Genetic Test Classifies Kidney Cancer, A*STAR Study

Singaporean researchers have developed a genetic test that can reliably identify different subtypes of a specific kind of kidney cancer. The test has the potential to improve treatment, as it can assess a patient's prognosis and likely response to therapy. Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common type of kidney cancer (see image). The prognosis for patients with ccRCC who undergo surgery to remove a tumor is difficult to predict, however, since outcomes vary. The benefit of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy—the most frequently used medication administered for ccRCC—also varies between patients. Evidence suggests that different outcomes could result from different subtypes of the disease; in which case, a test that identifies markers of these subtypes could improve treatment.

Hey, check out all the engineering jobs. Post your resume today!