Author Interviews, Biomarkers, Cancer Research / 03.10.2013
Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck: Epigenetic Markers
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Dr. Muy-Teck Teh BSc, PhD
Centre for Clinical and Diagnostic Oral Sciences, Institute of Dentistry
Barts & The London School of Medicine and Dentistry
Queen Mary University of London, England, United Kingdom
MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings of the study?
Answer: We found unique DNA markings (epigenetic methylation) on certain genes that may “predict” the risk of developing head and neck cancer. We identified certain DNA methylation marks unique to cancer cells and not found in normal healthy cells.
DNA methylation marks act as ‘switches’ that regulate the ‘on or off’ statuses of genes. Abnormal DNA methylation is known to precede cancer initiation. Hence, the presence of these abnormal DNA methylation marks in cells may be tell-tale signs of early cancer initiation. The chemically distinctive properties of methylated DNA provide ample opportunities for clinical exploitation as nucleic acid-based biomarkers potentially detectable in non-invasive samples such as blood, buccal scrapes, or even saliva.
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