New methods for prevention of cancer metastasis

A very important assertation in today’s technology is that the systemically spread tumour are distinguishable genetically and morphologically from the primary tumour. This leads for example to known resistances in chemotherapy. Consequently, systemic treatment after surgical removal of the primary tumour, should be based on the genetic traits of these cells. For this reason diagnostic tests are required to predict whether information circulating tumour cells can predict response  to a specific treatment. On this note the Fraunhofer Project Group in Regensburg has developed methods for the genome and gene expression analysis of single tumour cells.

These tests allow a direct comparison between cells from the primary tumour and metastatic cells and supported the development of accompanying diagnostic methods. Furthermore they allow targeted therapy in what is known as personalized medicine for the patient. Prof Dr Christoph Klein and his project group are working on innovative in vitro and in vivo models for preclinical testing of systemic treatment. Through close cooperation with the Chair for Experimental Medicine and Therapy Research at the University of Regensburg the group has access to a constant supply of clinical samples.

For further information see:
    •    Fraunhofer ITEM