University of Copenhagen and Beckman Coulter Genomics collaborate to unravel how mutations rewire cancer cells
Beckman Coulter Genomics announces the publishing of studies detailing the early results of the strategic collaboration between Beckman Coulter Genomics (BCG) and the Linding Lab at UCPH, Biotech Research & Innovation Centre. By developing advanced algorithms to integrate data from quantitative mass-spectrometry and next generation sequencing of tumor samples, the researchers have been able to uncover cancer related changes to phospho-signaling networks at a global scale.
Using the exome sequencing services pipeline developed at BCG, researchers from the Universities of Copenhagen, Yale, Zurich, Rome and Tottori have, in two landmark studies unraveled how mutations such as those acquired in cancer, target and damage the protein signaling networks within human cells on an unprecedented scale.
This new breakthrough allows researchers to identify the effects of mutations on the function of proteins in cancer for individual patients, even if those mutations are very rare. “The identification of distinct changes within our tissues that help predict and treat cancer is a major step forward and we are confident it can aid in the development of novel therapies and screening techniques”, said lead researcher, Professor Dr. Rune Linding, Biotech Research & Innovation Centre at UCPH.
These studies highlight the importance of integrating genomics data in cancer biology. High quality sequencing and bioinformatics as provided by BCG is a vital step in identifying and characterizing cancerous mutations. Services available at BCG such as whole exome sequencing, variant analysis, and RNASeq expression analysis provide research groups such as BRIC and the Linding Laboratory with access to the resources and expertise needed to support these important research efforts.
It is becoming increasingly apparent that the genetic basis for each tumor is subtly different. This realization has led to healthcare centers spending millions of dollars sequencing individual patients and their tumors with the aim of utilizing this patient specific information to develop tailored, personalized therapies, with much greater efficacy. It is hoped that the novel tools described in these studies together with best-in-class driver technologies such as BCG services can provide much needed assistance to clinicians and researchers worldwide in interpreting this data.
Original publication
Pau Creixell, Antonio Palmeri, Chad J. Miller, Hua Jane Lou, Cristina C. Santini, Morten Nielsen, Benjamin E. Turk, Rune Linding; "Unmasking Determinants of Specificity in the Human Kinome"; Cell; 2015
Pau Creixell, Erwin M. Schoof, Craig D. Simpson, James Longden, Chad J. Miller, Hua Jane Lou, Lara Perryman, Thomas R. Cox, Nevena Zivanovic, Antonio Palmeri, Agata Wesolowska-Andersen, Manuela Helmer-Citterich, Jesper Ferkinghoff-Borg, Hiroaki Itamochi, Bernd Bodenmiller, Janine T. Erler, Benjamin E. Turk, Rune Linding; "Kinome-wide Decoding of Network Attacking Mutations Rewiring Cancer"; Cell; 2015
Other news from the department research and development
Get the life science industry in your inbox
From now on, don't miss a thing: Our newsletter for biotechnology, pharma and life sciences brings you up to date every Tuesday and Thursday. The latest industry news, product highlights and innovations - compact and easy to understand in your inbox. Researched by us so you don't have to.
More news from our other portals
See the theme worlds for related content
Topic World Mass Spectrometry
Mass spectrometry enables us to detect and identify molecules and reveal their structure. Whether in chemistry, biochemistry or forensics - mass spectrometry opens up unexpected insights into the composition of our world. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of mass spectrometry!
Topic World Mass Spectrometry
Mass spectrometry enables us to detect and identify molecules and reveal their structure. Whether in chemistry, biochemistry or forensics - mass spectrometry opens up unexpected insights into the composition of our world. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of mass spectrometry!
