[Biomarkers in tumor pathology].
The process of malignant transformation requires the accumulation of multiple genetic alterations, a process which is usually years, where hundreds of genes may be involved. This enormous complexity is best understood through the work of Hanahan and Weinberg, which suggested that the most important functional impairment of various biochemical pathways (senescence, apoptosis, cell signaling and growth autonomy, ...), where many genes can be involved. All molecular advances are translated in the study of biomarkers. These factors, which range from genetic alterations, proteins, microRNAs, ... are basic to the study of neoplastic disease in all its phases. From risk assessment to have a certain type of tumor, with more than 30 genes already known to be inherited mutated and increase the likelihood of developing tumors (colon, breast, thyroid, ..), factors that can serve for serological screening of early tumors and especially also to outline more specific treatments. Continually new factors / biomarkers are being discovered, that may be therapeutic targets or associated with prognosis or resistance to certain treatments. The combination of specific treatments for each patient, in a stratified manner according to the molecular alterations, is assuming a very significant advance in the survival of some tumor types and has opened a great hope for the future of Oncology.
Ramón
R
Santiago
Cajal
C
Agüeras
D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000628:therapy
D015415:Biomarkers