDs), which can be used for multiplexed quantitative detection. The validated results on patient samples should lead to the development of a wider variety of assays for other diseases.

A novel aptamer-functionalized MoS2 nanosheet fluorescent biosensor for sensitive detection of prostate specific antigen

Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a significant and the most widely used biomarker for the early diagnosis of prostate cancer and its subsequent treatment. A MoS2 nanosheet is a two-dimensional (2D) layered nanomaterial analogous to graphene. However, a MoS2 nanosheet has a higher fluorescence-quenching ability than graphene when applied to a dye-labeled single-stranded DNA probe. In this work, we propose a novel aptamer-functionalized MoS2 nanosheet fluorescent biosensor that detects PSA. The binding of the aptamer to the target PSA induces a rigid aptamer structure which makes the integration with the MoS2 nanosheet very weak. This results in the release of the aptamer probe from the nanosheet surface and restores the quenched fluorescence. This approach has the advantage of simple design and rapid detection of PSA. The biosensor has the merits of high sensitivity and high selectivity with a detection limit for the PSA of 0.2 ng/mL. The biosensor was also successfully applied to the detection of PSA in human serum samples with satisfactory results. The foregoing indicates its promising application to real-life biological samples.

Phase-based x-ray scattering--a possible method to detect cancer cells in a very early stage

PURPOSE

This theoretical work contains a detailed investigation of the potential and sensitivity of phase-based x-ray scattering for cancer detection in biopsies if cancer is in a very early stage of development.

METHODS

Cancer cells in their early stage of development differ from healthy ones mainly due to their faster growing cell nuclei and the enlargement of their densities. This growth is accompanied by an altered nucleus-plasma relation for the benefit of the cell nuclei, that changes the physical properties especially the index of refraction of the cell and the one of the cell nuclei. Interaction of radiation with matter is known to be highly sensitive to small changes of the index of refraction of matter; therefore a detection of such changes of volume and density of cell nuclei by means of high angular resolved phase-based scattering of x rays might provide a technique to distinguish malignant cells from healthy ones if the cell-cell nucleus system is considered as a coherent phase shifting object. Then one can observe from a thin biopsy which represents a monolayer of cells (no multiple scattering) that phase-based x-ray scattering curves from healthy cells differ from those of cancer cells in their early stage of development.

RESULTS

Detailed calculations of x-ray scattering patterns from healthy and cancer cell nuclei yield graphs and numbers with which one can distinguish healthy cells from cancer ones, taking into account that both kinds of cells occur in a tissue within a range of size and density. One important result is the role and the influence of the (lateral) coherence width of the radiation on the scattering curves and the sensitivity of phase-based scattering for cancer detection. A major result is that a larger coherence width yields a larger sensitivity for cancer detection. Further import results are calculated limits for critical sizes and densities of cell nuclei in order to attribute the investigated tissue to be healthy or diseased.

CONCLUSIONS

With this proposed method it should be in principle possible to detect cancer cells in apparently healthy tissues in biopsies and/or in samples of the far border region of abscised or excised tissues. Thus this method could support established methods in diagnostics of cancer-suspicious samples.

Detection of cell carcinogenic transformation by a quadruplex DNA binding fluorescent probe

Cancer can be easily treated when found early. A probe capable of detecting cell transformation may increase the success rate of early diagnosis of cancer. In this report we have tested the ability of a fluorescent, quadruplex DNA binding probe, 3,6-bis(1-methyl-4- vinylpyridinium) carbazole diiodide (BMVC), to detect cell transformation in vitro. BMVC was applied to living cells in several different models of cell transformation, and the fluorescence signals of BMVC were measured. The degrees of cell transformation in these models were characterized by alterations in cellular morphological phenotype and subcellular organization. When BMVC probes were applied, the number of BMVC-positive cells increased in accordance with the degree of transformation. BMVC was capable of significantly detecting formation of foci, increased cellular motility, cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, anchorage-independent growth, and increased invasiveness of transformed cells. These results demonstrate the ability of BMVC probes to detect cell transformation and indicate that BMVC is of promise for use as a probe in early cancer detection.

Recent technical strategies to identify diagnostic biomarkers for ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths among North American women. Regrettably, there is currently no reliable circulating biomarker that can detect ovarian cancer in its early stages. The CA125 biomarker is very useful for treatment response monitoring, but its sensitivity is very low for early detection. Thus, there is an urgent need for the identification of new circulating biomarkers/panel of biomarkers that could be used to diagnose ovarian cancer before it becomes clinically detectable and advanced. Unfortunately, the strategies used in the past years to identify such biomarkers have not led to any outstanding candidate. This review summarizes the different approaches used in the last decade and suggests which strategies should be adopted in the near future in order to lead to the successful identification of new ovarian cancer diagnostic biomarkers.

Diagnosis of breast cancer based on breath analysis: an emerging method

Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy and the second leading cause of the cancer-related deaths among females. Early diagnosis is one of the most important strategies to reduce breast cancer morbidity rate and improve the survival rate. However, early diagnosis of breast cancer is limited because the disease usually develops asymptomatically. Moreover, current screening techniques for breast cancer are always expensive, discomfort, and even harmful for patients, and furthermore, do not fulfill the requirements for reliable differentiation between breast cancer patients and healthy subjects. Breath analysis is non-invasive, painless, easy to perform and no risk to patients. Therefore, this innovative method provides a potentially useful approach to screen breast cancer. This review summarizes the scientific evidences related to breast cancer patients through detecting unique potential biomarkers in the exhaled breath, and the profile of breath biomarker for breast cancer clinical diagnosis.