How to Detect Chromosomal Alterations in Plastma

All cancer patients, no matter the primary site, have abnormal chromosomes released from tumors in their blood.  Abnormalities include chromosome arm loss or gain, and either translocation, amplification or deletion of specific DNA sequences.  Recently, researchers at Johns Hopkins have done whole-genome sequencing studies which suggest that a universal test for cancer is conceivable, even though no two cancer patients’ tumors are identical.  Such a test would aid in early detection, knowing if a tumor is regrowing and/or responding to treatment, and which drug is most likely to be effective.  MORE

Image Credit: Johns Hopkins and SmartPlanet.com

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