Molecular Tumour Profiling for Detection of Biomarkers in Renal Cell Tumours

ObjectivesFor renal cell tumours, biomarkers for diagnosis, prognostic evaluation, and therapy management are badly needed. This paper describes the development of new biomarkers for clinical use based on molecular tumour profiling of renal tumours.MethodsHigh-throughput techniques for DNA, RNA, and protein analysis, as well as conventional comparative genomic hybridisation and immunochemistry, were used for complex characterisation of specific subtypes of renal cell tumours. Furthermore, ProteinChip technology was performed on serum samples to identify specific biomarkers useful for detection and monitoring of patients.ResultsOn the basis of the specific genetic pattern of each subtype of renal cell tumours, a genetic test for routine diagnostics was developed. Furthermore, expression profiling resulted in a new tumour marker for clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC): CD70. Specific serum protein profiles of RCC patients were defined by performing protein analysis of serum samples, and serum amyloid A1 (SAA1) was identified as a specific serum marker of clear-cell RCC. Protein analysis of tumour tissue and serum is helpful for selection of patients for therapy and for therapy monitoring.ConclusionsOngoing studies on molecular and cellular biology show that differentiation between RCC subtypes with different prognosis, as well as therapeutic options and response rates, seems possible. Furthermore, on the basis of molecular profiles of tumour tissues and body fluids, development of specific therapies and selection for each individual patient become possible.