Banking on the future: Biobanking for “omics” approaches to biomarker discovery for Opisthorchis-induced cholangiocarcinoma in Thailand

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) – bile duct cancer – is associated with late presentation, poses challenges for diagnosis, and has high mortality. These features t highlight the desperate need for biomarkers than can be measured early and in accessible body fluids such as plasma of people at risk for developing this lethal cancer. In this manuscript, we address previous limitations in the discovery stage of biomarker(s) for CCA and indicate how new generation of “omics” technologies could be used for biomarker discovery in Thailand. A key factor in the success of this biomarker program for CCA is the combination of cutting edge technology with strategic sample acquisition by a biorepositories.

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) – bile duct cancer – is associated with late presentation, poses challenges for diagnosis and has high mortality, features that highlight the need for biomarkers than can be measured early and in accessible samples such as plasma. However, despite extensive investigations, efforts have failed to yield biomarkers with adequate diagnostic accuracy and utility for CCA. In this manuscript, we show how we will address previous limitations in the discovery for CCA biomarker(s) by undertaking a biomarker program in the global epicenter of CCA, Khon Kaen province, Thailand, which has highest incidence of CCA in the world. A key factor in the success of this proposal is that, while the causative agent for CCA in the West remains obscure, the single most important risk factor for intrahepatic CCA in Thailand has long been established — infection with the liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini (OV).Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Cancer of the bile duct is associated with late presentation, poses challenges for diagnosis and has high mortality.
► Despite extensive investigations, efforts have failed to yield biomarkers with adequate diagnostic accuracy and utility.
► In Thailand there is a clear association between the cancer and infection with the liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini.
► We propose to undertake a biomarker program in the global epicenter of CCA, Khon Kaen province, Thailand.
► This study we provide a unique opportunity to trace biomarkers from the initiation of risk to culmination in bile duct cancer.