Background
In the US, over 33,000 new cases of thyroid cancer was diagnosed in 2007, with a mortality rate of 0.5 per 100,000 people. Papillary carcinoma (PC) account for up to 80% of the malignant thyroid cancers. Although most of the PCs are not life threatening, some are recurrent and are associated with significant morbidity. While the molecular mechanism of thyroid cancer is yet to be elucidated, particular genetic mutations have been associated with majority of PCs. In this regard, improved methods for the early diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer is necessary.
Technology
Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered gene expression profiles associated with thyroid cancers. In particular, the nature of thyroid cancer was determined via expression levels of kallikrein 10, claudin 1, and thyroid peroxidase (TPO), among others. The invention includes methods and kits for diagnosing and characterizing thyroid cancer into sub-types, as well as methods for screening compounds that modulate cancer marker expression or function.
Applications and Advantages
Applications
- Diagnosis and prognosis for thyroid cancer
- Potential therapies for thyroid cancer
Advantages
- Genes provide targets for cancer drugs